Ian McKellen to star in UK premiere of ‘mixed reality’ play – but not in person
Summary
Ian McKellen will appear virtually in a new "mixed reality" play called An Ark, which uses smart glasses to blend virtual actors with the real world. The play, premiering in Manchester in March 2027, offers a new way to experience theatre by making actors seem present without their physical attendance.Key Facts
- Ian McKellen stars in An Ark, a mixed reality play debuting in the UK at Aviva Studios, Manchester.
- The play uses smart glasses that show virtual actors alongside the real environment, unlike virtual reality that blocks out the real world.
- McKellen’s role is virtual; he will not perform live on stage but may visit the play.
- Four actors were filmed in a single take using 52 cameras to create the virtual performance.
- The 47-minute play explores themes of life, death, human connection, and grief.
- This technology aims to create intimate, personal experiences where actors seem to talk directly to audience members.
- Factory International's 2027 program includes world and UK premieres and a special production of the opera Einstein on the Beach for Philip Glass’s 90th birthday.
- Factory International seeks to explore the future and ethics of mixed reality technology through public events.
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