Scenic Designer for Gas Light at Magnus Theatre in Thunder Bay, ON using AR/VR technology
Thu. Jan. 30, 2025
Utilizing augmented and virtual reality (or the integration of virtual 3D CAD or computer aided design models within the real performance space) to show early design choices can be a time-saver. Building on my Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology conference presentation, incorporating augmented and virtual reality technology into the scenic design process using Vectorworks, I was asked to design the scenery for Magnus Theatre’s production of Gaslight in September 2024. With a tight production schedule and distant collaboration, I created a 3D virtual model of the design and the theatre architecture for the production team to view my ideas. Using a virtual-reality headset, I was able to walk-through the scenery and theatre as if I was a member of the audience and a performer on stage. The attached video is a recording of my experience walking on the constructed set using the VR headset.
Thom Currie: Director
Adam Parboosingh: Scenery Design
Kate George: Costume Design
Kirsten Watt: Lighting Design
Nicholas Palinka: Production Manager
Tim Stephenson: Technical Director
Nadia Cheecho: Head of Props and Painter
David Brown: Head Carpenter