Integrating Virtual Reality Into Scenic Design
Alan Huang · 2022
With the rise of Virtual Reality (VR) in games, film, and design, VR should be incorporated into the scenic design process in theatre.VR is an effectual tool that can be integrated into the scenic design process while serving as a more refined alternative when showcasing a scenic design than traditional methods.VR allows for flexibility and fluidity, thorough walkthroughs, and better perspectives.Virtual models in VR can have their colors, textures, lighting, and other details changed in real-time.In contrast, conventional methods such as a scale model can be clunky, with difficult to maneuver small pieces, and difficult to view details.Walkthroughs of a virtual set design enable all creative and production team members, such as the director, other designers, actors, carpenters, etc., to envision and highlight any details or potentially solvable problems.VR allows for a better perspective compared to viewing a scale model.Team members can walk in a virtual set design on a one-to-one scale compared to viewing a quarter-inch model -where a quarter inch equals one foot -allowing them to view the space more effectively.In this paper, I will discuss how VR will be integrated into the scenic design process while arguing why VR is a better alternative to conventional methods.The paper will have literature analysis from outside scholars on their findings with VR and an experiment to experience firsthand how effective VR is in scenic design compared to conventional methods I have been taught.