Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in live theatre performances to enhance audience engagement. As technology continues to advance, the traditional boundaries of theatre are being pushed, offering new possibilities for immersive experiences. The aim of this research is to investigate how VR can be effectively utilized to captivate and involve audiences in live theatre settings. This study involves a comprehensive review of literature on VR technology, audience engagement, and live theatre practices to provide a theoretical foundation for the research. The methodology chapter outlines the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques employed to investigate the impact of VR on audience engagement in live theatre performances. Findings from this study suggest that VR can significantly enhance audience engagement by providing immersive and interactive experiences that transcend the limitations of traditional theatre. The discussion chapter delves into the implications of these findings for the future of theatre and the challenges that may arise in implementing VR technology in live performances. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection of technology and live theatre, offering insights into the potential benefits and pitfalls of incorporating VR into theatrical productions. The conclusion summarizes the key findings of the study and provides recommendations for practitioners and researchers looking to explore the use of VR in enhancing audience engagement in live theatre performances. Overall, this thesis sheds light on the transformative potential of VR technology in redefining the boundaries of traditional theatre and creating more engaging and interactive experiences for audiences.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Exploring the Use of Virtual Reality Technology in Enhancing Audience Engagement in Live Theatre Performances" aims to investigate the impact of utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology to enhance audience engagement in live theatre performances. This research project will delve into the intersection of traditional live theatre practices and cutting-edge VR technology to analyze how this fusion can revolutionize the audience experience. The project will begin with a comprehensive introduction that sets the stage for the study, providing background information on the evolution of theatre and the emergence of VR technology in the entertainment industry. The introduction will also outline the problem statement, highlighting the current challenges faced in engaging modern audiences in traditional theatre settings. With clearly defined objectives, the research will focus on exploring how VR technology can be effectively integrated into live theatre performances to captivate and immerse audiences in innovative ways. The study will acknowledge the limitations inherent in this research, such as technological constraints and potential audience resistance to new forms of engagement. The scope of the study will be delineated to focus on specific aspects of audience interaction, emotional engagement, and narrative immersion within live theatre productions enhanced by VR technology. The significance of the research will be highlighted, emphasizing the potential for this interdisciplinary approach to redefine the boundaries of traditional theatre and create new opportunities for artistic expression and audience participation. The structure of the thesis will be outlined to guide the reader through the research journey, from the foundational chapters on literature review and research methodology to the in-depth analysis of findings and the conclusive insights presented in the final chapter. Definitions of key terms related to VR technology, audience engagement, and live theatre will be provided to ensure clarity and understanding throughout the study. The literature review will critically analyze existing research and theoretical frameworks related to VR technology, audience psychology, and the principles of theatrical performance. This section will explore how VR has been utilized in other entertainment domains and assess its potential applications in live theatre contexts. The research methodology will detail the approach taken to investigate the research questions, including the selection of participants, data collection methods, and analytical tools employed to assess audience responses to VR-enhanced theatre experiences. The study will utilize both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to gather comprehensive insights into audience engagement levels and emotional responses in live theatre settings. Chapter four will present a detailed discussion of the research findings, analyzing the impact of VR technology on audience engagement metrics, such as attention span, emotional immersion, and overall satisfaction with the theatrical experience. This section will also address any challenges or limitations encountered during the research process and offer recommendations for future studies in this field. In the concluding chapter, the project will summarize the key findings and insights gleaned from the research, highlighting the implications of using VR technology to enhance audience engagement in live theatre performances. The conclusion will reflect on the contributions of this study to the fields of theatre arts and technology, as well as propose potential avenues for further exploration and innovation in this exciting interdisciplinary domain.