A Framework for Integrating Immersive Technology in Contemporary Theatre Production

Thesis Abstract

The rapid advancement of immersive technology—such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and real-time interactive systems—has begun to transform the landscape of contemporary theatre production, yet a comprehensive framework for its systematic integration remains underdeveloped. This study addresses the critical gap by proposing an operational framework that guides theatre practitioners in effectively incorporating immersive technology into stage performances, enhancing audience engagement and theatrical storytelling. The primary aim is to develop a theoretically grounded, practically applicable model that aligns technological capabilities with theatrical aesthetics, production processes, and audience perceptions. Specific objectives include identifying key technological and narrative variables influencing immersive theatre, analyzing their interactions within production contexts, and formulating an integrative framework that can be utilized by theatre practitioners and scholars. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates qualitative case studies with quantitative surveys to ensure both depth and breadth of analysis. The qualitative phase involves detailed case studies of five contemporary theatre productions across different cultural contexts—each employing immersive technology—aiming for purposive sampling of productions with successful integration histories. Data collection in this phase involves semi-structured interviews with thirty-five theatre practitioners including directors, designers, and technical experts, supplemented by participatory observation and production documentation analysis. The quantitative phase surveys a broader population of 150 theatre professionals across regional theatres, with stratified random sampling to ensure representation across roles and experience levels. Data collection instruments include structured questionnaires, technological assessment matrices, and audience perception surveys, validated through pilot testing and expert reviews for content validity and reliability assessed via Cronbach’s alpha (target >0.80). Data analysis employs thematic coding for qualitative data using NVivo, guided by grounded theory to identify emergent themes and relationships. Quantitative data are subjected to descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis via SPSS to determine factors significantly predicting successful technology integration and audience engagement. To develop the framework, the study synthesizes findings within the contours of Actor-Network Theory and Schön’s Reflective Practice Theory, facilitating understanding of how technological, creative, and operational actors co-construct immersive theatre experiences. Expected findings indicate that the successful integration of immersive technology depends on coordinated technological readiness, creative adaptability, and audience responsiveness, moderated by organizational capacity and staff expertise. Identified variables such as technological literacy, narrative flexibility, spatial configuration, and audience interactivity are likely to show significant correlations with positive production outcomes. The emergent framework comprises a multi-phase model incorporating assessment, design, implementation, and evaluation stages, alongside guidelines for stakeholder collaboration and adaptive processes suited to diverse theatrical contexts. This research contributes novel theoretical insights into the systemic application of immersive technology within theatre, offering a pragmatic, evidence-based model to enhance production quality and audience experience. It advances existing literature by framing technological integration as a dynamic, actor-networked process, thereby linking technological affordances with theatrical aesthetics and organizational practices. The study further provides practical recommendations for theatre companies, educators, and policymakers aimed at capacity building and resource allocation, promoting innovative and sustainable use of immersive media. In conclusion, the study affirms that a structured, theoretically informed framework can significantly improve the efficacy and creativity of immersive technology integration in theatre production. Recommendations include the development of training modules for theatre staff, investment in adaptable technological infrastructure, and the incorporation of iterative feedback mechanisms during production. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts of technology adoption and cross-cultural comparisons to enrich the framework’s applicability and refine its components, thereby fostering a resilient and innovative theatrical ecosystem capable of embracing technological advances.