The Royal Shakespeare Company will look at the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive VR technology in future productions.
It’s not the first time the RSC has dabbled in new technology, having previously used motion capture technology in a performance of ‘Dream’, inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in 2021.
The news comes as part of a government announcement for more projects and funding for the arts in the US West Midlands.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy unveiled a £13.5 million investment in training, research and development across a range of projects.
She said: “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. That’s why we support companies, artists and freelancers who innovate, use new technology and drive growth in creative clusters across the country.
“Birmingham and the West Midlands have a rich industrial history, and we are putting them at the forefront of a potential new industry developing the amazing technology that will revolutionize visual effects in film, theater and gaming.”
The West Midlands will receive £6.75 million of its share of the pot, which will go to companies specializing in creative technology such as video games and immersive reality and industry, working with many partners including universities and the RSC.
They could also integrate VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) into future projects. VR simulates experiences using a headset, while AR creates computer-generated work in the real world.
While it’s not clear what AI, VR or AR might look like for the Royal Shakespeare Company in the future, they plan to embrace new technologies in the future.
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