Liberating Perspectives: Concepts and Effects of Using 360-Degree Cameras on Virtual Theater Performances
Rizal Sofyan
Abstract
During the COVID-19 Pandemic, cameras became the most important piece of equipment in virtual theatrical productions. From cut-to-cut to one-shot concepts and techniques, the use of cameras for virtual theater productions continues to evolve and experiments with cinematography. New ideas and concepts emerged, for example by reviewing the idiom of folk theater in Indonesia. This idiom provides the idea to liberate the audience’ perspective on watching virtual theater. Generally, the audience tends to be presented with frames or pictures that the director provides. However, the use of a 360-degree camera provides distinctive freedom in watching virtual shows. 360-degree camera records complete footage. This gives an immersive experience to exploring the footage. The audience is no longer dictated to but instead given the freedom to watch what they would like to see in the show. This study employs a practice-led research method of integrating the 360-degree camera in virtual theater concepts for RESTORASI artwork. The data was analyzed by examining the relationship between the liberation of the audience’ perspective when creating or watching virtual theater and the theory of performing arts. The findings of the present study can lead to ideas and experimentation on the use of 360-degree camera for performing art production in the future.
Keywords: virtual theatre, 360-degree camera, audience, performing arts theory
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References
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