With today’s technology, it’s possible to put multiple people into a virtual space to experience a play. What I propose is a meager proof of concept for a virtual theatre where participants are able to move about a scene as it is acted out via an engine for game design known as Unity, and discuss what they are seeing in real time using voice over internet protocol (VoIP) technology. Unity is an ideal choice as a delivery platform in that the programs created are easily compiled for most of the common operating systems (OS) available today. Additionally, it has the ability to be deployed as a web application, requiring no installation or download on the part of the user. Ultimately the minimum requirements for the user to participate would be a computer with a decent internet connection. If they wish to use the VoIP they would also need a microphone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Given the time frame of the project (not to mention the lack of artistic vision by its creator) the result does not fulfill all of the ideas previously discussed. It does not have the capability to put multiple people in the same space, nor is it particularly evocative. As a proof-of-concept it serves its purpose. I ask that as you run "Virtual Shakespeares" you use a little imagination for what it could be, rather than what it is. Imagine if dedicated game designers with the technical knowhow to create virtual worlds collaborated with directors, artist, and actors to bring Shakespeare to life in a way never possible before now. The possibilities are exciting, to say the least. -- Christopher Conley (2013)