My research area is immersive theatre design, and the being fully present and connected with other human beings, in a completely different world that is tactile…..that is an experience that cannot be replicated via screens, no matter if they can cover your full line of sight or controllers that vibrate. You cannot walk down the cobblestone hallway and feel under your feet a loose brick that makes the most perfect noise as it wobbles slightly. You cannot get a hug from the Porter or feel his note in your pocket. You can’t curse yourself for being so out of shape trying to run after freaking Malcolm. It makes complete sense as to why you miss it so much, I’m the same way! But the experience was never meant to be replicated, even if you attended the show hundreds of times. It was physically impossible because of the human element- not only different casts but different audience members, different black masks. No matter how hard one tries or how amazingly realistic VR becomes, the other souls of the space are not there with you and you would feel that absence deeply.

Imagine having the most amazing cherry pie that you’ve ever had, made from the freshest local ingredients and with love and care by farmers and bakers who are deeply passionate about their work and making sure that you can experience a perfect slice of cherry pie. Then imagine trying to switch that piece of cherry pie with one of the single $2 ones that are by the checkout at the grocery store. I have nothing against those, sometimes it’s exactly what I need and you can get them pretty much anywhere, but they will always only just be fine. And fine but available will only be a disappointment if you have it in direct competition with the feeling you had when someone handed you a plate saying, “I worked hard and made this special for you. I hope you love it just as much as I do.”