Interactive Performance and Immersive Experience in Dramaturgy - Installation Design for Chinese Kunqu Opera “The Peony Pavilion”

Abstract

This thesis proposes a new form of theatre using the design of a spatial interactive installation that will assess the relationship between performance, space and audience, thereby providing the audience with a thoroughly immersive experience. Through the use of digital technology and computer programming a new narrative and immersive space may be created. I shall investigate the process of a performance based interactive installation which will support the development of the dramatic space. For this project I have selected the traditional Chinese Kunqu Opera THE PEONY PAVILION, as my research example. THE PEONY PAVILION tells a love story through the medium of dream beyond space and time, even beyond life and death. Nonetheless, the employment of digital technology can result in a new and better theatrical interpretation; the coming together and fusion of classical drama and contemporary digital art has the potential to give the opera a new lease of life. As well as using this spetial interactive installation in connection with this particular opera, it will unleash the potential in the dramatic possibilities of body, space and time. Furthermore, to achieve an interactive experience for the participant and immersion in the dramatic world, the installation can also be seen in a wider context and not only in the parameters of this one particular art form.