Set against the picturesque backdrop of Italy, in an abandoned tobacco warehouse on the outskirts of the ancient town of Paestum, located south of Naples, a dozen or so spectators relax on upturned logs, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a typical Canadian campsite. Audience members equipped with head-mounted displays and earphones embark on a sensory journey in an abandoned tobacco warehouse on the outskirts of Paestum, Italy. Guided by an actor, they traverse a transformed, monochromatic virtual version of the warehouse, featuring illusory rocks that resist interaction. The experience creates a sense of disconnection and disorientation, with the only grounding elements being the stream-of-consciousness musings of characters Laurie and Daniel. The immersive project, titled "Animate," is a collaboration led by Peter Salter, director of the Immersive Arts Space at Zurich University of the Arts. Salter explores the intersection of the real and digital worlds, using climate change as a backdrop to depict the growing distance between individuals and their physical environment. The narrative is drawn from the cli-fi tale "Animate" by Kate Story, emphasizing the transformative power of technology in amplifying the story's ecological themes. The play culminates in a vivid, 3D virtual landscape, offering a unique perspective on the consequences of climate change. Salter's approach challenges the conventional use of VR and aims to push the boundaries of spatial and temporal experiences. Despite receiving funding with a focus on representing scientific data, Salter emphasizes the role of art in changing perceptions and emotions, asserting its purpose is not to solve problems but to reshape understanding collectively and emotionally. (ICE TORONTO)

Fonte notizia: https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/animate-virtual-reality-climate-change-1.6940400