Researchers at University College London (UCL) are looking for actors who are working or who have previously worked in the immersive theatre genre to take part in a research study. Participation involves completing an anonymous online survey answering questions about your experiences working in immersive theatre, including details of injury, vocal problems and mental health issues. There will be questions about the working environment and the experience of interacting with audience members. It will take about 20 – 25 minutes to complete. For more information and to complete the survey click the link here: Immersive Theatre Survey
Professional actors working in the genre of immersive theatre face unique physical, psychological, and vocal challenges. Immersive theatre is a form of contemporary performance where the traditional theatre setting is disrupted. Instead, the space provides an environment where the actors are in closer proximity to the audience in a shared reality. The audience not only observes but takes an active role in the performance. It is a new and growing genre, where the physical and psychological boundaries between the audience and cast members is removed or blurred. Actors must navigate this new working environment, not only managing the physical space but also possible interaction with audience members.
Anecdotally, there are high rates of musculoskeletal injury, exacerbations of mental health problems and the development of voice disorders in actors working in immersive theatre. Performing Arts Medicine healthcare practitioners may assess and treat professional actors working in this new genre. Effective management relies on a sound understanding of the demands these performers face, but at present there is no published research examining the unique nature of the working environment and the effect this has on health for these actors.
Examples of immersive theatre settings
Immersive Musical Theatre – Escape Rooms – Immersive Worlds – Dining Experiences – Murder Mysteries – Interactive Theatre – Festivals – Theme Park Character Roles – Online Interactive Games or Theatre – Actor Service Roles – Large Scale Corporate Immersive Events
The aim of this study by researchers at University College London (UCL) is to learn more about the experience of actors working in immersive theatre and the impact it has on their physical, mental, and vocal health. This is a qualitative study that will analyse data from anonymous online surveys (Phase 1) and more in-depth online semi-structured interviews (Phase 2). The questions will ask participants about their experience working in immersive theatre, including details of musculoskeletal pain/injury, vocal health and mental health. It will also ask questions about the working environment and details about the experience of interacting with audience members.
The aim of this work is to help improve practice for health professionals caring for actors. It will also enable those working in performing arts medicine to direct and guide education materials both for the professional development of healthcare clinicians; and for performing artists to enable them to learn skills and techniques to prevent injury and maintain health whilst working within this genre. It is also hoped that the findings will support the development of best practice guidelines for producers, companies and other stakeholders in the immersive theatre industry, when considering the wellbeing of their performers.
If you are currently working in immersive theatre (or have previously worked in this genre within the last 12 months) and would like to learn more or take part in the anonymous survey, please scan the QR in the poster below or visit: Immersive Theatre Survey
