Experimenting the Interaction Effect Between a Physical and a Human-Controlled Virtual Actor in Theatrical Performances

Abstract

With this paper, we aim at introducing an empirical experiment to explore the impact of different interactions between a physical actor and a virtual avatar (digital character controlled by a second actor equipped with a motion-capture suit) on spectators' sense of social presence in the frame of theatrical performances. This investigation relies on previous creation-researches that permitted us to put forward a hypothesis that different types of interactions could impact spectators' attitude, making them drive their attention towards the physical and/or the virtual environment during the performance. With the proposed experiment we want to apply an empirical scientific approach to our artistic practice in order to share guidelines, techniques and exercises with theater makers confronting physical actors and digital characters in their practice.