Coupling digital and physical worlds in an AR magic show performance: Lessons learned

Abstract

“Magic for a Pixeloscope” is a one hour show conceived to be represented in a theater scenario that merges mixed and augmented reality (MR/AR) and full-body interaction with classical magic to create new tricks. The show was conceived by an interdisciplinary team composed by a magician, two interaction designers, a theater director and a stage designer. The magician uses custom based hardware and software to create new illusions which are a starting point to explore new language for magical expression. In this paper we introduce a conceptual framework used to inform the design of different tricks; we explore the design and production of some tricks included in the show and we describe the feedback received on the world premiere and some of the conclusions obtained.