ACO virtual: everything is remixable

Abstract

In this paper an immersive interactive video touring installation ACO Virtual is discussed in terms of performance capture, production of mobile Controller and Companion applications and staging considerations for flexible touring and remote support. The installation is a creative collaboration between the Australian Chamber Orchestra and studio Mod Productions that leverages mobile technology to deliver a complex show that could be toured to regional Australia in mono and stereoscopic 3D formats. The ACO is a world-class ensemble that spends much of the year on tour. This project was commissioned to help the ACO reach new audiences and increase public engagement around music for entertainment and education. The installation had to be costeffective to distribute and install in a variety of venue contexts. All operations support had to work remotely. Successful delivery of the project required a highly iterative design approach in terms of research, pilot and full production phases as well as meeting creative and logistical challenges of building and supporting a complex multi-platform show.