The Function of “VR” and “AR” in Theatre Scenic Design

Theatre and Performance Art has always been exposed to technological changes during its -2500year-old history. All of these changes have been made to improve the previous technology and did not disturb the form and matter of theatre. E.g. the invention and usage of electricity in theatre replaced the traditional method of lighting the stage with candle and oil lamps- this matter helped and enriched the performance art and its elements. In the late 20th century, with the formation of digital and cyber technology, the theatre artists could not stay away from its influence and tried to include this new found technology in performance art in forms of virtual or augmented reality (VR and AR). There have been many efforts in this field, but none has been able to be accepted as a common and accustomed method in theatre. Is this matter related to the flaws and imperfection of these technologies, or are VR and AR inherently in contrast with the form and matter of theatre- a form of art that is formed by the empathy and togetherness between the performers and the audience, whereas the VR audiences are called “users”? In this article, these questions will be studied based on similar researches and practical experiments on this matter, questions that can contribute to many new performances. To what extent can computer technology be used in theatre? Are there any limits to its usage? Will using VR or AR lead to the decline of performance arts? And can these works be called theatre?