Ian McKellen to star in hologram play at Manchester venue
Sir Ian McKellen will appear as a hologram in the UK premiere of An Ark at Factory International Aviva Studios in Manchester next spring.
Virtual presence replaces physical performance
The veteran actor will not set foot on stage during the production. Audience members will wear smart glasses that project the actors into the room while showing the real world around them. John McGrath of Factory International stated that this mixed reality format differs from virtual reality because it does not exclude the physical environment.
Production details and cast list
The play runs for 47 minutes and explores themes of life and death. Golda Rosheuvel will appear alongside McKellen in 3D holographic form, captured using 52 cameras filming from multiple angles. Other cast members include Arinze Kene and Rosie Sheehy.
Run dates for the show
Factory International is putting on the play at Aviva Studios from 27 March to 10 April. The production had its debut in New York earlier this year before moving to Manchester.
2 outlets, different leads
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The Guardian
Ian McKellen to star in UK premiere of ‘mixed reality’ play – but not in person
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BBC News
Ian McKellen set to perform as a hologram in new play
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.