A new simulator developed by Google Cultural Institute (GCI) allows audiences to experience performances as though they were on stage themselves. It is part of an online exhibition launched in partnership with European Festivals Association (EFA) and allows users to navigate through 360-degree videos of performances.
GCI has worked with EFA as part of its Europe for Festivals, Festivals for Europe (EFFE) project. The online exhibition platform features performances at over 60 of the world’s foremost cultural institutions including Carnegie Hall, Fundação Theatro Municipal de São Paulo, Berlin Philharmonic, Opera Garnier and National Theatre of Korea.
‘Our goal is to open up performing arts to all, to catch the eye of the curious and offer access to details that even die-hard fans have never seen before,’ said GCI director Amit Sood, adding that this is the first time the work of such institutions has been brought together in one location.
A second online exhibition, EFFE Awards 2015-2016: 12 Trendsetting Festivals from across Europe, has also launched online. It includes behind-the-scenes videos and images from the 12 award-winning festivals announced by EFA earlier this year.
‘It’s a really exciting time for festivals, they are increasingly playing a vital role in the cultural and civic life of Europe,’ commented exhibition curator Tom Creed. ‘[It’s] a great opportunity to bring these festivals to wider attention, and to create a platform for festivals and other performing arts organisations to communicate their achievements around the world.’
The exhibitions are now live at g.co/performingarts and on the GCI’s website.
