Interactive theatre show to measure audience empathy at New Wolsey

Why it matters: This production blends theatre and technology, allowing researchers to gather real-time data about how audiences connect emotionally with performances.

The big picture: Working with academics from Essex University, the theatre company uses audiences' mobile phones to measure empathy levels during and after the show. The data is then shared live as part of the performance.

By the numbers:

• 72% of previous audiences said they would likely show more empathy in future
• 81% reported the show made them reflect on the world today
• Two performances scheduled for 28 and 29 January 2025

How it works: Audiences use their phones to anonymously share their emotional responses at different moments during the show. The interactive elements are woven into the performance, which combines live theatre, film, projection and dance.

Behind the scenes: The production features a creative team of emerging artists under 30, including:

• Shanice Sewell as Assistant Director
• Imogen Melhuish as Designer
• Fraser Owen leading Sound & Music Design
• Cast members Rebecca Callow, Klara Kaliger and Elinor Solly

The show was initially devised and performed by Lil McGibbon, Daz Scott and Kiren Virdee before the current cast took over.

Development: As a co-production with the New Wolsey Theatre, the show arrives in Ipswich as the culmination of its UK Autumn/Winter tour. During its development, five Youth Creative Councils, including members from the New Wolsey Youth Theatre aged 13-25, helped shape the production. Some council members brought personal experiences of forced displacement to the creative process.

The bottom line: The production marks a new approach to measuring theatre's impact on audiences, combining traditional storytelling with innovative data collection to understand and potentially increase empathy in viewers.