Stage fright is a problem that the University of Melbourne's Dr. Solange Glasser, Ben Loveridge, and Associate Professor Margaret Osborne set out to solve. The transdisciplinary team built a virtual reality application, using Unreal Engine, in which budding musicians can practice performance techniques in a simulated stage environment. Through customized sound, lighting, unexpected distractions, and audience controls, performers can practice for an upcoming audition or exam. As the team continues to improve accessibility and user experience through testing and research, they are seeking funding and partnerships to boost the development of this high-impact, low-cost training solution. Featuring interviews with the team, this video was made to generate interest in the project. With a limited budget, Ben Loveridge was judicious in his use of audio, imagery and virtual reality clips to illustrate how scary stage fright feels, and how the application works to alleviate it. Since the video's release, the project has received an Innovation Award Commendation and positive reception at major conferences. It has also generated interest from individuals and institutions that are interested in using the application or collaborating on it.
From the Judges
This engaging video effectively introduces a complex technology by showing the simulation in action, making the project clear, accessible and interesting. Judges loved its strong opening, pacing, creative story flow and ability to speak to the student audience it was designed to reach. The representation of the technology was especially strong.
