Immersive projection and interactive installation introducing the Noh theatre.
Merge of technology and graphic.

Video recording of the mini-exhibition [Virtual Noh Stage] in the Degree show in Graphic design of Falmouth University 2022. The formal exhibition of this project. (Scroll down for the whole introduction video.)

- Project name: Virtual Noh Stage

- Exhibition place: seminar room in the graphic design studio

- Duration: 6 mins +

This is a brief introduction to the Japanese traditional theatre - the Noh theatre.

The projection is designed to immerse the audience in the virtual Noh theatre. Feel just like being in a Noh theatre, even travel back in the 14th century when the Noh was performed outdoors.

The projection aims to give the audience a taste of the Noh theatre. Make the audience feel interested in the Noh theatre. Therefore, I designed an interactive installation with Live 2D that can track people’s faces.

The Noh culture is popular unconsciously. I have been thinking about how to enhance the accessibility of the Noh theatre. People are familiar with the Tengu mask emoji, the Koomote mask is everywhere being often a horror visual element. However, most people do not know what is Noh. And the masks came from Noh. 

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Used software for the exhibition: Madmapper, OBS, Vtube Studio

Software and tech used in making: Live2D, After effects, Clip studio paint, Photoshop

An important element of the Noh masks is made present different expressions when seen from different perspectives. Which makes the Noh vivid and mysterious. The expression range depends on the masks (the role they represent).

Left: Sad/concern; Mid: Normal; Right: Hopeful/smile

Live 2D is a relatively minor technology born in Japan. It is made for reusable 2d animation and 2d modeling for face capture. As I have the basic knowledge of 2d animation and modeling, it is the best choice for making plenty of face capture models in a short time. Live 2d is also capable with detail face movements. 

The video below is an interactive event on campus. Which only shows the interactive part of the project. It successfully attracted people that walked by.