Few sources of entertainment these days require or expect a passive audience. Whether viewers are tweeting during a television program, or texting to vote for a contestant, it’s evident that we like to feel involved.
Theater, one of the oldest forms of entertainment, is again embarking on this tradition of immersion. While interactive theater isn’t new, it is growing in popularity as audience members are encouraged to drink, socialize or take part in a production without being dragged on stage.
This sort of immersion keeps theaters economically viable, and it’s also relevant to folks who are accustomed to being connected and engaged at all times.
Charlie Herman, the business and economics editor for Takeaway co-producer WNYC, explains the latest developments in immersion theater.
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