The Fusion of Technology and Theatre: Granny Jackson’s Dead Takes the Stage

The Northern Ireland Science Festival is poised to showcase a captivating fusion of cutting-edge business technology and the art of theatre, as the esteemed Big Telly Theatre Company presents its premiere of Granny Jackson’s Dead. This groundbreaking production will delve into the intersection of tradition, technology, and immersive storytelling by integrating virtual reality, AI, and holograms into a traditional Irish wake setting.

Under the direction of the distinguished artistic director Zoe Seaton, the play guarantees an unparalleled experience as it delves into the impact of digital memorialisation on a psychological and social level. Each writer will approach the storyline from a unique character perspective, seamlessly blending theatre, virtual reality, and gaming to create an engaging and thought-provoking performance.

The collaboration between Big Telly Theatre Company, Manchester Metropolitan University, the National Centre of Social Research, and the Centre for Cultural Value has paved the way for an innovative approach in exploring the effects of digitising memory and memorialisation. With the support of a Collaborate Fund research grant, the team is conducting deliberative research to examine the immersive theatre and arts-led dialogue, with a specific focus on the impact of technology on grief, memory, and commemoration.

The researchers involved in the project convey their enthusiasm for the industry-facing collaboration, utilizing cutting-edge technology to revolutionize the approach to interdisciplinary and contextual work. The team at Manchester Metropolitan University asserts that the convergence of face-to-face encounters and digital tools in an immersive performance will provide unique insights into the evolving landscape of social interaction, particularly in the context of mourning.

Eleanor O’Keeffe of the National Centre for Social Research underscores the significance of addressing the rapidly changing landscape of digital technologies and their impact on the grieving and remembrance process. As technology continues to shape the way individuals and communities navigate grief, it becomes increasingly important to engage in dialogue that considers the implications of these advancements on public health and social relationships.

For those interested in experiencing the unique and thought-provoking production of Granny Jackson’s Dead, booking details can be found on the Northern Ireland Science Festival website. Do not miss this opportunity to witness the fusion of technology and theatre in a captivating exploration of tradition, memory, and the digital age.