Syn_

Immersive Performance Environment Encouraging Empathy Through Synchronized Movement

Syn_, the prefix meaning “acting together” or “united”, presents an immersive dreamscape in which the experience and data analysis of togetherness are explored. Guided by a system of interactive lights and the ambiguous presence of a performer, participants are prompted to engage in synchronized movement in order to trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone proven to elevate self-other awareness. Utilizing this method of empathy enhancement, the performance aims to blur judgements and pre-conceived social boundaries, while guiding participants through three stages of cognitive awareness.

The participant commences their journey having been presented with a pair of responsive LED gloves, which facilitate non-verbal interaction with the performer who wears a corresponding responsive LED body suit. A new environment is then revealed, where the performer’s body is abstracted by use of lightweight, translucent curtains. The light interaction between both individuals allows for a form of touch synesthesia, the illusion of felt contact through visual cues of depth, induced by the movement of the abstracted bodies. While the participant progresses, their gloves collect biodata to track oxytocin production, evaluating the sense of empathy and social reciprocity to be felt upon completion. Once the participant has explored all three stages of Syn_, they are awakened from the dreamscape and presented with a data visualisation of their interactive journey.