Metaverse-Driven Interactive Performing Arts Content Development

Abstract

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic necessitated platform diversification and the revitalization of interactive performance (the metaverse), a new paradigm for the performing arts. In 2019, the authors implemented an online, audience-participatory, interactive dance performance content using AI. This study analyzed the effect of the metaverse on performance content in terms of performer–audience interaction, examining the distinction between face-to-face performances using AI-based Korean dance content on the metaverse platform. Interactive metaverse performances break free from the unidirectional limitations of traditional face-to-face performances, which can only be viewed, and enables audiences guide the performance by expressing emotions through VR avatars during the performance and expressing opinions through chats. This study sought to derive a meaningful application plan after confirming the usefulness and limitations of metaverse convergence with the performing arts by focusing on an interactive Korean dance performance. The findings should enhance performing arts content development and academic and industrial values.