As part of the project, the performing arts students took on the role of actors, performing scenes that were captured on film by Viz Box using 360° camera equipment. Viz Box’s founding director, Carl Grainger, is hugely passionate about using modern technology to raise awareness of real-life problems and will use these captivating performances to create a virtual reality experience that showcases the devastating effects of bullying and conveys the importance of empathy, respect and inclusion.
Recently, Viz Box announced that they will be creating similar 360° virtual reality content with Merseyside Police, youth services and councils to support and educate young people to help reduce knife crime. By using the content created with our students, the Viz Box team presented to representatives from Merseyside Police and other organisations their idea of introducing the means of virtual reality to raise awareness of issues in the local community and encouraging young people to think about the consequences of their actions.
Stephanie Doyle, Advanced Creative & Digital Skills Business Centre Manager at the college said: “The ‘In Your VR Shoes’ project with Viz Box has been a fantastic opportunity for our performing arts students. This unique opportunity has provided students with practical experience, enhanced their performance skills and has allowed them to make a positive impact on society. Their work will serve as a medium to educate and engage children and young adults on important issues, hopefully making a difference to many lives.”
Liam Heron, Lead Developer for Viz Box, said: “Working with the students at Warrington & Vale Royal College was so much more fun than expected! Since it was the first time we have worked with students, it was something new but I found that it was a great experience.”
Carl Grainger, Founding Director at Viz Box, echoed this by saying: “I appreciate the hard work of all the students and tutors at Warrington & Vale Royal College for getting involved and being willing to take part in this project. Rosanna Rigby, Lecturer in Performing Arts, was a crucial part of this project; she made sure the students were ready to perform the scenes prior to our arrival making the filming process go very smoothly. It was great to see a concept go from an idea to then be created.”
This has been a fantastic opportunity for our students who were able to get involved with a live brief and work with an external employer on an important, meaningful project. We can’t wait to see how the ‘In Your VR Shoes’ project continues to grow!
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