The stages of the future

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, many venues made a creative shift to other forms of experiencing live performances. This could include streams, such as the online editions of Eurosonic Noorderslag, but also other forms of concert experiences, like the holograms of ABBA or concerts in games like Fortnite (featuring artists like Marshmello and Eminem). It seems that virtual environments and technological innovations can be an enhancement for concert halls, but how can a regional organization like SPOT effectively implement this? The students Jenske Veenstra, Matei Holban, Joppe Kok, Alek Borowiak and Nico Signorini conducted a research.

The students examined the role of the various elements (artist, venue, and audience) that come together in a concert hall. They analyzed the organization of SPOT based on these elements and conducted research on examples of best practices that innovate the performing arts experience.

Through a stakeholder meeting with various SPOT professionals, the students gained insights into the immediate and long-term needs of SPOT regarding innovation and virtual environments. It was revealed that the demand for innovation should not necessarily come from the concert halls, but from the artists performing. SPOT can primarily innovate in its facilitating role and anticipate the future needs of artists. Based on their theoretical research and the stakeholder meeting, the students wrote a report with concrete recommendations on which SPOT can base their innovation strategy.

Annie Kats, project support, about the research: 'The students’ research has provided SPOT with clear advice for the future. We now know which direction we can head in and, thanks to the research, we’ve also been inspired to take that direction!'