CoSTAR Live Lab

Virtual Production (VP) is a novel approach to media creation that utilises digital tools such as computer-generated imagery, motion tracking and virtual and augmented reality to produce immersive media experiences that appear realistic. Used more widely in the gaming, film, and television industries, the application of VP technologies to the live performance industry has yet to be fully explored. Despite the environmental and creative benefits of VP, the technology is currently expensive, highly specialised, and out of the reach of most small production companies, creating a significant skills gap. The development of new, accessible, low-cost technologies and frameworks targeted at real creative sector needs is therefore essential for UK industry to maintain a competitive digital economy.

To this end, the University of York, in collaboration with our core project partners, Production Park, Screen Yorkshire, Wakefield Council, Vodafone, and York and North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, have created the CoSTAR Live Lab - a world-leading facility in the research and development of novel immersive and interactive technologies. Our lab supports the rapid convergence of the UK screen and performance sectors within the framework of live performance and the metaverse. Directed by the University of York, which has a track record of delivering high-impact XR technologies and developing the creative industry in its region, and based at Production Park, the UK's largest live production facility, in the heart of West Yorkshire. The CoSTAR Live Lab facility focuses on developing market ready products and services utilising immersive technologies, achieved by building a unique laboratory infrastructure on top of a thriving state-of-the-art commercial VP facility. This is the only specialised research facility in the world where the creation of production tools, workflows, and content for networked immersive virtual live performances coexists with a campus of businesses committed to live performance. Our main goal is to develop innovative, low-cost technologies and efficient workflows to transform the live performance sector, boost the growth of small and medium-sized businesses in the region, and contribute to the expansion of the wider UK creative sector.

CoSTAR Live Lab includes three main laboratory spaces: a large volume commercial VP stage with high resolution motion tracking, LED panels and 3D immersive sound; a performer-performer / performer-audience network lab; and an end-user experience lab for VP. It also houses a team of world-class researchers dedicated to creating innovative and novel technologies that are close-to-market and shaped by the needs of industry. The facility enables commercialisation of the research and will incubate start-ups and high-growth SMEs. Our unique Access programme encourages public and industry participation in R&D activities, workshops, networking events, technology showcases, lectures and symposia.

Within the CoSTAR ecosystem the Live Lab contributes a unique capability to develop technologies for future live performance experiences using VP, from small-scale pilots to arena-sized productions, and will deliver scalable, efficient, and accessible workflows, paving the way to position the UK as the leader in immersive and interactive live production experiences.