SRT Unveils Immersive Theatre Experience on Roblox
The Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) has introduced its inaugural immersive theatre project on the Roblox platform, aiming to engage a younger audience with Shakespeare’s iconic play, Macbeth, in a virtual setting. This initiative is part of the National Arts Council’s (NAC) Project Arts Metaverse (PAM), which allows participants to dive deep into the psyche of the play’s tragic protagonist, set against a stylized sci-fi backdrop. Developed through a collaboration with Metakey and MeshMinds, and influenced by TBWA\Singapore’s innovation counsel, this Roblox experience is a modern adaptation of scenes from SRT’s live production of Macbeth, tailored specifically for a tech-savvy audience.
PAM’s Initiative to Bridge Art and Digital Ecosystems
This project marks the first of four pilot initiatives under PAM, an Alliance for Action (AfA) initiative led by the NAC to investigate the evolution of the arts within digital platforms. The launch comes after a series of workshops facilitated by TBWA, which united creative professionals from technology and the arts sectors to explore innovative ideas.
Educational Value of “Macbeth on Roblox”
The NAC, in collaboration with the advertising agency, has worked diligently with SRT to cultivate a strategic partnership with Metakey. This ensures that “Macbeth on Roblox” aligns with educational goals, positioning it as a beneficial resource for instructors. The game is designed with careful consideration of the Ministry of Education’s learning outcomes for literature at both lower and upper secondary levels, aiming to enhance students’ comprehension and appreciation of Shakespeare and literature in general. TBWA has projected that “Macbeth on Roblox” will achieve over half a million play sessions in the upcoming year, introducing a novel way for classical theatre to connect with future audiences.
Bridging Theatre and Digital Worlds
Charlotte Nors, managing director of SRT, emphasized that the project aims to connect live theatre with the digital environments that younger generations frequent. She remarked on the extensive online engagement of the younger demographic, especially within gaming platforms, and identified a significant opportunity to integrate theatre into these digital spaces to ignite interest in the arts.
Disruption as a Tool for Connection
Melissa Daniels, head of innovation at TBWA\Asia and TBWA\Singapore, highlighted the potential of “disruption” to forge meaningful connections. She noted that exploring new digital landscapes can dismantle conventional barriers, aligning with their mission to render art and culture more accessible to emerging generations.
Roblox’s Resurgence in Educational Contexts
While Singaporean brands have previously ventured into the metaverse through platforms like Roblox, the focus on educational purposes with “Macbeth on Roblox” presents a refreshing perspective. In 2023, during Roblox’s peak popularity, Changi Airport Group (CAG) ventured into the metaverse with ChangiVerse, a collaborative effort with Accenture that offered audiences an innovative way to explore the airport’s attractions digitally. Additionally, DBS launched its metaverse initiative, DBS BetterWorld, promoting virtuous practices such as sustainability and reducing food waste through gamification in the virtual space.
