FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 24 January 2025
Open Call: ACT x SODA Smart Theatre and Mixed Reality Lab Now Accepting Applications
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is excited to announce the launch of South Africa’s first Smart Theatre and Mixed Reality Lab Programme. This innovative initiative is designed to equip performers, creators, technicians, social media specialists, and arts entrepreneurs based in the City of Ekurhuleni with access to cutting-edge technology and critical Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills in virtual and immersive performance. The programme is delivered in collaboration with Soda World and with support from the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture, the City of Ekurhuleni, and the Dumisani Masilela Theatre.
Programme Overview
This transformative programme offers participants the opportunity to engage with the future of digital arts and media. Combining state-of-the-art technologies such as virtual reality production, artificial intelligence (AI), digital broadcasting, and spatial computing, the initiative empowers artists, technicians, and storytellers with the skills needed to lead in the evolving arts and entertainment industry. Participants will leave the programme as multi-disciplinary digital creators, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s creative landscape.
Programme Details
- Location: Dumisani Masilela Theatre, Germiston, a pioneering venue equipped with cutting-edge virtual production and immersive storytelling technologies.
- Dates: February – March 2025 (in-person attendance required).
- Structure: Weekly sessions combining hands-on training, assignments, and collaborative projects.
- Capacity: Limited to 40 participants. Selection will prioritise candidates with high potential for success in this programme.
- Cost: The programme is fully funded for successful applicants. However, participants will need to arrange their own transport to the venue and no stipends will be provided.
Who Should Apply?
- Performers and storytellers eager to expand their craft using immersive and virtual tools.
- Creative entrepreneurs looking to innovate within the digital arts industry.
- Technicians and media professionals interested in mastering advanced tools such as multi-camera production, AI-assisted workflows, and virtual reality platforms.
What You Will Learn
Participants will gain expertise in:
- Immersive Storytelling: Learn to create and perform stories using AI tools and immersive technologies.
- Live Broadcasting & Multi-Camera Production: Gain expertise in live-streaming, multi-camera setups, and video production tailored for both small-scale and hybrid venues.
- Content Packaging & Distribution: Understand how to package digital content for diverse audiences and formats, ensuring scalability and sustainability.
- Digital Collaboration: Bridge technical and creative expertise, enabling innovative collaboration between artists, technicians, and storytellers.
- Career-Ready Skills: Equip yourself with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in emerging roles such as virtual production specialists, interactive content designers, and digital arts curators.
Jessica Denyschen, CEO of ACT, says, “ACT is proud to break new ground in the cultural and creative industries (CCI) by providing artists with access to world-class digital technology and training. This will not only equip them for future roles in virtual environments but also open up global opportunities and foreign currency income.”
Michael Balkind, Founder of Soda World, adds, “This programme is about empowerment. With these technologies, we’re giving creatives the tools to reimagine their future and bring their ideas to life in ways that were previously unimaginable. By blending their talent with cutting-edge innovations, we’re creating a space where creativity meets opportunity, unlocking new pathways for artists and storytellers. With most of the world’s population connected via smartphones and the internet—and over half a billion people now active in virtual worlds—the potential of these technologies is unprecedented. Disadvantaged communities, in particular, stand to benefit immensely. Tools like AI remove language barriers, assist with legal and accounting tasks, and provide young, creative, and talented individuals with “superpowers” to fast-track their careers. This programme offers participants a unique chance to access these powerful tools and level the playing field in the global arts and entertainment industry.”
By the end of the programme, participants will:
- Create and showcase a professional-grade digital project blending performance and technology.
- Develop a portfolio of work demonstrating proficiency in cutting-edge tools and techniques.
- Be well-prepared for careers in virtual production, immersive media, and digital broadcasting.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18 and above.
- Must be based in the City of Ekurhuleni and able to travel to the Dumisani Masilela Theatre (formerly Germiston Theatre) 2-3 times a week on designated days.
- A minimum of a Matric certificate (or equivalent) is required.
Apply Online Now
Visit www.act.org.za/smarttheatre to submit your application. The deadline for applications is 7 February 2025.
This initiative offers creatives in Ekurhuleni the chance to develop their skills and compete in both local and international markets, opening doors to new opportunities in the ever-evolving arts sector.
Stay connected with ACT for updates on this and other exciting opportunities by visiting our website, following us on X, or liking our Facebook page.
ENDS
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Keitumetse Mbatha, marketing@act.org.za
Awande Dube, awande.dube@icloud.com
About the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT)
Founded in 1994, the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is South Africa’s leading independent organisation for arts development and investment. ACT’s mission is to increase the sustainability of arts and culture initiatives by supporting innovative and impactful projects that contribute to society. Through a range of structured development programmes, ACT provides support to all forms of arts and culture, including literature, music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. Over the past 31 years, ACT has supported more than 830 arts, culture, and heritage development projects across South Africa, including small businesses.
For more information, visit www.act.org.za, follow us on X, or like our Facebook page.
About Soda World
Soda World, based in Johannesburg, is a leading mixed-reality platform transforming live music and cultural events across Africa and beyond. Founded in 2023, Soda World blends physical venues with virtual reality to create immersive experiences that connect global audiences to African culture. Recognised for its groundbreaking approach to live events, Soda World has produced over 100 events, engaging more than 14,000 virtual attendees. The platform’s innovative use of mixed-reality technology has earned it global recognition, including a notable appearance at the MIT Reality Hack in Boston and a showcase at the 2022 Venice Film Festival. For more information, visit https://labs.sodaworld.tv/