London – Tobacco Dock events venue is creating a digital twin of its physical space to offer hybrid events for the pandemic period and beyond.
Tobacco Dock Virtual, developed in partnership with virtual reality (VR) platform Sansar, will present shows and events at the same time as the physical venue, drawing on gaming cues to give each guest an avatar that can navigate the dynamic virtual space. Accessible via the Sansar app or on any web browser, guests can interact with other attendees, discover new products, listen to a headline speaker or band and ask questions in real time.
The virtual double is not only a response to Covid-19 curtailing physical events, but will also open up attendance to global audiences or those unable to access the physical space. Jonathan Read, commercial director for Tobacco Dock, explains: ‘Tobacco Dock is excited to develop a cutting-edge, virtual venue that will enable remote audiences to have a truly immersive, rich experience with the attributes of being present without the travel.’
Venues around the world are creating digital twins as a way to enhance the public's enjoyment of or involvement in an event or project, pointing to a future of more immersive phygital experiences.