The present invention is a process of staging a live or pre-recorded
performance that follows a schedule, optionally before a mass audience.
The performance involves electronic and/or mechanical media that is
computer controlled, preferably so as to create a virtual reality of one
or more events. In the course of the performance, when an action that is
not normal to the schedule occurs, the timing, speed, or sequence of one
or more electronic and/or mechanical media activities are adjusted,
whereby to compensate for the action so that the action does not adversely
affect the continuity and totality of the performance to the audience. The
present invention also encompasses an apparatus that comprises a sensory
stimuli device(s), a mass audience area substantially within a space for
reception of the sensory stimuli device(s), and computer hardware and
software. The computer hardware and software comprises a script of a
scheduled performance; a control program that steps through the script
while allowing for flexibility and adaptation of the performance in
response to an action that is not normal to the schedule; and a control
interface(s) to the sensory stimuli device(s) whereby sensory stimuli
associated with the performance can be commanded by the control program.
In addition, the present invention embraces a computer readable medium
comprising a script containing a thread(s) of performance activity. A
thread typically contains computer implementable instructions to control
one or more electronic and/or mechanical media devices involved in a
performance.