“HFCC Presents Virtual Reality Theater”

Matt Kirkland

Times Herald

     George Popovich will be directing Henry Ford Community College’s Virtual Reality 3D stereoscopic production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” Wednesday – Saturday, April 2-26 at 8 p.m. in the Adray Auditorium, located on the HFCC campus.  Popovich, 52, of Romulus, has been the director of theater arts since 1985, where he has overseen more than 300 productions. When he first took over the department 18 years ago, only two theater classes were offered. Now more than 30 classes are offered. Further, under his leadership, the college now also offers an associate of arts degree in theater. Popovich has poured more than a decade of his life into bringing virtual reality to the stage, something he calls a “combination of a live theatrical play and a TV show.”

     “We chose ‘The Tempest’ because of it’s magic. The movie, ‘The Forbidden planet,’ is basically ‘The Tempest,’ Popovich explains. “The Shakespearean words taken out, but there is a homage there,” says Popovich. HFCC’s production of “The Tempest” takes place in the future, using 3D stereoscopic images.  The audience will wear 3D glasses to interpret them. The students involved in this production, both cast and crew, are currently enrolled in Popovich’s “Virtual Reality Theatrical Production” class where they learn about VR Theater. According to Popovich, all images of this production are original and have been created by staff and students of the Virtual Theatricality Lab. Popovich brainchild hybrid of theater and film. They are using half a dozen computers to make this challenging, yet groundbreaking endeavor possible.

     He says that implementing VR technology on the stage isn’t an attempt to supplant live performances with computers. Quite the contrary, VR technology is used to heighten the live performances. Popovich has been involved in all aspects of theater; he has done performing, directing, writing, scenery design, lighting, costume design, sound and special effects. Additionally he has reviewed plays for many newspapers and magazines. With cutting edge special effects of “The Tempest.” it’s no big secret that’s Popovich’s stock-in trade.

     A holder of many degrees, Popovich received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English as well as standard secondary teaching and community college teaching credentials from California State University; a master degree in theater from The University of Texas; and doctorate in theater from Ohio State University. He has taught in high school and college levels.

     Seating for “The Tempest” is limited. All seats are $15 and is payable only through cash and check. No credit cards. Make check payable to HFCC Theater and mail it to: George Popovich, Fine Arts and Fitness Division, Henry Ford Community College, 5101 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Mi 48216. The number tickets and date desired needs to be indicated. A self - addressed envelope also needs to be included. Tickets can also be reserved over the phone by calling 313-845-6478. Tickets can be purchased in-person at the HFCC Theater Arts Box Office, located in F125 in the Mackenzie Fine Arts Building on the main campus. Box office hours are Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Tuesday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For further information call 845-6478