VR experience economy for Australia’s music and events

Through Inverse’s cutting-edge technology, users of the streaming platform can tune into a live event and experience it in 360 degrees via tablet or 3D VR headset for a fully simulated front-row ticket experience. Inverse also enables audience members to craft their own customised characters, also known as ‘avatars’, so they can socialise and connect with their friends during performances, creating entirely new immersive experiences, sense of community and socialisation for users.

According to Melbournian and Founder, Darren Vukasinovic, explained: “With physical number restrictions at venues right around the globe due to Covid-19, we wanted to create a new virtual channel, that would help artists stay connected with their audiences, whilst opening a new VR experience economy for the music, performance art and events industry.  

“We also see Inverse’s ‘live’ 3D VR streaming platform helping artists broaden their audiences by connecting with those who are more permanently restricted, whether that’s physically, mentally, financially and logistically challenged,” explained Vukasinovic.

According to Grand View Research, the global virtual events industry is estimated to grow by a CAGR of 23.2% by 2027 as more people continue to Work-From-Home (WFH) due to the pandemic.

“As the virtual events industry continues to grow throughout the world, we hope to see more and more advanced experiential technologies like Inverse being adopted across the music, arts and events industry,” continued Vukasinovic.  

“Through Inverse’s live 3D VR streaming platform, musicians, performing artists and event organisers can truly transcend today’s physical limitations and provide a personal front-row experience for audiences, all whilst taking advantage of a new VR channel and hybrid revenue stream,” concluded Vukasinovic.  

As part of launch, Inverse, in partnership with Melba Opera Trust, have been working on a specially curated immersive VR opera recital, featuring Melba Opera Trust alumni Stacey Alleaume, Nathan Lay, Michael Petruccelli, internationally renowned pianist Amir Farid and hosted by Mairi Nicholson.  

Amy Black, CEO of Melbourne Opera Trust, who previewed the performance in a VR headset, shared: “I was experiencing a world class opera performance from the comfort of my own home – and yet I felt as though I had front row seats.  Being able to follow the artists around the room gave a totally fresh perspective of an operatic performance and, of course, the artistry and sound were superb,” concluded Black.

The operatic event will be live streamed in December in Virtual Reality via the soon to be released Inverse app (on Oculus), along with a free-to-watch 360-degree Youtube live feed available on desktop and mobile.