The media and entertainment (M&E) industry is a whirlwind of strategic activity. 2023 looks to be a year of reckoning and transformation.
Ticket sales remain well below pre-pandemic levels. Subscriptions and memberships – long the backbone of many arts organizations – have plummeted.
M&E organizations are experimenting with NFT innovation to increase engagement and connect directly with fans.
Virtual Concerts
When people think about virtual concerts, they often picture cartoonish animated bands like the Gorillaz. These bands are popular because they make the music come to life with their animated avatars.
Some real-life musicians are concerned that VR concerts will eventually replace their performances, but it’s too early to tell for sure. In the meantime, VR is an important new entertainment trend that offers many advantages to both artists and fans.
One advantage of virtual concerts is that they are much more convenient than attending a physical concert. They can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. Plus, they can be recorded and replayed whenever you want to listen. These concerts can even be viewed by multiple people at the same time.
Music lovers have embraced virtual concerts, and some of the biggest names in music have joined in on the fun. For example, Marshmello has hosted live virtual concerts with millions of viewers. Another example is Travis Scott’s Astronomical concert on Fortnite, which generated $20 million in merch sales.
Virtual concerts also eliminate some of the problems that can occur at a physical concert. For example, they can help artists avoid issues such as robberies and sexual violations. They can also help prevent the spread of the virus and prevent gang fights that can occur during physical concerts.
Some music organizations have taken their events into the virtual world, with a number of Seattle music venues hosting virtual concerts. In addition, local restaurants and food vendors are delivering virtual concerts to the homes of their customers. This includes Uneeda Burger, which delivers virtual concerts to your car while you wait for your meal.
Seattle Chamber Music Society has jumped on the bandwagon of virtual concerts, bringing its summer festival to digital spaces. The festival has offered a mix of old favorites and bold new works. One highlight was Aaron Jay Kernis’ Siren for Solo Flute, 7 Flutes, and Piccolo, performed by the incredibly nimble flute musician Marina Piccinini. It was an experience that would be impossible to duplicate in a real-world venue.
Live Broadcasts
There are plenty of opportunities to hear live music in Seattle, whether you’re looking for open mic night, comedy, karaoke, indie rock from locals like Half Stack or Cut Worms, jazz and funk, or just a good drink. Sunset Tavern, for example, is a great place to see indie-twang with a local flavor. Tractor Tavern, down the street on Ballard Ave, carries that aesthetic further with cowboy boots hanging from the ceiling and thoroughly Western vibes.
Virtual Worlds
The days of flimsy 3D movie glasses are giving way to virtual worlds where people can do everything from play video games with friends to go on virtual tours. A number of Seattle companies are pushing the limits of VR to innovate, educate and create new experiences for consumers and businesses.
Virtual reality uses a headset with two small lenses that separates the user from their environment while feeding them images through them. A person puts on the headset and they enter a virtual world where they can see, hear and feel what is happening. They can even interact with other characters in the VR world and have conversations.
According to Geekwire, Seattle is a leader in developing VR technology. Facebook’s Oculus VR system is a popular option for gamers who want to play multiplayer virtual reality video games with their friends. Other VR technologies are more geared to educational and entertainment purposes. For example, the Museum of Flight’s Spacequest VR and a whale experience from Seattle Aquarium are examples of educational virtual reality.
Another company, Foundry10, aims to make VR learning a part of the culture in schools. The north Lake Union firm works with schools to introduce students to VR and studies how they use it. One of the ways they do that is with a whale simulation in which students can walk around a virtual whale.
The educational potential of VR is expanding rapidly as the industry matures and more people purchase headsets. A recent study on VR learning suggests that the impact of immersive media can be more effective than traditional text and audio-only classroom lessons.
There are also companies that are using VR to help people connect with others from far away places. A Seattle-based virtual reality software company called uGen makes software that enables people to connect with each other in a virtual world. It’s a kind of social networking in which users can meet up with others they are interested in meeting and talk about topics that interest them.
Against Gravity is another Seattle virtual reality company that makes social multiplayer VR gaming. Its software allows people to meet up with their friends in virtual worlds, where they can play capture the flag or go on long quests together.
Axe Throwing
Like billiards or darts, axe throwing is an activity that can be as competitive or as low-key as you want it to be. You can play alone or with friends, and it’s a great way to get together for a fun night out. Many venues also have experts on hand to help you learn the proper technique. The best part is that it’s super affordable. You can throw an axe for as little as $24.
The axe throwing trend first took off in 2006 when a group of bored Canadians decided to have some fun by throwing handheld axes at a target. The idea quickly grew into the Backyard Axe Throwing League, which has locations across Canada and now the U.S., and has helped introduce a new form of entertainment that’s as fun as it is cathartic.
In addition to being a social sport that’s as fun as it is satisfying, axe throwing is also a fantastic stress reliever. It’s fast-paced and engaging, and most games are accompanied by drinks, food, music, and plenty of cheering. You can compete with friends or complete a team, and you can earn points based on where your axe sticks in the target board.
Axe throwing has gained popularity because it is a fast-paced, engaging activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It is a great way to unwind after a long day or to celebrate a special occasion. It is also a good way to bond with friends and family members.
When it comes to axe throwing, there are some basic rules that you should keep in mind. First, make sure to wear proper safety gear and a pair of closed-toe shoes. It is also important to keep a safe distance from other participants and bystanders to avoid accidents or injuries. If you are unsure of how to properly throw an axe, it is a good idea to practice with a friend or a professional coach.
If you’re thinking about trying axe throwing, be prepared to pay for some drinks and food while you’re there. You will need to have a valid photo ID to participate in this activity. Children under 18 are allowed to attend but must be supervised by an adult.