Cutting edge Sony Virtual Production Studio puts Norwich on the map for the future of film and gaming

A new state-of-the-art Virtual Production Studio has launched in Norwich, the result of a collaboration between Norwich University of the Arts and Sony.

The studio will be the first educational and commercial facility of its kind in the UK to feature not only Sony VERONA panels for virtual production, but also a Sony VENICE camera to capture content and beyond.

The Virtual Production Studio places Norwich at the forefront of digital storytelling and next-generation filmmaking in the UK. It gives creators and performers the ability to perform in front of Sony’s LED-based screen, providing immersive backdrops in real-time.

These digital sets can transport actors and audiences to any location imaginable and are widely used in major blockbusters and news productions. At nine metres wide and four metres high, the LED volume uses 6.7 million pixels to deliver sharp, cinematic visuals that look lifelike both in person and on camera.

The studio is located alongside the University’s Immersive Visualisation and Simulation Lab, which is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. The combined studio forms a new hub for digital creativity and will be used by students studying film, animation, games and visual effects, as well as for commercial purposes, as directors will be able to rent out the space for their own projects.

Prospective students will have the opportunity to explore the new facility during the University’s open days, which will highlight the exciting opportunities the space offers for learning, collaboration and innovation. Major local production companies and studios have already expressed their interest in using the new facilities for commercial purposes.

“The launch of the Virtual Production Studio represents a bold step forward for Norwich University of the Arts and for creative education in the UK. This collaboration with Sony enables our students to experiment with the same technology shaping the future of film, animation and visual effects. It reflects our ambition to ensure every graduate is ready to innovate and lead in a rapidly evolving creative landscape.”

Professor Ben Stopher, Vice-Chancellor Designate of Norwich University of the Arts

The facility includes professional camera and audio systems and custom lighting to ensure high-quality image reproduction in virtual environments. Sony has provided technical expertise and support as part of a growing partnership with the University.

The collaborative nature of the project also enabled the university to partner with motion capture specialists Target 3D, who provided advanced Optitrack-based camera tracking. Their system integration expertise ensures seamless interaction between all the technologies in the studio.

“Collaborating with the Norwich University of the Arts team has been an absolute joy. The passion and drive to deliver something truly special have been inspiring. The whole Sony team are extremely proud to have played a part in this exciting project.”

Chris Couzens (Sony Europe)