Lost Communications: Underwater

Lost Communications: Underwater is a new live performance project developed by Research Fellows Dr An-Ting Chang and Dr Ian Gallagher.

Using their DIY 360-degree hydrophone set, immersive compositions and Unreal Engine, they record sounds from coral reefs, fish, whales and other underwater creatures, integrating them into original 3D compositions and visuals. The result is a unique underwater soundscape brought to life through a multi-sensory hybrid online and in-person performance, engaging the audience in an immersive world of different dimensions.

Using cutting-edge AI technology, they transform underwater sounds into a 3D digital world with dynamic visuals, allowing audiences to experience a magical underwater world through three formats: VR, desktop (digital), and projections (physical). The in-person audio-visual performance will be enhanced with interactive gaming elements for its online version. An-Ting and Ian will be projected into the 3D world using Kinect cameras, enabling real-time interaction with audiences through their VR headsets.

The project is supported by Sound UK, Immersive Arts and Norwich University of Arts, and the work will be premiered in 2026.