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Can I make virtual theatre, too?

In a word, yes.


But let me back up a bit.


People seem to be intimidated by the technology that is needed when doing virtual theatre, but let me tell you that I am no tech wizard. So when I first contemplated starting this company, I, too, was unsure if I had the skills and prowess to pull it off, and to do it relatively lwell.


The good news is, there's not a lot you need to get started.


Got a device that connects to the internet?


If you answered "yes" to the question above, you can now start creating virtual theatre. Really!


The only thing you really need is a way to create video and/or sound. The rest -- like lighting, green screens, etc -- are just bonuses.


In other words, all you need to get going is a camera and a microphone. Most smartphones have these, as do any computers made after the year 2000. And yes, I did say "or" in that first sentence because you may want to do something with just your voice, like a radio play. Your iPhone or Android likely come with a voice recorder app, but in the off-chance they don't, there are oodles of them for free on your preferred app store.


And that's only if you want to pre-record your performance! If you're more daring and want to go LIVE, you don't even need an app!


In cases like that, there are web-based solutions (that is, nothing you need to download to your device; just visit a website you visit and you're good to go!).


Here at JVTC, we are partial to streaming sites like Streamyard.com, OnTheStage.com and ShowTix4U.com mostly because they are so user-friendly (and have top-notch customer support to boot), but there has been an explosion of similar-minded platforms, so with a little research (Google "Streaming sites") you will find one that's right for you.


You're probably associating this type of venture with a staggering cost. You'll be pleased to know that sites like the ones above are fairly affordable (prices vary). In the case of OnTheStage.com, they do ask a streaming fee of $50/performance, however, that cost can be passed on to the viewer through the ticket cost (roughly $1 extra per ticket).


Don't want to charge? No problem! Facebook, YouTube, Zoom, and I'm sure a gaggle of others offer streaming at no extra fee! So, unless you're doing a performance where you have to pay a licensing fee (and want to make your money back), go with one of the freebies as you get your feet wet in this new medium.


Whether it's just you singing a few songs, performing a one-person play you wrote, or doing a virtual version of Cats, there are very easy and affordable ways to do it. I promise you that you can pull it off (and you can always reach out to me for help!).


I believe virtual theatre needs your voice and the more we have, the merrier we will all be.

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