Experiencing the ‘Fulldome’ Format: A Journey Through Pink Floyd’s Iconic Music
Rediscovering a Classic
There’s something profoundly transformative about experiencing art through a new format. Recently, I had the chance to enjoy a version of Pink Floyd’s iconic album, The Dark Side of the Moon, in a “fulldome” presentation. Having been a long-time Floyd fan, I was taken aback by just how different and immersive this experience was, potentially redefining how I perceive the beloved album.
Originally released in 1973, The Dark Side of the Moon has been reissued countless times, with over 1,000 variations available on platforms like Discogs. While it’s not my personal favorite Floyd album—I’d lean toward Animals or Meddle—its influence and iconic status is undeniable.
The Venue and Setup
This particular presentation took place in Cardiff, South Wales, at CULTVR Lab, a unique venue not just for its design but for its mission. Unlike traditional planetariums, CULTVR Lab is an immersive research hub that fosters collaboration among several creative companies dedicated to advancing 360° film technology.
In a setting designed for innovation, I settled down on a near-horizontal seat, gazing up at a vast hemispherical screen. This was no ordinary viewing experience; the fulldome format uniquely immerses viewers in a way that traditional cinemas cannot match. The atmosphere was electric, heightened by the knowledge of being in a space where cutting-edge technology meets artistic expression.
The Power of Imagery and Sound
It was fascinating how the show integrated stunning NASA footage against the backdrop of The Dark Side of the Moon. The visuals, curated in partnership with Aubrey Powell of Hipgnosis, were breathtaking and played an integral role in ensuring that the 44-minute presentation kept all eyes glued to the screen. With such vivid imagery and 5.1 surround sound, the experience was exhilarating, drawing me deeper into the music’s emotional landscape.
While conventional digital theaters often struggle with audience engagement, the immersive nature of the fulldome format ensures that everyone shares in the same experience—laughter, gasps, or moments of reflection echoed throughout the audience.
Tech Behind the Experience
CULTVR Lab utilized a creative yet economical approach for their fulldome structure. Rather than investing in an expensive planetarium projector, they employed twelve BenQ W1050 1080p projectors strategically arranged to create a seamless image on the dome. The final display achieved a remarkable resolution of 4096 x 4096, demonstrating that effective tech choices can lead to extraordinary experiences, even on a limited budget.
However, mounting twelve projectors to create a single coherent image is no small feat. Achieving proper alignment without distortion requires significant technical expertise, further highlighting CULTVR’s innovative spirit.
The Community Aspect
Another noteworthy aspect of the CULTVR Lab is its commitment to community. Rhys Davies, a multimedia artist and part of the 360° film-making team, welcomed attendees and shared insights about the technology behind the scenes. This interaction with the creators added a personal touch to the experience and deepened the appreciation for the fusion of art and technology.
The venue is not solely focused on Pink Floyd; it aims to introduce audiences to a variety of fulldome content, from original films created by 4Pi Productions to other global offerings. In this way, CULTVR Lab is a space not just for watching but for learning, innovating, and engaging with new ideas.
Future of Fulldome Experiences
While the Pink Floyd presentation was originally intended to run only throughout 2023—marking the album’s 50th anniversary—it’s clear that fulldome shows are gaining popularity. The potential for more venues to open up to varied content is promising; successful screenings may encourage hesitant planetariums to broaden their horizons.
Those who may not have access to an established fulldome venue should keep an eye out for similar experiences within their locality. As the trend grows, many emerging inspirations could lead to exciting new formats for immersive storytelling.
In sum, experiencing The Dark Side of the Moon in a fulldome setting was not merely a concert; it was an encapsulation of art, technology, and community. Every lyric, note, and visual worked in harmony, transcending the boundaries of traditional music presentations and creating a kaleidoscopic journey for the senses.