This project explores the possibility of repurposing telepresence robots and developing innovative practices that would make remotely controlled theatre possible. It begins to develop performance techniques that family members could use to participate remotely in a theatre experience together with their loved one living in long term care (LTC), while also addressing environmental sustainability in research. The project uses a collaborative co-creation approach with all participants having connections with LTC. Ultimately the goal is to develop a research project that works collaboratively with residents in LTC and their families using the telepresence robots to devise theatrical performances.
During COVID-19, I began to think about the notion of “theatres of isolation” – imagining a range of innovative ways of doing theatre and performance in instances of social isolation. Although COVID-19 is no longer a pervasive threat, isolation remains a concern for many, especially older adults. In particular, when older adults move to LTC they are often removed from their families and communities. Given widespread issues with LTC under-staffing, many residents lack social connection and meaningful activities. Telepresence robots (mobile communication devices that can enable virtual video and audio communication) have been proposed as a way to offer meaningful engagement and social connection to older adults living in LTC. In a study that employed telepresence robots in LTC homes in British Columbia, Lillian Hung and colleagues found that the devices were user friendly and promoted engagement of residents (2023). While researching new technologies can develop innovative solutions for aging-related issues, I am also gravely concerned about technological waste in research. This project implements recycling of electronic research leftovers as a means of climate action.
The Telepresence Robot Theatre Project aligns with AiD’s mandate to bring interdisciplinary approaches to critical data studies, as it is informed by Dr. Julia Henderson’s interdisciplinary background in occupational therapy and occupational science, theatre and performance studies, and critical age studies and disability studies, as well as Dr. Lillian Hung’s background in nursing, dementia studies, and gerontechnologies. Additional researchers bring expertise in disability studies, feminist theory, community-based participatory research, and recreation therapy. Further, artist facilitators bring their expertise in theatrical devising and community-engaged arts practices, and patient partners and/or family carers bring their lived experience. The project employs and develops innovative, multi-perspective approaches to collaborative theatrical devising and research technology resuse.
