Recent advancements in technology, particularly in Spatial Computing and Extended Reality (XR), have significantly transformed narrative art forms, opening unprecedented opportunities for deeply immersive storytelling. These emerging technologies allow audiences to be immersed within cinematic environments, interacting directly with characters powered by sophisticated Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems that dynamically respond to user input.

This evolving frontier in storytelling has given rise to a novel concept known as ‘Hyper Immersive Reality,’ a term I coined to describe an innovative approach to narrative experiences in which audience members transition from passive spectators to active co-creators, directly influencing the unfolding story. This concept applies across various art forms, including interactive film, installation art, mixed reality storytelling, and beyond, extending seamlessly into areas such as gaming, dance, and music.

Hyper Immersive Reality positions audiences at the heart of narrative creation, blending physical and digital realities to enable participants to navigate autonomously and affect the course of narratives through their actions. This highly interactive, participatory design results in individualised experiences, ensuring that each participant encounters a uniquely personal narrative journey within a shared overarching framework.

Addressing the complexities involved in crafting such nonlinear and immersive narratives presents a significant challenge. Traditional storytelling tools—such as screenplays, storyboards, and previsualisation—often fall short in adequately conveying the interactive and spatial intricacies required by immersive media. The absence of standardised practices or frameworks compounds this challenge, making it difficult for creators and stakeholders to conceptualise, communicate, and develop immersive experiences effectively.

In response to these challenges, my doctoral research proposes a pioneering framework termed ‘Production Architecture.’ This framework aims to redefine the conceptual and developmental phases of creating Hyper Immersive Reality experiences. Production Architecture introduces new terminologies, specialised script formats, and procedural guidelines explicitly tailored to immersive storytelling. By establishing these novel methods, the framework facilitates clearer communication and structured development of complex interactive narratives.

Through this practice-led research, I seek not only to introduce academic contributions but also to influence industry practices positively. By providing creators with the tools and methodologies needed to articulate and execute immersive storytelling, the Production Architecture framework aims to unlock new artistic potentials and enhance the practical realisation of Hyper Immersive Reality. The ultimate goal is to foster deeper audience engagement through experiences that are simultaneously personalised yet interconnected.