Actor-Controlled Interactive Sound Design in Live Theatre Performance

About the Project

This PhD project invites researchers with interests in theatre, sound, and interactive technology to explore new possibilities in live performance. It investigates sound as a dynamic and expressive element of live theatre, offering performers intuitive tools to shape sound in real time—enhancing actor expression and deepening audience engagement. The research focuses on integrating actor-controlled sound systems using procedural audio and Internet of Sound (IoS) technologies to develop responsive, embodied, and co-created experiences tailored specifically for the unique demands of live theatrical performance.

The project will use a practice-based, mixed-methods approach, including collaborative workshops, technical prototyping, and live case studies. Actors, sound designers, and technical staff will co-create sound designs using Foley, samples, and procedural audio, with a focus on usability, reliability, and creative integration.

This research will contribute to the fields of sound design, performance technology, human-computer interaction, and creative computing, offering new frameworks for collaborative and embodied sound design in theatre.

Research Questions:

1. How do procedural audio models impact audience immersion and engagement in live theatre performances?
2. What are the effects of procedural audio on actors' performances and interactions?
3. How can procedural audio controls be designed to be intuitive and seamlessly integrated into live performances?
4. What are the technical challenges of implementing procedural audio in live theatre, and how can they be addressed?

Academic qualifications

Have, or expect to achieve by the time of start of the studentship a first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, ideally in Sound Design, Audio Engineering, Theatre and Performance Technology, Computer Science, Creative Computing, Music Technology with a good fundamental knowledge of Digital Audio and Sound Synthesis.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

• Good fundamental knowledge of Human-Computer Interaction
• Theatre Production Processes
• Programming (e.g., C++, Python, Pure Data / Max, or similar)
• Networking and Microcontroller Systems (e.g., Arduino, OSC over UDP)
• Strong interest in live performance and sound design
• Only a first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level in a subject relevant to the PhD project will be considered, or equivalent achievements.

Desirable attributes:

• Experience with procedural audio or real-time sound synthesis
• Strong interest in live performance and sound design
• Ability to work collaboratively with performers and technical teams
• Experience with audio software and/or hardware prototyping
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to engage in practice-based research and public engagement
• Practical experience in research or industry will be considered an advantage.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
• Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about:
  1. Background and motivation of the project. The motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
  2. Research questions or objectives.
  3. Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
  4. List of references.
• The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.
• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

To be considered, the application must use

• the advertised title as project title

For informal enquiries about this PhD project, please contact Dr Rod Selfridge email R.Selfridge@napier.ac.uk