An increasing number of artists and estates are currently exploring augmented reality shows and the possibilities offered by new media. Think ABBA Voyage, the very successful ‘arena meets virtual concert space’ based in London. An Elvis hologram show is in the pipeline while five Madonna appears simultaneously on stage in 2019 at the Billboard Music Awards.

KAGAMI by Ryuichi Sakamoto and Tin Drum, staged at the Roundhouse is a different experience. The show is a new type of concerts which celebrates pianist, sound explorer and Bowie collaborator Ryuichi Sakamoto who died of cancer in 2023.

Upon entrance to the Roundhouse, guests are invited to pass through a gallery of portraits of the Japanese icon, then watch a short film showing the artist travelling and experimenting with sounds around the world. KAGAMI mixes different perspectives and realities, brilliantly oscillating between photography exhibition, film and VR.

Past the exhibition, the curtains of the majestic Roundhouse open by surprise to invite visitors in. Instructions are given and explain, with humility, “that the show isn’t perfect”, a nice introduction to the following episodes.

In addition to spatial art that is in sync with the music, audiences are welcome to don optic devices to watch a recreation of Sakamoto, virtually playing the piano. The immersive, surround-sound experience encourages viewers to establish a connection with the artwork, nature, the artist, the music and one another in real time. The fantastic show combines real-world elements with three-dimensional moving image.

Highlights include the artist’s performance of The Last Emperor track among other important pieces. Virtually, the visual language recalls Sakamoto’s personal life, his love of nature and Japanese landmarks. A tree of light transforms into a representation of the entire planet during “Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence” as stars surround the Roundhouse. An emotional and striking moment in the show.

Sakamoto worked on this mixed reality show with digital producers Tin Drum before he passed away here by taking new symbolic meaning. While the technology enhances the senses, the show masterfully strikes a balance between the full spectrum of the arts and brings nostalgic and beautiful feelings to the viewers.

It premiered to the public simultaneously this past summer at the Manchester International Festival and in New York, and it is currently playing at London’s Roundhouse until 21st January.

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