Research Study: Physiological Synchrony of Theatre Audience Members

In association with Bristol University's research and innovation programme MyWorld, we are undertaking research with audience members of Complicité's Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead to scientifically uncover what it is that makes the experience of live theatre a uniquely visceral and connecting experience, using pioneering techniques.

Find out more about the study below:

What is this study about?

Becoming immersed in a performance or show is something most of us will have experienced – that experience of being so engaged in what we are watching, reading or listening to that we lose track of time and distractions in the environment. 

Despite being such a widely-experienced phenomenon, there is still so much to find out about what is happening - physiologically and psychologically - when we are immersed. 

One of the key aspects of immersion appears to be physiological synchrony between audience members, particularly in audience heart-rate.

We are looking to investigate this in a real audience, using wristband (“Fitbit-style”) devices that capture physiological data in real-time. 

They are entirely safe, comfortable and non-invasive. You can read more about them here.

What will the study involve?

If you agree to take part in the study, upon arriving at Bristol Old Vic a researcher will fit you with the wristband, ensuring it is comfortable (we would ask participants to arrive by 7.00 pm to allow for this, as the play starts at 7.30pm). 

We will also ask a few questions after the play about your experience, to see how subjective reports correlate with physiological measures. This will take around 20 minutes and we will provide a complimentary drink while you complete them.

And that’s it! Your experience will otherwise be exactly the same as it would be if you weren’t participating (i.e. you will retain the seat you bought a ticket for) - except you will receive a £30 Theatre Token as a thank you for taking part.

Who can take part?

As long as they are at least 18 years old, absolutely anybody can take part!

Are there any risks to taking part?

We do not anticipate any risks whatsoever, and this study has been approved by the Health and Safety Officer of the Faculty of Life Sciences, as well as the Research Ethics Committee at the School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol.

The devices used to measure physiological data are CE-certified, and as they are designed for clinical use, they are compliant with the associated safety regulations.

Crucially, no personal information will be associated with the physiological data, and no identifying information whatsoever will be collected (i.e. all data will be completely anonymised). Participants will be free to withdraw from the study at any time.

As we only have a finite number of wristbands, we are looking to recruit 14 participants from each performance, so will recruit on a first-come-first-served basis. 

To sign up to participate please email myworld@bristololdvic.org.uk.

If you have any questions, or would like any further information, please email f.carter@bristol.ac.uk