Virtual Acting Studio

A VIRTUAL ACTOR is a digitally created performer, brought to life through collaboration between humans and technology. These actors can work alongside human performers, mimic real individuals, or exist as entirely original characters. They appear in film, games, immersive experiences, social platforms, training simulations, and more.

Research project: Touched by a Hologram, in collaboration with Michel van der Aa

The Virtual Acting Studio researches the collaboration between human actors and virtual performers, focusing on their psychological impact on audiences and their role in storytelling. The studio specializes in dramaturgy, casting, and performance. Its technological development is guided by emotional intentions and the core principles of the acting craft, ensuring that innovation always serves the human and artistic experience.

We handle the casting and performance of virtual actors for film, games, immersive technology, training, and more. Our focus is on creating believable and immersive performances that viewers can truly identify with. Should we use a real actor, a virtual actor, or a hybrid solution? How do we avoid the uncanny valley? And how can we maintain maximum emotional impact and connection for the audience? By carefully addressing these questions, we deliver experiences that are both authentic and thoughtfully crafted.

Exploring casting and performance for Strange Head

Virtual actors are evolving rapidly, and their impact differs depending on whether they appear in fiction or reality. We explore not just what is technically possible, but also how society can engage with these new possibilities. This includes understanding the influence virtual characters have on everyday media — from protecting personal data to shaping character development — and ensuring their use is responsible, ethical, and meaningful.

Acting is a way to explore what it means to be human — a deep dive into character, psychology, and identity. Since 2017, I’ve been exploring the concept of Virtual Acting: a creative investigation into who we are in relation to technology. This ongoing, pioneering journey — technical, creative, and philosophical — led to the founding of the Virtual Acting Studio.

cassandradeklerck.com/virtualactor

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The future of acting will embrace stage, screen and virtual actors, blending tradition with innovation