“Down in the Sea”: The Hologram Concert

How can one spark the enthusiasm of a young audience for classical orchestra music? How can a concert format convey social issues and an orchestra be actively involved in environmental protection? These questions led to the unique hologram concert “Down in the Sea”, which was first performed in March 2023 by the Elbland Philharmonic Orchestra Saxony.

The project was launched as part of the sponsorship scheme “Excellent Orchestra Landscape Germany” by the federal commissioners for culture and media. It combines a classical philharmonic orchestra with holographic projections and actors. Together they tell a captivating story, create new levels of perception and an overall unique audiovisual family experience.

The first scene that presented itself to the viewers was a large, deep stage with a classical philharmonic orchestra. A transparent gauze screen was stretched between the public and the musicians. Two actors stood to the right and left, who recited the projected film live. While the orchestra played live music, holographic images and a gripping story were presented on the screen. The spectators were enticed into a fantastical underwater world, where a little girl was fighting against the littering of the oceans.

The event generated national media attention. It further encouraged numerous school children to reflect the concert in class and write moving letters of thanks to the orchestra.