Pop UP

Young children are full of fantasy and imagination. They can listen to stories in such a way that they become part of it.

With the interactive theatre installation Pop UP, Waag in co-operation with the Stichting 2+ created a multimedia experience for young children in the age of 2-6 years, in which they can put their first theatrical steps in life.

In this crossmedia project, theater and art came together. An environment to stimulate fantasy and creativity in which the values and possibilities of new technology were researched in relation to the use and play by young children.

In Pop UP, children meet a world of magic, surprise and wonder. An abstract world in which the sensitive experience and playful discovery has a central role. Pop UP offers a base structure for children to express themselves in many ways. It is suitable for children of various nature; some will explore and try out, others will be more observing.

In cooperation with 2+, Waag wanted to research the added value of the use of technology in cultural expression for this age group.

Pop UP was a mobile installation. In a first pilot, the installation was user tested by Waag and TU/e to come with a well balanced prototype. Pop UP was used at the 2+ Festival in Almere in February 2009. The elements were made at the Fablab Amsterdam.

In October 2009, the installation was nominated for the Cinekid New Media Award 2009.