Kura River in VR

An immersive VR theatre experience in Unity that lets users navigate the Kura River through interactive storytelling to explore ecological change and cultural heritage.

problem

Environmental change in the Kura River region is hard to communicate through static media; audiences need a visceral, story-driven way to understand ecological impact on communities and heritage.

solution

We built a VR theatre showcase that combines navigation along the river, interactive narrative moments, and virtual characters sharing personal stories, supported by soundscapes and cultural references to connect ecology with lived experience.

Overview
Kura River Chronicles is a VR theatre project that uses immersive tech + storytelling to raise awareness of environmental issues around the Kura River.

Experience design
Users navigate along the river, observe ecosystem/community changes, and interact with virtual characters who share personal stories; the experience also connects to regional folk literature and history.

My role

Built interactive VR mechanics in Unity (C#): navigation, interactions, and narrative branching.
Integrated environmental storytelling: user choices trigger different story paths and content.
Managed character animation tracking workflow with MOVE AI.
Coordinated with environmental researchers to keep depictions grounded and accurate.

System / implementation notes

Unity scene + interaction logic in C# (event-driven triggers, branching state machine).
360° visuals + spatial/environmental soundscape integration.
Data overlays (only mention if you truly implemented them).

Deployment / reach
Supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and developed within the Ritual Mobile Theater Laboratory context.
Reached over 300 people through workshops, events, and exhibitions. Showcased at 2 global events, bringing international visibility to the project. Presented at 5 regional schools & universities, integrating it into sustainability education programs. Recognized by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation as an innovative model for environmental education. Used in climate awareness events, inspiring young people and policymakers to engage in sustainability efforts.