FPOV's Understory Brings the South Bank Rainforest to Life

	FPOV conceptualized Understory as a unique blend of nature, mythology, and technology, where each aspect complements the beauty of the rainforest.

South Bank's latest magical experience, Understory, is set to open on November 15, 2024, bringing a world-first lighting spectacular show to Brisbane. This immersive installation features 11 unique stages throughout the Rainforest Walk and invites visitors to step into a world of imagination and creativity. Inspired by the beauty of the South Bank rainforest, Understory combines architecture, animation, lighting, and soundscape design to create an experience that sparks curiosity and wonder.

"Understory is designed to challenge the way we see the world around us. As visitors explore, they will encounter a series of sensory experiences that transform familiar surroundings into a fantastical world. Bubbles filled with smoke, flames emerging from water, and mythical creatures with quirky characteristics invite a sense of playfulness and delight. The experience is a celebration of the unexpected, encouraging people of all ages to view nature through a new lens," the company says.

Using advanced techniques like projection mapping and interactive Zed stereoscopic cameras, the characters interact with the landscape and visitors, creating a vibrant, responsive world. FPOV conceptualized Understory as a unique blend of nature, mythology, and technology, where each aspect complements the beauty of the rainforest. The characters, inspired by the plants of South Bank's Rainforest Walk, were brought to life using lighting projection mapping and holograms, beautifully integrated into a synchronised show that coordinates lighting, sound, video, and special effects.

Over 280,000 pixels, 800+ individual lights, four low foggers, and 17 smoke machines, all controlled by an ETC APEX lighting console, combine with lasers and atmospheric effects to create a dynamic environment that evolves with the story. An original soundtrack plays through 100 outdoor POE speakers and 25 subwoofers, ensuring that every part of the Rainforest Walk is fully immersed in sound that complements the visual spectacle.

Projection mapping, a central feature of the show, employs 20 outdoor projectors and 25 holographic spinners to animate the characters and landscape. These projections, interacting with the natural environment via Zed stereoscopic cameras, are synchronised through a custom-built network, ensuring a smooth and interactive experience for visitors.

Through a blend of design and storytelling, Understory reimagines the elements of earth, fire, air, and water. Visitors will meet the energetic Vivatwinkle, playful Nahlbows, and many other mythical creatures, each representing a unique element of nature. Lights, music, and special effects bring these characters to life, reshaping the rainforest into a work of art that offers a sensory experience like no other.

Working with South Bank Corporation, FPOV played a key role in realizing this vision, transforming South Bank's Rainforest Walk into an interactive space that blurs the line between reality and fantasy. By integrating advanced AV technology and creative storytelling, FPOV ensured that every aspect of Understory engages visitors and draws them into its vibrant world, the company says.

"Understory is a wonderful journey into a fictional world," says Bernie Tan-Hayes, CEO of FPOV. "It's a place where plants and rocks become mythical creatures who dance and play, where smoke-filled bubbles pop, and flames come out of water. It's all about enticing curiosity and inviting people to see things from a different perspective."

Formed in 2019 through the merger of Point of View and Firefly Lighting Design, FPOV has delivered impactful experiences for clients such as Mercedes, Microsoft, MGM, Crown Resorts, and Qantas Lounges.

Understory will run from November 15 to January 26. Tickets are available via understory.net.au.