Photo by: Codyman
An Art Deco casino on the Californian island of Catalina could become a virtual reality park, according to the LA Times.
The Catalina Island Co is working with VR firm Obscura on proposals to transform the 1929 building – originally commissioned by chewing gum tycoon William Wrigley Jr – into a high-tech attraction for the 21st century.
It plans to bring the casino’s movie theatre and ballroom to life, with visitors immersing themselves in simulated situations. Experiences could include watching virtual performances of musicians in the 20,000 sq ft ballroom and sharing a drink with stars of the past such as Marilyn Monroe, a resident in the area during World War II.
‘William Wrigley Jr would have been delighted to know that his elegant casino is a perfect fit for hologram projectors and mega-pixel technology,’ Randy Herrel, president and chief executive of the Catalina Island Co, told the LA Times. ‘Our goal is that it remains innovative and relevant for new generations of visitors.’
The proposal does not involve any changes to the Art Deco structure. Obscura hopes the attraction could be ready for early 2016, with additional work to be carried out in phases after that.
