Actors sheltering at home perform in live VR experiences, making case for new theater form

LOS ANGELES - Recently, on the verge of being late for a work-related call, I stumbled upon a group of strangers. One of them snapped their fingers near my face. Another tossed me a sword.

But I didn't run. In the virtual reality world of "The Under Presents," these actions are tantamount to instant friendship. I admired the sword but set it aside when I spotted an inner tube, knowing that there would be no fighting here. Besides, the pool equipment would be better for an impromptu dance party, which can happen regularly in "The Under Presents." The work call would have to wait.

A woman who looked to be nearly 15 feet tall commandeered our attention. She said we should all say hello to her new friend named "Rice Krispie Treat" and then she asked if we could do a group hug. If there was any doubt that this was not your standard video game character and was instead a creation being puppeteered by a very-real actor, it was about to become apparent.

"We can't hug out there right now," she said, alluding to our