Waterloo - Behind The Scenes: How XR & AI Are Rewiring Reality
From immersive theatre to interactive design studios, Waterloo is quietly becoming one of London’s most dynamic playgrounds for creative technology. At the heart of it? A bold blend of art, innovation, and next-gen storytelling - and you're invited to step inside.
Join WeAreWaterloo for an exclusive evening at London South Bank University’s XR Studio - a cutting-edge space where extended reality, AI, and motion capture collide.
- Try out advanced VR headsets and plunge into alternate realities
- See in action the latest motion capture suits used in gaming and film
- Create your own AI-generated visuals using the newest tools in the field
Then sit back (or lean in) for a provocative panel discussion with immersive tech trailblazers including LSBU's Levin Hegele and Kristina Pulejkova as they explore urgent questions like:
- What happens when machines start shaping our creativity?
- How can small businesses and artists harness big tech without selling out?
- What role will places like Waterloo play in the next digital renaissance?
Whether you're an artist, business owner, local student or explorer of the unknown - this is your invitation to discover how tech is reshaping the way we think, create, and connect.
Confirmed panellists include:
- Levin Hegele - Research Fellow at South Bank University, currently delivering on the BIG South London Programme
- Kristina Pulejkova - Kristina Pulejkova is a researcher and the XR Studio Manager at London South Bank University
- JJ Gachero - Multidisciplinary Creative Technologist and Business Owner in design, AI, Innovation, and Strategic Insight
Host:
- Donnacadh O’Briain - Olivier Award winning Creative Director, Experience Designer and Story Architect specialising in live theatre, immersive experiences, and experiential learning
Running Order:
Doors open and registration
6.00 - 6.15pm
Demo XR studio session
6.15pm - 6.55pm
Waterloo Behind the Scenes Panel Discussion with Industry Experts
7.00pm – 8.30pm
Networking
8.30pm - 9.00pm
About 'Waterloo - Behind The Scenes'
Waterloo – Behind The Scenes is WeAreWaterloo’s signature panel discussion series, created to spotlight the voices, ideas, and challenges shaping one of London’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. Launched in 2019, the series offers an open forum for meaningful conversations - tackling big societal questions and bridging perspectives between local communities and industry experts.
Each event is designed to spark curiosity, challenge assumptions, and expand horizons. With a rotating cast of speakers, interactive elements, and a welcoming atmosphere, attendees are invited to step outside their comfort zones, meet new people, and leave with fresh insights into the complexities of modern life.
Hosted in unique venues across Waterloo, these affordable (and often free) weekday evening events always include a complimentary drink on arrival - with the bar staying open post-panel to keep the conversation flowing. Waterloo - Behind the Scenes is produced by local resident and founder of WRB Studio, Sarah Sepahi.
