EXPERIENCE
→ In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats
- Past Event
- Music
- Subculture
- Community
PHI Centre
Galerie 3
407 Saint-Pierre St
Montreal, Quebec, H2Y 2M3
Monday and Tuesday:
Closed
Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday:
11:20 AM to 8:30 PM
Friday & Saturday:
11:20 AM to 9:20 PM
Duration: 50 minutes
Last entry: 50 min. before closing
13 years old +
Weekdays:
13 to 30 years old: $28
31 years old +: $30
Weekends:
13 to 30 years old: $30
31 years old +: $32
Price including service fees, excluding taxes
Before visiting, please review some essential information about the visit, including details on accessibility at the Centre.
To plan a school, community or corporate visit, go to our Group Visits page.
Dive into 80s rave culture in the UK.
Watch the trailer
About the experience
In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats, by award-winning immersive artist Darren Emerson, is an interactive documentary virtual reality adventure that takes audiences back to the heyday of the UK’s illegal Acid House rave scene of the late 1980’s.
What people are saying...
“With the experience being so crammed with contextual detail, it’s hard to comprehend that you haven’t traveled in time.”
“The immersive nature of VR makes it feel almost like a real-life experience.”
“One person left In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats moved to tears. Others came out buzzing ready to pick up the phone and get some old mates back together.”
“We were there. Back in 1989. It’s so emotional. An experience that is second to none”.
“I just want to go back in, I felt like I was 19 again, surrounded by people I knew. It really is one of the best things I have ever done.”
“This was my first time wearing a VR Headset, and I believe it was one of the best experiences I have had.”
“I had a huge smile on my face the whole way through!”
Discover rave culture
It's 1989, and rave culture is at its peak in England. Illegal raves are organized all over the country, in abandoned warehouses and other isolated locations. A cat-and-mouse game is played between the organizers and the police: but once a rave has started, the police have no way of stopping it.
This interactive documentary virtual reality experience transports you to the scene of a typical rave, accompanied by the sounds of old-school Acid House. Grab a flyer and set off with your friends in search of an illegal rave, somewhere in a secret location near the city of Coventry. You start by listening to tunes at home, then scout dark, empty rest stops for isolated phone booths to receive the information, then finally experience the euphoric release at the party.
This virtual reality experience brings to life the stories of organizers, DJ’s, police officers and rave goers, whose rivalries and relationships made this period of dance culture so unique. You can experience In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats in small groups in a rave-like setting.
This is an adventure into one of the most important cultural revolutions in UK history, celebrating multiculturalism and community, through the prism of late 80’s politics and society.
FAQ
What can I expect from the experience?
In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats is a VR experience that takes you back in time, where finding the ultimate rave is all that matters. Starting in a room covered with posters of pirate radio stations, police stations and secret warehouses, the interactive virtual reality experience puts you in the shoes of the pioneers of rave culture in the UK.
How long does the experience last?
The duration of the experience is approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive 15 minutes before your time slot.
What equipment will I wear to participate?
You will wear a Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headset, controllers and a backpack to participate in the experience.
In what language is the experience presented?
The experience is presented in English, with French subtitles available.
Is there mediation available for this experience?
The PHI Centre offers meditation for all its exhibitions and experiences. We encourage you to engage with our staff!
Is it possible to wear eye glasses?
Yes, but it is favourable to wear contact lenses over eye glasses when using a virtual reality headset, when possible. The maximum size of glasses that can be worn with a virtual reality headset is 142mm in length and 50mm in height.
Is the experience accessible to those with reduced mobility?
Yes the experience is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Please contact us before purchasing your ticket(s) so that we can accommodate you. Call 514-225-0525 or email [email protected].
Those accompanying visitors with reduced mobility (PRM) are strongly encouraged to take part in the virtual reality experience as well, in order to provide better direction and guidance. Companions are entitled to free admission.
Is the experience accessible to children?
The experience is reserved for an audience of 13 years of age and older.
Where can I get tickets?
You can purchase tickets on our website at phi.ca as well as on site at our reception desk.
Is it possible to purchase tickets on site?
Yes, it is possible to purchase tickets on site from our box office. However, we suggest that you purchase your tickets in advance as places are limited.
What are the accepted forms of payment?
We accept debit and credit cards, except AMEX. Cash payments are not accepted.
Do I have to print my ticket(s)?
It is not necessary, however, we accept both printed and electronic tickets.
Can I refund or reschedule my ticket(s)?
We do not offer any refund or rescheduling services. If you have any further questions, please contact: [email protected].
What happens if I can't find my tickets?
You can contact us by phone at 514-225-0525 during our opening hours or via our email address [email protected] mentioning your full name, the email address associated with your purchase and the exhibition in question.
Is it possible to transfer my ticket to another person?
Unfortunately, the PHI Centre ticketing system does not offer the ability to transfer tickets. You can share your ticket with a friend or family member, but you will remain the ticket holder and purchaser.
If a time slot is full, is there another way to get tickets?
Unfortunately, once a time slot is full, it is not possible to obtain additional tickets. We recommend to check back regularly as tickets might occasionally become available.
If I have a problem with my online order, who can I contact?
You can contact us by phone at 514-225-0525 during our opening hours or via our email address [email protected]. Please provide us with your full name, your purchase order number, the name of the exhibition concerned and a description of the issue.
What are the different rates available?
Depending on your respective category, you can purchase a ticket for those aged 13 to 30 or for those aged 31 and older. Please note that our prices are subject to changes with presale and promotional offers or special rates. Our promotions are not cumulative and cannot be combined with other offers.
What happens if I am late for my time slot?
If you happen to miss your time slot, please ask a staff member upon arrival and our team will try to accommodate you to the best of our abilities. If the day's time slots are full, then you may lose your access. It is very important to arrive on time.
I would like to book a group visit; how does it work?
For school visits, please write to [email protected].
For corporate tours or group tours of 10 persons or more, please call the box office at 514-225-0525 or email us at [email protected].
Do all members of my group have to be present to do the experience together?
Yes, if you would like to do the experience together. If you are planning a tour and think your group may arrive at different times, we suggest you order your tickets separately.
Is there on-site parking at the PHI Centre?
The PHI Centre does not have a parking lot. There are City of Montreal parking spaces available in the vicinity of our building.
Are there restrooms available on the premises?
Yes, we have restrooms at your disposal.
Is there a coat check on site?
We have a self service coat check area. However, we suggest that you do not bring any bags with you.
Hygiene and cleaning:
Our team follows a meticulous protocol of hygiene measures: all equipment, including helmets, are carefully disinfected with wipes for effective sterilization between each visitor.
Are there any flashing images during the experience?
Your experience may include flashing images. Please contact us before purchasing your ticket(s) if you have any questions or concerns.
About East City Films
East City Films, led by Ashley Cowan and Darren Emerson, is a trailblazer in creating meaningful and transformative narratives. Specializing in award-winning Virtual Reality documentaries, 360-degree video production, and Augmented Reality experiences, they are dedicated to sharing the stories that matter most.
Written and Directed by Darren Emerson
In Pursuit Of Repetitive Beats was originally commissioned and presented as part of Coventry UK City of Culture 2021 and supported by the BFI Film Fund, awarding National Lottery Funding.
An East City Films Production
Executive Producers for East City Films: Ashley Cowan, Dan Tucker, Darren Emerson
Produced by: Ashley Cowan, Dan Tucker
Executive Producer for the BFI: Kristin Irving
Executive Producer for CCCT: Tony Guillan
Contributors:
Adrian Dowling, Mick Wilson, Cornell Chambers, Neville Fivey, Jeff Parris, Tim Godwin, Joe Decambre, Tony McCook, John Scroggie, Vicky Dixon.
Cast:
Robson Medler, Jessica Saunders, Eto Badu, Russell Barnett, Kate Thomas, Kezie Ejbe, Ciaran John, Samuel King, Lee Fisher.
Motion Capture Performers:
Phoebe Ryder, Edmund Wood
Movement Director: Sarah Perry
Production Manager: Siona Davis
Production Assistant: James Grubb
360 Video DOP: Jon Boyce
Lighting Cameraman: Tom Allum
Camera Technician: Andrew Yardley Drone Operator: Andrew Yardley
360 Rover Operator: Tom Allum Sound Recordist: Pano Chountoulidis Camera Operator (IBIZA): Moose Campbell
Camera Operator (Mo Cap): Simon Kennedy
BTS Camera Op: Anthony Badu, Jem Talbot
Casting Director: Natalie Monroe
Stylist: Alton Hetariki
Hair & Make Up: Kailey Walker
Art Director: David O’Neill
1st AD: Tara Trangmar
Spark: Andy Cox
Rigger: Kieran Sewll
Drapes: VFX World
Catering: Zara’s Kitchen
Camera Equipment: Transmission TX, Alias Hire
Classic Car Hire: Ian Holly – Straight 8
Well Being Facilitator: Matt Longley
Poster Artwork: Hannah Moitt
Rave Culture Advisors: Adrian Dowling, Lee Fisher
Legal Council: Sheridans
Accountants: Nyman Lisbon Paul LLP
Accessibility Advisors: Harshadha Balasubramanian, Troi Lee, Rachel Bagshaw
Filming & Capture Locations: The Box, 3DIFY, Sunbeam Studios, Crossroads Garage Napton, Centrestage Studio, Rough Close Scout Camp, Sports Connexion Leisure Centre.
Workshop Locations: Arcola Theatre, Old Diorama Arts Centre
360 Video Post-Production: Conan Roberts
Editor: Conan Roberts
Lead Animator: Marco Sandeman
Colour Correction: Andy Overton
Unity Developer POC: Andy Overton
Volumetric Capture: Ian Byrne
Volumetric Capture Studio: 3DIFY
VR PRODUCTION PARTNER
ALL SEEING EYE
VR Creative Lead: Ollie Lindsey
VR Technical Lead: Adam Child,
Senior Unity Developer: Robin North
Technical & VFX Artist: Will Young
Senior UX Developer: Chris Mullany
Lead Environment & 3D Artist: Olly Skillmand-Wilson
Technical Director (Hardware): Aaron Smith
Jnr UX Developer: Hankun Yu
Motion Capture Supervisor: Alex Counsell
Motion Capture Technician: Panduka Rejapakse
Business Director CCIXR: Pippa Bostock
Sound Designer: Gareth Fry
Music Consultant: James Cooper
Music:
Chime Written by Phil and Paul Hartnoll Performed by Orbital Courtesy of London Music Steam (p) 1990 Published by SM Publishing UK Ltd
Self Hypnosis”Written by Mark Archer & Chris Peat Performed by Nexus 21 Courtesy of Network Records
Indulge Written by Neil Howard Performed by Neil Howard Courtesy of Network Records Demons Written by Mark Gamble Performed by Rhythmatic Courtesy of Network Records
Aleph 2 Performed by Max Cooper (P) Phases 2019 Courtesy of Believe
Energy Flash Written by Joey Beltram Published by Planet Function/The Right People & administered in the UK by Fairwood Music (UK) Ltd
Children Written by Joe Goddard, Joseph IIhan, Adem Sadi Performed by Joe Goddard Courtesy of BMG Rights Management (UK) Ltd Additional Music
Serenade, Eighties Sound & Soul Aura Courtesy of Soho Production Music
FOR THE BFI
Production Manager: Iris Cohen
Head of Production Finance: Ian Kirk
Director of Legal and Business Affairs: Clare Coulter
FOR COVENTRY CITY OF CULTURE TRUST
Creative Director: Chenine Bhathena
Events Operation Manager: Claire Manley
Trusts and Foundations Manager: Laura Pottinger
Programme Contracts Manager: Jamie Wright
ARCHIVAL MATERIAL COURTESY OF
ITV ∙ BBC ∙ Getty Images ∙ Kino Library ∙ Amnesia House ∙ Adrian Dowling ∙ Cornell Chambers ∙ Jeff Parris ∙ Joe Decambre ∙ John Scroggie ∙ Mick Wilson ∙ Neville Fivey ∙ Tim Godwin ∙ Tony McCook ∙ Vicky Dixon ∙ Matthew Shaw ∙ Russel Allen ∙ Matt Partridge ∙ Darren Last ∙ Jonny Newman ∙ Richie James ∙ Deborah Bryce ∙ Lee Fisher ∙ Sky Blue Connexion footage shot by Paul Harris and Martin Henry ∙
SUPPORTED BY:
National Theatre Immersive Story Studio
University of Portsmouth CCIXR
SPECIAL THANKS:
Ben Luxford
Amnesia House
Adrian Dowling and Daylight Robbery Films
Neville Fivey
Phatmedia Dave
Lee Fisher
Neil Rushton
Bob Tapp
Walton Wiggins
Ian Exton
Emily Emerson
Jo Cowan
Naomi Selwyn
Film Birmingham
Birmingham City Council
Coventry City Council
SOFTWARE USED
Unity, Maya, Blender, Substance Painter, Substance Designer, Quixel Mixer, Motion Builder, Adobe Premiere, Abode After Effects, Embergen, Pro Tools, Q lab
Read about it on the Antenna blog
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