ABBA’s mysterious “Abbatars” revealed

Holographic virtual avatars representing Swedish pop group ABBA – dubbed Abbatars – are bringing the band’s 1970s heyday back to life

Abbatars: 3D computer models look like band members as they were in 1970s. Facial animation captured from modern-day singers

Hologram stage projections appear to float on stage with astonishing depth

Projector

Screen: Hides projector and top reflector

Reflectors

Audience

Audience view (front)
Dec 2018: NBC (U.S.) and BBC (UK) producing global TV event. World tour to follow, 2019-2020

Real dancers

Stage lights and sets: Carefully positioned so as not to interfere with projection

Stage

Perceived position of ABBA

Reflecting foil: Abbatars projected onto angled transparent screen, but appear to be further back

Smoke and pyrotechnics: Can be used in front of projection Theatrical illusion (side view)

Pepper’s Ghost: Technique is update of popular UK stage trick of 1880s created by John Henry Pepper – used in carnival shows and theatres to create ghostly effects



Sources: Smooth Radio, Wired, Billboard, Holgram 3D, ABBA the Museum © GRAPHIC NEWS