NewsRamp is a PR & Newswire Technology platform that enhances press release distribution by adapting content to align with how and where audiences consume information. Recognizing that most internet activity occurs outside of search, NewsRamp improves content discovery by programmatically curating press releases into multiple unique formats—news articles, blog posts, persona-based TLDRs, videos, audio, and Zero-Click content—and distributing this content through a network of news sites, blogs, forums, podcasts, video platforms, newsletters, and social media.
FAQ: University of Cincinnati's Digital Performance Lab and Its Focus on Verticals and Micro-Dramas
TL;DR
The University of Cincinnati's Digital Performance Lab offers a competitive edge by pioneering vertical micro-dramas, positioning students for success in emerging digital entertainment markets.
The Lab creates 90-second to 2-minute micro-dramas using motion capture and virtual production, training students in vertical series, voice-over, and video game performance techniques.
This initiative democratizes storytelling by transforming every phone into a studio, empowering actors to create emotionally resonant content that connects with modern audiences.
Imagine bite-sized prestige dramas designed for mobile scrolling, where cinematic motion capture creates electric moments impossible to ignore on social platforms.
Found this article helpful?
Share it with your network and spread the knowledge!
The Digital Performance Lab is a creative hub at the University of Cincinnati's Digital Futures Institute that focuses on training, research, and content creation at the intersection of performance and technology. It integrates motion capture, virtual production, immersive media, and mobile storytelling under the direction of D'Arcy Smith.
Verticals and micro-dramas are short-form, actor-driven narrative pieces specifically designed for mobile platforms, social entertainment ecosystems, and digital consumption. They are compact, emotionally charged stories that run from 90 seconds to 2 minutes, described as 'bite-sized prestige drama' for the modern viewing landscape.
Students develop micro-dramas using cinematic motion capture, advanced voice/performance techniques, and virtual production tools. The approach combines rigorous acting technique with technological fluency and creative experimentation to create fully sculpted dramatic moments.
This approach prepares actors for digital mediums not typically covered in traditional BFA Acting programs, including film, vertical series, voice-over, video games, and motion capture. It helps UC emerge as a standout incubator for future-ready talent in the evolving entertainment industry.
The Lab is directed by D'Arcy Smith, who leads the integration of performance with emerging technologies. Smith describes verticals as 'the new medium for the digital era' that allows every phone to become a studio and every actor a storyteller.
Students perform in motion capture, 360VR, and virtual production, create dynamic short-form verticals and micro-dramas, and receive voice-over performance training for animation, commercial, and video game work. The Lab also created a Digital Showcase to help actors gain exposure and launch into the industry.
According to the content, vertical scenes created by the Digital Performance Lab have begun circulating among entertainment insiders. The article also provides links to the Lab's website (https://ucdigitalfutures.com/digital-performance-lab/) and YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalPerformanceUC/shorts) where examples may be found.
The format has gained traction with entertainment insiders and industry observers, who note that the pieces 'feel like fully realized moments from streaming-era prestige drama—compressed, electric, and impossible to scroll past.' They're described as resembling 'bite-sized prestige drama' designed for modern viewing.
Students gain experience in digital mediums that are increasingly important in today's entertainment landscape, preparing them for careers in film, vertical series, voice-over, video games, and motion capture. The Lab's focus on instant shareability and emotional impact aligns with contemporary digital consumption patterns.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
