As the Evolution of Story III symposium approaches, we’re reflecting on the incredible diversity of ideas and practices that will be shared. This year’s theme, Having a Larp: Immersion, Liveness, and the Qualities of Experience, invites us to think critically about how larp and other forms of immersive storytelling shape our understanding of narrative, presence, and community.
Larp has evolved from niche subculture to a vital mode of participatory storytelling, challenging the boundaries of narrative construction and audience engagement. One of the most compelling questions raised by this year’s submissions is how larp and related immersive practices can foster meaningful, transformative experiences. Papers and panels will explore how immersion is crafted, how real-time interaction shapes storytelling, and how players become active co-creators rather than passive spectators.
Some papers challenge our assumptions about immersion itself. For instance, Josiah Lulham’s work reframes immersion as a practice rather than a state, suggesting that it emerges through social interaction and community building within larp contexts. In a similar vein, Tiz Creel’s exploration of the essence of play highlights how imagination, care, and trust form the core of larp’s immersive power. Meanwhile, Nafis Ahmed’s study on “kay-fabled” liveness examines how perceived presence and emotional immediacy sustain fictional realities, drawing intriguing parallels between larp and professional wrestling.
Power dynamics also come under scrutiny, with Kyria Van Gasse examining how Vampire: The Masquerade larp can inadvertently encourage power abuse, highlighting the need for safe and inclusive participatory environments. On a different note, Adam Jerrett’s reflections on What We Take With Us explore how values-conscious game design can foster personal growth and community wellbeing.
This year, the symposium will also highlight practical applications and theoretical insights through hands-on sessions and thought-provoking discussions. Katy Naylor’s panel on participatory dramaturgies will gather experts who merge larp and interactive theatre, exploring how storytelling practices can build dynamic communities and transformative player experiences.
Why does this matter? Because as immersive experiences become more mainstream, the ways we design, participate in, and reflect on these stories will shape the future of storytelling itself. Whether it’s the interplay of agency and dramaturgy, the role of audience onboarding, or the ethics of interactive play, these conversations are crucial for anyone invested in the evolution of story.
We invite you to be part of this unique event. Register now to join leading voices in immersive storytelling and explore how larp is reshaping our understanding of narrative, community, and transformation.
Don’t miss out—be part of the conversation!
Disclaimer: The title “Having a Larp” is also the name of a commercial business. The Evolution of Story III Symposium is not affiliated with or endorsed by this business. We would like to thank the owner of Having a Larp for their kind understanding and support in allowing us to use this phrase.
Photo by Peter Steffen at DPA.