Submergence is a large, immersive, walkthrough experience that uses many thousands of individual points of suspended light to create feelings of presence and movement within physical space. As you enter the piece, you are walking into a space occupied by both real and virtual components, and you can affect both!

The piece moves through several movements, creating a semi-linear 12 minute piece. In its entirety, an abstract narrative is formed with a gradual increase in tension, building to a final climax. Each movement has its own elements, atmosphere and responsiveness. They are also all open to one’s own interpretation.

For your safety, we strongly encourage but will not require FestGoers to follow the UMD Athletics bag policy for events at The Clarice. All bags will be searched by security personnel upon festival entry, and FestGoers who travel light will be able to enter the festival more quickly and easily. Only empty water bottles will be permitted; there will be free water stations and opportunities to purchase beverages inside the festival.

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This event is part of NextNOW Fest 2022. NextNOW Fest is a signature event in University of Maryland's Arts for All initiative, which leverages the combined power of the arts, technology and social justice to address the grand challenges of our time. In addition to the festival's student, academic and touring artists lineup at The Clarice, NextNOW Fest will continue partnerships with student-led groups, academic departments and community organizations to hold the festival at sites throughout campus and into College Park!

VIEW FULL 2022 FESTIVAL SCHEDULE