Shane Pike

Dr. Shane Pike is a Senior Lecturer in Drama at the School of Creative Arts, Queensland University of Technology. His research bridges creativity and technology, with applications in health, commercial, and performance contexts. He serves as Chief Investigator on the $280,000 ARC Linkage project 'Advancing Digital Innovation in The Australian Live Performance Sector' and collaborates with cultural institutions like Sydney Theatre Company and Meta.

Education

• PhD in Performing Arts (Directing) - Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
• Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice - Australian National University
• LLB - Australian National University
• BA (Drama Hons. First Class) - Australian National University
• BCA (Theatre) - University of Tasmania

Research Focus

Dr. Pike's work centers on emerging technologies in creative practice:

• Augmented/Virtual Reality applications in live performance
• AI-enhanced creative processes with commercial/clinical applications
• Digital dramaturgy and creative leadership frameworks
• Theatre-based therapeutic interventions for health contexts

His research has secured over $400,000 in competitive funding including ARC, IHBI, and Arts Queensland grants.

Publication Trends

Recent publications (2020-2026) demonstrate strong focus on:

• Digital performance innovations (AR/VR/AI integration)
• Pandemic-era creative adaptations (Zoom-based pedagogy/performance)
• Cultural diversity in Australian dramaturgy
• Interdisciplinary approaches combining arts, technology and health

Awards & Recognition

• Dr Don Batchelor Award for innovation in live performance (twice)
• Edith Cowan University Research Excellence Award
• Senior Fellow of Higher Education Academy
• IHBI Synergy Project Grant ($22,500)
• Queensland Arts Showcase Program Grant

Supervision & Grants

Current supervision includes MPhil and PhD projects on nonverbal communication in actor training and Australian female bushrangers storytelling. Major grants include:

• ARC Linkage: $280,000 for digital innovation in live performance
• Creative Sparks Grant: $10,000 for 'Alex' holographic production
• Meta/Queensland Health collaborations: $100k+ for VR healthcare projects

Labs & Collaborations

As Design Lab investigator, Dr. Pike develops immersive experiences with Queensland Corrective Services and aged care facilities. He maintains ongoing collaboration with Brazil's Taanteatro Companhia, employing their Theatre of Tensions methodology in practice and teaching.