scenor

Scenor is a term used in speculative fiction and some discussions of advanced stage technology to describe a real-time scene orchestration system. In typical depictions, scenor refers to a modular software core that coordinates physical stage elements—such as lighting rigs, moving set pieces, and sound cues—with digital media, including projection, augmented reality overlays, and virtual environments. The goal of a scenor-based setup is to enable seamless, programmable scene transitions and responsive performances driven by a central plan or by performers and audiences.

Etymology and scope: The word scenor is usually presented as a portmanteau of scene and orchestrator, with some authors tracing it to a stylized abbreviation of scene engine. It is commonly described as neutral and tool-agnostic, intended to complement existing stagecraft practices rather than replace them.

Characteristics: A scenor system is imagined as modular and extensible. It typically features a central orchestration engine, a scene graph describing stage states, and interfaces to hardware controllers (DMX or sACN lighting, motorized rigs, automation, audio triggers) and software components (projection mapping, AR displays, VR environments). It emphasizes real-time responsiveness, deterministic timing, and robust synchronization across devices.

Applications and limitations: In fiction and design literature, scenor informs discussions of immersive theatre, live cinema, and hybrid performances. Because it is a fictional concept, there is no universal standard, and implementations vary widely across works and projects.