VR journey marks 150th anniversary of Impressionism

A new chapter in immersive cultural experiences is about to unfold in the heart of Shanghai.

In July, the flagship of The Multiverse Project – The VERS Immersive Exploration Center – will open its doors at HKRI Taikoo Hui, blending technology, art and storytelling.

As part of this launch, two extraordinary showcases lead the way: the grand return of "The Pharaoh's Disappearance" and the debut of "Tonight with the Impressionists, Paris 1874," a large-scale VR journey commemorating the 150th anniversary of Impressionism.

Produced by France's Excurio in partnership with the Musée d'Orsay and presented in China for the first time, "Tonight with the Impressionists, Paris 1874" transports visitors into the very moment the world first encountered Impressionism.

Wearing a VR headset, guests will step into 19th-century Paris, entering photographer Nadar's studio on the bustling Boulevard des Capucines to witness the historic opening night of the first Impressionist exhibition. Guided by the fictional character Ruth, audiences will walk among the likes of Monet, Degas and Renoir, experiencing firsthand the defiant spirit and artistic breakthrough that changed modern art forever.

This project will run simultaneously at two major venues: HKRI Taikoo Hui and the Pudong Art Museum – making it a rare, citywide dual-site exhibition of unprecedented scale.

Located at HKRI Taikoo Hui, The VERS covers over 1,000 square meters, including a state-of-the-art 750 sqm VR zone capable of hosting 70 participants at once.

Visitors can explore freely, walk interactively in teams, and choose from multiple concurrent experiences. The space also features a digital projection hall for multimedia extensions and cultural events, along with a vastly expanded gift shop housing more than 500 themed souvenirs tied to all current and upcoming programs.

Following the phenomenal success of "The Disappearing Pharaoh and Life Chronicles," The VERS aims to set a new benchmark in digital cultural consumption. With plans to host five globally-acclaimed Excurio experiences by August – including the return of "Eternal Notre-Dame" – this immersive hub is poised to become a new landmark in the Nanjing Road W. district, fusing high-tech storytelling with emotional, historic depth.

Date: July 1, 2025-May 31, 2027

Venue: HKRI Taikoo Hui 兴业太古汇

Address: 789 Nanjing Rd W. 南京西路789号

Admission: 178 yuan/US$24.8 (early bird)