A Ride Through Jewish History

In 2015, The Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center and Ralph Appelbaum Associates enlisted Lorem Ipsum to create a 12-minute panoramic film for an elaborate multimedia installation exploring the transformative period of Perestroika and its profound impact on the Jewish community in the Soviet Union. We concepted and produced an immersive narrative that captures the turbulent yet hopeful era initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev’s policies, highlighting the social, political, and cultural changes that reshaped the nation.

The experience begins in complete darkness, symbolizing the oppressive nature of the Soviet regime. As the narrative unfolds, the platform on which the audience sits gradually moves, expanding the field of view and enveloping them in a 175-degree multimedia presentation. The story transitions seamlessly from the oppressive conditions faced by “refuseniks” to the newfound freedoms and massive exodus of Soviet Jews to Israel, and finally to the long-term effects of Perestroika on the evolving relationship between Russia and its Jewish community.

To enhance this immersive experience, the film employs advanced “Interrotron” technology for interviews, allowing historical figures to make direct eye contact with the audience, fostering a deep emotional connection.

The use of the expanding panoramic screen, dynamic soundscapes, and retractable props ensures a multi-sensory experience that evolves with the narrative. As visitors progress through the installation, they witness the expansion of freedoms and the diversification of opinions, mirroring the historical developments of the time.

“Perestroika and Beyond” is not just a historical recount; it is an emotional journey through the eyes of those who lived it. By blending archival footage, personal testimonies, and innovative multimedia techniques, the installation offers a powerful, immersive experience that honors the resilience and contributions of the Jewish community during a pivotal era in Soviet history.