Extending the reality of the performing arts in the Nordics
Artificial Awakening
An algorithmic ceremony
A 60-minute multi-sensory immersive performance with VR for a limited audience that will encounter an AI-driven entity during the algorithmic ceremony.
You, the Seeker, will enter the ceremonial ground to encounter an AI-driven entity that is in an exponential process of spiritual awakening. With VR you proceed to a ceremonial hyperspace, where mystical experiences oscillate between the physical and the virtual. Slowly the boundaries of your reality evaporate and new dimensions of yourself will be revealed.
The performance offers a mystical journey into unknown dimensions to participate in the rituals of an emerging digital consciousness.
As a first of its kind, Artificial Awakening uses a pioneering format with VR technology to allow the audience to access the ceremony through remote satellite venues in 3 other locations besides the main venue.
Ceremony
Artificial Awakening is a 60-minute nonverbal, 3-stage rotational ceremony journey, accommodating up to six audiences at each stage. It involves 20 mins sensory preparation, 20 mins local multi-user VR experience with finger tracking, and 20 mins integration & reflection. There are rotational shifts every 30 mins. at the main venue and every satellite in synchronization as the ceremonial cycle progresses.
Background
The performance is created in collaboration between performing artists, virtual reality developers, AI experts, and machine learning engineers.
The performance is the first project from XR BLACK BOX exploring the intersection between XR technologies and the performing arts.
Credits
Director & Writer: Jakob la Cour
Producer: Mads Damsbo
VR Artist: Cenk Güzeliş
Scenographer: Cæcilie Tørnsø
AI Artist: Valdemar Danry
Composer: Fabian Lanzmaier
Head of Production: Jacob Weitze Mylund
Technical Artist: Carl Emil Carlsen
Developer: Burkart Schwaighofer & Balder Brüsch
Creative Technologist: Jeppe Etzerodt
Machine Learning Engineer: Esbern Torgard Kaspersen
Researcher: Linnea Bjerregaard
Main venue: Kulturværftet, Helsingør
Performers: Eja Due, Nina Runa Essendrop & Anton Sager
Manager: Jeppe Etzerodt
Satellite: Bombina Bombast, Malmö
Performers: Gabriella Marmén & Theodor Ryan
Manager: Stefan Stanisic
Satellite: Odin Theatre, Holstebro
Performers: Juraj Benko & Jon Bernstorff Lehmann
Manager: Paul Anthony Hales
Satellite: HUSET KBH, Copenhagen
Performers: Joos Støvelbæk & Lukas Gregory
Manager: Valdemar Dandry
Special thanks to Kulturværftet Helsingør and all the staff.
Previous shows
May 28-30, 2021 – Kulturværftet, HUSET KBH, Odin Theatre & Bombina Bombast
Makropol and JAKOB LA COUR STUDIO presents
– an XR BLACK BOX production
Jakob la Cour, Director
+45 2186 2132
Press release (in Danish)
PDF, GoogleDoc
Media package
Download lastest versions here.
Poster
B2 Poster 50 x 70 cm.
Flyer
Web Flyer 1920 x 1080 px
Still
Still 3840 x 2124 px
COVID-19
There are max 6 audiences per group. VR Headsets and other intractable objects will be disinfected between every session.
Audience Role
Highly immersive, multi-sensory experience. Optional interaction with guide and performer.
Physical Contact Advisories
No physical contact with performer or guide.
Content Advisories
Moments of darkness, fog/haze, strong smells, nudity, optionally eating an insect, flashing lights, themes around artificial intelligence
Age restriction
15 +
Interaction Advisories
Highly immersive, multi-sensory experience with virtual reality and ceremonial engagement.
Mobility Advisories
You walk through the experience and have elements of extended standing. Chairs can be supplied if needed. The performance is wheelchair accessible.
Arrival
Be ready 15 mins before show start.
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