Movement
performed to the sound of 64 miniature robotic devices that produce
rhythms for the show Meetings is definitely thinking outside the box which is just
what Austrian choreographer, Anthony
Hamilton is known for, and is just what this blog is all about. I was excited to experience Hamiton's
collaboration with dancer, composer and sound engineer, Alisdair Macindoe, which
brought a unique performance duo
for another Multiple Choice Event to the
August
Wilson Center. I was ready for Meetings, my first “experimental dance/sound instillation” experience!
Reflection
There have been some fascinating artistic pairing at the August Wilson Center such as ballet
combined with juggling (Day 245), and guitar playing combined with video mapping (Day 234). I have to admit
that I am not one to always “get it” when viewing something labeled as “experimental” or “avant-garde”
but I was intrigued with the idea of robotic devices providing the
medium for dance.
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| robotic devices provided the medium for dance |
Meetings came to Pittsburgh after
touring several countries. The show was
fascinating to watch as the men continually moved sometimes smoothly,
sometimes robotically to the
tapping that originated from the 64 boxes that encircled them (watch Meetings trailer here).
My friend commented that the movement reminded
him of Tai Chi and maybe that is why it seemed relaxing to watch. I especially
enjoyed the mirror technique that the dancers used and their slow movement which resembled astronauts in orbit.
 |
| 64 miniature robotic devices |
The
dancers had amazing stamina to be in constant motion for almost 50 minutes with an occasional precise pause that paralleled the varied tapping generated from
the pencil like arms of the boxes. The boxes were just as mesmerizing as they
kept the beat and ended the show solo. The minimal setting generated a visual focus on the motion through space which I believe was the artists’ goal. (I am smiling a bit because maybe I “got it” this time as I watched this experimental dance).
Meetings was another interesting “Multiple Choice Event” where you
can see a show and then take part in an after show dance party or you can decide to only join the after show dance
party. The price varies based on your choice and there are food trucks on site
to enjoy. ( Multiple Choice Event schedule and TrustArts.org )
I say explore these Multiple Choice Events at the
August Wilson Center and other shows brought to Pittsburgh by the Cultural Trust, where so far, they have been unique experiences that make you think "outside the box".
https://culturaldistrict.org/awc/tickets-events
http://antonyhamiltonprojects.com/section/418387-MEETING.htm
https://trustarts.org/pct_home/events/series/multiple-choice-events
http://antonyhamiltonprojects.com/section/418387-MEETING.htm
https://trustarts.org/pct_home/events/series/multiple-choice-events