Simple Machines is the second project in the Forced Labor Cycle by the Belgian choreographer Ugo Dehaes. This lecture-performance (50′) tells the story of a choreographer who tries to be replaced by technology. Starting with the simplest machines, he builds a universe that is populated by mechanical organisms that train and learn to become artists on their own.
In Simple Machines, Ugo explains how robots are born, from slimy cocoons to shiny machines, and how we can train them with artificial intelligence until they can create and perform their own show. The performance ends with a glimpse of the future: a ballet for homemade robot-dancers without the intervention of a human choreographer. Each robot-dancer has its own shape, none of them humanoid, and thus its own set of possible movements. The choreography is built up around their unique physical possibilities, and the data generated throughout the performance.
As a prequel to the performance Ugo also brings the installation Arena, the first project of his Forced Labor Cycle. In this installation the audience is invited to interact with 8 robots and to help them become better dancers.
Credits
A performance by: Ugo Dehaes
Scenography and composition: Wannes Deneer
Dramaturgy: Marie Peeters Silicone, in collaboration with Rebecca Flores
Construction table: Kristof Morel
Production: kwaad bloed & Tuning People
Coproduction: C-takt
Supported by: STORMOPKOMST
Thanks to: Pol Eggermont, AI Experience Center VUB, Hans De Cank, Caroline Pauwels, Gertjan Biasino, Roeland Luyten, VGC & De Factorij, Zaventem.
The project is supported by SCHÄXPIR Theaterfestival für junges Publikum
