The project explores how identities shift in digital spaces, alongside ideas of connection and the more-than-human. Inspired by scientist James Lovelock's Novacene concept, it imagines a future where AI (artificial intelligence) shapes how we live on Earth. Rather than fearing AI, he imagines how it could help us create, collaborate, and connect with nature in new ways. Each world features dual soundtracks, created by musicians Mechanoid Muse and Casually Here, with a voiceover describing a speculative, science-fictional novacene.
Originally created as a 45-minute live performance with five dancers at Trafó in Budapest, this version was created using motion capture and gaming tools to be easily shown, reducing the environmental impact of touring to other places. nino offers a playful experience that blurs the boundaries between dance, performance and video games.
Creators: Ruth Gibson, Bruno MartelliDancers: Eszter Gál, Csilla Gesztelyi Nagy, Balázs Oláh, Mar Serra Martí, Helén Tamaskó, Robert Anderson, Ally Clarke, Ruby Portus, Zara PhilipsMusic: Mechanoid Muse (Marcus Villaca), Casually Here (Nic Nell)Sound design: Nic NellDramaturg/Voice over: Catherine DuquettePerformance costume: Kitti LaposaUnreal developer: Bruno Martelli
Special thanks: Liza Nagy, Naoto Hieda, William Ruddock Primett, Ulrich Schrauth & London Film Festival Expanded, #Studios44MocapLab.Supported by: MODINA, Creative Europe program of the European Union, SIN Arts Centre, MotionBank/CCL University of Applied Sciences Hochschule Mainz (HSD), Centre for Dance Research, Coventry University, Trafó Kortárs Művészetek Háza, Budapest