Dance-inspired Technology, Technology-inspired Dance - Reading Assignment

The focus of the paper surrounded five basic principles for making interactive dance. The principles include connected kinetics, augmented expression, aesthetic harmony, interactive build, and integrated process. The overall idea surrounding these design principles is to create a cohesive piece between technology and dance without overshadowing the other. In class, we discussed the dance being built first and then adding technology to enhance the piece. This was the main focus in each of the pieces talked about in the paper.

There were many different types of technology used in the pieces discussed. Accelerometers, microphones, gyroscopic computer mice, and an overhead camera to track the dancers. It was interesting to read how they used the microphones for audience interaction. One quote explained how a cough from the audience would create a visual effect on the projection. Each piece incorporated different technologies, but were able to work synchronously with the choreographer in creating a cohesive piece.