Luminous skins: Costume as a central element of a swarm-based scenography

Abstract

Luminous skins are interactive light-costume hybrids that reimagine the boundaries of the performers’ physical bodies, broadcast their feelings and alter environment. They are the central element of a performance that requires no stage space, no fixed lighting, no wall outlets and no lighting technicians. The performers manage to dance through the darkness with the light they wear. The costumes are equipped with sensors and actuators and communicate wirelessly and in real time with other scenographic elements. Together, they form a swarm-based scenography that involves close coordination between the performers and responsive technology to create visually dynamic and immersive atmospheres.