overview

pirateutopia.org was formed with the aim of integrating new technology into live performance. We feel that multi-media techniques should be artistically justified and not simply add-ons in order to gain cheap publicity.

During our launch production, Makb3th, video footage, text messaging and Flash animation performed alongside live and virtual actors.

Following Makb3th we wanted to further develop the use of text messaging so our audience could exchange opinions on issues raised in the play via their mobile phones during the performance.

We developed new software which enabled us to project the messages onto to set in real-time giving the effect of a giant chat-room. For Makb3th all our video footage was pre-recorded, we decided that we now wanted to experiment with projecting live images. This would mean the actors could use small and subtle gestures on stage but still be sure the audience would see them.

The idea of the audience engaging in debate led us to Greek theatre. The ancient Greeks viewed theatre going as part of one's civic duty; performances gave rise to discussion over the morals and ethics raised during the play. Sophocles' tragedy Antigone examines the issues that arise when a young woman's personal principles clash with her public duty. After her brother leads an unsuccessful civil uprising, Antigone is forbidden from burying his body by the ruler, Creon. Her decision to risk execution and bury him creates an interesting moral debate that is still relevant for us today.

Rather than use the original text, we chose a modern adaptation by French playwright Jean Anouilh. His script was first performed in Paris in 1942 while the city was occupied by the German army. Interestingly, the play proved popular with the French - who sympathised with Antigone's resistance to tyranny - but was also permitted by the Nazis who found Creon's arguments for dictatorship convincing.

Antigone was ideally suited to incorporate our technical ideas. The live cameras shot actors' faces and bodies close up and, when projected onto the set, these images were an extension of the Greek use of mask. Text messaging allowed the audience to debate issues raised in the play and pass judgement on the characters. The projection of these opinions onto the set will made each performance a unique event.