Energetic Fusion of Dance and Music Electrifies Elastic Arts

On March 8, a novel performance titled 'High Energy News Music' introduced audiences to a unique blend of contemporary dance and experimental music at Elastic Arts, a leading BYOB live arts venue in Chicago. Created by the experimental pop trio Big Pal in collaboration with Emily Craver, the event marked the latest installment in the monthly CLEAT music series at the venue.

A Sonic Journey Through the CLEAT System

Designed for the Chicago Laboratory for Electro-Acoustic Theatre's (CLEAT) sophisticated multichannel audio grid, the performance offered an enveloping sound experience. The setup allowed the creation of a space where audiences could be completely immersed in the audio-visual narrative unfolding before them.

Interdisciplinary Spectacle

Combining live and pre-recorded segments, the show featured three dancers and three musicians, with additional remote artists appearing on a projected video. The musicians skillfully integrated recorded material with live performances on instruments like guitar and bass clarinet, adding vocals to enrich the soundscape. This meticulous blend underscored the dynamic choreography, culminating in a powerful sensory experience. Choreographer Emily Craver and her team took viewers through contrasting themes, from light-heartedness to deep reflection and existential turmoil.

An Immersive Audience Experience

The performance did not just entertain but also engaged the audience, asking them thought-provoking questions and involving them in quirky, interactive exercises. The event turned self-reflection on its head, spiraling from workplace banalities to a communal call that echoed lines from the sci-fi classic 'Johnny Mnemonic'. The dances moved from routine mimicry to intricate, almost architectural movements, symbolizing a blend of vulnerability and strength.

Ultimately, 'High Energy News Music' was more than just a performance; it was an exploratory exercise where the boundaries of work, play, and human connection were tested and, in some ways, transcended.

dance, music, performance