C H A S I N G W A T E R F A L L S
A N A I O P E R A
“Not convinced you are not a robot.
Please try again”the computer tells the user
CHASING WATERFALLS is
the world’s first opera where artificial intelligence independently creates the music, libretto, and performance elements through deep learning, alongside human collaborators Angus Lee, kling klang klong, and T-Systems MMS. The project was developed by phase7 performing.arts Berlin, led by artistic director Sven Sören Beyer, and co-produced by Semperoper Dresden and the New Vision Arts Festival Hong Kong.
Photo by Manfred Vogel
The premiere of Chasing Waterfalls took place on September 3, 2022, at the Semperoper Dresden
the Asian premiere on November 5, 2022, at Kwai Tsing Theatre during the New Vision Arts Festival in Hong Kong.
the Ouverture
introducing the theme of the opera and immersing the audience into the world of “chasing waterfalls”
The visuals depict an AI’s neural network
at the beginning of awakening
Live visuals created individually for each show
The audience has the exciting opportunity to participate in a 3D facial scan prior to the performance. This scan data is then used to generate a projection on the stage, allowing each audience member to witness a personalized aspect of themselves within the performance.
Visual and Audience
merge
This immersive experience brings the audience even closer to the show and creates a unique and memorable moment for each individual.
The End Results of this challenging, creative process is a more immersive and unforgettable experience
Creating and designing a set of facial effects to be applied to the 3D scans of the audience. Enhancing the overall visual experience for the audience and adding an additional layer of engagement
CREDIT
Direction and production: Sven Sören Beyer Idea and concept: Sven Sören Beyer, Johann Casimir Eule, Christiane Neudecker Composition: Angus Lee and kling klang klong Development of the AI voice: kling klang klong with technical support from T-Systems MMS Libretto: Christiane Neudecker Dramaturgy: Johann Casimir Eule Stage and costume design: Pedro Richter Light: Henning Schletter Visuals: Frieder Weiss, Studio Eigengrau and Ployzitron Production management: Natascha Wesiak and Miriam Schmitt Technical support with Touchdesigner: The NODE Institute Photo credit: Ludwig Olah, Manfred Vogel