A digital abstract visualization of data network with white lines and turquoise dots on a black background.

Lasting generation

“Not convinced you are not a robot. Please try again”
— Says the computer to the user

Stage with multiple people seated on a stepped platform, with digital screens and abstract digital graphics in the background, illuminated by blue and white lights.

Photo by Manfred Vogel

CHASING WATERFALLS

is the first opera in the world in which artificial intelligence creates composition, libretto, and interpretation independently and creates elements in a so-called deep learning process which are also co-written, co-performed, and co-composed by the very human Angus Lee x kling klang klong x T-Systems MMS

The project was developed by phase7 performing.arts Berlin artistic director Sven Sören Beyer

and co-produced by Semperoper Dresden

and New Vision Arts Festival Hongkong.

Dark room with a staircase illuminated by blue lights, leading up to a large screen displaying a digital tree and transforming text.

The premiere of chasing waterfalls was take place on September 03, 2022 at the Semperoper Dresden,

and the Asian premiere on November 05, 2022 at Kwai Tsing Theatre the New Vision Arts Festival Hongkong.

Night view of SEmperoper in dresden, illuminated with yellow lighting, against a dark sky with a faint airplane contrail.

Being a part of the first AI-opera project was an honor and a unique experience for me as a visual creator. I was invited to create a different set of

visuals using TouchDesigner which partly is live-visual.

The first assignment was to create the Ouvertüre as an opening scene of the show.
The visual represents the neuron networks of an AI that starting to wake up.

A computer screen displaying a complex neural network diagram with interconnected nodes and lines in a dark background.

Glowing activated neurons, flashing and connecting

One of the highlights of Chasing Waterfalls is that the audience is also invited to participate as part of the scenography.

Stylized 3D-rendered digital portrait of a woman wearing a black cap, black face mask, and a leather jacket, with green and red axes indicating 3D coordinate axes.

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.

This immersive experience brings the audience even closer to the show and creates a unique and memorable moment for each individual.

A flow of 3D portrait scans, representing social media overflow

In my second assignment, I was responsible for creating and designing a set of facial effects that could be applied to the 3D scans of the audience. These effects enhance the overall visual experience for the audience and add an additional layer of engagement to the performance. It's a challenging and creative process, but the end result is a more immersive and unforgettable experience for the audience.