autoplay is an AI Opera - an immersive, surreal encounter between human and machine. This hybrid performance confronts traditional notions of identity and autonomy in an era shaped by digital systems. A charged game of musical chairs driven by Artificial Intelligence, it exposes questions of agency, influence, and control.
autoplay uses combined generative processes to create a unique, live score and structure for each performance. Viewers become part of this generative process, by impacting which conclusion the work draws.
Blending absurdity and satire with striking physicality and haunting soundscapes, autoplay reflects on our quiet acceptance of a dystopian present. Through its critical engagement with machine learning, and nods to archaic symbols of learning, Autoplay imagines us learning to navigate a brave new world.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Concept, Direction, Choreography: Louise Coetzer
Music by Brydon Bolton, Njabulo Phungula, Inge Beckmann
Presented by: Darkroom Contemporary
Performers: Gemma Trehearn, Rian Jansen, Tamsyn Pretorius, Anna van den Bergh, Inge Beckmann, Wayne Simpson, Gala Winkler
Technical Design: Oscar O’Ryan
Rehearsal Directors: Darion Adams, Natalie Fisher, Yarisha Singh
This production is made possible through support from the National Lotteries Commission, the National Arts Council of South Africa, The Christian Ludolph Marais Trust and The Western Cape Government Department of Cultural Affairs & Sport.