New Media & Interactive Media in South African Contemporary Dance: The work of Athena Mazarakis - Tapa blanda

At what point does the use of technology in dance performance go beyond use for effect? Using the work of Athena Mazarakis this book examines the considered use of both new media and interactive media within the context of South African contemporary dance. Drawing on the history of digital technology use in theatre; particular attention is paid to the manner in which technological aspects such as projection, projection surface and various kinds of interactive technologies are employed. This book addresses the way the various and respective technological and choreographic forms are used in order to achieve a state of cohesion between them, within the performance as a whole so that one is not overshadowed by the other. The collaborative process is also discussed; specifically collaboration between the choreographer and the technological artist as well as collaboration between the two mediums, namely the choreographic and the technological. This book provides an insight into the intricacies and challenges that both choreographers and performers may face when trying to integrate new media and interactive media technology into their work.

Jessica P.M. Foli holds a MA: Digital Arts(specializing in Interactive Media) from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. She also completed a BFA: majoring in Sculpture and Drama, with distinction in Sculpture at Rhodes University,South Africa. Currently she is a freelance sculptor, performer and interactive artist.