A new production at CU-Boulder is the first creative collaboration between CU Theatre & Dance and Fiske Planetarium. "Round and Round Up and Down: A 31st Century Child's Guide to Spirals or The Time Traveler's Bathroom Reader" is a kid-friendly and adult-friendlier performance that winds through the imagination by way of science, mathematics, storytelling and dance.
“It’s been a very collaborative process,” said Michelle Bernier, MFA candidate, Department of Theatre and Dance. "The show leverages the technological capacity of the planetarium’s dome, computers and projectors to present original themes and new content."
According to Bernier, "Round and Round" comprises both live action and video content to create a seamless, interactive narrative.
"It’s a totally immersive interaction among live dance, acting and singing, as well as dance film, pre-produced science programming and actual universe navigation,” she said. "It’s a huge experience … nothing like it has ever been done before."
An artist talkback with Bernier, dancers, the sound designer, the lead actress and others involved in the show will follow the science fiction-based event.
"Audience members will have the opportunity to question the artists about their process, and get a feel for what’s involved in designing a show of this nature,” said Bernier, who will also encourage audiences to design a mini-segment for a hypothetical show—for example, making choices about where in space to be, how to navigate, and what dance movement might represent and enliven travel through space and time.
"As the first cross-campus collaboration of its kind, this production pushes the envelope by placing the Fiske Planetarium and the CU Dance Division at the cutting edge of creative research," she said.
Bernier conceived, wrote and directed "Round and Round," choreographed its dance portions, and performed in parts of the dance film.
"It’s been incredibly interesting to meet with scientists and other professionals in our community to talk conceptually about the possibilities this show presents," she said.
"Round and Round"—a whimsical and intoxicating romp through and beyond time—runs Saturday Oct. 10 and Sunday, Oct. 11 at Fiske Planetarium, 2414 Regent Drive. Both performances start at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets, visit the . Tickets will also be available at the door:Ěý
For additional information, visit the .Ěý
