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June 24, 2017

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‘Entropia’ mesmerizes inside a large dome

NEW to Shanghai this summer, “Entropia” is an immersive, mesmerizing artistic show set inside a dome where the audience members watch the 40-minute audiovisual performance laying down around the artist who is in the center of the room.

The artists and creators, Eric Raynaud and Louis Philippe St Arnult, are bringing a unique perspective to the show. The idea of the dome comes from the initial research and inspiration for the performance.

The design of “Entropia” is inspired by and pays tribute to architect Buckminster Fuller, a prevalent architect in the 1960s who was known as a visionary in sustainability. Although he did not create the original concept for dome structures, he was a pioneer in their design and usage.

“The dome is the most effective way to cover a large area with the least amount of resources, so it’s very efficient,” said Raynaud.

Both Raynaud and St Arnult consider themselves environmentally conscious, and the concept of the dome immediately resonated with them. The visuals in the show also pay tribute to Fuller’s work. The dome allows for the artists to create a completely immersive show.

“It requires the audience to think in terms of space and time more so than a two-dimensional performance,” said St Arnult.

The show is an audiovisual experience without any words or verbal communication, which makes the it truly stand the test of linguistic boundaries. Both artists are from France, but they say they haven’t altered the show in any way when bringing it to China.

Neither Raynaud nor St Arnult has ever been to China before, but when offered to bring the show here they couldn’t refuse. “We want to take it everywhere, to as many different countries as possible,” Raynaud said.

The absence of language and direct performer-audience interaction means that Raynaud and St Arnult can take the show almost anywhere without having to alter or adjust the content. The version in Shanghai is identical to the ones in France and other places around the world.

The audience’s interaction with the performance is one of the more unique aspects about it. “It’s more of a personal experience, there’s no direct interaction,” said St Arnult.

The artists believe that the personal journey an audience member takes when experiencing the show is part of what makes it so easily understood. There is no need for language because the emotions and visuals felt and seen are universal.

Asked about their future hopes for the installation, both said they were excited by the idea of having a free-standing dome.

“To have it somewhere out in the desert or something like that, you know ... That’s the dream,” said Raynaud.

For now, the dome has to remain indoors, but the show is still a one of a kind experience.

“Entropia”

Date: Through July 12, 10am-9pm

Venue: Hall of The Moon, Ruihong Tiandi

Address: 188 Ruihong Rd




 

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