Echoes of Time: A Dance of Centuries

Presentation

This project envisions a groundbreaking performance that intertwines the heritage and future of contemporary ballet dance and technology, reflecting the passage of time and the perpetual motion of dance across generations and geographies.

Inspired by the 100th anniversary of the Stara Zagora Opera and the recent cooperation under FEDORA's Next Stage initiative, "Echoes of Time: A Dance of Centuries" is an innovative performance developed in artistic partnership with the Finnish National Opera and Ballet (FNOB) and with technical support from Aalto University. As part of Stara Zagora Opera's official centennial program for the 2025-2026 season, this milestone production honors the rich history and tradition of the Stara Zagora Opera while embracing cutting-edge technology.

In practice, two ballet artists from each opera house (Stara Zagora Opera House and FNOB) will perform simultaneously on their respective stages, interacting in real-time with the pair on the remote stage. This collaboration will form a unified entity, combining physical and virtual elements to create a common, immersive experience.

The performance narrative explores themes of memory, connection, and the digital human experience. It follows the journey of eternal spirits representing each theater. As the spirits encounter each other, along with other entities across time and space, they explore the essence of their identities, eventually finding a shared future.

Artistic Team

Romina Slavova - Choreographer, Bulgaria Romina Slavova will develop the hybrid dance choreography for the project, integrating classical and modern styles with digital environment. Boris Chukanov - Multimedia Artist, Bulgaria Boris Chukanov will handle lighting, multimedia, and technical transmission issues crucial for project implementation. Kalle Rasinkangas - 3D & XR Specialist, Finland Kalle Rasinkangas will design and implement digital sets, soundscapes, and immersive XR experiences for the performance. His expertise in virtual reality and 3D visualization will be essential in creating a cohesive hybrid environment. Hannu Järvensivu - Technical Coordinator, Finland Hannu Järvensivu will oversee the technical implementation of the project, ensuring a smooth integration of digital and physical elements, and assist with the digital aspects of the performance. Bogdana Sergeeva - Ballet Dancer, Bulgaria Bogdana Sergeeva will perform in the hybrid dance production, collaborating with Ivelina and dancers from Finland to bring the choreography to life. Ivelina Nikolova - Ballet Dancer, Bulgaria Ivelina Nikolova will perform in the hybrid dance production, working alongside Bogdana and fellow dancers from Finland to execute the innovative choreography. Mircho Hristov - Project Manager, Bulgaria Mircho Hristov will oversee the general project implementation and ensure effective communication among all team members. Antti Ruotoistenmäki - Academic Coordinator, Finland Antti Ruotoistenmäki will provide expertise in digital solutions, leveraging his experience with Aalto University's digital MAGICS infrastructure to support the project's technological integration and development. FNOB will nominate two dancers for the project during August 2024. The target is to prioritize such dancers, who already have experience of working with motion capture in previous digital productions at FNOB.

Partners