Aerial O a multi-art form creative project combined music, movement and aerial dance techniques for young people and adults with and without disabilities.
The project was led by Scottish Opera working with Blue Eyed Soul Dance Company, Waterbaby Dance Ltd, Dirty Feet (Community dance group), Ashcraig School (Glasgow City Council’s only secondary school for physically disabled adults) and Smithycroft Secondary School.
Participants began work with the creative team in September to devise their own performance, based on Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld. They looked at themes of control, fantasy, journeys, gods and were inspired by the incredible visual impact of the aerial dome all of which led to a central concept of a battle between man and machine set in the Orpheus Artificial Intelligence and Digital Gaming Corporation. Participants made costumes, wrote original songs, choreographed movement and created characters all of which were incorporated into the performance.
The last stage of the process was six day residency at Scottish Opera’s Production Studios for intensive aerial training, bringing all elements of the production together. The performances were accompanied by singers and members of The Orchestra of Scottish Opera.
The project was featured on Channel 4 - have a look at the Blue Eyed Soul Dance Company blog to read behind the scenes diaries, look at photos and watch the TV coverage.
Also look at our photo galleries in the Gallery on this website.