SLAM REMOTE is a new presentation model that uses technology to create verbal and kinetic exchanges among audiences at different physical locations. For decades, Brooklyn-based STREB has emphasized audience participation in its performances, allowing viewers to step onto the stage, try out equipment, and meet the dancers. Now, with EDA’s help, STREB has translated the feeling of SLAM, its own venue and engagement style, to a new model of live streaming for off-site audiences.
SLAM REMOTE utilizes the concept of SLAM on a conceptual level (encouraging rough and ready experimentation, fostering audience/performer interaction, and breaking down physical and conceptual barriers) and in practical ways (offering small scale touring options, ensuring a flexible residency design, and engaging new technologies). Growing out of the company’s concern that solutions to the erosion of audiences have centered on the use of technology as a replacement for “real” as opposed to virtual interaction, SLAM REMOTE continues STREB’s goal to rewrite the traditional rules of audience behavior.
In SLAM Remote, STREB works with an off-site presenter to simulcast both the show and audience reactions at each location—home and off-site—on large video screens. Three elements are key to the experience:
After the first SLAM Remote met with technological difficulties, crucial changes were made for the second show (at the NJ Crossroads Theatre in December 2010). STREB learned to utilize a satellite company instead of Internet streaming, as well as to do significant planning in advance (see below). In fact, the company found it needed to have a separate crew, storyboard and dj at each location. During a 6-week residency four dancers traveled to NJ to work with a group of 18 students, to created an original 12 minute work. The second try was a great success, with both audiences getting to experience an exciting, circus-like atmosphere, live dance, and participatory interaction. As staff reflects, there was a “crystallizing moment during the NJ performance was the palpable awareness of connection – between audiences in two locations, between performers at two highly different levels of development but equal levels of commitment and the sense of pride which exploded the possibilities for the kids, the artist and the audience members alike.” (Refer to blog posts from each show.)
The lessons that STREB shares are highly instructive to those who might consider similar experiments. The choice of partner organization is critical to success, and should be a presenter with deep experience in producing, programming and education, and an established infrastructure. Technology must be chosen carefully; at that time of this project, the goals could only be realized by using a combination of satellite and internet. The production company was accustomed to simulcasting conferences and sporting events, bringing both the technical and human resources necessary. The artistic and other human resources will be a major consideration; organizations that attempt this must accept that they will be, in essence, producing two shows simultaneously and likely have to hire two crews. Paying time and attention to developing the storyboard allows for pre-planning of camera locations, timing, etc. and attending several rehearsals “allowed the videographers to capture both the scope and the scale of STREB’s work, as well as the energy, personality, and immediacy of the performers”, resulting in a “tangible sense of connection.” Regarding the budget, the project was meant to find a cost-effective solution for touring, when instead, the satellite was more expensive than anticipated. However, alternative tech options can likely be found and among the promising options on the horizon are VSAT, T1 connections and other arrangements, all of which would need to be explored as the technology evolves.
STREB’s keen interest in audience involvement and the spontaneity and energy of SLAM itself prompted this unique experiment. The company hopes this new model will engage and diversify its audience, increase and deepen community and presenter relationships and establish a new stream of earned income. As STREB points out, clearly “there is an appetite amongst audiences for such an experience.” SLAM REMOTE has provided the field with the valuable new knowledge that “two separate audiences could be bonded through such an experience and could thereby create common ground.”
View a video of how STREB planned SLAM Remote and what it looked like.
View a webinar, about SLAM Remote and hints about how to adapt it to your needs.
View a Powerpoint from the webinar.
Read two blog posts about STREB’s first experiment and its second experiment.
Read about EDA research on the project.
Contact
Susan Meyers or Cathy Einhorn
See also the content about this project that was presented during Dance/USA’s EDA Learning Exchanges, including video presentations from the grantees themselves about their project, as well as timelines, budgets, and other details.
