Bangarra Dance Theatre used ROE Visual’s Carbon CB5 for their Illume production, achieving new and immersive creative effects by using the enhanced possibilities that an LED wall offers. Novatech Creative Event Technology supplied the complete LED setup for this production, which is the first theatre-based production for Bangarra to choose an LED wall over traditional backdrops.

As this is Bangarra’s first collaboration with First Nations visual artist Darrell Sibosado, Illume created a multidimensional narrative rooted in Indigenous cultural storytelling. It explored the awe of light and how it serves as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds, while also addressing the pressing issue of light pollution in the context of the climate emergency.

Playing into the trend of using LED-based solutions to translate creative storytelling and add immersive backgrounds to the theatre stage, the creative team found the Carbon LED wall to be an excellent medium for their artistic expression, enabling them to achieve visual effects that were previously unattainable.

With lighting design by Damien Cooper and video design by Craig Wilkinson, the team approached the project with an open mind, embracing the options of an LED-based backdrop. Based on the creative team’s wish to blend dance choreography and visual art, as provided by First Nations stories, the LED screen captured each detail. The overall effect resulted in diverse and distinct layers, adding visual depth as on-stage elements merged with the digital backdrop.

The Production Worked with ROE Visual Carbon CB5 LED Screen, Provided by Novatech

“Partnering with Bangarra underscores our commitment to supporting the arts, particularly where innovation is concerned,” says Leko Novakovic, Managing Director of Novatech. “This is Bangarra’s first production using the possibilities of LED technology, and the results have been outstanding.”

The Illume performance marks the first occasion on which Bangarra incorporated LED into their performances, combining a unique lighting design with visual elements. Production Manager Cat Studley praised the impressive setup. “The LED screen could cover everything we needed artistically, bringing even more ideas to life. It was the best way to go.”

The screen gave an otherworldly glow and helped create a world that was timeless. I loved that it was very futuristic and allowed us to explore a totally new way of telling our stories at Bangarra.” observes Frances Rings, Director and Choreographer of Illume, highlighting the futuristic yet ancestrally connected atmosphere it fostered.

Grace Kuo, Chief Strategy Officer of ROE Visual, remarks, “Novatech’s dedication to creating extraordinary experiences is evident in every detail of Illume. Their team’s passion for innovation, combined with a genuinely collaborative and employee-friendly culture, makes them a great partner for ROE Visual. We’re thrilled to explore even more ambitious projects together, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in live performance.”

Illume is currently touring Australia from June to September, enabling a broader audience to experience Bangarra/First Nations history, perspectives, and worldviews.