First, I have to admit that there is a certain beauty in the complexity of
this idea and a definite Rube Goldbergian charm. However, apart from my
concerns that using the text in this manner would denigrate the message and
voice of the piece, I also have one question that I think begs to be
answered;
WHY?
If the purpose behind this proposal is to transmit the positions of the
actors to the other stages via the use of the text, then that would mean
that the postions would be decided and the encoded text written before the
performance, which would mean that this method would be completely
unnecessary since, under these conditions, all that would be required is a
simple audio cue to let the actors and lighting technicians know what the
appropriate preordained positions are.
The advantages of audio cues over encoded text would include simplicity,
less of a reliance on the net for the transfer of this critical information
and a more realistic performance in which the actors (virtual and real)
interact in terms of the spoken dialogue and not as a result of encoded
messages which could be subject to delay or worse. Additionally, it allows
the text to be used as an uncompromised vehicle for expression, as well as
saving space on that precious bandwidth.
Also, Santiago and Dan both expressed their difficulties with having a
performance that is choreographed to the point of limiting improvisation.
On Mon, 23 Dec 1996 02:53:39 -0300 Santiago Pereson stated:
>...i don't personally like this idea, but it is much more
>stable than having everything tied up in cyberspace.
>
>but we're just doing the same thing in different spaces at the same time,
>there's nothing new about it. it's just actors vs. cones, not actors vs.
>actors-in-the-other-side-of-the-world.
And at 12:07 23.12.96 -0600, Dan Zellner wrote:
>I agree with Santiago. This question of interplay between actors is
>fundamental.
I also agree with Santiago that interplay between the actors is fundamental
and as far as I can see no one is saying anything different. Even if the
text is set in place and the movements of the actors (real and virtual) are
explicitly choreographed as in a ballet or opera, there will still be
interplay between the actors as in any performance and the internet will
fullfill a vital role by transmitting the dialogue (and other information)
to which the various actors can interact. However, I do think there is a
role for improvisation which can be realized outside of the core text and
choreography (more on this later).