#Hong Kong #Hong Kong Ballet #Avant-Garde #Studio Wayne McGregor

Revolutionary Art and Technology Collaboration at Venice

In a remarkable confluence of art and technology, Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), the Hong Kong Ballet (HKB), and Studio Wayne McGregor (SWM) have joined forces to present an innovative choreographic installation, Wayne McGregor On The Other Earth, during the Venice Biennale Danza 2025. This collaborative effort marks a significant step forward in the realm of contemporary dance, blending advanced technology with artistic expression to create a captivating experience.

The installation had its world premiere in Venice from July 25 to August 2, 2025. It is set within a stunning immersive environment designed by Professor Jeffrey Shaw, HKBU's Chair Professor of the Academy of Visual Arts, utilizing cutting-edge technology funded by the HKSAR Government’s Innovation and Technology Commission. The nVis installation, equipped with a 12K LED screen displaying 26-million pixels in an immersive cylindrical space, transforms traditional views of choreography and audience engagement.

A New Era of Dance Performance

On The Other Earth challenges preconceived notions of dance, evolving the performance into an astonishing new format that intertwines digital imaging, spatialized sound, and artificial intelligence with live dance. This avant-garde approach positions McGregor as a pioneer in reimagining how dance can be experienced, drawing the audience into a thought-provoking journey that straddles the line between reality and imagination.

The narrative unfolds in an environment where 3D imagery meets the real-time movements of hyperreal dancers from both Company Wayne McGregor and the Hong Kong Ballet. McGregor’s choreography, known for its intricacy and innovation, is complemented by technological advancements, providing a multi-sensory spectacle that goes beyond traditional dance forms. For attendees, it presents a truly one-of-a-kind experience, merging the virtual with the corporeal in a manner that engages both mind and body.

Celebrating Cultural Exchange

To celebrate this groundbreaking collaboration, a themed reception titled Pulse of the Pearl Transcending Avant-Garde with Technology and Knowledge Transfer was held at the SMAC San Marco Art Centre in Venice on July 21. Esteemed speakers, including McGregor, HKBU’s Interim Chief Innovation Officer Professor Terence Lau, and HK Ballet’s Artistic Director Septime Webre, shared insights on how the intersection of dance, technology, and knowledge can shape the future of cultural performance and innovation.

Hong Kong’s commitment to becoming an international cultural exchange hub is underscored by this endeavor. Fiona Li, Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, emphasized the importance of nurturing talents and fostering a dynamic cultural ecosystem. The collaboration symbolizes more than just a performance; it represents Hong Kong’s commitment to global artistic innovation and leadership.

Looking Ahead: Future Performance Plans

The project will not only be showcased in Venice but is also slated for a UK premiere in October 2025, followed by a presentation in Hong Kong's Tai Kwun cultural center in 2026. As the world anticipates these performances, the collaboration reflects ongoing momentum in the global arts scene, melding the physical and digital realms.

Through these modern spectacles, HKBU and its partners are setting a precedent. By embedding technology into the core of dance, they are reshaping artistic narratives and challenging conventions. They underscore that Hong Kong is not only a melting pot of East-meets-West culture but also a vibrant platform for pioneering artistic expressions.

Conclusion: A Transformative Journey

As the On The Other Earth project travels internationally, it will showcase the potential for transdisciplinary collaboration that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. This ongoing project is a testament to the transformative power of art and technology when they intersect meaningfully. The successful execution of such endeavors reaffirms Hong Kong's position as a key player in the global arts landscape while inspiring future generations of artists and technologists alike.