Satoshi Horii provided video production for the innovative stage performance “ON-MYAKU 2016,” which combines performing arts, music, and visual arts to explore new ways of expressing the concept of sound. Following on the heels of the well-reviewed first performance at the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan on January 30, 2016, the show will return for performances at the Aichi Prefectural Art Theater in November 2016.

The program is organized around piano pieces by the titans of post 20th century contemporary composition, Reich, Ferrari, Xenakis, John Cage, Ligeti, Toru Takemitsu, and more. A Steinway full concert grand piano and a grand-style Yamaha Disklavier (MIDI piano) are used in conjunction with advanced media technology to utterly reimage staid notions of the classical concert. The dancer’s movements, sound of the piano, fingers of the pianist, and video content are all engaged in a give and take of breath and movement.

The initial performance was at home in the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, renowned for its superb sound quality, and also a uniquely chamber-like space that the performers utilized to full advantage, emphasizing an exploration of sound and tone. Joining Horii are choreographer and contemporary dancer Tsuyoshi Shirai (known for his exceptionally rich cohesion between music and movement), as well as the technically masterful pianist Kenichi Nakagawa. Joining from Rhizomatiks Research is Katsuhiko Harada, who provides proprietary LED devices that synch with the sound onstage.