IFL · ISABELLA'S FLIGHT: AERIAL SYSTEM FOR PUPPETRY WITH DRONES

ISABELLA'S FLIGHT: AERIAL SYSTEM FOR PUPPETRY WITH DRONES

Isabella's Flight merges art and technology to create flying characters in theater. Traditional methods of flying puppets rely on wires or balloons, which lack precision and control. Isabella's Flight uses drones and mechatronic systems for better control and precision. While drone shows have become common, contemporary drone shows have not explored drones as puppets. Such shows often prioritize technical prowess over narrative depth, resulting in choreographed drones that lack lifelike characters and storytelling. Recognizing this gap, our project pioneers a novel approach by integrating drone technology and mechatronic systems with traditional puppetry techniques. At its core, "Isabella's Flight" seeks to redefine the possibilities of live performance by offering a platform where drones serve as dynamic puppets, capable of conveying nuanced emotions and engaging storytelling in flying characters. Our project leverages drones and mechatronic systems to provide precise and lifelike movement. The project aims to overcome the limitations of traditional solutions for flying characters and performance art by offering a unique solution and a new platform for storytelling. This project is important for society and impacts the cultural sector as it represents a step forward in the performing arts, pushing the boundaries of creativity and technological integration. By offering audiences a fresh and immersive theatrical experience, "Isabella's Flight" fosters cultural enrichment and stimulates interest in the intersection of art and technology. Furthermore, the project promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between artists ad engineers, encouraging innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in live entertainment. The overall objectives of "Isabella's Flight" are: 1. To deliver a performance that captivates audiences and redefines storytelling possibilities through innovative drone technology and puppetry. 2. To develop an application for drone puppetry, so that other shows can be created, and 3. To inspire dialogue and exploration at the intersection of art and technology, foster collaboration, and push the boundaries of creativity in the performing arts. The project will culminate in July 2024 with a performance at the theater Aula Magna in Louvain la Neuve, Belgium. It is all remote-controlled by drone pilots, but we are still collaborating with the University of Luxembourg, and the next version of the show will be automated. The success of "Isabella's Flight" catalyzes future exploration and experimentation in drone puppetry and live entertainment. It inspires artists, technologists, and audiences alike to push the boundaries of creativity and imagination in the performing arts.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union