Forest Labyrinth - Interactive Sound Theatre Original

Forest Labyrinth is an interactive sound theatre whose key concept is to develop new forms of syncretic artistic ideas and present them in the context of nature, emphasizing the increasing vulnerability of green environments throughout the world. Through a combination of different fields of art, such as music, fine arts, craft arts, theatre, and music technology, the sound installation aims to break the boundaries between the performers and audience, so they can create and improvise together.

The initial idea behind the name “Forest Labyrinth” is to bring the visitor into the most spirited and lively place of nature – the Forest - a place which needs to be respected and protected, not only because of its marvelous beauty but also because it provides food and clean air to the planet. Another reference in the installation name is related to the Labyrinth concept coming from different cultures from over 4000 years ago. The Labyrinth is often represented as a spiraling path that leads to a central area in which one walks for meditation and relaxation, or to face a challenge. It is also thought of as a “mirror” or metaphor for the spiritual journey and the evolutionary spiral of life. In most cases, the twists and turns of the Labyrinth symbolize the twists and turns in our lives. Walking a Labyrinth can enable the walker to have some “quiet time” in the busy rush of everyday life, as well as to increase self-awareness. Labyrinths today can be found in cathedrals, churches, schools, gardens, universities, etc. In the current project, the idea of the Labyrinth was shaped through “stone” paths moving around the trees in a seemingly random manner, so people have more freedom to walk around.

In terms of sound, the environment was inspired by nature. Birds’ singing, insects, wind, brooks, rain, etc. are shaping the main sources of music as well as musicians and visitors playing different instruments. The musicians’ performance is based on improvising, created at the moment, following the sound and visual environment.