Published: March 22, 2017

Theory of Flight performance

Performance of "Theory of Flight" | Photo from annalindemann.com

Research meets fantasy in "Theory of Flight" by Anna Lindemann, a composer and artist trained in biology. The performance, at CU Boulder's ATLAS Center on April 7 and 8, emerges from the integration of music, animation and evolutionary developmental biology.

In a twist on the ancient myth of Icarus, a lecturing scientist reveals she’s been growing her own wings using avian genes. Animated chalkboard diagrams convey the molecular biology, while vocal music and animated silhouettes advance the plot, about the risks and rewards of pursuing impossible research.

Author, philosopher and musician David Rothenberg said of the performance: "Anna Lindemann is a brilliant animator, composer and performer who really has the audience unsure whether she is biologist or artist as she tells us all what is necessary to truly learn to fly. This work marks the birth of a whole new genre."

The performance features Lucy Fitz Gibbon, noted for her clear voice and endearing stage presence, as the Bird Spirit and Lindemann as scientist Alida Kear. The music, animation and story are created by Lindemann. The performance is directed by Kristen Demaree.

Since its April 2011 premiere, "Theory of Flight" has been performed across New York state, as well as a solo adaptation at a 2014 conference in Klosterneuburg, Austria.

If you go
Who: Open to the public
What: "Theory of Flight"
When: Friday, April 7, and Saturday, April 8, 7:30 p.m.
Where: ATLAS Center, Black Box Experimental Studio
Tickets: Purchase online now

The performance run time is 50 minutes with a talkback following the show. The performance is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, so please reserve your ticket today!

To see a preview and learn more about the performance, visit Lindemann's website.

This event is presented by CU Boulder's ATLAS Center for Media, Art and Performance (CMAP), an incubator for the novel and experimental use of technology in music, dance, visual art, theater, film and new media.