Lux biotechnology announces the world premiere of The Paper Nautilus, the new work from performing arts companies Theatre Cryptic and Paragon Ensemble
Lux Biotechnology has been working with Theatre Cryptic to successfully integrate luminous and fluorescent proteins within the set design of this performance.
The results of this collaboration have been used to stunning effect by architect and designer Pippa Nissen, reunited here with director Cathie Boyd - the two last seen working collaboratively in Britten's Midsummer Night's Dream.
Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon that has fascinated and mystified humans for thousands of years.
Examples include fireflies, luminous mushrooms and phosphorescence in the ocean.
Bioluminescent and fluorescent proteins are powerful tools that scientists can use to probe living cells and enhance research.
Lux says it is excited to be collaborating with Theatre Cryptic to produce a range of stunning visual effects, resembling a biochemical firework display on stage.
Patrick Hickey of Lux Biotechnology will be in attendance at the post-show discussion on 3 November 2006 at 9.30pm, in conversation with Moya Crawford (MD of Deep Tek and author of Deep Water).
The performance features a score commissioned from the extraordinary composer Gavin Bryars - a cantata scored for soprano, mezzo-soprano, two pianos and six percussion with a commissioned libretto by poet and novelist, Jackie Kay, and text by the acclaimed Lebanese writer, Etel Adnan.
"The initial collaboration between director, Cathie Boyd and I began in 2002 when we first met in Mainz at the last night of my opera, 'G'.
"After many discussions, and a useful sojourn at Cove Park on Loch Long, we decided to start the new work with the opening parts of an existing cantata and then develop it further.
"The aim was to create a stage work out of this fully-fledged musical piece through visual work combining lighting, new technology, movement and design.
"All parts of The Paper Nautilus draw on material related to either the sea, or to the feeling of awe at the wonder of science - from both past and contemporary sources.
The play is performed at the Tramway, Glasgow, UK.
