NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University’s College of Arts and Sciences will present “MOVE: Echoes of Self,” an interdisciplinary performance April 9-11 in Theatre West. Performance times are April 9 and 10 at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and April 11 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public, with limited seating available. Reservations can be made through Eventbrite at
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/move-echoes-of-self-tickets-1983966368816. Those wishing to attend can also scan the QR code on the event flyer or email hon@nsula.edu to reserve seats.
The performances are also made possible by a gift from Dr. Kathleen Byrd, former head of NSU’s School of Social Sciences.
Directed by Assistant Professor of Dance Nhan Ho, “MOVE: Echoes of Self” brings together collaborators from across disciplines, including dance, music and visual arts, to explore identity, connection and transformation through an immersive performance experience. The work integrates movement, interactive sound and projection-based visuals, creating an environment where performers and technology respond to one another in real time.
“This project explores how we exist in relation to ourselves and others,” said Ho. “Through movement, touch and shared space, performers generate both physical and sonic responses, allowing each moment to unfold through interaction rather than a fixed narrative.”
Members of the cast are Ellie Dufrene of Schriever, Ruben Kho of Alexandria, Tristan Olivier of Lutcher and Liza White of Baton Rouge.
The performance features evolving sections that highlight collaboration and adaptability, with performers exchanging roles throughout the run. Sensors, microphones and projection elements are used to translate breath, contact and motion into sound and imagery, emphasizing the relationship between the internal body and the external environment.
According to Professor of Euphonium/Tuba/Sound Tech Dr. Masahito Kuroda, the sound portion of the show is produced in two ways. The first part is the music performed and produced by Professor of Art, Digital Art and Multimedia Dr. Collier Hyams on electronic guitar with arrays of effectors. His music will be heard throughout the show closely reflecting what is happening on stage.
The second part is also designed by Hyams, the reactive sound effect system triggered by dancers’ motion via the touch sensor called “TOUCHME” with an elaborate pattern of copper tape placed on the theater floor. It is a MIDI device that sends a sound signal when the circuit is closed by a dancer or dancers touching two copper tapes. A laptop computer receives the signal and then processes it by utilizing a series of software such as Max9 and Mainstage with a variety of synthesizers to produce spontaneous reaction sounds responding to the dancer’s move. Kuroda also recorded sound effects samples performed by Associate Professor of Trumpet Galindo Rodriguez on trumpet and Instructor of Music David Steele on clarinet to further enhance the reactive sound effects. Hyams and Kuroda will be operating the reactive sound effect system together for the show.
Developed through the Catalyst Team, the project reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary research and creative practice within the College of Arts and Sciences. Students and faculty have collaborated across disciplines, engaging in a process that merges artistic exploration with technological experimentation. The goal is to foster cross-disciplinary engagement, innovation, and experiential learning beyond the traditional classroom setting.