Dance technology is the application of modern information technology (media video, interactive computer programs and the internet) in dance performances used to amplify the body’s movement. Multimedia started in dance with the use of electric lights, Loie Fuller was the first to experiment with this creating kaleidoscope effects.
Using multimedia is popular and important in contemporary dance as choreographers want to come up with original works and keep up with the times. Also it is used to help choreograph finding new ways to move as that’s what contemporary dance is about. If video is used it needs to have a connection with what the dancers are doing or bring something to the performance which enhances or changes the audiences perception of the what they are watching. It can allow things to be shown on stage that can’t normally be seen, edited videos, a live feed from elsewhere or even an isolated spot on the performers body giving a different view point for the audience.
To be digital theatre a performance has to have live performers with some kind of media in the same space with a present audience. Also it has to only include limited interaction with the audience and should include spoken language or text, which has some kind of narrative.
