Fourth Industrial Revolution and Choreographic practice.

Artistic Director Harriet Macauley - Finland (2016)

What is extraordinary about the time we are currently living in is the rapid integration of technology within every aspect of our daily lives. I recognise the impact of Fourth Industrial Revolution. Schwab,Klaus (2016) and how we as choreographers and creators are driven and propelled by technology. There seems to be a astounding amount of information and knowledge on various models and scientific approaches which may allow for new perspectives in which to access new ideas for the development of digital, physical and biological technology. In addition it would appear as though we are governed by the integration of technology within the creation and development of dance works. This transformation has a immense impact and effect on the way we not only function naturally but also in the way in which we think and function each day.

I am intrigued by Transhumanism and its effect on the way in which we develop physically. I would agree with both Sand and Jongsma (2016) on a statement regarding today and transhumanism.

‘Transhumanists aim at getting rid of the physical boundaries of humans, especially the ageing bodies and their permanent decline of functions’ (Sand, Jongsma: 2016 pp. 303).

Transhumanism through the impact of science and technology, particularly within the field of contemporary dance, has allowed for a method to maximise and shift the biological functionaries of the physical body. Not only is this extraordinary, it is also a clear indication of how and why technology has become so fundamental to the creation of contemporary dance works. I would describe it as a new age, or time where the possibilities are endless and the notion of creating new digital identities alongside human form is evidently possible.