As part of the San Francisco Exploratorium's Arts & Sciences special exhibition designed to illustrate the significance of Columbus' first voyage across the Atlantic, Zaccho Dance Theatre created Open Systems: An Aerial Perspective on Human Navigation, a performance based on the physical and conceptual aspects of navigation. This work was created in collaboration with composer Lauren Weinger and rigging designer Benjamin Young.

At the beginning of each show, seven performers received individual, detailed maps based on a series of explorations made previously by Joanna Haigood. Some of the routes were marked step by step while other routes had options the performers could choose from. The maps physically traced the ceiling's grid structure and incorporated aerial rigging that allowed vertical, horizontal, lateral, and diagonal movement for the performers. In addition, each performer was given a series of tasks that highlighted special points of interest within the building. The viewers were given a variety of vantage points from which to orient themselves to the performance as it unfolded.

Collaborators
Direction: Joanna Haigood
Composer: Lauren Weinger
Rigging Design: Benjamin Young

Performers
Paul Benney, Joanna Haigood, Jo Kreiter, Sheila Lopez, Andy Meier, Jose Navarrette, Shakiri

Premiere Date
1992

Premiere Location
Exploratorium, San Francisco, CA

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