The world-renowned pyrotechnic performance maestros, Groupe F, have created a brilliant new show especially for Auckland and Auckland Arts Festival 2013 - The Breath of the Volcano. For three magical nights from 7 - 9 March, the Auckland Domain and Museum will be the backdrop for this spectacular world premiere from the artists who create miracles with projection, fire and light.
At Auckland Arts Festival 2007, Groupe F treated the audience to an event of such glittery splendour and awesome proportions that the show remains etched in many New Zealanders memories. Now, they return with a new production inspired by the volcanic hills of the Auckland Isthmus and the wondrous Auckland landscape. The Breath of the Volcano draws on symbols of the land, sea and air, and explores the meeting of man and the natural environment, in a performance that showcases light in all its brilliant forms. Fire mastery, large scale projection, LED-lit costumes and superlative fireworks will provide the whole family with endless wonder and excitement.
Founded in 1990 by pyrotechnics visionary Christophe Berthonneau, Groupe F is a collective of some of the worlds most masterful pyrotechnic artists, widely acknowledged for their spectacular open-air performances at some of the worlds largest festivals, and their jaw-dropping pyrotechnic displays. They have lit up the Eiffel Tower, the Stade de France for the Football World Cup, the London Eye and the Palace of Versailles. Theyve been a sparkling presence at momentous celebrations around the globe, from the opening of the worlds tallest tower, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, to the Barcelona Olympics. The Company is currently artist-in-residence at Avignon Festival.
The Company undertakes extensive research when creating location and event-specific works like The Breath of the Volcano. This Auckland Arts Festival world premiere showcases an entirely original soundscape, composed and created by prolific American electro-acoustic composer Scott Gibbons, from in-person recordings at places like Rangitoto, Piha and the Auckland Harbour.
The Breath of the Volcano is open to people of all ages, and families with children are welcome. It is an outdoor performance, so audiences are encouraged to arrive early, bring a picnic rug to the Domains Upper Field, and enjoy the pre-show entertainment from 8pm. The story will be played out with projections against the western side of the Auckland Museum, which makes this large scale production an intimate experience.
Thursday 7 March - Saturday 9 March, 2013
Upper Field, Auckland Domain
