CONCEPT: PORTAL

In order to introduce our programs effectively to the audience, we arrange our exhibition and performance spaces using the concept of a portal when you walk into the portal, you are transitioned from the present to the past and vice versa.

So, we separate our exhibition spaces into three different themes.

Present Space: the digital performance of a contemporary shadow puppet using a projector and screen

Transition Space: the digital performance of traditional shadow puppet using a projector and screen

*For the digital performances, we use a big screen with a height of 8m in order to give the sense of being in the portal or being together with the shadow.

Past Space: the performance of a traditional shadow puppet show (Nang Talung)

Yellow and Orange areas in the photo is the long horizontal tube representing the Portal. Inside the tube, there are performances that reflect the present and transition. After passing through the portal, you will arrive at the area that represents the past which is the recreation area and the traditional performance theatre.

Since the walkway in the tube is elevated, people can use both the elevated circulation and the ground path. And in that way, we form the Loop circulation in the site. There is more than one way to enter the event area. So, we can’t control where people should enter. That’s why we are using Loop circulation not to disturb the storyline of the program, a portal, from present to past and vice versa.

The problem with our site is that it’s too long to walk till the end. So, we need to make the Magnet that makes people want to walk more. Based on the human scale and perspective, as shown in the photo, even though you are walking on the elevated walkway, you can see both the upcoming show’s screen and the theatre on the ground which is located quite far from there at the same time. It makes people want to reach those areas where they see because of curiosity. That’s why we are providing the focal point to create the magnet effect.

In this area, we are using the opposite wall of the canal to cast the shadow of our event name, Shadows Valley. We place the name block on the canal’s rail. When there is no daylight, we give the spotlight to the block from behind and a shadow appears. This area can be one of the highlights of the event.

After going down the ramp, the audience can experience the shadow of leaf-less trees which are the sculptures in the recreation area. It makes to reflect and reminds people that the shadow puppet is almost leading to extinction just like how the leafless trees are.