Sounding Stage

A Perceptrum Technology Platform

The Sounding Stage is a proprietary interactive scenic technology developed by Perceptrum, representing an evolution of the sensing principles established with the Sounding Canvases. It is designed as a fully responsive environment that translates corporeal presence and movement into real-time control data for electroacoustic synthesis.

Core Technology and Interaction

The platform is fundamentally based on an integrated network of capacitive sensors. Crucially, the system detects proximity and presence rather than force or pressure. This distinction allows the interaction to be dictated by the performer’s intention, speed, and spatial relation to the surface, effectively decoupling the resulting data from physical weight or effort.

Spatial Architecture

The Sounding Stage is defined by its dual-plane architecture, creating distinct zones for comprehensive artistic control:

  1. Horizontal Plane (Interactive Floor): The stage floor is fitted with capacitive sensors, turning the entire performance surface into a sensitive membrane. This area is typically assigned the role of governing the temporal and prosodic aspects of the resultant soundscape, controlling rhythm, dynamism, and sequential transitions.
  2. Vertical Planes (Interactive Curtains): Surrounding the stage, the curtains function as large-scale vertical Sounding Canvases. These vertical interaction zones are typically reserved for defining the broader harmonic and ambient qualities of the composition, controlling the overall sonic atmosphere.

Functional Characterization

The system serves as a sophisticated kinetic interface. It captures complex movement data which is then processed by a central unit utilizing proprietary algorithms, such as adaptive Markov models. This setup allows the Sounding Stage to function beyond simple triggering, enabling algorithmic interpretation of the performer’s history of movement and establishing a system capable of memory and narrative progression.

The Sounding Stage provides a reusable, scalable, and versatile technological foundation for the creation of works in contemporary dance, physical theatre, and immersive installation, where the environment is an active, listening participant.