Saltator Pede reflects digital performance through the use of the 3D film. The film was composed of a compilation of shots of dancers’ feet, which ranged in style and movement content. A 3D camera was used to film the shot’s, which were then edited in software that allowed 3D editing and projected using a 3D projector. However, there was a slight error in the exporting of the film from the editing software which meant when projected the film lost the effect of feet emerging out the screen towards the audience.

During the filming of Saltator Pede there was a specific focus on creating the best movement for the 3D film, to gain the effect of the feet coming out of the screen towards the audience. Although dance movements such as tendus and brushes were still present in the film, it could be argued that the dynamic quality and fluidity that would be present in live dance was lost due to the constraints of filming in 3D. The main restraint when filming this movement was caused by the need to keep the foot within the shot at all times. This became more problematic as to get the best 3D effect the film was shot from the ground which restricted the movement area even further.

Through the none digital (foot washing) element of the piece the audience became immersed within it. This foot washing sequence allowed the audience to become part of the piece and to be exposed to the full meaning of it. By participating in the foot washing experience the audience not only made the piece possible but were able to fully understand the concept being portrayed. For example, by having their feet washed during the performance the audience were able to gain a better understanding of what feet go through every day. However, the audience may still have gained this understanding without viewing the film, but through just listening to the text. Though it is evident that the film had a greater impact which may justify the piece as a digital performance.

Going back to Dixon’s (2007) definition of digital performance Saltator Pede may not be classed as a digital performance. This is because Dixon (2007) states that to be digital performance computer technologies must “play a key role rather than a subsidiary one in content, techniques, aesthetics or delivery forms”. Although Saltator Pede had a digital element it was not essential to the piece as there were a number of other elements present. Additionally the film did not have any significant influence on the piece as a digital element as following the error in exporting the film the same effect could have been produced by watching dancers live on stage.

Overall, the term ‘digital performance’ can be assigned to a number of different performance types for different reasons. They can range from being internet based to film based and everything in-between. Although Saltator Pede only had the one small digital element it was still present within the piece and enhanced the piece overall. Therefore Saltator Pede can be classed under the title of ‘digital performance’.

(This image shows the group setting up for a performance, bringing in the fresh water)