◆Outline

“PORTAL” is an ever-evolving body of work that explores the transition between virtual and physical reality through movement, sound, light, and architectural space. This piece seeks to create a space where virtual, immaterial states manifest as physical experiences.
Darren Johnston (choreographer, director, and mixed-media artist) has deepened this exploration through residencies and collaborations at ZHA (Zaha Hadid Architects), a London-based architectural firm founded in 1980 by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid.While constructing abstract environments where movement data and architecture intersect, he continues to research how virtual, intangible experiences can be transformed into concrete forms.

During my residency at Dance Base Yokohama, I am focusing on experiments in physical and virtual choreography, digital and physical environments, and spatial sound to develop new concepts for installations and performances.Drawing inspiration from ritual structures, meditative practices, spaces for contemporary sound experiences, and Japanese partners such as HOSOO in Kyoto, this project explores “generative AI” as a connective thread linking virtual and physical forms of design and experience.

This project is being held as an exchange with the Portal Project, scheduled to be performed at Sadler’s Wells next year.

◆Showing

Sunday, June 28, 7:00 PM
*Doors are scheduled to open 15 minutes prior to the performance
*A post-performance talk will be held after the show

Admission: Free (Registration required)

*Please be advised that this performance includes staging with intense flashing lights.

◆Application

Please register through Peatix.
Registration for DaBY members (free of charge) is required. Please register here in advance.

◆Venue

Dance Base Yokohama 3F

Access:
3F KITANAKA BRICK&WHITE BRICK North, 5-57-2 Kitanaka-dori, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Directly connected to “Yokohama Kitanaka Knot”, Exit 2a, Bashamichi Station, Minatomirai Line

Venue Facilities

All-Gender Restrooms: There are all-gender restrooms on the 3rd floor that anyone can use. (Workshop participation only)
Multipurpose Restroom: There is a wheelchair accessible multipurpose restroom next to the supermarket across from the venue.
*We also provide support for visitors in wheelchairs and those who need information security.
If you need assistance, please contact us at the following e-mail address:
contact@dancebase.yokohama

◆Profile

Darren Johnston
A UK-based choreographer, director, and interdisciplinary artist.
His practice spans performance, immersive environments, and spatial research. While exploring the intersection of choreography, architecture, and cutting-edge technology, he investigates the relationships between the body, perception, and contemporary forms of presence.
Currently, as an artist-in-residence at ZHA (Zaha Hadid Architects), he is developing “PORTAL,” an ongoing choreographic and spatial research platform that explores the transition between virtual and physical reality.Previously, he has held artist residencies at Berghain in Berlin and created works at the Barbican, in addition to collaborating with Aphex Twin and Tim Hecker.

◆Credit

Organized by: Darren Johnston / Dance Base Yokohama [SEGA SAMMY Cultural Arts Foundation]
In collaboration with: ZHA (Zaha Hadid Architects), Sadler’s Wells, d&b audiotechnik, Panasonic, HOSOO