snarkitecture: why patterns stage design

in 'why patterns', a collaboration between snarkitecture and choreographer jonah bokaer, performers interact with thousands of ping pong balls moving unpredictably in the space


a collaboration between new york-based experimental architecture practice snarkitecture
and american choreographer and media artist jonah bokaer, 'why patterns' is a dance performance
involving the interaction of dancers with thousands of ping pong balls. the only set for the performance
is the forms and patterns created by the ping pong balls, which changes constantly, and the work is largely
absent also of props, save several lengths of tubes that are used as frames, boundaries, and tools over the course
of the show.

originally commissioned by dance works rotterdam, the piece makes its US premiere through august 7th, 2011
as part of the jacob's pillow dance festival in becket, massachusetts. the performance begins with a single ping-pong ball
introduced into a frame onstage, initiating a series of dances and games as more and more balls are dropped
onto the performers as the frame on the floor slowly collapses.



footage from the performance


ping pong balls being released onto the stage


additional scenes from the performance