Spores music performance explores mental health and artificial intelligence through the structure of a classical Greek drama, examining themes of belonging and alienation in this new sound and sculptural commission.
The performance addresses contemporary mental health concerns through a live therapy session between a vocalist protagonist and an AI therapist. The libretto navigates an interior landscape of human emotions, reflecting on our increasingly isolated world, where technology both enhances well-being and mediates—or at times distorts—our relationships with one another, with society, and with the natural environment.
Pakui Hardware weaves these urgent questions into a visually striking sculptural and light installation, culminating in a kaleidoscopic performance experience. A new electronica composition by Misa Skalskis accompanies the work, alongside a community choir guided by Vaidas Bartusas, whose ritualistic vocal techniques and rigorous harmonic methods embody a collective voice. Together, these elements invite audiences to reflect on the entanglements of technology, society, and emotional well-being.
https://performa2025.org/artists/pakui-hardware
CREDITS
Co-commissioned and co-produced by Operomanjia Vilnius; co-produced by Rupert (Vilnius). Developed with residency support from the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). Curated by Job Piston, Curator-at-Large. Produced by Adrienne Swan.
SUPPORTERS
Co-commissioned and co-produced by Operomanjia Vilnius and presented as part of the Lithuanian Pavilion Without Walls for Performa 2025 organized in collaboration with the Lithuanian Culture Institute.
PRODUCTION
Misha Skalskis - Composer and Performer
Andrius Katinas - Choreographer
Vaidas Bartusas - Curator of Vocal Practices
Justina Mykolaityte - Songs Co-Writer & Performer
Morta Nakaite - Costume Designer and Stylist
Sigita Simona Paplauskaite - Architect
Julius Kursys - Lighting Designer
Vaclovas Nevcesauskas - Video Animation
PERFORMA TEAM
Job Piston - Curator-at-Large
Adrienne Swan - Associate Producer
