Reimagining Dance Through Technology

For many, the world of dance and technology may seem like two separate worlds. But for Valencia James, the fusion of both is not just a creative endeavor rather, it is a journey that is transforming the way we think about storytelling, collaboration and culture. As part of the CARIFESTA XV celebrations, James returns to her roots in Barbados to host a unique workshop that combines the rhythm of dance with the power of artificial intelligence. And for those ready to dive into this creative revolution, it promises to be nothing short of groundbreaking.

James’ relationship with technology began over a decade ago, back in 2013, when artificial intelligence (AI) was still seen as a buzzword and what she describes as “a disruptive force on the horizon.” And while others focused on how AI could change industries, she had a series of different questions such as: How can dance and technology collaborate? Could AI be a creative partner in the dance studio? Could a robot-like avatar learn from a dancer and create new, innovative movements? “I wanted to know if I could have a dance conversation with an avatar that would respond to me, create new movements, and explore choreography in ways we hadn’t seen before.” This was innovative thinking at its core; turning what started as a curiosity quickly into an exciting experiment. Teaming up with creative technologists from Hungary and Sweden, James said “they used limited resources to explore this uncharted territory and what they discovered along the way was a revelation that AI was more than just a tool but it had potential to be a partner in the creative process.

Upon reflection James stated “the first time we created with the avatar it was a beautiful process. We basically represented AI as an avatar, which was a stickman in our case. I was surprised by how much I learned from it. I thought I would be the teacher, but I ended up learning just as much from the process.” This creative exploration was more about breaking down boundaries rather than simply combining art with technology. Ultimately, this was about seeing technology not as something that replaces the human touch but something that enhances it, something that amplifies the human experience.

Ms. Valencia James
 

This August, James brings that very same spirit of experimentation and collaboration to Barbados as part of CARIFESTA XV. She will be leading a workshop that brings together dance, film, and technology in a space where artists, filmmakers and technologists can learn, create and experiment together. The workshop, which kicked off on Friday, August 8th with a public conversation about the intersection of AI and the performing arts took a dive deep into how emerging technologies are transforming creativity. “We are at a point where technology is no longer something distant. It’s here, it’s accessible, and it’s time for us to figure out how to use it to tell our own stories,” Valencia said.

The following Saturday and Sunday focused on hands-on learning, where participants worked side-by-side with each other and with AI to create new pieces of work. Led by James and co-teacher Antoine Mark, a London-based choreographer and technologist from Martinique, the workshop will encourage experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration. But what made this workshop truly special is its focus on cultural ownership. As artists, especially in the Caribbean, we’ve often seen our stories and data used by tech companies without much control. James is also very passionate about changing that narrative and empowering creators to take back ownership of their stories. “Instead of being products of these technologies, we should be the creators,” she emphasized.

For James, the Caribbean has always been a hotbed of innovation. Despite the often-limited resources, Caribbean artists have been making waves and creating work that is globally significant. It is time, she believes, to bring that same spirit to technology. “Think about it: we have this incredible legacy of innovation, from how we adapt to our environment to the stories we tell. Now, with tools like AI, we have the chance to take that to the next level. Imagine creating an immersive performance that lets people experience Caribbean culture anywhere in the world. The possibilities are endless,” she said.

James’ hope for this workshop and for the larger movement it represents is simple. That is, to prove that the fusion of art and technology isn’t just a novelty, but a new way of thinking, creating and connecting. As she wrapped up, she reflected on the power of the workshop’s potential. “The Caribbean has always been a place of invention and resilience. So, when we have and we combine that with AI tools, we can create something truly special. We already have that legacy of innovation. What is needed now is funding and institutional support. I think that is my hope for how we can shape Caribbean futures.” (PR)