SCHEHERAZADE

The figure of Scheherazade, inspired by the legendary “The Arabian Nights”, continues to be an inexhaustible source for world art. After the famous symphonic suite by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and the first ballet by Mikhail Fokine in 1910, choreographer Mauro Bigonzetti reinterprets this iconic figure with a new original production for the Czech National Ballet.

In this version, Bigonzetti pays particular attention to the dualism between the protagonists, King Shahriyar and Scheherazade, exploring the conflict, delicate balance, and authentic relationship between the masculine and feminine principles.

OOOPStudio, together with Carlo Cerri, curated the video scenography, reinterpreting the story with a contemporary approach. Through the use of technology, the studio transformed the scene into a poetic and dynamic environment, capable of evolving and adapting to the emotions and narrative movements of the choreography. Each projection was conceived as a visual extension of the story, creating atmospheres that range from the mystical to the dramatic, from inner conflict to reconciliation. The environments transform fluidly, moving from desert landscapes and dreamlike spaces to intricate abstract geometries, emphasizing the contrasts between King Shahriyar’s power and Scheherazade’s intellectual strength.

Some scenes completely break away from the idea of a physical environment to instead explore symbolic visualizations of inner states, such as torment or hope. This approach allows the video scenography to assume an almost cinematic dimension, transcending the concept of a simple modern theatrical setting. OOOPStudio’s intent was to integrate visual narrative with the psychological depth of the characters, creating a continuous dialogue between image, movement, and music.

Thanks to a visual design rich in details and textures, the projections are not mere backgrounds but true actors of the scene, capable of dialoguing with dancers and music. OOOPStudio’s goal was to create an immersive and multisensory experience that amplifies the metatemporal message of the narrative, highlighting art’s ability to unite past and present. Through this work, the studio sought to transport the audience into a world that intertwines the visual tradition of Persian origins with technological innovation, offering a new interpretation of this timeless story.