Produced in collaboration between the Birds of Paradise Theatre Company (Scotland) and the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong, artist Jack Li has been commissioned to create a brand-new interactive digital storytelling work titled The Importance of Sleep as part of British Council Hong Kong's SPARK festival, 18th-20th October 2024. Full programme details <here>.

What is it?

This work explores a world that transcends reality while remaining connected to our everyday life. Through telepresence technologies, the artist leads the audiences into a world of boundless imagination, allowing them to experience how the human body prepares for a new day during our sleep.

How does it work?

'The importance of Sleep' is an interactive digital artwork. Audience members enter the artwork via their webcam/phone camera and see themselves become an active character within the scenes.

Who can take part?

Anyone can join from their own device- all each person needs is an internet connection and a front-facing camera! (Best results with only one person per camera).

You do not need to speak or to act in order to take part- simply respond to what is happening/being described in the video (e.g. miming cleaning or using facial expressions).

When can I take part?

There are a number of timeslots available throughout October 18th, 19th and 20th. Click 'Get Tickets' to see the available timeslots. Once you have booked a timeslot, we will email you more information, including the link to participate in the artwork.

Where can people watch the video?

Throughout October 18th, 19th and 20th, the artwork will be broadcast live at the SPARK festival in Hong Kong (Gate 33 at Airside <see here for location details>). The artwork will also be broadcast live on BOPs online arts space Locked World (a space designed for and by disabled people). You can <visit Locked World here> to see current artworks, but The Importance of Sleep will not be released until October 18th!

Accessibility

This artwork has embedded captions, audio description and sign language interpretation.

The Importance of Sleep screengrab — Audience member interacting live with the video artwork 'The Importance of Sleep'.