I just got back a few minutes ago from the live-performance of Robert Whitman's media work, "Local Report". It was a rather interesting experience, and I definitely learned a bit about current technology--its possibilities and its limitations.
For the project, 30 volunteers were sent to different areas in the Bridgeport/Trumbull/Stratford region of Connecticut, given video phones, and assigned to send in video and audio reports three times over a half hour period. I was assigned to the Sikorsky Memorial Airport and Short Beach areas in Bridgeport.
What I discovered was that technology, although in theory is able, it is still unpredictable to some degree. The video feeds were extremely slow, so most people only got one of their videos through. It was disappointing, but at the same time, the final piece has moments of dead time, which sort of increase the anticipation of what might or might not be coming up next. Only one of my video feeds was successful and it's at the very beginning.
The audio was much more successful, however, most people were using their phones to try to get the video through, that they weren't able to send in as much audio as they were supposed to. I know at least two of my audio feeds came through, and the technicians handling the feeds assured me they got the third one, although I didn't hear it during the playback.
All in all, though, I found the process terribly fascinating. I was also amazed at how quickly everyone involved became a helpful and cohesive team. There was nothing but warm-fuzzies and comraderie all around. Mr. Whitman even took the time to hang around and chat afterwards (see Summer photo album).
So, it was a rather extraordinary afternoon. Check out Mr. Whitman's web page for more info: www.whitmanlocalreport.net.
