International venues Muziekgebouw Eindhoven, the Barbican London, and Sydney Opera House commissioned Bryce Dessner, Nico Muhly, and Sufjan Stevens to create a collaborative song cycle. Celebrating the solar system, the sun, the moon, and the planets (including Pluto), Planetarium explores each celestial body using personal and historical narratives.
A cosmic visual set evoking the nature and energy of each planet is projected onto a large black sphere hovering above the band. The atmospheric content was created using a rich combination of analog and generative imagery – incorporating charcoal animations, volumetric pigments in water, sand, glitter, record players, light bokeh, and sequential photographs from the extensive Cassini Solstice Mission archive.
The imagery’s holographic effect is aided by the black projection material covering the surface of the orb, allowing it to “disappear” when no light is hitting it.
“True to the name of the project, Planetarium, the massive, light-absorbing black orb suspended above the stage is lit up with stunning projections that vary from swirling gas-planet atmosphere, fire and clouds, to smudged-charcoal puffs and purple mosaics.” –In the Mix
“A wonderful display of visual lighting effects of a giant orb that hung center stage and the brilliance of songwriting and composition of these talented men. If Vivid is all about lights and sounds, then you’d almost have to have these as your centerpiece every year as it enraptures the essence of the festival.” – VIVID Live Review
Producer: Sufjan Stevens
Stage and Visual Design: Deborah Johnson
Technical Director: Josh Higgason