sopa boba + optical machines

sopa boba (be/nl)

sopa boba is a belgian/dutch, electronic, modern classical project, run by g.w. sok (the ex,oiseaux-tempête), pavel tchikov (ogives) and jean vangebeergen (playwright). the idea behind the form is a so-called oratorio from the present age which unfolds a dramatc tale within a sociopolitcal framework. the compositons incorporate a neo-classical style string quartet, harsh modular sytnhs and spoken word vocals.

"that moment » (sub rosa, 2025) is an adaptaton of the eponymous text by moldavian writer nicoleta esinencu.
the startng point of that moment takes place in a real fact, which happened in present-tme moldavia, where a father cut his son’s finger with an axe, as a punishment for stealing a bit of money from the father’s wallet.
from there the author combines the tale and its reality with a caustc irony, interrogatng an unbridled capitalist society, where everything and everyone is for sale. the album, somewhere in between a hybrid electronic – modern classical oratorio and a concept album, with seven tracks that serve as seven chapters of an ironic and satric story about the downward spiral of the capitalist society.

g.w. sok : vocals
roxane leuridan : violin
marie ghitta : viola
pavel tchikov : electronics
maritsa ney : violin
ian-elfinn rosiu : cello

rikkert brok - optical machines (nl)

is fascinated by light and projections. by experimenting with lamps, lenses etc. rikkert has developed a unique view on moving images. the equipment is often as important as the projected images. therefore rikkert chooses for an open construction so the spectator can view the origin of the images. rikkert studied at the artsience Interfaculty, the hague and graduated in 2002.

in their performance "om3" optical machines experiment with the deforming and deflecting of revolving image and sound.

‍creating an audiovisual environment to subside in, the image works as a force of noise that is characterized by a slightly uncanny disorientation. yet, handing yourself over to this invasion of the senses optical machines may provide you new insights regarding the human perception. this can sound a little abstract, so it's probably best if you come see and hear for yourself.

+ firminn (entr’act)