Cause and Effect, is a dance puppet experience that blends rod puppets, marionettes, dance, acrobatics, and video. This project explores themes linked to the natural environment, aiming to shed light on the interconnections between humans and animals while showcasing the beauty and fragility of our shared world.  Through our work, we seek to highlight the intricate relationship between the natural environment and its impact on the animal kingdom and human condition.

Cause and Effect, like other productions by Loco7, delves into the realm of the spectator's psyche without relying on explicit text narratives. Instead, this visual performance employs movement and visual elements to convey the unspoken emotions of distress and detachment.  

Through our work, we seek to highlight the intricate relationship between the natural environment and its impact on the animal kingdom and human condition. Every aspect of our surroundings—from the air we breathe to the water we drink—plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of all creatures, including ourselves. By examining ecosystems, we reveal how biodiversity and environmental health directly influence animal behavior, migration patterns, and survival rates.

Moreover, this connection extends to humans, as our well-being is intricately tied to the health of our ecosystems. Pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction not only threaten wildlife but also jeopardize our resources, food security, and quality of life. Understanding these dynamics helps educate communities on the urgent need for sustainable practices that protect both nature and humanity.

Our initiatives stress the importance of conservation efforts and responsible stewardship of the planet. Through innovative projects and collaborations, we aim to foster a more profound appreciation for the delicate balance that exists between our species and the environment. By doing so, we empower individuals and organizations to take actionable steps toward preserving the natural world for future generations.

The design, by Restrepo, will play a pivotal role in bringing the world of Forsaken to life. Using rod-puppets, string puppets, shadow puppets, body puppets, and even non-conventional forms, the show will delve into the vast possibilities of visual theatre. By combining these techniques with original music composed by Colombian artist, Juan Sebastian Monsalve, the performance will be elevated to a whole new level of artistic expression. The materials that will breathe life into the puppets include wire, latex, fabric, wood, papier-mâché, as well as found objects. These diverse materials will enrich the puppets, making them unique and captivating. Additionally, video and animation will be seamlessly integrated into the design, adding another dimension to the performance.

CREDITS

Created & Directed by Federico Restrepo & Denise Greber

Choreography & Puppet Design: Federico Restrepo
Original Music Composed by:  Juan Sebastian Monsalve
Performed by: Federico Restrepo with Katherine De La Cruz, Ursula Tinoco & Juan Pablo Toro

PRESENTATIONS

October 24–27 2024
La MaMa Puppet Festival, as part of the work-in-progress series Jump Start (New York, USA)