QUANTUM VOYAGES

Quantum Voyages is a science-based performance piece that explores key topics in the realms of quantum physics foundations, condensed matter, and ultracold atomic gases.  Its fantastical plotline is designed to make the content accessible to audience inclusive of ages 5 to 105 and to instill awe and wonder for the mysterious world within us. It involves two voyagers journeying many quantum realms guided by the spirit of wisdom and accompanied by a quantum ensemble. The confornt terrifying prospects of being Dead and Alive at once, encounter electrons acting as waves, are pelleted by photons, glide through diaphanous orbitals of atoms, precess in Magnetic Resonant Imaging machines, levitate above superconducting surfaces, and navigate disordered quantum terrains within complex materials. In moments of strife, physicists make guest appearances as quantum sages who save the day with their insights. The two voyagers emerge awakened to the miniscule scapes within us and the affirmation that things are never what they seem.

The piece was created by physicist Smitha Vishveshwara and theater-maker Latrelle Bright, both based at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). Featuring a diverse a cast of artists, physicists and students, it is a true confluence of the sciences and the arts. It premiered in 2018 at Nobel Laureate Anthony Leggett’s 80th celebration and the Beckman Institute,UIUC. In 2019, it featured as a public event at the American Physical Society March meeting in Boston. In its third iteration, the production was set for a live performance at the QualComm Institute, UC San Diego and at UC Santa Barbara at the end of May 2020. But the team has had to creatively adapt to a virtual platform due to the challenges of COVID-19, transforming the performance to a unique film-based genre that is a testimony to the enduring power of the arts and sciences.

Youtube link

Illinois 2018 premiere at the Beckman Institute includes physics students Michael Highman and Gloria Lee as the voyagers