Rashaun Mitchell + Silas Riener: Open Machine
April 17-18, 2026
REDCAT
631 W 2nd St,
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Choreographers Rashaun Mitchell + Silas Riener (2023 Creative Capital Awardees) combine technological and human pathways into a dynamic work that imagines an Artificial Intelligence lovingly programmed by experimental dance. Open Machine presents a constantly shifting performance with live speech-to-text transcription, projected images, and virtual renderings that amplify and react to the unfolding dance.
Blurring the lines between brain, body, and machine, the piece is accompanied by a sweeping, mechanical sound score by electronic musician Mas Ysa and vocal artist Charmaine Lee, media design by Jesse Stiles, and lighting design by Davison Scandrett. As dancers navigate the stage with precision and abandon, Open Machine synthesizes disparate modes of working, and reflects the social and spatial structures that shape our daily lives.
On April 17, there will be a post-show Q&A with Rashaun Mitchell + Silas Riener moderated by REDCAT Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Performing Arts, Katy Dammers.
Open Machine
Rashaun Mitchell + Silas Riener are New York-based dance artists who build collaborative worlds using improvisational techniques, digital technologies, audio scores, and material construction.
Rashaun Mitchell
Open Machine
Rashaun Mitchell is a Guggenheim Fellow, Princess Grace Award winner, and Bessie Award–winning choreographer and dancer. He is a writer, educator, and multidisciplinary artist based in New York.
Silas Riener
Open Machine
Silas Riener is a New York–based choreographer, dancer, educator, and writer. His work is a collision of games, formal dance training, improvisation, athletic sports, and building and construction.