Do you want to learn more about organizing a Pixel Poï performance?
In a room shrouded in darkness, a dancer swings their arms. By spinning sticks attached to ropes around their body, directing their trajectory with the strength of their arms and the flexibility of their wrists, they create luminous patterns in the air. Colors follow one after another, patterns emerge as if by magic, all to the rhythm of dynamic music. You are witnessing a Pixel Poï show. It is new, and it is so spectacular that everyone wants more. But what exactly is it?
The distant Maori origins of Pixel Poï: the Poï
What we know today under the name Pixel Poï is inspired by a Maori tradition, therefore originating from New Zealand. According to popular culture, the Poï refers to the art of spinning balls attached to ropes, and it is said to originate from bolas, formidable warrior weapons. Bolas consist of stones attached to ropes, which the warrior spins to defend themselves and can throw far to catch an adversary or prey.
The Maori developed forms of dance and performance using the principle of bolas. The Maori readily use them to maintain wrist flexibility and train arm strength. Nevertheless, it seems that in every Maori dialect, the term poï has a slightly different meaning. Although it is not clearly established whether our Pixel Poï corresponds to a modern evolution of the Maori Poï, some simply see it as a contemporary adaptation.
Transition via Glow Poï
The visual effects generated by the practice of Poï (the phenomenon of retinal persistence) are commonly exploited and enhanced by using various artifacts. Thus, tails can be attached to Poï balls to suggest trails in the air, or flaming balls can be used to draw patterns with fire. Safer and more diverse, Glow Poï is a modern evolution: luminous balls or sticks (fluorescent, luminescent, LED lamps) are attached to ropes.
Used in the shadows, Glow Point allows—with good practice and mastery—the creation of very interesting luminous patterns. It is frequently used in stage performances, or even in the streets when night falls.
High-tech evolution, Pixel Poï offers infinite possibilities
Today, thanks to modern technologies, it has become possible to increase the possibilities of Glow Poï infinitely. This is Pixel Poï, an evolution using programmable sticks.
The principle is as follows: the luminous sticks are actually cylindrical screens, composed of a myriad of small LED bulbs acting as pixels. The sticks are equipped with a computer that commands the LED bulbs to light up in a pre-programmed manner. Thus, the sticks can display all kinds of luminous patterns, and in a dynamic way.
By spinning these Pixel Poï sticks in the twilight or darkness, it is possible to draw an infinite number of static or dynamic patterns, composing an entire light and sound show. But do not believe that simply letting the sticks draw their patterns is enough: the dancer must ensure they master their rhythm and every gesture to remain in sync with the programming of the luminous patterns. It is a true artistic performance.
Honoring its Maori origins, Pixel Poï also serves as physical and mental training. Its practice offers real benefits for the strength and flexibility of the upper limbs, but also for coordination and concentration. The latter is very important, because it is better to avoid breaking one’s sticks. Pixel Poï sticks cost several hundred euros.