In the rich tapestry of immersive and fulldome storytelling, new works continue to push the boundaries of narrative and sensory engagement. One exceptional creation capturing the imagination of audiences is “Cercle vicieux,” a fulldome adaptation centered on a profound dialogue between a woman and a circle, performed by Angelica Bonjiovonni, a celebrated Cyr wheel artist from Montreal. This piece is not merely a performance but a contemplative journey that uses powerful symbolism and human vulnerability to explore existential themes. In an age where immersive media increasingly seeks to bridge the gap between visual spectacle and philosophical introspection, “Cercle vicieux” shines as a beacon of innovation and emotional depth.
The piece confronts the inherently imperfect human condition through the lens of “a unique, powerful, and highly symbolic object”—the circle—accompanied by a flawed human being striving for meaning. It delves into “a search for the meaning of life,” with the protagonist’s interaction with the circle representing “an existential and spiritual quest—a search for God.” This quest encapsulates her intellectual grappling with understanding “the power of the circle and achieve perfection, which is of course impossible,” revealing a striking duality between human imperfection and the symbol of infinite perfection.
What makes “Cercle vicieux” particularly compelling is its ability to translate abstract philosophical musings into a visceral, embodied experience. The fusion of Angelica Bonjiovonni’s expert Cyr wheel artistry with fulldome visuals creates a “lyrical, comical, and sometimes dramatic meditation on the meaning of life.” The circle, as a constantly present metaphor, envelopes the storyline, shifting in resonance from the womb and aspiration to death and the mandala—”that which brings everything back to itself.” This multifaceted symbolism invites audiences into a deeply personal yet universally relevant contemplation, made all the more potent through immersive dome projection.
Artistically and technically, “Cercle vicieux” stands out by marrying physical performance with the immersive potential of fulldome environments. The use of the full dome setting amplifies the symbolic permanence and omnipresence of the circle around the character—a visual and spatial metaphor that might be less impactful on flat screens. The circularity of the dome itself echoes the narrative’s central motif, offering an all-encompassing space where the protagonist’s evolving relationship with the circle unfolds in a continuous, enveloping manner. This synergy between form and content epitomizes the evolving practice within the fulldome medium to merge thematic material with architectural and technological design.
Moreover, Bonjiovonni’s integration of Cyr wheel dance injects a kinetic dimension to the immersive experience. Unlike traditional film or animation, the live-action physicality offers a tangible connection to the human form’s imperfections and aspirations, highlighting the tension and allure between the flawed self and the pristine circle. This approach aligns with, yet innovates beyond, other fulldome projects that explore human narratives through movement or abstract form. It positions the work at the forefront of storytelling that leverages the dome’s spatial dynamics and emotional resonance to explore philosophical questions in ways unique to immersive media.
Within the broader fulldome ecosystem, “Cercle vicieux” exemplifies the growing trend of integrating performing arts with immersive visual technologies. As fulldome festivals, touring domes, and planetarium venues expand their programming to include more experimental and hybrid works, pieces like this resonate with diverse audiences—educators, art enthusiasts, and casual visitors drawn by the blend of spectacle and substance. Angelica Bonjiovonni’s involvement, an artist renowned in the Cyr wheel community, underscores a bridging of contemporary circus arts and digital immersion, a synergy that is increasingly relevant in redefining audience engagement in both educational and entertainment spaces.
Looking ahead, projects like “Cercle vicieux” pave the way for more interdisciplinary collaborations within the fulldome arena, highlighting the medium’s potential to host not just visually stunning astronomy shows or documentaries but intimate, transformative human stories. This positions fulldome storytelling as a compelling platform for exploring spirituality, identity, and universal themes through innovative merges of art, technology, and embodiment. As immersive media continues to evolve, works that dare to confront life’s deepest questions through such uniquely integrated forms will likely command growing attention and admiration worldwide.
Originally reported by Bernard Duguay via www.fddb.org on 2026-02-03 00:53:00.
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