The world of dance and technology converges in an innovative and thought-provoking manner with the creation of FRAY, a hip hop dance theatre production. Conceived by a team of passionate artists, FRAY builds upon previous works like FURY, pushing the boundaries of live performance through the integration of video games and AI. This feature delves into the inspiration, creative process, and core messages behind FRAY, shedding light on the collaborative efforts that bring this unique production to life.
The conceptualisation of FRAY was driven by a desire to tell a real and thought-provoking story that resonates deeply with audiences. Kate Duhamel reflects, “I wanted to tell the FRAY story because it’s real and thought-provoking, and I hope it creates a sense of connection for the audience. I also wanted FRAY to be inspiring, not only for the quality and creativity of the performance on stage but also for the message it leaves you with to consider.”
This project evolved from brainstorming sessions with a dancer in the US, with whom Duhamel had previously collaborated on film and live performance projects. Over several months, a shared experience of loving someone struggling in some way emerged as the core dramatic challenge of the story. This deeply resonant theme became the heart of FRAY, connecting the collaborators and, ultimately, the audience.

Emma Houston & Paulina Gorgon Photo credit Luke Lentes
An off-the-cuff mention of video games sparked a creative epiphany, leading to the integration of gaming as a central element in FRAY’s narrative. Duhamel explains, “Gaming continued to emerge as the central passion and the private and exciting world the two main characters share. The role that gaming plays in this story was definitely one of those experiences where the story finds you rather than the other way around.”
This inspiration led to the decision to expand the project to include a real video game. Collaborating with a game studio in Spain, the team developed a PC game, FRAY Game, set to release on Steam just before the live show. Additionally, a mobile game, FRAY Jam, invites audiences to engage interactively, bridging the gap between the virtual and live performance worlds.
FRAY takes a bold step by incorporating AI into its narrative and performance. In the story, the older brother, Ziya, creates an AI character named Lucious, who plays a key role by interacting with the characters on stage. The creation of Lucious involved a multi-step process, including recording dialogue, filming a live dancer, and using advanced 3D modeling to animate the character. This extensive use of AI not only brings Lucious to life but also pushes the boundaries of 3D modeling and performance art.
The collaboration between Kate Duhamel and Jonzi D, Artistic Director and Director, is pivotal in shaping FRAY. Alongside Choreographer Ola Papior and Music Supervisors Micall Parknsun and Rommel Arasa, the team delves deeply into each scene of the script. Jonzi D’s expertise in hip hop language, movement, and music grounds FRAY authentically in its cultural roots. His infectious energy, colorful character direction, and strong artistic vision significantly enrich the production, bringing a vibrant and dynamic quality to the rehearsals and performance.
At its core, FRAY explores the relationship between two deeply bonded brothers and the challenges they face as technology blurs the lines between the digital and real worlds.
“I hope FRAY leaves audiences with thought-provoking questions about how AI creates new ways in which technology enters into human relationships,”
Duhamel shares. Most importantly, FRAY aims to emphasize the necessity of human connection, even in an increasingly digital world.
The release of FRAY Game on Steam offers fans an immersive experience, allowing them to engage with the story by stepping into the shoes of Tullio, the younger brother. The game challenges players to solve puzzles and dance battle enemies, mirroring the narrative of the stage show. This rhythm-based game requires players to stay on the beat of the music, effectively transforming them into dancers. This innovative intersection of gaming and interactive performance expands the audience’s
FRAY stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and storytelling. By seamlessly blending hip hop dance, gaming, and AI, this production offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of human relationships in the digital age. As FRAY takes to the stage and the virtual world, it invites audiences to connect, reflect, and dance to the beat of a new narrative frontier.
‘FRAY’ is showing Friday 21st June & Saturday 22nd June, 7.45pm
Sadler’s Wells, Lilian Baylis Studio — Tickets here
Nadiya Shay
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