We all live in cages

Psychological or Physical ones

Only through numerous attempts

To learn, to understand

That we can find the way

Out of cages

 

Brief Introduction

"CAGE-Survival Game" is inspired by the 2009 documentary, The Cove, by Louie Psihoyos.  Three percussionists of the Freedom Beat, together with DJ cheer, and a puppeteer, told the story of a boy befriended with whales, but lately found out that his friends were the "monsters" which his fellow villagers were eager to kill.  "CAGE" is a non-verbal percussion music theater production, as the Freedom Beat believes "Through Freedom Beat, you’ll see the sound that can be seen."

 

The Instruments

Building its own instruments is one of the main features of the Freedom Beat.  For "CAGE," we built three large pieces and several smaller ones.  Deriving from how the fishermen hunt dolphins, we cut pipes and built a set of huge chimes.  Also, we made cajon drums and stacked them into a light house. And, a space cello for the atmosphere of floating in the water.

 

The Music

All music used in the production were originally composed by the Freedom Beat artistic director, Kuan-Ping (Gray) Liu, and DJ Cheer.  They have worked together since the Freedom Beat first live percussion + electronics production 7 years ago, and have grown deep understanding in what the other part wants in the music.

 

Since the members need to play and perform at the same time, all music were design carefully, so that players won’t bump into each other while playing.