Center Stage Robotics
A study of industrial robots and robotics in theatrical and performative settings.
Ongoing research
We conduct research into performative robotics with a wide range of professional partners and exclusive robots.
In Center Stage Robotics, Ulrike Quade Company conducts research on industrial robots and robotics in theatrical and performative settings. We are collaborating with three partners: visual artist Bram Ellens, programmer Rick van Dugteren from Event Robotics, robotlab and the Creative Robotics workshop, and Prof. Dr. Maaike Bleeker representing Utrecht University.
Sprints
Ongoing open research sessions on performative robotics featuring various professionals and exclusive robotics.
Residencies
We offer space to a total of four different artists across two different residencies.
Future Stages
In Future Stages, experts in theater and technology present their work (and creative processes), explorations, and findings.
Output
What’s part of Center Stage Robotics?
2 x 2 Residencies
In two separate periods, two creators (or duos) reside with us for four months to do their own research. This will lead to initial, low-barrier presentations and a final showcase. Participants will also receive two workshops from the Center Stage Robotics team.
4 x Expert meeting Future Stages
Under the name ‘Future Stages,’ we organise four thematic meetings/talk shows for professionals from science, art, and the creative sector. Each event includes talks, a panel discussion and a networking reception.
Publications
We present our findings in multiple publications in professional media.
Online platform
To share our knowledge, we are developing an online platform and database where innovative production methods, collaborations and findings will be sustainably documented and easily accessible. Once the platform is ready for access, we will share it here.
Sprints
Read more about our sprints
A peek inside the robotics lab
Ulrike Quade Company is conducting research in several areas related to the use of robots in theatrical settings. In this video, Suze takes you on a tour of the robot lab in Almere.
12 June 2026/by Ulrike Quade CompanyHuman-robot interaction: Floriade
We presented the performance installation for Floriade, consisting of the 4.5-metre-high bar puppet Alex, animated by two black hydraulic KUKA robotic arms.
4 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyMens-robot interactie: intimiteit van betekenisgeving
We borduurden voort op de vorige sprint over stem en geluid van KUKA-robots en richtte zich op literaire vorm en de uitvoering van literaire teksten. Sjaan Flikweert presenteerde gedichten en voordrachtsequenties in interactie met de KUKA-robot.
4 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyHuman-robot interaction: how does a robot speak?
This sprint focused on the voice and sound of robots, we explored the meaning of voice and sound as a medium in the context of performing arts and other creative practices.
4 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyHuman-robot interaction: safety and improvisation
We focused on the manual manipulation of KUKA robots within the performing arts. This poses specific safety challenges, as the robots have a lot of power and become less predictable when operated manually.
4 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyHuman-robot interaction: care in performance art
We explored the theme of care in human-robot interaction. In the process, circus artist and performer Daniel Simu entered into a unique dialogue with a KUKA robot.
4 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyRobot and puppetry: a unique interaction
In the first sprint, we investigated how the puppet Madama Butterfly, based on the traditional Japanese Bunraku theatre, interacts with two KUKA robot arms of different sizes.
29 November 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyResidents
Read more about our residencies
Resident Center Stage Robotics: Stephanie Pan
Discover the musical potential of the KUKA robot: an intense exploration of technology, voice and performative impact.
11 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyResident Center Stage Robotics: Carly Everaert
Explore the dynamic interaction between the KUKA robot and puppets: an exploration of space, materials and gender fluid costumes.
11 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyResident Center Stage Robotics: Marijn Brussaard and Niek Vanoosterweyk
Explore the power struggle between humans and robots through movement, where the KUKA robot and performers challenge each other in autonomy and control, inspired by Mark Twain's ‘A Dog's Tale’.
11 December 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyResident Center Stage Robotics: Lea Ellemann
Explore the connection between robotic and human movements with textiles, where robots enhance emotional and mental healing.
13 November 2024/by Ulrike Quade CompanyCenter Stage Robotics is a collaboration by
