Black Box

In science, computing, and engineering, the term black box refers to a model of a system whose internal mechanisms are not directly accessible to the observer. The organism of a black box cannot (or perhaps should not) be understood by looking inside it, but rather by observing the stimuli, data, or impulses that enter the system, and the responses, actions, and consequences that emerge from it.

The most well‑known example is probably the black box in aircraft (which, since the 1960s, is actually bright orange so it can be located more easily). It records flight data and cockpit audio, enabling investigators to reconstruct events after an aviation accident. What interests us are the input data — the plane's speed, angle, the condition of the pilots — and the output responses of the accident investigators.

Concept and directing: Juš Milčinski Performers: Juš Milčinski, Peter Frankl in Vid SodnikConcept: IGLU & Jim Libby Artistic consulting: Jim Libby Light design: Antoine Noirant The performance is in English. This time, the improvisers of IGLU — Improv Theatre Ljubljana — will bring to light the black boxes of vivid, spontaneous stories.

Through personal narratives, physical impressions, music‑inspired storytelling, scenes, and reflections, they will dismantle the system of sealed containers and offer themselves and the audience an authentic exploration of human behaviour, communication, and emotion. Why did we really do or say something? What lies beneath the surface? The black boxes will become transparent, and the hidden — visible.

IGLU – Improv Theatre Ljubljana is one of the most active improv theatres in Slovenia. The ensemble performs regularly at the Pionirski Teater in Ljubljana and across the country, and is active internationally at festivals and guest appearances. IGLU improvisers are members of Ohana, an international network of European improvisers, and the theatre is also a member of ITI, the International Theatresports Institute.

For this project, they have invited one of Europe's most renowned improvisers (though originally American) — Jim Libby — to join as director. Jim is a performer, director, teacher, and artistic consultant based in Vienna. He is the artistic director and improviser in numerous projects and a regular guest at major European improv festivals.