FIREFILM

A film projector augmented with class-c firworks (saxons on the reels, gerbs around the lens and lamb housing) is displayed throughout the week prior to the performance. Sheets of nitrocellulous paper fill a glass jar next to the projector. A silver imprint on each sheet reads "My film is about:" A nearby marker allows participants to submit their ideas on the paper and insert them in a hole on the projector, where a small sign reads. "Insert film ideas here. WARNING: Your film idea is for public consumption. Screening this Saturday March 16 at midnight, location TBA."

On the night of the performance, the pieces of paper are attached to the large cloth screen, where they are displayed for several minutes to be read by the audience. After spectators/readers have retreated to a safe distance, the projector is turned on, projecting the words, "LUX MUNDI" on the screen until the film melts. The wheels and gerbs are then ignited, casting sparks which ignite the nitrocellulous sheets and the cloth screen beneath them.

Rife performing at Combustion Zone 1997. Photo by Stephen Grahm

The Extra Action Marching Band

New Orleans, Mardi Gras 2000

participants