Abstract
It is a well known phenomenon that the collective behaviour of ants is achieved through the diffusion of pheromones secreted by individuals. The authors applied this mechanism to interactive visual stage effects for a contemporary ballet choreographed by Jiří Kylián at the Netherlands Dance Theatre in 2008. The dance performance entitled “Gods and Dogs” has been performed in various European dance companies. In 2023, the software underwent a complete revision to adapt to the latest computing and peripheral equipment. By utilising the division of tasks between multi-core CPUs and GPUs, the software can now respond with shorter latency and generate visual output at higher frame rates in high resolution. Parameter tuning is also crucial in matching the visuals to the designer’s preferences. The experimental results regarding the tendency and sensitivity of certain parameters for diffusion, as well as the balance factor between attraction and repulsion, can aid the design process.