World Premiere of “AI Love You” Drone Circus Coming to Rawhide

Cutting-edge AI-powered visuals, 600 synchronized drones, live acrobatics, music, and fire effects, in a groundbreaking show created by world-class human artists in collaboration with advanced AI. Sounds like something you might see in Las Vegas, but from May 2-4, it’s premiering in the Arizona desert. AI Love You is a record-breaking show stemmed from pioneer talents in futuristic entertainment. This first-of-its-kind immersive drone light circus will be hosted at Rawhide Western Town & Event Center in Chandler.

AI Love You explores the evolving relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence through a spellbinding immersive show that engages the senses and challenges the imagination of audiences of all ages. Thanks to cutting-edge drone art, the story unfolds across earth and sky and displays a breathtaking showdown between human will and AI’s pursuit of independence.

AI Love You is a creative initiative of Ralph Nauta of Studio Drift and Lucas van Oostrum, co-founder of Amsterdam-based Drone Stories. Known for their visually stunning performances and installations at mega-events the likes of Coachella, ACL, Art Basel Miami, EDC, Formula 1 Las Vegas, and Burning Man, the creative duo gathered world-class creative talents around the project. The show marks a new frontier in live entertainment, promising to push creative boundaries with an innovative combination of performance art and technology, where AI works as a partner from concept to execution.

"This show is completely different to anything we’ve done before,” said Ralph Nauta. “It combines multiple media - live acting, dance, video work, choreography. There’s also a longer narrative arc, giving us more time to explore the story in depth. Normally, with a simple drone show we only have nine or ten minutes to tell a story. Now, with a much larger time frame and different ways to present it, we can add more nuance. We don’t have to rush to the end; we can take our time to craft something truly engaging."

Visual directors Polina Zakharova and Sveta Yermolaeva of New York’s Hard Feelings Studio bring their expertise in 3D visuals and CGI to the show, crafting a dazzling fusion of light, movement, and emotion. Walter Productions, a Phoenix-based collaborative known for its mesmerizing fire effects, over-the-top productions and art cars brings more impact to the show. LA-based live electronic composer, multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and producer David Block enriches the show with his AI-assisted compositions, blending machine-generated elements with human created soundscapes into an emotional and psychedelic soundtrack. Live performances are directed by Genevieve Jae, renowned for her thought-provoking emotional performances.

The hour-long show invites audiences to witness AI’s birth, evolution, and inevitable clash with its human creators. The story begins with AI emerging as a multifaceted life form, multiplying light into radiant, ever-changing patterns. As AI evolves, its relationship with humanity fractures, leading to a climactic aerial battle brought to life by 600 drones painting the sky, synchronized to music and theatrical performances.

“Phoenix is a booming city with immense growth in the tech and innovation space, and an up-and-coming arts and cultural community which made it the perfect host for this world-premiere,” said Lucas van Oostrum. “With wide open skies, great weather and an amazing group of visionary partners and minds behind this show, we know this will be an event not to be missed”.

In addition to the main performance, AI Love You offers a festival-like experience with pre-show festivities, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy an evening of food, drinks, and entertainment before being immersed in this one-of-a-kind unforgettable experience.

Tickets for AI Love You are available now at www.ailoveyou.com. General admission is $65 with VIP option available for $150 to include dedicated parking, seating and private restroom access. Box office opens at 6:00 pm with show time at 8:00 pm. Follow on Instagram for updates @ai.loveyou.show