The Moonshot Podcast Deep Dive: Catie Cuan on Dancing and Living With Robots
Jul 24, 2025
Catie Cuan, a robot choreographer and former artist in residence at Everyday Robots, seeks to humanize robotics through dance. She discusses how movement can make robots appear less mechanical and more relatable. Catie shares her insights on teaching robots human social cues and how transforming robotic motion into music nurtures emotional connections. She also emphasizes the importance of designing robots that don't look overtly robotic, aiming to alleviate humanity's fears and foster a future where robots enhance daily life.
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Robot Social Cue Advice
- Robots should use calibrated eye contact frequency to avoid creepiness.
- They can develop unique social cues like a 'shake' when they err to communicate safety.
Music Mode Connects Emotionally
- Music Mode transforms robot movements into analog instrument sounds for calm, inspiring soundscapes.
- Listeners felt emotional connection and perceived robots as more intelligent and safe.
Flocking Robots Include Humans
- Teaching robots to flock using modified Boyd's algorithm created natural, controllable group motions.
- Humans felt included in the robot flock's fluid, responsive movement rather than controlling it.