Nocturne – Vivid – REVIEW

Nocturne is a unique aural and spatial experience that complements the super-sensory visuals of Vivid. With headphones and a pre-recorded audio helping to mentally remove you from the chattering crowds, you feel almost like a ghost gliding in and around hidden spaces and walkways in the historic Rocks area. 

Commissioned by Vivid, Nocturne was created by one step at a time like this, a Melbourne-based group of artists who specialise in site-specific experiences. It’s a simple concept with  a profound effect. 

The self-guided journey begins in a small park in Barangaroo where participants are presented with headphones and a smartphone. Are a short briefing we are sent into the urban wilderness.

On the smartphone is an app that includes instructions for the route, some cool occasional visual guidance, and a series of audio tracks that correspond with the different sections of the route. 

The audio consists of spoken word reflections, anecdotes, pieces of information and history, and poetry shared by various indigenous voices. There is also an ambient musical composition that reinforces the sense of detachment from the world around. 

At the start of the journey, as you are trying to familiarise yourself with the equipment and navigate the unrelenting throngs, it feels like an exercise in futility. But once you enter the first quiet space – which doesn’t take long – you settle into the meditation.

The area around Walsh Bay and The Rocks is wonderful for this kind of activity, with a diversity of surrounds and the constant backdrop of the city and harbour. The Nocturne route takes you through empty alleyways, up and down worn, century-old steps and along narrow sandstone-walled walkways.  

There’s a cognitive dissonance between your private ethereal world and the hubbub surrounding you, and that somehow adds to the experience. 

The route ends on Observation Hill where you’re invited to lie down on one of the picnic rugs that have been provided. On your back, staring into the night sky, you hear ancient wisdom and lore and soak in the incredible atmosphere. 

Finishing with a cup of ginger tea supplied in a thermos, you sit up and look out at one of the most magnificent views any city in the world can offer. 

This is a beautiful journey of discovery, both inward and out. 

Until June 15

For info and bookings visit: www.vividsydney.com