Running all over the globe for over 25 years, Dialogue in the Dark has now arrived in Melbourne. Dialogue in the Dark takes you completely from your comfort zone, and places you into an environment so dark you may see light as an optical illusion.
You will be taken through the streets of Melbourne, where you will hear the sounds of our everyday lives, and be guided on a journey through the streets by a guide who is blind or vision impaired.
If you shut your eyes just for a moment, imagine all the textures of Melbourne. The streets, the laneways, the parks, tram tracks — the list goes on. It probably isn’t something you have ever put much consideration into before, but for someone who is blind or vision impaired it is a constant consideration every single time they move about their home, and their city. Being able to acknowledge the difference between gravel and grass, and the sounds of water running off in the distance, is the only way you can stay on the right path and end up at your destination rather than in the water.
Our guide was a character, a wealth of knowledge, and a guiding voice. It was very daunting walking into pitch-black space not knowing what was there with only a cane to find your way. Melbourne isn’t exactly the easiest city to navigate. Dialogue in the Dark will give you a whole new appreciation for your senses and admiration for those who live without their sight.
It’s hard to accurately explain Dialogue in the Dark without actually giving the whole thing away, which would genuinely ruin what proves to be a truly unique and eye-opening (excuse the pun) experience.
Dialogue in the Dark is running in conjunction with Guide Dogs Australia (and yes I did get to smother some guide dog puppies with my love, and did die and go to heaven), in Harbour Town. Pre-booking is advised as session numbers are kept small.
– Maddie
Maddie Kilby is a freelance writer amongst many vocations and is the type of person who gets bored easily and likes to find herself in weird places doing weird things. You can follow her at @MadKil6.
Dialogue in the Dark runs in Harbour Town, Docklands Tues-Thurs, Sat (10am-6pm) Fri (10am-9pm), Sun (10am-5pm). Visit www.ticketmaster.com.au/dialogueinthedark to make a booking.
