Sydney’s historic Argyle Cut is set to become a laser-fuelled “time machine rave” as Vivid Sydney unveils Time: Warped, one of its boldest installations yet.
Created by Australian immersive studio NeonDynamo in partnership with global laser company ER Productions, the installation will transform the heritage-listed sandstone tunnel into a collision of projection, lasers, EDM and cinematic storytelling.
For the first time at Vivid Sydney, lasers will be fused directly into the narrative, turning the Argyle Cut into a sensory experience inspired by rave culture and dance music.
A journey from contemplation to chaos
Time: Warped combines experimental projection art, sound design and large-scale laser choreography to bend and distort the concept of time.
NeonDynamo Managing Director Heath Campanaro said the work brings together several of the studio’s biggest creative influences.
“It’s a journey from contemplation to complete chaos.
“We’ve always been inspired by the energy of live music production, particularly the intersection of content and lasers.
“Having the opportunity to partner with the best laser company on the planet to create something entirely new for Vivid is like all of our favourite things colliding.”
Music drives the experience
Music is central to the installation, with Heckler Sound composer Mitch Sloan creating an original EDM soundtrack designed to push audiences through waves of tension, energy and chaos.
Creative Director Simon Connell said the work brings motion and music together in a new way.
“We are beyond excited to bring our two favourite things – motion and music – together in a truly unique immersive mash-up in the Argyle Cut.
“We can’t wait to see the audience react to this all-out assault on the senses!”
Vivid Sydney on the installation
Vivid Sydney Festival Director Brett Sheehy AO said Time: Warped reflects the ambition of the festival.
“NeonDynamo and ER Productions have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible inside the Argyle Cut, transforming this historic site into a pulse-pounding fusion of light, sound and creativity.
“This installation captures the festival’s spirit of innovation and reminds us why Sydney continues to be a global stage for bold artistic experimentation.”
NeonDynamo delivered Vivid Sydney’s Customs House projection last year with Romance Was Born. The Sydney-based studio has also worked on major projects including mainstage content for Glastonbury Festival’s Pyramid Stage.
Time: Warped runs in the Argyle Cut from 22 May to 13 June.
Top image: Vivid Sydney