Now showing at Southbank, (at the QLD Maritime Museum beneath the Goodwill bridge), Darkfield’s immersive experiences, 'Séance' and 'Flight', are perfect for those eager to try something new and dive deep into the unknown. After braving both, I can assure you that while 'Séance' is undeniably chilling, 'Flight' took the cake for me, leaving me pondering its mysteries long after my feet were back on solid ground.
These one-of-a-kind experiences are designed for small groups, which adds to the intimate atmosphere of the scenarios. Each one is a 20-minute adventure inside a shipping container in complete darkness. The container for 'Flight' has been transformed into a highly realistic airplane cabin. When you hop on board (I recommend sitting in an aisle seat), you get the usual safety briefing from a flight attendant on screen, along with the usual airplane noises—but this time, everything feels a bit... off. As the lights go out, the world as I know it ceases to exist, leaving you with just binaural audio in your headphones. It’s a challenge to explain the feeling—there’s a real vulnerability in being so stripped of sight, yet so aware of the space you share with others. It's easy to forget you're still in a shipping container. The sense of reality is that strong.
Once the darkness envelops you, you’re plunged into a mind-bending journey. The sheer realism of the sounds—the hum of jet engines, whispers from passengers nearby, babies crying, the attendants walking up and down beside you (I kept reaching out to feel if she was actually there), the captain’s breathy voice in your ear, and your seat suddenly shaking as the chaos of an emergency situation unfolds. It’s more than just a terrifying thrill; it’s a mind game, making you wonder what’s real and what’s not.
Now, 'Séance'... while equally immersive, is more of a psychological experiment in supernatural superstition. It’s no less impressive, but it’s a different kind of terror, relying on the tension of the unseen. If you love the thrill of a good ghost story and the eerie atmosphere of a séance, you won’t be disappointed. I must admit, my ears were a bit too sensitive for the ending of 'Séance'; the sounds were intense, and the eerie silence that followed felt almost too much. The moving table is a clever touch that really adds to the feeling of being part of something beyond our regular sensory perception. My stomach dropped as the experiences wrapped up, and when the lights flickered back on, it was clear I wasn’t the only one who had been captivated. The other participants had their heads down, completely engrossed in what had just unfolded. The collective focus and shared moment of astonishment was electric.
The way Darkfield uses binaural audio to immerse you so completely in the experience is unparalleled. Even though I was physically sitting in a dark space, the sounds painted a vivid picture, with every whisper, creak, and thud positioning you perfectly within the experience. It allows your imagination to run wild and heightens the sense of dread (but don't worry, there's some humour in both scripts too!).
I highly recommend grabbing tickets for both shows, especially if you’re a thrill-seeker looking to test your nerves, need a fresh date idea, or just want an experience that you won't find replicated anywhere else. Trust me, after 'Flight', you’ll be questioning the very nature of reality—and probably double-checking your seatbelt the next time you fly.
For those who may have reservations about the intensity, don't stress—there's an opt-out option, plenty of info beforehand, and nothing too wild when it comes to motion. The experience is designed to be unsettling but totally safe, and there’s a real thrill in stepping into the unknown. At less than $30 for a session, Darkfield offers excellent value for a truly unique adventure. With multiple sessions every day, it's easy to find a time that fits your schedule. Go give your senses a whirl because this experience is definitely worth checking out.
Comments