For many people, a trip to the theatre is synonymous with sitting in an auditorium, watching actors perform on a stage and, for the most part, being somewhat detached from the goings-on onstage. However, with Darkfield’s FLIGHT a production that can easily be summarised as being a ‘theatre experience’, the rule-book is torn to shreds.
FLIGHT is one of three shows produced by Darkfield and, like the other two, takes place in a shipping container in complete darkness. Although this idea may be crazy to some, the thought behind such a configuration makes sense: the shows can be more intimate, touring is a lot easier and, quite frankly, the experience is a lot more unique. It’s not just us saying this, having sold out three Edinburgh runs, toured Australia, the UK and Mexico, it’s clear that audiences love this formula too.
As with other works by Darkfield, Artistic Director David Rosenberg explains how the show is all about ‘exploring various fears and anxieties we have about different things’ and that, initially, FLIGHT ‘began as an exploration of the fear of flying’. However, he is also quick to note, and keen to emphasise, how a fear of flying is not the sole basis of the show. Rather, FLIGHT explores more complex ideas aside from fear. Indeed, the whole premise of the show, without giving away any spoilers, lies in the Many Worlds Interpretation of quantum mechanics. For those unfamiliar with the premise of this theory, the idea is that all outcomes that could occur from any one action are occurring in a countless number of parallel universe. Therefore, there are many versions of you elsewhere, living completely different lives to the one you are currently experiencing. The show builds on this, as well as existing anxieties, to draw attention to the impact that different actions have and how certain choices lead to certain paths in life.
Due to the visual deprivation inherent to the experience, Rosenberg points out how the experience is different for each audience member. Using binaural 360 degree sound and sensory effects, the manipulation of your other senses cast illusions and doubts onto what is actually happening, meaning that the narrative is driven by your imagination. Therefore, despite being a collective experience, the take away from the production is entirely individual.
So, in terms of what to expect from FLIGHT, it can’t be said. However, what can be said is that production is like nothing else you’ll have seen at the theatre before.
FLIGHT will be landing on Saturday 15 February and departing on Sunday 23 February.