THE LIMINAL HOUR, MARRI DYIN

Marri Dyin ( Eora language for “great woman” ) is not a traditional spirit, rather she is a contemporary concept; an elemental spirit intrinsically connected to the land. Her existence seeks to recognise the influence and importance of the First Nations women, including Barangaroo, who lived in Sydney prior to settlement. Marri Dyin represents their strength and spirit, and their role as providers for their people through a connection to the land and its waterways.

This six-metre high and visually-spectacular character is operated by a team of puppeteers, acting as a conduit between Marri Dyin and the audience. 

Inspired by the cycle of regeneration through fire and water, Liminal Hour features layers of sound and light that fill the streets with a lush landscape evocative of the Australian bush. During the performance, Marri Dyin calls upon the natural forces, transforming peaceful bushland, into a raging bush fire, then a torrential storm - a cycle of regeneration which assures new life and prosperity for future generations. While the storm calms and returns to a peaceful bush state, Marri Dyin sits to take counsel with children and visitors, inviting them to share with her their secrets, hopes and desires for the future. This is a touching moment, as children are asked to share a moment on their own, with the Great Woman.

 “Marri Dyin is a spirit of immense power, but she takes counsel from those of us with the smallest voices. It is our hope that through this work we convey the desire for a future where all are equal regardless of gender, race or beliefs. When you experience this work, you’ll see a mixed group of people, whose combined voice affirms and honours the fact that together we stand on the land of the oldest continuously living culture, because valuing this in everything we do, is the key to our future.”

Scott Wright - Artistic Director

Erth - Visual & Physical Incorporated

The artistic collaboration brings together the talents of Erth Visual & Physical Inc., James Brown, Jacob Nash, and Mandylights.  Combining world-class puppetry mechanics, sound and light, the artwork and performance is a spectacular showcase of Australian artistic innovation and creativity.

Presented, Vivid Sydney 2018 & 2019 and Nights on Crown Festival, Wollongong 2019

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