Procession of Memory

'The Procession of Memory' explores the interplay between the physical remains and intangible historical past of Cockatoo Island, manifesting as a floating shadow theatre, embodied as a fleeting phenomenon, materialising, vanishing, fading in and out of the public’s memory through Sydney Harbour. The project subverts the role of performer and audience in the double skin polycarbonate structure of the theatre. Illumination from within allows shadow play techniques to highlight visitors' interactions as performance, amplifying and distorting silhouettes. Hence, the entire architecture becomes a stage, quotidian gestures become an act, and the theatre’s presence leaves a lasting impression in the public’s recollection.

Basement plan of the shadow theatre is connected to the services on land by a gangway. The café and workshop configurations are highlighted in the adjacent diagrams.

Ground plan of the shadow theatre. Adjacent configurations demonstrate the versatility of the stage, while the walkway configuration shows an informal performance.

Sectional perspective of the floating shadow theatre.

The back of the floating shadow theatre looking onto the plateau of Cockatoo Island.

The 1:200 model showing the structure, space frame roof and interior.