Dusking Event at The Hug

Location: ‘The Hug’ at Mulranny Arts Centre F28 F8N8

You don’t have to wait for nightfall to experience the darkness of night. The great transition begins shortly after sunset: the dusk. The golden hour gives way to the blue hour; the light fades, and colours grow cooler. Twilight can teach us what darkness brings to light. We often associate the falling of darkness with disappearance. The light, the day, the noise – everything seems to diminish. But the day does not disappear. We disappear. And as we disappear, something appears. Bats. Moths. A world of shades of grey.

We gather at sunset for Dusking. An ancient Dutch ritual dating back to a time when people kept the lights out for as long as possible so they could await the darkness in peace at the start of the evening. It was a small rite of passage in which work was set aside and (evening) rest began. Just under an hour of neither producing nor consuming anything, simply sitting and watching as darkness falls, as boundaries blur, the day fades away and gives way to the night.

Concept, text and voice: Marjolijn van Heemstra
Music: Roald van Oosten
Visuals: Corine Datema
Part of the Nachtverbond project

Numbers will be limited and participants should bring a mat/cushion to lie on and a blanket. Wear comfortable and warm clothing. Dusking will be outdoors if weather permits so dress accordingly.