Vivid Sydney have a good track record of outdoing themselves year-after-year. In 2023, it was the introduction of Dark Spectrum (returning this year), which saw the abandoned, underground train tunnels in Sydney transformed into a light and sound show. This year, the mutli-artform festival is launching a new event: Tekno Train by Paul Mac. 

The one-of-a-kind event will take a Sydney Train service and turn it into a moving, sensory sound and light experience for just 23 nights. Passengers aboard the train will be treated to an original techno soundtrack composed by Paul Mac specifically for Tekno Train. 

The unique soundtrack will be paired with immersive custom lighting that will illuminate the inside of all the K set train carriages. As the train moves, the lights and music will rhythmically adjust to match the train’s speed and changing landscape outside, crafting a melodic and unforgettable ride through both Sydney’s city circle and disused train lines.

Creator and composer Paul Mac, said: “Trains have always fascinated me. Their mix of rhythmic clicks and clacks, the screech of metal on metal, and the sound and smell of brakes are all interesting sensory experiences that everyone can relate to. Tekno Train will take things one step further. It will drive the music and lights, turning a commuter journey into a sensory rollercoaster.”

Tekno Train will offer two different 60-minute routes for festival goers to choose from, both departing from Central Station:

• The Scenic Route: Sit back and take in the sights and sounds of North Sydney as your journey is lit up over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and down a secret spur line to Lavender Bay. This is the slower of the two journeys and is better suited to families with kids ages 5 and up.
• Tech Express: Take it up a notch and go deep beneath the city with a pulsing techno thrill ride through City Circle and South Sydney. This is the more lively, full-bodied journey for those seeking a more fast-paced immersive experience.

Tekno Train by Paul Mac will be running every night Vivid Sydney from Friday 24 May to Saturday 15 June. Tickets for the experience start at $13.90 for children (5-12 years) and $19.90 for an adult. Family pricing is also available at $59.90.

Related story: The Vivid Sydney 2024 program has been revealed and it’s going to be lit