Thursday 12 September 2013

Dialogue In The Dark

Dialogue In The Dark

Venue: Ngee Ann Polytechnic Block 5, Level 1
            535 Clementi Road Singapore 599489
Hotline: 6460 6222
Opening Hours: 0900-1700 on Weekdays
Duration: 1 hour
Tour Size: 8 people per tour
Cost: $20/adult; $12/student; $60/family combo (2 adults + 2 children)



I went for this amazing journey into a world without sight some time back with this group of lovelies. Here, we learnt to see in a whole new way, enriching yet fresh.

In those simulation rooms, we were placed in everyday situations, in complete darkness. Simple things like crossing the street, strolling in a park, or visiting a cafe suddenly became extraordinary challenges. Somehow, this idea to integrate people and educate society in an entertaining way, took us from fear to fun.

"In the dark, the sighted are suddenly bling, while the blind people who are used to moving without seeing become the sighted ones. This role swap makes us think about our prejudices and stereotypes."

Accompanied by a blind guide, we began our journey with a white cane given to help feel our way through the darkened room. I remembered how sweet my guide's voice was.

We first arrived at an open park by the water, it was really peaceful. Then, we board a boat and cruise till we reach the city. Moving through the city, we were forced to cross the street. I felt really helpless then, just moving aimlessly with no direction (we all kinda went different way!). We then came to a neighbouring market, where we tried to guess what vegetable and fruits we were holding on to. We even tried to make a phone call at a nearby public phone.
Finally, we arrived at a cafe, sweet-smeeling. We were hungry then. I ordered ice-cream and a cookie! We tried to feed each other with our food in the dark. I remembered LX exclaiming that Chrysan was feeding his neck. I managed to feed Zaki better! (hahaha). We had a chat with our blind guide there; she shared with us how they manage to differentiate those different notes (according to size and so on).


Here in the dark, we cannot see differences of race, class, and religion. Dialogue in the Dark aims to raise awareness and facilitate inclusion of marginalised people in our community.

If you are thinking of a place to head with your friends, and hope it would be a meaningful one, why don't you head down an experience this unique trip! Furthermore, this has certainly created many jobs for the blinds too! Show some support alright?

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