ON THE EDGE OF 1926
CONTEXTUAL DISCUSSION
On The Edge of 1926 is a location-based transmedia story that will be told across three platforms; a video, audio podcasts and digital journal, all presented on a dedicated website. The project shares the story of William; an 18-year-old time-traveler from 1926 who finds himself in 2016 at The Edge. There he meets Emily, an American musician recording her debut album at The Edge’s recording studio. The pair spend an afternoon together, writing music and learning each other’s stories. Emily, not believing William's tales of time travel, writes him off as an eccentric character with a loose grasp on reality. Weeks later however, Emily meets Luke, revealed to be William’s grandson, proving the validity of William’s story.
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The primary aim of the project is to explore and highlight the contrast between modern day and life
in 1920’s Brisbane, with a focus on the site of The Edge. The concept originated from an interview
with Creative Manager of The Edge, Daniel Flood (Personal interview, August 25, 2016). It was discussed how a locative style of literature could serve as a tool for preserving and conveying stories that uncover the histories of The Edge. On The Edge of 1926 has been created to be an innovative method of preserving moments in time at The Edge that will inspire visitors to explore history in a creative context, resulting in an increased level of community engagement.
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The target audience identified for the project is young adults; those who interact with The Edge regularly and those with an interest in fiction. By sharing historical facts through modern platforms and an engaging narrative, the project enlightens and stimulates the minds of young people who are often unaware of local history.
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As mentioned, all platforms will be accessible through a dedicated website, providing access to the project on any device with internet access. Audiences will be introduced to the story through a 1- minute video, portraying WILLIAM arriving in 2016 and his initial meeting with EMILY. Located beneath the video on the website will be written text, “What Happens Next?” followed by two links - one leading to William’s virtual journal and the other leading to podcasts narrated and published by Emily.
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The history of a particular geographical location is rarely known by those who come into contact with the space on a regular basis; as a location-based transmedia project, On The Edge of 1926 will explore the geographical history of The Edge and highlight the contrast between 1926 and 2016, giving audiences a fresh perspective and providing a critical look at the impact modern technologies have had on society and our way of life.