Created by leading contemporary artist Jess Johnson and director Simon Ward in partnership with Tūhura Otago Museum, XYZZY is an award-winning art-based planetarium show like no other.

Developed through a decade of creative work, Johnson’s hand-drawn compositions are transformed by Ward into an animated web of flesh mandalas, self-replicating architecture, undulating worms, hallucinogenic patterns, and messianic alien deities.

The dynamic visual atmosphere is charged with 90s-inspired electronic synthesiser tracks from musicians Andrew Clarke, Luke Rowell, Stef Animal and Lachlan Anderson. Sound design by Lachlan Anderson and mixed by immersive sound artist and film score engineer, Graham Kennedy. 

The psychedelic, musical odyssey recently won best Art Film 2024 Dome Under Film Festival in Melbourne.

XYZZY is screening at Space Place each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday night. 

Note: Recommended ages 14+, parental supervision required. Features strobing effects – some visitors may experience mild motion sickness.