In February 2024, Melbourne’s Yarra River was transformed into a stage for an awe-inspiring spectacle with Rulers of the Water, an ambitious production by A Blanck Canvas. Commissioned by Crown Casino for Lunar New Year celebrations, three colossal water dragons, each spanning 15 meters, mesmerized audiences as they gracefully glided across the river, welcoming the Year of the Dragon in a breathtaking fusion of art and engineering.

Designed for both elegance and functionality, each dragon was powered by a modified jet ski, seamlessly integrated into the structure. Hand-sculpted EPE foam heads, engineered to move in sync with the jet ski’s steering, brought the creatures to life with fluid, organic motion. The dragons’ bodies were constructed from a series of inflatable domes mounted atop custom-built pontoons, forming a dynamic, chain-like structure. Over 200 meters of heat-treated, waterproof polyester wrapped these domes, meticulously patterned, sewn, and hand-painted to evoke the vibrant hues of Lunar New Year festivities.

Every detail, from the intricately sculpted horns and fins to the undulating tails, was hand-sewn to ensure a cohesive, striking silhouette. To enhance the illusion, performers and jet ski riders donned matching suits and helmets, seamlessly blending into the performance. Thousands of LED lights illuminated the dragons from within, casting an ethereal glow across the Yarra River, which was closed to all other traffic during the performances.

Rulers of the Water was a triumph of artistry and engineering, captivating audiences with its scale, spectacle, and cultural significance, cementing its place as a landmark moment in Melbourne’s Lunar New Year celebrations.

The Next Evolution: Water Dragons Reimagined

In 2025, A Blanck Canvas unveiled the next chapter of the Water Dragons, enhancing the original designs with cutting-edge upgrades. Outfitted with new jet skis, a refreshed paint job, and advanced flotation technology, the dragons are now more agile and dynamic than ever before.

This reinvention debuted in March 2025 at Joondalup Festival at Hillarys Boat Harbour, Perth, introducing a thrilling new narrative. The performance tells the story of a drunken sailor who stumbles upon the dragons’ glowing eggs, unknowingly triggering a high-speed chase as the determined water dragons pursue him to reclaim their treasure.

The latest iteration features fiberglass flotation devices, significantly improving speed and maneuverability, allowing for even more dramatic and engaging performances.

Now Available for Hire

The Water Dragons are available for festivals, special events, and large-scale celebrations. Combining cutting-edge puppetry with mesmerising storytelling, they offer an unforgettable spectacle that brings any event to life.

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