Iconic buildings set to shine in ‘Light Fantastic’ events

Five of Plymouth’s most iconic buildings will become beacons of light on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 November as part of the city’s ‘Three Towns’ centenary celebrations.

‘Light Fantastic’ will see landmarks in Plymouth, Devonport and Stonehouse brought to life with photos, images, sounds and memories from the last century as well as today.

On Friday community-inspired illuminations will take place at Smeaton’s Tower on the Hoe, Devonport Guildhall in Ker Street and the Palace Theatre in Union Street.

Each projection will be 12 to 15 minutes long and they will be different at each site, where they will run on a loop between 6.30pm and 9pm. People can visit each site during the evening or stay at one location and watch their chosen projection as many times as they like.

Devonport Guildhall’s Bakehouse will be open and there will also be a barbecue on offer while the projections are taking place. Hot chocolate will be on sale at the Palace Theatre and hot drinks and soup will be available from the Putters hut on the Hoe.

On Saturday evening a grand finale projection will take place at the Civic Centre and Guildhall on Armada Way. This will combine elements from the previous evening with additional content and run continuously from 6.30pm to 9pm.

As well as sourcing content from the Plymouth and West Devon Record Office, South West Film and Television Archive and the South West Image Bank, lighting artists Illuminos have been meeting and filming a variety of community groups and individuals – from residents’ associations and school children to poets, writers, shop owners and lunch clubs.

They also gave a group of City College students a brief to create some of the photographic, film and audio content for the projections. The Live Events and Creative Media students are currently working with Devonport’s Real Ideas Organisation on a creative traineeship funded by Creative and Cultural Skills. The scheme aims to give the students industry experience, employability skills and an arts award qualification.

“It’s been wonderful to see so many people get involved and we are very excited about the finished projections,” said Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith. “Our thanks go to everyone who has supported this project, which has been co-ordinated by our arts and heritage service. I hope lots of people come and enjoy this special celebration in lights which promises to be a tribute to both our past and present.”

For full details about both evenings visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/lightfantastic