Liverpool BID Company, in partnership with Liverpool City Council, have commissioned local multi-media experts, Kazimier Productions, to illuminate these two iconic thoroughfares in dramatic fashion from November 9, as part of the One Magical City festive campaign.
Entitled “Follow the Star”, the project will see powerful lasers shine from the bell tower of St Luke’s “Bombed Out” Church above eight glistening stars suspended along the length of Bold Street; a striking homage to the lost eight bells that were infamously destroyed during the 1941 Blitz. Every half-hour the installation will perform a magical choreographed sequence bathing the night sky in colour for the festive season.
Over on Castle Street, ten rotating star lanterns will adorn the length of this treasured boulevard, casting shards of reflecting light and shadows across the surrounding buildings. It will be a magical reminder of Castle Street’s 19th century architectural heritage – a time when it was furnished with glorious Victorian street lighting.
Nick Skillicorn, general manager of Neighbourhood on Castle Street, and Liverpool BID Company member, said:
“It’s fantastic that the BID and Liverpool City Council have come together to bring something a bit different and very special to both Castle and Bold Street this Christmas. From the plans we have seen it’s going to be an amazing spectacle for not only visitors, but for the businesses.”
Bill Addy, chief executive, Liverpool BID Company, said:
“Visitors to Bold Street and Castle Street are in for a visual and audio treat this Christmas and what Kazimier Productions have created is simply stunning and very unique. It’s just another reason for people to visit these iconic Liverpool streets during the festive lead-up, and explore the amazing shops, bars and restaurants on offer there.
“I must also thank Liverpool City Council for partnering with us in commissioning this thrilling project.”
Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said:
“This isn’t your usual Christmas lighting, but it’s not surprising that Liverpool is thinking differently and pushing the boundaries of what people expect at this time of year.
“Both areas will look incredible. Each of the streets lead to an iconic building – St Luke’s Church and the Town Hall – and the carpet of light travelling to them can only enhance these environments and make them unmissable must-take Christmas photo opportunities for visitors and residents.
“There is always a real buzz around the city centre in the run up to Christmas and the New Year and thanks to Arts Council England funding and the creativity of local organisation Kazimier Productions, these forward-thinking installations will be a welcome addition and provide a unique, immersive experience to get people in the festive spirit.”
Liverpool BID Company has also co-funded the city council’s tree lighting strategy to ensure the trees in all BID areas, including on and around Lord Street, Church Street, Williamson Square, Derby Square and Old Hall Street, plus St George’s Quarter, are glowing in Christmas lights.
The “Follow the Star” commission is part of One Magical City, a programme of festive activity which takes place across Liverpool, from its waterfront to the retail heart and historical areas.
For a full programme of all of the events across the city visit http://www.onemagicalcity.co.uk/.
For more information about Liverpool BID Company, please visit www.liverpoolbidcompany.com
