'Space' show fills Durham Cathedral with immersive world of colour and sound

-Credit: (Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)
-Credit: (Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)


The new Luxmuralis art installation in Durham Cathedral has provided a much-needed respite from the overall autumn weather gloom.

Stepping inside the city's iconic landmark, I felt akin to Dorothy transitioning from her monochrome world into the vibrant realm of The Wizard of Oz. The explosion of vivid colours instantly uplifted my spirits.

The latest show, titled 'Space', begins with a mesmerising swirl of pinks and blues, soon followed by hues of purple and green. JFK's renowned words about space exploration - undertaking such endeavours not because they are easy, 'but because they are hard' - echo around the cathedral as projections of original rocket launch footage play.

This sets the stage for our own other-worldly adventure as we navigate around the cathedral. The surrounding stone walls, pillars, even the vaulted ceiling and floor, come alive, bathed in stunning colours, images and patterns that flow through the structure, depicting scenes of outer-space, galaxies, asteroids and eventually, our own Earth.

This marks the third time Luxmuralis artists have visited the cathedral, their after-dark light and sound shows transforming historic venues across the country. Their previous October runs here, each time showcasing a different spectacle, have consistently sold out, and this one is sure to follow suit, reports Chronicle Live.

Those who have previously experienced the immersive effect of the swirling light displays in 'Life' and last year's 'Science' will be familiar with the impact of these shows. This year, the new 'Space' theme adds an extra other-worldly touch, enhanced by an atmospheric soundscape.

On Wednesday's opening night, we joined the audience in a journey around the building, taking in mesmerising light shows and swirling galaxies of stars. It's a unique experience - both calming and thrilling.

Despite the potential for crowds on busy nights, there are restricted tickets and carefully timed visitor slots to ensure everyone has space to step aside, take photos, and fully absorb the spectacle. You can also sit on one of the pews, which have been rearranged to create more central space.

I would definitely recommend taking your time to contemplate space, the world, and your place within it. The 1133 cathedral plays a significant role in this contemplation.

The show continues to surprise as it extends into the Cloister, where projections referencing ancient astronomer Copernicus adorn the outer walls for the first time. The journey then leads to the Chapter House, where the round ceiling showcases some of my favourite scenes, culminating in a rapid-fire finale of images, words, and patterns that were so fast-paced I struggled to keep up.

But that didn't matter - after all, the universe is a mystery. It was breathtaking.

The experience concludes in the Galilee Chapel, offering a moment of reflection. Here, visitors are invited to light a candle, with the growing collection of small flames adding a subtle golden glow and creating a peaceful haven following our vibrant cosmic journey.

The creators of Luxmuralis, artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper, also crafted the cathedral's recent Peace Doves installation. They've once again designed a show - or rather, an experience - that is uplifting, inspiring, and involves us, the audience, in something truly extraordinary.

It was exactly what we needed on the dreariest of nights. As we lingered, it seemed no one was eager to leave, especially considering the drizzle outside.

If you can, see Space - it's unforgettable. The show runs nightly in the cathedral until Sunday, October 13. For information on time slots and ticket availability, see here.

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