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Gloucestershire Business News

Gloucester Cathedral to be transformed into a poignant work of art

The countdown is on until Poppy Fields by Luxmuralis arrives at Gloucester Cathedral next month.

The installation will transform the Cathedral's stunning architecture into a moving and powerful light and sound show, and there is still time for the public to purchase tickets.

Between Friday, October 17, to Saturday, October 25, members of the public are invited to step into this immersive light and sound installation and encounter a journey of remembrance, reflection and hope.

The show reflects on the sacrifices of the First and Second World Wars, offering a message of peace and hope for the future.

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Day and approach the season of Remembrance, this moving experience invites you to pause and remember. It marks the return of Luxmuralis to Gloucester, following the sell-out success of Light Eternal in 2023.

Almost every ancient inch of the Cathedral's interior will be covered with light projections, while accompanied by a beautiful bespoke soundtrack. Poppy Fields features a series of evocative installations, including:

  • Poppy Fields - Visitors are surrounded by cascading poppies projected across the Cathedral, as if walking through the fields of Flanders.
  • The Second Day - An artistic reflection of the Battle of the Somme through light and sound.
  • Falling Leaves - Each leaf represents one of the estimated 16 million lives lost during WW1.
  • Imagine Peace - A culminating son-et-lumiere journey, guiding visitors through an artistic vision of heaven, Flower Power motifs, doves, and a symbolic interpretation of St Peter's gates, concluding with a hopeful reflection on peace and harmony.

The installation also features recordings of war poetry read by Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne OBE, including works by Wilfred Owen, Charlotte Mew and William Noel Hodgson.

There is still time for visitors to purchase their tickets. Timed entry slots run every 15 minutes from 6.15pm to 8.45pm. General admission is £9.50 for adults, £4.50 for children aged 5-16, with under-5s free. For something extra special, Premium Experience tickets are also available, offering fast-track entry, a complimentary drink and exclusive access to the Tribune Gallery and Bridge Chapel for a unique view of the installation. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the Cathedral website.

The Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, Dean of Gloucester, said: "I am delighted that Gloucester Cathedral is hosting Luxmuralis again this October. We hope this poignant experience, in the lead-up to the season of Remembrance and in the 80th anniversary year of VE and VJ Day, will offer visitors a powerful moment of reflection and prayer.

"The light projections will beautifully showcase the sacredness of our Cathedral, and in a world where the themes of war and peace continue, it is deeply fitting that this experience takes place here, where the themes of peace and hope are so integral to our daily mission."

Lorna Giles, head of visitor experience at Gloucester Cathedral, added: "I have such fond memories of Light Eternal in 2023, and we are thrilled to welcome visitors back to experience the beautiful work of Luxmuralis again for Poppy Fields.

"This immersive experience invites everyone to pause, reflect and enjoy the stunning light projections that bring the Cathedral's architecture to life. It's a truly special opportunity to see the building in a new light and share a moment of hope and peace with family and friends."

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