Arts, Heritage and Museums News

Illuminos Light up the Lyceum!

On the 9th and 10th of September after dark, Illuminos unveiled their latest video projection artwork, as the facade of the Crewe Lyceum Theatre came alive through a specially commissioned work celebrating 100 years of the theatre in Crewe.

Using projectors, music, and animation the entire frontage of the Lyceum was transformed into a giant moving puppet theatre, with people, props and unique architecture of the theatre forming the stage, cast and crew.  Featuring well known characters and shows from the Lyceum's past, as well as animated versions of present day theatre members and audience, the artwork created a one off visual interpretation of the Lyceum's 100 year history, celebrating the rich cultural heritage that the theatre has brought to the heart of Crewe.

Illuminos met members of the public and groups who use the theatre, collecting their memories, anecdotes and memorabilia from the rich history of the Lyceum, learning about the range of performances and shows.  The Lyceum has been host to roaring lions and stubborn elephants, mystical illusionists, incredible pantomimes and the best actors of the day, even a young Charlie Chaplin.  Offstage the drama continued with huge fires and floods.  The piece weaves all of these elements together into a single projection event.

At the centre of the projection event is the theatre itself. We wanted to create something that showed off how beautiful the theatre auditorium is, and how special this place is to people.  The stalls, proscenium arch, boxes and stage, become our moving backdrops populated by the many characters and events that have trod the boards of this amazing space both past and present.

• View the Illuminos website to view their breathtaking film.

New Rural Touring Arts Brochure is out!

The new RTA brochure is now out and shows are ready to be booked. It's going to be an exciting Autumn season so please look at the Cheshire Rural Touring Arts website to see the programme.

The Moment When... a specially commissioned site specific dance performance is looking for young people to be a part of this once in a lifetime opportunity. Led by Cheshire Dance in partnership with Cheshire East Council. For more information about auditions and how you can get involved visit the Cheshire Dance website.