Earlier this year, we were left stunned by our visit to Birmingham Cathedral. Not because we are particularly religious, but because Luxmuralis’ latest immersive light and sound show had left us speechless. If you don’t know what we’re talking about, or you were unfortunate to miss it, don’t fret. Divine Beauty at Night will return to the cathedral in 2024.
A sell-out show last time around, Divine Beauty at Night is based on four remarkable stained-glass windows at Birmingham Cathedral AKA St Phillips Cathedral (more on that here). The immersive experience tells the story of the windows, their imagery and their history. Colourful patterns and sections of windows are projected inside, accompanied by ethereal music.
These four stunning windows that inspired this exhibition were created by the Birmingham-born artist, Edward Burne-Jones. His windows were installed (between 1885 and 1897) back when the cathedral was still a parish church and depict recognisable scenes from Jesus’ life. The Ascension, the Nativity, the Crucifixion and The Last Judgment.
Considered to be some of the most beautiful and precious stained-glass windows in the world, they were created in the workshop of William Morris. During WWII, in 1939, courtesy of the Birmingham Civic Society, the windows were removed for safekeeping and placed in a slate mine in Wales for safekeeping. The windows are now currently undergoing restoration to preserve the windows for future generations, which you can learn more about here.
The team behind light and sound experience is the world-renowned projection company, Luxmuralis. Who are well known for bringing their breathtaking productions to beautiful churches across the country. But this unique piece of art is designed specifically for Birmingham Cathedral, as it brings the cathedral’s emotive story of its stained-glass windows to life.
The kaleidoscopic light show really changes this 300-year-old building in ways we could never imagine. Heading to Birmingham Cathedral from January 4 to 6, 2024, you’ll only have a slim chance to bear witness to it. Divine Beauty at Night is suitable for all ages – but does involve bright moving lights, loud sounds and music, obviously. Tickets only cost £5 per person (£4 for concessions), and you can get yours by heading here.