More than 1,400 people turned out to see the first instalment of Shine A Light at the weekend in a stunning display of light and sound set against the backdrop of Chatsworth, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
Providing fun and entertainment for the whole family, Shine A Light brought to life some of Derbyshire’s heritage and history of innovation in a spectacular large-scale moving animation projected onto the historic country house.
And visitors left eager for more can catch the second instalment of the extravaganza at Cromford Mills, home of Sir Richard Arkwright’s first mill complex, in the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, on Thursday and Friday this week from 6.30pm.
Delivered by internationally-renowned Derbyshire-born video projection artists Illuminos, Shine A Light brings together awe-inspiring illuminations and projections in a visually stunning display inspired by Voices From The Peak – a celebration of the county in sound created by local poet and performer Mark Gwynne Jones to celebrate the Peak District National Park’s 70th birthday earlier this year.
At Cromford Mills, visitors will have the unique opportunity to see the historic buildings, watercourse and mill yard beautifully illuminated by night. Two buildings will be used as the backdrop to the animation in the Grade I listed mill complex, which is currently celebrating its 250th anniversary. There will be food and drink available in the mill yard and at the canal-side setting of Wheatcroft’s Wharf where visitors can also enjoy live music throughout both evenings.
We commissioned the one-of-a-kind experiences to celebrate Derbyshire’s rich history and heritage while boosting the visitor economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Each outdoor event is a fusion of visuals, music and sound culminating in a large-scale projection every 20 minutes throughout each evening.
Tickets are £8 for adults and £6 per child (aged 4 to 16 inclusive, free for 3 and under). No dogs are allowed (except guide dogs and assistance dogs).
Book tickets or find more information
Derbyshire County Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Leadership, Culture, Tourism and Climate Change Councillor Barry Lewis said:
“Shine A Light at Chatsworth proved to be a spectacular display and we’re looking forward to the next chapter unfolding at Cromford Mills later this week.
“We’re proud to be able to help support these unique experiences which will provide excellent entertainment for tourists and residents alike.
“It is vital we support the local visitor economy to recover following coronavirus pandemic and we hope in future years to extend ‘Shine A Light’ to more venues across our county.”
Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire, said:
“Whether or not you saw Shine A Light at Chatsworth, you won’t want to miss Shine A Light at Cromford. This spectacular projection provides a fantastic opportunity for families and friends to get-together and see Derbyshire’s history brought to life against one of the county’s most significant heritage attractions.
“It’s also the perfect chance to get out and about and to support the recovery of local businesses this autumn. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss the chance to book yours today!”
