Son et Lumière in Ripon Cathedral-an evening to remember

Michael and I were invited to a 'Son et Lumière' to celebrate the completion of the Vision Project at Ripon Cathedral. Son et Lumière meaning 'sound and light' is a combination of sound , light and narration used in buildings of ecclesiastical and historical significance . The lighting not only shows the Cathedral's beauty and grandeur in all its glory, but also areas, aspects and perspectives of the building previously unseen. The organ music which accompanied the show was entirely French, in recognition of the Founders of the Son et Lumière concept.

The guests were welcomed by the Dean the Very Reverend Keith Jukes, who thanked everyone who had given so generously to make the Vision Project possible. The audience was invited to move round the cathedral to see the various lighting scenes as the show progressed

The evening began with plainsong 'Lumen ad revelation en gentium' sung by Canon Paul Edmund Aldhouse and Matt Lennox . The spot lights faded out leaving the Cathedral in semi darkness. As the plainsong drew to a close the High Alter and organ were highlighted and the low window lights intensified. Up lights enhanced the Reredos , Choir Screen and Nave Pillars, while other spot lights created pools of light. The spotlights and up lights then faded out, to be replaced by the illumination of the clerestory and ceilings. The lighting then moved from East to West, with five changes of scene. During this time we were encouraged to follow the lights, and assemble in the Nave for the darkest scene yet. The brightly lit Cathedral gradually darkened to leave just the organ pipes illuminated. The grand finale began in near darkness, with only the central tower lighted. For the six minute duration of ' Carillon de Westminster' by Louis Verne a new light faded in every ten seconds until the whole Cathedral was lit up.. Then the Cathedral Bells responded to the 'Carillon of Westminster',- it was stunning

After the excitement of the ever changing scenes, canapés and drinks were served in the Nave- Certainly an evening to remember!

Hilary and Michael Abbott