Entertainment

Dock n roll: Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody hopes first-of-its-kind light and sound theatre display ‘brings people together’

Shadowdock an immersive outdoor theatre experience which shines a spotlight on Belfast’s maritime heritage is heading for a sell-out performance as hundreds of showgoers have signed up to attend the world-first taking place in the city’s iconic slipways

The Shadowdock performance lasts for approximately 30 minutes and will take place from September 25 to 29
The Shadowdock performance lasts for approximately 30 minutes and will take place from September 25 to 29
By Sophie Clarke

SNOW Patrol’s Gary Lightbody has praised the new outdoor theatre experience shining a light on Belfast’s maritime heritage.

“Art brings people together. Simple. One of the goals when we set up the foundation was to help struggling people and communities in NI, and art is one of the most important salves on the soul that there is, and we want to help projects that bring art - be it music, or theatre, or dance - to as many people as possible,” says Lightbody whose Foundation is supporting the performance.

“Shadowdock not only tells the story of the forgotten heritage of the amazing city of Belfast, but also asks questions about where it goes from here.

“We’re proud to help give a platform to the local talent behind this experience and who doesn’t love an outdoor show with a difference, and a stunning backdrop.”

Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody at the launch of The Arts Council’s first 10-year strategy, detailing its new Mission, Vision and Values. The strategy has been informed by extensive consultation with the public, across the arts community, and government. The Arts Council outlined its plans to develop and champion the arts through investment and advocacy to representatives from across government, business and the arts at a special event at The MAC in Belfast. PIC COLM LENAGHAN
Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody at the launch of The Arts Council’s first 10-year strategy, detailing its new Mission, Vision and Values. The strategy has been informed by extensive consultation with the public, across the arts community, and government. The Arts Council outlined its plans to develop and champion the arts through investment and advocacy to representatives from across government, business and the arts at a special event at The MAC in Belfast. PIC COLM LENAGHAN

From the creative minds of designer Henry Sykes (Our Place In Space, Banana Block) and Three’s Theatre Company, visitors will embark on an audio-visual journey at Thompson Dry Dock, known as the birthplace of Titanic. There they will explore the history of where Belfast began, and how they can play a part in its future.

Produced by lighting designers Conal Clapper and Alan Mooney, the show is accompanied by a captivating soundscape created by award winning composer Katie Richardson.

There will also be two different ways to view the display - either Above Deck, where guests will peer over the edge and enjoy uninterrupted views of the spectacle below. Or Below Deck, which is an opportunity to dive deeper into the story of Belfast’s maritime heritage by descending 40 feet below sea level - or down 66 steep steps - into the dock itself and walking through the lights in a fully immersive experience.

Above Deck, where guests will peer over the edge and enjoy uninterrupted views of the spectacle below
Above Deck, where guests will peer over the edge and enjoy uninterrupted views of the spectacle below

“It’s about looking at things from a different perspective and that is why we have two ways to view the show,” Sykes explains.

“We’re working with a range of local talent to create a mesmerising show that nods to the rich heritage of this city, but also poses questions for its future.”

Commissioned by Belfast 2024 through Belfast City Council, the location has never been used for an outdoor theatre performance of this scale creating a world first for the iconic venue.

Below Deck, which is an opportunity to dive deeper into the story of Belfast’s maritime heritage by descending 40 feet below sea level into the dock itself and walking through the lights in a fully immersive experience
Below Deck, which is an opportunity to dive deeper into the story of Belfast’s maritime heritage by descending 40 feet below sea level into the dock itself and walking through the lights in a fully immersive experience

“Shadowdock captures the essence of what our Belfast 2024 programme is all about reconnecting people with our city, encouraging positive engagement with the world around us and inspiring us all to think creatively,” adds Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray.

“It also explores the year’s core themes of People, Place and Planet. It’s fantastic to bring something so fresh and innovative to an area steeped in the city’s history and which reflects the ambition of our whole Belfast 2024 celebration.”

The Shadowdock performance lasts for approximately 30 minutes and will take place from September 25 to 29.

For more information or to buy tickets go to www.shadowdock.co.uk