Chichester Cathedral was thrilled to host 'First Spark' - the launch of Culture Spark 2022 - an evening of music, dance and light displays kicking off the Chichester district's season of culture.
The programme was made up of music from Mexican percussionist Alonso Mendoza, Emily Barden and her 50 strong West Sussex Sings choir and the acoustic band Big Gust of Wind which accompanied five exceptional poets.
Local primary school children lit the stage with their home-made lanterns – a prelude to the Carnival of Lights in June, Lila Dance premiered ‘Seasoned', their new duet created during lockdown and local artist Helen Solly embarked on the creation of her ‘recycled’ sculpture.
The evening culminated in a stunning digital projection by artists and technologists, MakeAmplify onto the Cathedral.
The Cathedral has a legacy of supporting culture in all its forms. It was a joy to welcome so many people into the Cathedral to 'light' the first spark of Culture Spark. From voices to projected artwork, it has been a pleasure to see how the arts bring such vibrance to the City.
Rebecca Lewry-Gray, Visitor Experience Manager
Celebrations will continue throughout the Summer with exciting events to recognise anniversaries of Chichester's renowned cultural organisations, 60 years of Chichester Festival Theatre; 40 years of Pallant House Gallery; 30 years of Chichester Cinema at New Park’s International Film Festival; 10 years of The Novium Museum and the Festival of Chichester and 200 years of the Canal Trust.
The full programme of events and more information can be found on The Great Sussex Way.
