Earlier this
week I had the opportunity to attend Luminiscence at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in
New York City. It was a 60-minute multi-sensory show that transformed the Cathedral's
stone arches, columns, and vaulted ceilings into a living canvas using
360-degree video mapping and lighting. The story was narrated by Jonathan
Roumie (from The Chosen), the experience is divided into three acts—Gathering,
Community, and Nation—exploring the history, heritage, and
resilience of the landmark and New York City. The production features a live
orchestra, the Luminiscence Choir.
When I first read
about it I thought this might be something nice to attend. I shared that I was
interested in going with a friend of mine and after inviting another friend we
went. It was an amazing experience. As soon as we walked into the Cathedral there
was a gentle silence except for the Cellist who was playing solo. The lights
were dimmed at that point, and we were shown to our seats. As the cellist
played the lighting on the ceiling gently transformed with each note. When the
program began all the lights were dimmed and the orchestra and choir took their
positions. I found myself totally riveted the entire time. I could not get over
the lighting as it changed with the music. The Cathedral came alive in a very precise
way. I found myself taking many pictures so I could go back and look at the
images later. For me it was an experience of prayer and gratitude as I listened
and watched the lights. It truly lived up to its description – a multi-sensory
show.
