Manchester Cathedral, officially the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George, began as a parish church in the 13th century, became a Collegiate Church in 1421 under Henry V, and was granted Cathedral status in 1847 with the creation of the new Diocese of Manchester.
You may have visited and worshipped within the 600 year old building or you have been led to its doors because of your interest in history, in the Cathedral bells, or to find out more about the bee hives on the roof, the hate crime reporting centre, the “Cathedral Our Faith, Our Planet” a forum raising awareness on environmental issues and encouraging collaboration to tackle the climate crisis across the region’s different communities. You might have attended to a Service, a wedding, a funeral or a joyous Christmas concert. If so, you will have trodden where priests, choirs, worshippers, royalty, rich and famous, poor and hungry have walked before you. This gothic building bathed in light from its stained-glass windows, perhaps the Fire Window in Regimental Chapel, or from the many candles at a Sunday service would show the ancient architecture in a heavenly glow. You may have never ever visited the Cathedral and certainly never thought of a Cathedral in terms of a great night out for all the family, well might I suggest that the LUMINISCENCE experience at Manchester Cathedral might just change your mind!
After captivating more than one million spectators globally and illuminating 20 of the world’s most extraordinary historic landmarks, LUMINISCENCE has made its highly anticipated UK debut at Manchester Cathedral and I was absolutely honoured to attend. Combining 360° video mapping, new orchestral arrangements of iconic songs, and a narrative celebrating all that is great about the city and its people, visitors can now step into a spellbinding fusion of light, sound, and storytelling on a three-dimensional, walk-through musical journey.
Following its international success across Europe and the USA, LUMINISCENCE brings its immersive spectacle to one of the nation’s most cherished landmarks, with plans for additional iconic UK venues to follow. The experience pays tribute to Manchester’s rich cultural heritage through specially arranged orchestral renditions of legendary anthems. A brand-new script, written by BAFTA award-winning writer Tim Whitnall, is voiced by Manchester legend Christopher Eccleston, best known for his roles in Doctor Who and Our Friends in the North. The show is brought to life by the incredible Collectives Gospel Choir, adding soaring choral depth to this immersive experience, with a set list including songs by Oasis, The Verve, Joy Division, Elbow, and more.
Within Manchester Cathedral, light from a battalion of high-power projectors becomes the storyteller, transforming the ancient architecture into a vast living canvas where every statue, carving, pillar and stained-glass window comes to life and seemingly glows in harmony with the music. Breath-taking visual tableaux reveal the cathedral’s intricate architectural beauty. Layers of voices, strings, brass and woodwind resonated throughout the space, bringing to life its history. Through powerful narration, evocative sound and breathtaking visuals, LUMINISCENCE pays tribute to Manchester’s creativity, innovation, its global influence and the enduring pride of its people.
Applause rang out repeatedly during the performance at points of specific interest to the huge audience of people of all ages. It might have been the music, sparking a memory, or the sheer visual thrill as hundreds of flowers filled the archways for fleeting moments followed by another scene of devastating beauty of bees in flight, the very symbol of Manchester.
So, what exactly is LUMINISCENCE? It was created in 2023 by French based business LOTCHI. LUMINISCENCE’s mission is to promote and preserve iconic global World Heritage sites through immersive experiences combining digital and live performances.
Since its creation, more than 100,000 spectators in France alone have enjoyed their spectacular performances. A belief that art and technology have the power to tell captivating and moving stories drives this innovative business. By highlighting the most emblematic cathedrals and basilicas, guests can celebrate shared heritage through unique visual and sound shows. Using advanced 3D modelling and projection technology, every architectural detail is recreated with remarkable precision. In addition, performances integrate a sound dimension with a three-dimensional system enriched by the presence of a live choir, creating a unique multi-sensory experience.
LUMINISCENCE is actively committed to the conservation of heritage sites, by donating a portion of its revenues to the restoration of historic monuments. More than €1,000,000 has already been donated by LUMINISCENCE to the various venues that have hosted the show.
It costs over £ 1,460,000 a year to run Manchester Cathedral. The Cathedral receives no regular funding from the government or diocese. Funds are raised through initiatives and the generosity and support of visitors and congregation.
A portion of each ticket goes directly to the Cathedral to help its upkeep and preservation. This aligns with the LUMINISCENCE ethos to share, preserve and celebrate the historical monuments that provide the backdrop for its shows. Whilst the experience is designed as a walk-through, standing concert, that allows guests to fully immerse themselves in this magical setting, there is some seating available on request for anyone unable to stand for the full 45-minute performance. Audiences can choose between gold and silver ticket tiers, offering options to suit every budget. Gold tickets include fast-track entry and a sparkling wine on arrival. Silver tickets for adults start from £29 (including a 10% booking fee), with concession and groups prices available too, making this extraordinary experience accessible to all.
With a strict capacity in the Cathedral and a limited run in Manchester, audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid missing this unique experience. Performances began on Wednesday 14 January and available until 26 March 2026. Manchester Cathedral, Victoria St, Manchester M3 1SX