LeedsBID is to illuminate a landmark Leeds building Leeds with an extra special festive projection this Christmas.

The BID, in collaboration with the renowned Barcelona-based creative studio Onionlab, is set to captivate the city with a magical Christmas projection on the iconic Queens Hotel in Leeds, with Hollywood actress Celia Imrie to voice over the stunning new city centre animation.

This awe-inspiring event will be the first of its kind in the UK for Onionlab, and will take place from December 15th-December 23rd, 2023, with nightly shows every half hour between 4.30-8.30pm.

The landmark installation, entitled Magical Night at The Queens, will showcase the arrival of Christmas at The Queens, taking spectators on a tour around the iconic hotel with the help of one very special guest – The Gingerbread Man. Unique and innovative, the extravaganza will showcase festive themes and stunning visuals using the elegant architecture of the hotel as a canvas, giving audiences a tantalising glimpse through the doors of The Queens at Christmas.

To further enhance the experience, Hollywood actress Celia Imrie CBE is set to narrate the story of the visual piece. The Olivier-award winning actress is best known for her roles in Bridget Jones, Nanny McPhee and Calendar Girls.

LeedsBID is delighted to be working with the digital art powerhouse Onionlab on this one-of-a-kind project, which marks their UK debut in the field of projection mapping.

Onionlab is celebrated for their expertise in designing installations, audiovisuals, and interactive experiences, tailored for institution

Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive, LeedsBID said: “We are thrilled to be working with Barcelona agency Onionlab in what will be a first for Leeds and the UK. They’ll take us on a journey through the magic of Christmas – leaning into the art deco characteristics of the iconic Queens Hotel – transforming it into a large-scale gingerbread house.

“Christmas, as for all places, is a key trading period but also a time for community, so over these nine nights we hope to bring some festive cheer to all.”

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