Spotlight on Stafford as end of war tribute comes to town

Hundreds of people, including former members of the armed forces, are expected to descend on the centre of Stafford this week for a light and sound show to mark the sacrifices made across the two world wars.

The display by Luxmuralis has previously been seen on the Tower of London and Winchester Cathedral and will now be projected onto the iconic Grade ll* listed Shire Hall in the heart of the county town.

It has been organised as part of a year when communities across the borough, and the country, will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War ll.

And Stafford Borough Council say the response from the public and businesses has been “amazing” – with members of the local branch of the Royal British Legion also attending the event.

The frontage of the Shire Hall is set to be transformed into a ‘vivid tapestry of cascading poppies, ethereal light projections, with an evocative soundscape.’ – with the light and sound installation running on a loop from 7pm until 9pm in the town’s Market Square on Friday and Saturday, 7 and 8 March.

Staffordshire-born artists, sculptor Peter Walker and composer David Harper, joined forces with the borough council to run the event across the two nights. ‘Before Action’, has been described as a ‘breathtaking tribute to courage, sacrifice, and remembrance.’

Deputy Leader of the Borough Council, Rob Kenney, said it was a real coup for the area and was confident hundreds of residents and visitors would see the exhibition.

“The response from people I have talked to, and messages I have seen, has been amazing. People want to show how much this important anniversary means to them and to the whole community.

“Stafford Borough has an enormous affection for our servicemen and women and the sacrifices they made across the globe to protect the freedoms that we enjoy today. So, I am confident there will be a fantastic turnout to see something very special, and spend quiet reflection, at this very poignant tribute in the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ.”

Peter, Luxmuralis Artistic Director, said: “In the year when we commemorate the end of World War 2 and VE Day 80 those who gave their lives in the two great wars are honoured in this spectacular tribute.

“‘Before Action’ is inspired by themes of reflection and hope and we invite viewers to pause and connect with the poignant stories of the past while contemplating the enduring message of peace.”

The work was initially displayed at the Tower of London in November before moving to various landmarks around the country. Places where other sound and light installations by Luxmuralis have been seen include St Paul’s Cathedral, London, Westminster Abbey, Chatsworth House, as well as Minneapolis and Italy.

Councillor Gillian Pardesi, Cabinet Member for Leisure, added: “In the summer the carpet beds in our beautiful Victoria and Stonefield Parks, in Stafford and Stone, will be dedicated to the 80th anniversary and we know groups, communities, and parishes across the borough will be marking this year in fitting ways. It is wonderful that this amazing artistic tribute will be taking centre stage in our county town.”

For more information on the artists’ work see www.luxmuralis.com