Invisible Circus, Bristol’s most unusual theatre and performance troupe, is set to once again transform one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks, bringing the historic Christmas Steps to life with an unforgettable blend of live performance, projection art and immersive storytelling.
Hidden Stories of Christmas Steps: The Audio Trail is a new permanent installation inviting the public to explore the area’s rich history through their headphones and smartphones.The audio trail builds on the hugely popular live performance events created by multi-skilled artist collective, Invisible Circus, where winter and spring editions saw visitors encountering sailors, soldiers, circus legends, scandalous figures and abolitionists, all brought to life by local theatre performers.
To celebrate the launch of the trail, a free evening event will take place on Saturday 3rd May from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, turning the steps into a living, breathing time capsule. Buildings will be illuminated with video projections and art installations animating windows throughout the area. Two live characters will roam the cobbles, interacting with passers-by and guiding them through how to access the trail, just as the projections come to life at 7.30pm.
To access the audio trail, visitors just need a smartphone or tablet with a camera and internet connection. QR codes will be displayed in selected shop windows along Colston Street and Christmas Steps, each unlocking a different story from the area’s rich and often unexpected past. By opening their camera and hovering it over the QR code, a link will appear, directing them straight to the audio content, with no apps or downloads required. Alongside the audio trail, passers-by can also enjoy curated information displays and original artworks in participating windows.
Doug Francisco, Creative Director of the Invisible Circus, said: "“Christmas Steps is one of Bristol’s most atmospheric and overlooked gems. With this audio trail, we’re cracking it open and flooding it with light, sound and stories. It’s bold, it’s weird, it’s rooted in real history and it’s exactly the kind of creative, immersive experience that will bring Bristol’s stories to life."
The Hidden Stories project is built on archival research by Dr Paul Green and brought to life with Invisible Circus’s signature creative vision, working closely with local businesses and residents to celebrate both the past and present spirit of this unique part of the city.
Hidden Stories of the Christmas Steps is part of the City Centre and High Streets Cultural Events Programme, funded by Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority. This event is subject to licensing and site permissions approval.
For more information, head to: https://invisiblecircus.co.uk/project/audio-trail/
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