New sound and light commission illuminates Berwick-Upon-Tweed

For two weeks (from Saturday last week), choreographed beams of light will shine into the sky to a brand-new piece of music, created especially for Berwick.  

The music will resound across the River Tweed from three iconic sites around the town: the historic Nicholas Hawksmoor Berwick Barracks, Berwick Sports & Leisure Centre, and Berwick Infirmary.

The Litany for the Border explores the past, present, and future of the people who live along the River Tweed, focusing on their ideas of spirituality and what gives their lives meaning.

Bright’s healing arts team helped make this happen at the Berwick Infirmary. Rob Graham, Head of Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity, said: “We know the positive impact that art can have of peoples’ wellbeing, so we are very pleased to be able to support this commission.

“We think it is very appropriate that our hospital in Berwick is one of the locations as it is such an important part of the town, both historically and into the future. It is a lovely way to celebrate our amazing staff that go the extra mile each day.”

“We would like to thank all those involved to make this happen, particularly, Gareth Hudson, The Maltings, our brilliant estates team and our staff at the hospital – especially in the urgent treatment centre near where the lights are located.”

Lauren Velvick Creative Producer at The Maltings said: “Litany for the Border started on Saturday 7 February and we couldn’t be happier with how people have taken to this project, which emphasises the uniqueness of Berwick whilst bringing curiosity and excitement to the dark winter nights. Continuing until Sunday 22 February, we’re hoping that people will continue to experience it as part of their every-day lives after sunset.”

Further information about the project can be found at: https://www.maltingsberwick.co.uk/get-involved/berwick-shines/litany-for-the-border/