Leeds' historic Queens Hotel to be transformed with exciting Christmas installation
The historic Queens Hotel is set to be transformed with a huge Christmas installation planned.
This December, LeedsBID (Leeds Business Improvement District) is set to transform the hotel once again. Running from Thursday, December 12 to Sunday, December 22, this festive spectacle will feature an original animated story entitled “To Leeds, With Love,” with a massive 187 showings across 11 days.
Narrated by renowned British actor Richard Armitage, this year’s animation reimagines The 12 Days of Christmas in a whimsical tribute to the famous song. Back by popular demand, the beloved Gingerbread Man makes his return to the city’s iconic Queens Hotel, embarking on a holiday adventure which captures the spirit of the season and the unique character of Leeds.
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LeedsBID is working again with the Barcelona-based digital art powerhouse Onionlab to create a one-of-a-kind projection for the city. Onionlab is celebrated for its expertise in designing installations, audiovisuals, and interactive experiences tailored for institutions that aspire to bridge technology, design and art.
TV Writer Lisa Holdsworth, who has penned the script, sais: “The Queens Hotel is buzzing with holiday spirit as preparations are underway for a grand Christmas party. At the heart of the festivities, the ever-cheerful Gingerbread Man takes on the delightful task of decorating the hotel's towering Christmas tree. But he soon realises that such a magnificent tree requires an extra pair of hands – or a few! Luckily, he isn’t alone. A cast of festive special guests soon arrives to lend their help, each one as joyful as the next, and you may just recognise a few from a beloved Christmas Carol.”
In 2023, the projection drew collective crowds of 200,000, who watched as the Gingerbread Man journeyed through the hotel, showcasing festive themes and stunning visuals using the elegant architecture of the hotel as a canvas and giving audiences a tantalising glimpse through the doors of The Queens at Christmas. This year promises an even more enchanting experience, with vibrant visuals, a compelling narrative, and moments of interaction designed to engage audiences of all ages.
Andrew Cooper, chief executive of LeedsBID, said: “A Magical Night at The Queens became one of the standout attractions in Leeds last Christmas. LeedsBID will continue to be innovative in bringing these inspirational free events to the city for everyone to enjoy. They also bring attention to Leeds locally, nationally, and internationally.
“This year we look forward to delivering some Christmas cheer to the city centre with a spectacular brand-new animation “To Leeds, With Love” on this iconic building, inviting audiences to experience The 12 Days of Christmas reimagined, with Richard Armitage’s narration providing some extra sparkle.”
During its run, you’ll be able to witness the installation between 4.30pm and 8.30pm.
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