The Queens Hotel in Leeds is hosting a captivating Christmas installation featuring a life-sized gingerbread house projection. This event, from December 15-23, includes an animated film called ‘Magical Night at The Queens,’ narrated by Celia Imrie CBE, and showcases the adventures of a gingerbread man within the hotel. The projection mapping is by Onionlab and will run multiple times each evening. The installation is a collaborative effort between LeedsBID and Onionlab, and it aims to bring together tradition, technology, and a touch of magic to the historic city center. The iconic Queens Hotel will be transformed into a life-sized gingerbread house using stunning projection mapping. The installation will feature a charming animated film, ‘Magical Night at The Queens,’ narrated by Celia Imrie CBE. The event will run from December 15-23, with multiple screenings each evening.
What is the Christmas installation at The Queens Hotel in Leeds?
The Queens Hotel in Leeds is hosting a captivating Christmas installation featuring a life-sized gingerbread house projection. This event, from December 15-23, includes an animated film called ‘Magical Night at The Queens,’ narrated by Celia Imrie CBE, and showcases the adventures of a gingerbread man within the hotel. The projection mapping is by Onionlab and will run multiple times each evening.
Enchanting Leeds: A Gingerbread Transformation
This December, Leeds is set to witness an extraordinary transformation that will sprinkle festive cheer like never before. The iconic Queens Hotel is at the heart of this transformation, promising to offer residents and visitors an enchanting visual treat. As part of the city’s Christmas celebrations, the hotel will be converted into a life-sized gingerbread house thanks to a stunning projection mapping installation. This event, running from the 15th through to the 23rd, is not just any ordinary holiday decoration—it’s a pioneering project that aims to bring together tradition, technology, and a touch of magic to the historic city center.
The installation is a collaborative effort between LeedsBID and the innovative Barcelona-based creative studio, Onionlab. Renowned for their groundbreaking work in digital art and interactive experiences, Onionlab will employ an impressive array of seven projectors to illuminate the grand façade of The Queens Hotel. This will not be a static display. Onlookers will be treated to a charming animated film titled ‘Magical Night at The Queens,’ which tells the story of a gingerbread man’s adventure through the illustrious hotel, from the striking red lift to the grandeur of the ballroom. It’s a narrative that brings life to the architecture and promises a wholesome, family-friendly experience that captures the essence of the holiday season.
A Narrative Brought to Life by a Celebrated Voice
The heartwarming tale of The Gingerbread Man’s overnight stay at The Queens will be narrated by none other than Celia Imrie CBE, a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades and roles in esteemed productions such as ‘Bridget Jones’ Diary’ and ‘Nanny McPhee,’ Imrie’s voice is set to add a familiar and friendly touch to the already animated display. Her personal connection to The Queens Hotel, having stayed there during the filming of ‘The Darling Buds of May,’ brings an added layer of authenticity and excitement to her role as the narrator of this festive story.
Imrie’s anticipation for the project mirrors the excitement of the local community. “I was always impressed by The Queens Hotel’s welcoming reception, and I am excited to be working alongside them this Christmas,” she shared. Her affection for the hotel’s art deco designs and her eagerness to see them augmented by LeedsBID’s festive efforts encapsulate the spirit of the project—celebrating the old while embracing the new. Imrie’s return to Leeds for this event underscores the enduring charm of The Queens and its significance as a jewel in the city’s crown.
Projection Mapping: A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
Onionlab’s venture into the UK with this projection mapping at The Queens marks a significant moment for both the company and Leeds itself. Known for creating experiences that defy expectations and push the boundaries of digital art, this will be Onionlab’s first project of its kind in the UK. The firm excels in merging technology with storytelling, and their expertise will ensure that The Queens becomes a vibrant canvas that tells a tale full of wonder and festive spirit.
The ‘Magical Night at The Queens’ will be showcased multiple times each evening, allowing ample opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in this unique experience. It’s an event that’s perfectly timed for those enjoying the Christmas market or seeking a break from the bustling shopping streets. Families are encouraged to make a night of it, combining the visual spectacle with treats and warmth from nearby stalls. As the projections light up the hotel with scenes of The Gingerbread Man’s escapades, the installation is set to become a new tradition, an annual highlight that draws people into the heart of Leeds to share in the joy of the season.
The Queens Hotel’s transformation will undoubtedly become a signature attraction this festive period, shining bright as a beacon of Christmas joy. The event is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Leeds, a city that continues to celebrate its heritage while embracing innovation. Through the art of projection mapping, the magic of Christmas will come to life, offering an experience that is as memorable as it is heartwarming.
‘Magical Night at The Queens’ invites you to witness the spectacle at The Queens Hotel daily, with screenings every half hour from 4:30pm to 8:30pm, starting on the 15th of December until the 23rd. This visual feast is not only a testament to artistic and technological achievement but also to the vibrant spirit of Leeds during the holiday season.
- The Queens Hotel in Leeds is hosting a Christmas installation featuring a life-sized gingerbread house projection from December 15-23.
- The installation includes an animated film called ‘Magical Night at The Queens,’ narrated by Celia Imrie CBE, showcasing the adventures of a gingerbread man within the hotel.
- The projection mapping is by Onionlab and will run multiple times each evening.
- The installation is a collaborative effort between LeedsBID and Onionlab, aiming to bring together tradition, technology, and magic.
- The event offers a unique and immersive experience, combining visual spectacle with Christmas treats and warmth from nearby stalls.