Banijay Expands Live Experience ‘Luminiscence’ to Hamburg

Banijay Germany is bringing the immersive experience “Luminiscence” to Hamburg’s St. Michaelis Church, in collaboration with French immersive producer Lotchi, the creator of “Luminiscence” and part of Banijay Live.

Hamburg becomes the third German city, following Münster and Nuremberg, to host the experience, premiering on July 2, transforming the landmark into “a striking landscape of light, sound and history,” Banijay said.

Since its launch in 2023, “Luminiscence” has attracted more than one million visitors internationally, staging immersive productions across some of the world’s most beautiful cathedrals, churches and historic landmarks in eight countries, including France, Spain, U.K., Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Brazil and the U.S. “Luminiscence” has been brought to 20-plus cities, with nine productions currently live.

For St. Michaelis, “Luminiscence” will employ state-of-the-art 360° projection technology, innovative lighting effects, original music compositions, live singing and organ music, with an ensemble of conductors, organists and a choir from the region. It will feature the singer Lucia Duchoňová, and organists Magne H. Draagen and Paul Fasang.

Ingrid Langheld, CEO of Banijay Germany Live, said: “’Luminiscence’ has proven its ability to draw audiences across cultures, bringing history to life using technology and music. Its continued expansion in Germany reflects both the strength of the creative concept from Lotchi and our team’s expertise in delivering experiences at scale. Bringing ‘Luminiscence’ to St. Michaelis is a milestone in our German journey and a fantastic example of how collaboration drives growth and business diversification.”

Alexander Röder, senior pastor at St. Michaelis, said: “Through this project, our bright and airy Baroque church is being revealed in a unique way, and St. Michaelis and its eventful history are brought magnificently to life for the audience through light, music and narration.”

François de Brugada, CEO of Banijay Live, added: “When Lotchi joined Banijay Live, ‘Luminiscence’ had already proven its concept in four French cathedrals. One year later, the show is successfully running across Europe, the U.K., the U.S.A. and Brazil – powered by Banijay Entertainment’s leading network of local talent. St. Michaelis in Hamburg is yet another perfect match between ‘Luminiscence’s’ bold creative and technical vision and the exceptional local expertise of Banijay Germany.”

“Luminiscence” at St. Michaelis is produced by Banijay Germany Live and Cape Cross.