REEF AND RAINFOREST WONDERLAND LIGHTS UP CAIRNS FESTIVAL

Cairns’ crown position as one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage areas meet will be celebrated with an awe-inspiring light show when Reef Lights returns to this year’s Cairns Festival.

This all-new immersive sensory experience highlighting the interconnection of the Wet Tropics rainforest and Great Barrier Reef will bathe Cairns Esplanade and lagoon in a kaleidoscope of colour for 10 nights from August 25 under the creative direction and expertise of international light artists, Laservision.

‘Where the rainforest meets the reef’ themed Reef Lights incorporates innovative technologies, vibrant colours, captivating laser projections, digital artworks and enchanting soundscapes while making a dramatic statement about Cairns, its unique culture and connection to two of Australia’s most incredible natural wonders.

Fibre optics will illuminate the trees, creating a rainforest environment with people encouraged to engage with the vibrant exhibits of colour and cassowary footprints.

They can also explore the ‘arts avenue’ featuring 12 projected paintings, each inspired by the reef and rainforest, and crafted by local indigenous artists.

Separately, a beautiful light and sound display will play among the trees, while two bright golden lights will project shadows of reef- and rainforest-inspired imagery in mesmerising shadow sculptures.

A hologram of a cassowary and an octopus will mark the transition from the cassowary’s rainforest habitat to the octopus’s home of ocean and reef.

Laservision’s creative director Juan Zubiaga said the team had spent countless hours designing the show in the months leading up to the 10-day bump-in of lights and equipment on the Cairns Esplanade by six technical and creative staff in preparation for this year’s all-new show.

“We are always really excited to collaborate with local artists and bring local stories to life.

“The show is a celebration of these two magical worlds, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest.”

Cairns Festival runs from Friday, August 25, until Sunday, September 3. For the full program of music, theatre, film, dance and events and more information go to  www.cairnsfest.com.au.

ENDS