Goddess of the Moon Inspires Magical Illuminations at Chatsworth

Maria Cosway 1759-1838,
Portrait of Georgiana Spencer,
Duchess of Devonshire as Diana - restored

Magical illuminations and hundreds of candles will transform Chatsworth House and Garden for a special event in October inspired by its famous painting of Duchess Georgiana as Diana, Goddess of the Moon. 

Luminaire will take the visitor on a magical journey in the garden through the lunar cycle bringing to life the legend of the Goddess of the Moon and revealing Chatsworth in a new light. Lighting, projections and soundscapes will transform many of the familiar landmarks in the 105-acre garden from Flora's Temple and the Emperor Fountain to the Cascade and Rockery.

The use of candles and subtle lighting effects will evoke how the house would have been lit before the age of electricity with hundreds of candles casting a glow on the rich and gilded interiors. A lady's maid and a lamp boy in period costume will share stories, while lanterns will mark a journey around the garden with live performance adding another dimension to the experience. A hog roast and late night opening of the cafe and Orangery shop complete this special nighttime event.

Luminaire will be the first time the house and garden has been displayed in this way for 170 years. It was last illuminated for the visit of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1843. The Illustrated London News said 'the noble cascade was lit up with many coloured fires and the whole extent of the gardens was a blaze of light.'

Chatsworth's Sally Hogg said: "It will be truly magical to see the key features in the garden illuminated, especially the Cascade ebbing and flowing in ripples of light. We're incredibly excited about this event as both the indoor and outdoor lighting displays will be wonderful. We hope that Luminaire will recapture the flavour of Joseph Paxton's great Victorian extravaganza."

Two Derbyshire-based companies have been involved in bringing the concept to life. Déda Producing has created the outdoor event in partnership with Illuminos who have designed the projection and lighting effects. The interior of the house has been brought to life by the Chatsworth housekeeping team using a combination of antique and modern candles, subtle lighting effects and LED lights.

Rob Vale at Illuminos explains the concept: "In Greek mythology Artemis is the Goddess of Moon and the hunt. Usually depicted carrying a silver bow and arrows, our illuminations explore the story of how she came to have these and her encounter with Orion. Each section of the story is themed to one of the eight phase of the moon, and relate to Artemis's story as well. By walking the illuminated route through the garden, the visitor follows the whole cycle of the moon."

Stephen Munn, Director Déda Producing, said “We’re delighted to be returning to Chatsworth to create another outdoor spectacular, following on from the hugely successful Elemental Force presented in December 2012. The team at Chatsworth really understands the value of events like this; Luminaire will allow people to see this iconic location in a completely new way.”

Luminaire will take place from 26 October to 30 October 2013. House and Garden tickets will only be available in advance and provide timed entry into the house. Tickets go on sale on 1 July via the Chatsworth website. Entry to the Garden is also available in advance or may be purchased on the night, subject to availability.

For more information, opening times and ticket prices, visit www.chatsworth.org