09/17/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/17/2025 03:01
(Minneapolis, MN) After captivating nearly one million spectators in Europe, LUMINISCENCE makes its North American debut at The Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis. The basilica will be illuminated via 360-degree video mapping, while spectators listen to the rich and varied history of a U.S. landmark accompanied by a blend of live choir, organ and instrumental music. Stone walls will become living canvases as video mapping paints them with moving light. The immersive experience includes over 100 shows beginning October 31 and continuing through the new year.
"We're excited to welcome LUMINISCENCE to The Basilica of Saint Mary, opening our doors to everyone and inviting them to experience the sacred in a new way," said Fr. Daniel Griffith, pastor at The Basilica of Saint Mary. "At a moment when many are searching for deeper meaning, this immersive storytelling experience offers a unique path to reflection, connection and a renewed sense of community."
The show, which has consistently played to sold-out audiences in Europe, is a multi-sensory experience that integrates art and live music with state-of-the-art technology. The Basilica of Saint Mary, which will mark the 100th anniversary of its designation as the first U.S. basilica in 2026, is the kickoff location for LUMINISCENCE in the United States. LUMINISCENCE has celebrated the history and heritage of cathedrals throughout Europe and is now bringing this immersive live music experience to the United States, telling the story of America's landmark places of worship, as the country celebrates its 250th anniversary year.
"With our North American debut of LUMINISCENCE, we continue our mission to reveal the emotional power of heritage through immersive storytelling," said Romain Sarfati, co-founder of LOTCHI, creator of LUMINISCENCE. "By blending light, sound and narration, we invite audiences of all ages and backgrounds to not just see sacred spaces, but to feel them, offering a fresh, universal perspective on history and memory."
On September 16, spectators can sign up to receive first access to tickets for LUMINISCENCE by going to luminiscence.com/minneapolis. The show opens on Friday, October 31, at The Basilica of Saint Mary in downtown Minneapolis, continuing through early 2026. Performances are scheduled weekdays and weekends.
"LUMINISCENCE is a meticulously designed immersive experience that surrounds each guest with light, sound and story," said Ben Samek, CEO Banijay Americas. "While the narrative follows a defined structure, the impact is uniquely personal, inviting individual reflection and connection. More than a visual installation, it reimagines audience engagement by breaking the fourth wall and delivering a new standard in experiential storytelling."
The show has already been staged in historic cathedrals in several European countries, including France, Germany and Spain, with more to come including in the Netherlands. LUMINISCENCE was created by Lotchi and will be produced in the U.S. by Banijay Live USA.