#United States #New York City #LUMINISCENCE #LOTCHI #St. Patrick's Cathedral

LUMINISCENCE: A New Dimension of Experience at St. Patrick's Cathedral

On October 2, 2026, Banijay Americas unveiled an extraordinary immersive experience titled LUMINISCENCE, set against the iconic backdrop of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. This innovative exhibition, produced by Banijay Live and created by LOTCHI, utilizes state-of-the-art technology to present an artistic retelling of the Cathedral's rich history and significance.

The Vision Behind LUMINISCENCE

In the words of Romain Sarfati, co-founder of LOTCHI, "St. Patrick’s is a dream we didn’t dare articulate when we started LUMINISCENCE three years ago. Our only ambition is to be worthy of what these walls already hold." This statement encapsulates the intention behind this immersive experience: to showcase the beauty and stories of St. Patrick’s Cathedral through an entirely new lens.

The Cathedral, which has welcomed visitors and dignitaries for over 160 years, is now presented in a fresh and engaging manner. Guests can look forward to experiencing 360-degree video mapping, dynamic storytelling, and a stunning performance by the LUMINISCENCE Orchestra, led by the renowned Maestro Malcolm J. Merriweather. Notably, the event features narration by New York native Jonathan Roumie, bringing a personal touch to this grand architectural wonder.

A Fusion of Art and Technology

LUMINISCENCE combines various elements of art to create an unforgettable experience. The use of light and music intertwines with powerful narratives to breathe life into the Cathedral’s legacy. Those who attend can choose between two variants of the experience: LUMINISCENCE Live+, which showcases a live choir and orchestra, or the standard LUMINISCENCE, featuring recorded elements. Ticket prices reflect the chosen experience, giving guests flexibility in how they wish to partake in this artistic journey.

A Commitment to Preservation

As part of the initiative, a portion of every ticket sold contributes to the “Renew the Living Voices: The Kilgen Organ Campaign,” aimed at preserving the Cathedral's musical heritage for future generations. CEO of Banijay Americas, Ben Samek, shared, "St. Patrick's Cathedral has held a special place in New York City for more than 160 years, and we're honored to bring its story to life through music and light, and storytelling."

Building on Global Success

Since its launch in 2023, LUMINISCENCE has captivated over two million visitors across more than twenty productions across eight countries, including France, Spain, and Brazil. New York's iteration signifies Banijay Americas’ expanding international scope and commitment to blending storytelling with extraordinary settings. The company aims to enrich the cultural landscapes of these historic spaces by merging technology with art, providing audiences with unprecedented experiences.

A New Way to Experience History

Fr. Enrique Salvo, Rector of St. Patrick's Cathedral, enthusiastically remarked, "We are eager to welcome guests to LUMINISCENCE to experience the ways technology and art can come together to illuminate the beauty, history, and faith that has filled St. Patrick's for generations."

The Cathedral's Historical Significance

St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral in North America, stands as a testament to the vision of Archbishop John Hughes, who saw its potential as an essential gathering place for New York's growing Catholic community. Constructed over two decades and officially consecrated in 1910, it is not only a designated New York City landmark but also recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Its grandeur has drawn popes, presidents, and millions of visitors, attesting to its place as a cherished symbol of faith and culture in the city.

Experience LUMINISCENCE

LUMINISCENCE opens its doors to the public starting October 2, 2026, with performances offered on select dates, potentially extending into 2027. If you're captivated by history, art, or faith, this exhibition promises an unparalleled experience at one of New York City's most iconic sites. For more information and to secure tickets, visit luminiscence.com/new-york.

Join Banijay Americas on this journey of light, music, and storytelling, and witness a Cathedral that has been a beacon of hope and celebration for generations.