A unique immersive experience will make its Philadelphia debut, just in time for the city’s America 250 celebrations.
‘LUMINISCENCE’ is set to premiere on June 11 at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (1723 Race St.) and will bring with it “a fusion of light, music, and storytelling.” Created by LOTCHI, the production regularly transforms historic sacred spaces into multimedia environments through digital artistry and original musical compositions.
Since its launch in 2023, 'LUMINISCENCE' has traveled the globe showcasing its productions to more than one million visitors across eight countries (France, Spain, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, Brazil, the Netherlands, and the United States). The showcase combines architectural projection mapping, immersive soundscapes, and narrative-driven performances.
“For anyone who loves art, architecture, or storytelling, LUMINISCENCE is an experience that stays with you. By blending digital artistry, music, and atmosphere, we transform historic spaces into something new. As our colleagues across Banijay Entertainment and our creative partners bring LUMINISCENCE to audiences around the world, what excites us most is sharing the format that helped define this category with new audiences. It brings people together, strengthens communities, and inspires them to rediscover the architecture in their own backyard,” says Ben Samek, CEO of Banijay Americas.
Against the backdrop of the city where America’s founding ideals first took shape, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul has long served as both a spiritual home and an architectural symbol of Philadelphia’s cultural legacy. As a release notes, designed by architect Napoleon LeBrun and constructed between 1846 and 1864, the Basilica reflects the grandeur of the Italian Renaissance and remains the only cathedral in the United States built in the Neo-Classical style inspired by Rome’s San Carlo al Corso.
During this milestone America 250 celebration, 'LUMINISCENCE' plans to “create a living dialogue between past and present.” Through light and music, audiences will be taken on a journey through the story of a community shaped by immigration, devotion, resilience, and hope.
Following a sold-out run in Minneapolis, the show has chosen the City of Brotherly Love to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial through this landmark location. And even more importantly, a portion of the proceeds from the Philadelphia engagement will directly support the ongoing restoration and safeguarding of the historic cathedral for future generations.
“Telling the unique story of each site where LUMINISCENCE is performed is what makes this experience new at every monument, and this is especially true as we unveil this event in Philadelphia during the America 250 celebrations,” adds Romain Sarfati, creator of LUMINISCENCE. “It is an honor for us to unveil unique stories, custom-designed for each location, offering a singular experience while preserving the heritage of these exceptional spaces for generations to come.”
The Philadelphia event opens to the public on Thursday, June 11, at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Performances will run on select weekdays and weekends, offering options like Luminiscence Live Plus (featuring a live choir and orchestra), Luminiscence Live (with a live choir only), or Luminiscence (featuring recorded music and a voiceover). Ticket prices (starting at $35) vary depending on the type of experience, and discounts are available. More information can be found at luminiscence.com/philadelphia.
MORE: Best America 250 events to check out in Philly this weekend
