Guernsey’s first drone performance is being planned as part of celebrations to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Occupation.
There will be a 10 minute show, featuring 150 drones above St Peter Port at 21:00 on 9 May.
Education, Sport, and Culture said drone performance will be immediately followed by a traditional fireworks display, as the “finale to the day’s festivities”.
ESC said the drone show has been designed specifically for the celebrations by the Liberation Day organising team at the States of Guernsey. It will aim to provide “a memorable and modern twist” to the traditional celebrations, said Deputy Sue Aldwell.
“I would like to thank Butterfield for their support in offering the community a shared moment of reflection and celebration with this remarkable tribute that, literally, reaches new heights,” she said. “This modern performance facilitated by new technology unlocks a completely different way to come together and reflect on our unique past.
“We wanted to bring something special to this year’s event to recognise the significance of the 80th anniversary and which will be enjoyed by people of all ages. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Liberation Day organising team, as well as all the partners and volunteers they are working with, who are going above and beyond this year to make our 80th celebrations one to remember.”
The drone performance was choreographed by aerial light display provider FlightShows, and will be the first public drone display staged in Guernsey, with the drones launching from North Beach.
Jean Owen has knitted together the music to accompany the display, with goals of “heightening the audience experience”.
“We wanted to ensure the music would be recognisable as well as fit with the images that had been chosen,” she said. “I thought of a number of pieces quite quickly and then had to work out if there were obvious places we could make cuts to fit the timings.
“The show will open Copeland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and includes Holst’s Jupiter with the stirring melody of ‘I vow to thee my country’.
“Stravinsky’s Firebird might not be on everyone’s playlist, but the drama and excitement of the music makes a fitting conclusion for the final images. The music celebrates freedom and is complemented by the symbolism of a firebird, which is set free at the end of the ballet and is widely thought to symbolise hope to common people after suffering trials first.”
The display has been sponsored by Butterfield, said the company’s Managing Director in Guernsey, Richard Saunders.
“Each year the Liberation Day fireworks have always been a stand-out finale. So, to see 150 drones lighting up the sky this year creating what is sure to be an emotional performance to Jean’s selection of music above St. Peter Port is going to be an wonderful addition on a memorable day.
“We are pleased to be able to contribute to the Liberation celebrations and do our part to support the community. I’m hoping it will be the perfect sign off to the celebrations across the island and I hope everyone enjoys the show.”
You can find out more about Liberation Day celebrations, commemorations, and festivities HERE.