If you were unfortunate enough to miss Invisible Circus’s theatrical takeover of the Christmas Steps, then you’re in luck. Bristol’s most unusual theatre and performance troupe is once again bringing this historic street and its unusual stories to life. This time with a permanent audio trail.
With a mix of live performance, projection art and immersive storytelling, Hidden Stories of Christmas Steps: The Audio Trail explores the area’s rich history. The new installation builds on the hugely popular live performance events, which saw visitors encountering sailors, soldiers, circus legends, scandalous figures and abolitionists, all brought to life by local theatre performers.
How do I access the Christmas Steps’ audio trail?
You only need a smartphone, internet connection, and (for a better experience) headphones to access the audio trail. QR codes will be displayed in shop windows along Colston Street and Christmas Steps, which will send you straight to the audio content and unlock a different story from the area’s rich and often unexpected past. Plus, enjoy curated information displays and original artworks.
Doug Francisco, Creative Director of the Invisible Circus, said: “Christmas Steps is one of Bristol’s most atmospheric and overlooked gems. With this audio trail, we’re cracking it open and flooding it with light, sound and stories. It’s bold, it’s weird, it’s rooted in real history and it’s exactly the kind of creative, immersive experience that will bring Bristol’s stories to life.”
To celebrate the launch of the trail, a free event will take place on Saturday, May 3 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. The Christmas Steps will be illuminated with video projections and art installations animating windows throughout the area. Two live characters will roam the cobbles, interacting with passers-by and guiding them through how to access the trail, just as the projections come to life.