Iconic Belfast dock to be flooded with light and sound in spectacular outdoor theatre show

Thompson Dock, known as the birthplace of Titanic, is getting ready to become awash with light and sound as immersive outdoor theatre show “Shadowdock” puts the city’s maritime heritage in the spotlight.

Showgoers will embark on an audio-visual journey, exploring the history of where Belfast began, and choosing what part they can play in its future. The 30-minute, sundown spectacle will run from 25-29 September is all part of the Belfast 2024 programme of cultural celebrations.

From the creative minds of designer Henry Sykes (Our Place In Space, Banana Block) and Three’s Theatre Company, this mesmerising light show, produced by lighting designers Conal Clapper and Alan Mooney, is accompanied by a captivating soundscape created by award winning composer Katie Richardson.

Creative Director Henry Sykes says it promises to be an unforgettable experience on a Titanic scale: “We’re really excited to bring a world first to one of Belfast’s most famous landmarks. We’re working with a range of local talent to create a mesmerising show that nods to the rich heritage of this city, but also poses questions for its future.

“It’s about looking at things from a different perspective and that is why we have two ways to view the show, Above and Below Deck. You can view from the top of the dock, down at the lights and hear the enchanting soundscape with narration on speakers, or you can dive deeper into the story with headphones by descending 40 feet below sea level into the dock itself, and walking through the lights, creating shadows, in a fully immersive experience.”

The location has never before been used for an outdoor theatre performance of this scale creating a world first for the iconic venue.

Shadowdock is commissioned by Belfast 2024 through Belfast City Council and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players, and The Lightbody Foundation. With special thanks to our venue partners Titanic Distillers, Catalyst and Maritime Belfast Trust.

Gary Lightbody from The Lightbody Foundation said: “Art brings people together. Simple. One of the goals when we set up the foundation was to help struggling people and communities in NI, and art is one of the most important salves on the soul that there is, and we want to help projects that bring art - be it music, or theatre, or dance - to as many people as possible. ​​​

“Shadowdock not only tells the story of the forgotten heritage of the amazing city of Belfast, but also asks questions about where it goes from here. We’re proud to help give a platform to the local talent behind this experience and who doesn’t love an outdoor show with a difference, and a stunning backdrop.”

Arriving along the Maritime Mile to the iconic Titanic Slipways, event goers will reach their destination at Thompson Dry Dock, beside world renowned Titanic Distillers whiskey distillery.

The performance lasts for approximately 30 minutes and will take place from Wednesday 25 to Sunday 29 September. Tickets are free for under 5s, £5 for Above Deck and £10 for Below Deck (age 16+ and only accessible via 66 steep steps, uneven underfoot.)

For more information or to buy tickets go to www.shadowdock.co.uk - (Link opens in new window)​​​​​​​