LUMINISCENCE at the Basilica of Saint Mary
Saint Mary’s Basilica has stood at the center of Minneapolis for more than a century. Completed in 1914 and designated the first basilica in the United States, the Beaux-Arts structure features a soaring dome, twin towers, carved stonework, and stained glass. Today, it continues to function as an active place of worship, hosting services and visitors year-round.
After a sold-out European run, LUMINISCENCE made its North American debut last fall by illuminating Saint Mary’s Basilica with 360° video mapping, while spectators listened to the rich history of the U.S. landmark, accompanied by a blend of live choir, organ and instrumental music.
The production was designed to work within the building using light and sound to reveal its history without changing the structure or disrupting its daily schedule. Audio played a central role in the immersive experience, supporting live music and narration. Loudspeakers, cabling, and infrastructure had to disappear into the architecture, leaving no visual footprint during regular services. The system also needed to fill a vast, reverberant room evenly, within the natural acoustics that define the Basilica’s sound.
K-array loudspeakers were selected for their ability to deliver volume and detail while remaining physically unobtrusive. Slim Kayman KY102 line array loudspeakers provide even coverage throughout the basilica, supported by Thunder KS2P I subwoofers. The installation also includes two Mastiff KM112P passive monitors along with four Kommander KA208 amplifiers, allowing the system to adapt to spoken word, orchestral performances, and choral moments within the same program.
“The biggest challenge was keeping everything as hidden as possible. LUMINISCENCE runs inside a historic basilica that’s open to visitors every day, so whatever we installed couldn’t interfere with how the space normally functions. This is specifically why we went with the Karray speakers, as not only do they have superior sound, but the sleekness of the speakers allowed them hide and not get in the way of the beautiful architecture of the building.“ - Philip Holden, Director of Production: LUMINISCENCE North America
Video and lighting complete the installation. Projectors turn the Basilica into a living canvas, while lighting shapes the architecture with subtle shifts in color and pattern that follow the show’s narrative. Together with the audio system, these elements create an enveloping environment that supports live orchestral and choral performance without drawing attention away from the space itself.
During performances, sound fills the Basilica with presence and detail. Outside show hours, the building remains unchanged, just as it has been for over a century.
Products installed
16x Kayman KY102
6x Thunder KS2P I
2x Mastiff KM112P
4x Kommander KA208
Acknowledgements
Produced by: LOTCHI and Banijay Live
Integrators: PCE/Pacific Coast Entertainment
Local Partners: HayCreek Entertainment, Saint Mary’s Basilica staff
