Celia Imrie voices A Magical Night at The Queens

Christmas Wrapped: Celia Imrie voices A Magical Night at The Queens as the spectacle launches 

LeedsBID Illuminate Leeds with Spectacular Christmas Projection as the landmark Leeds building is brought to life, with stunning new city centre animation

LeedsBID (Leeds Business Improvement District), in collaboration with the renowned Barcelona-based creative studio Onionlab, has launched the perfect free Christmas gift to the city. 

Captivating City Square in Leeds with a magical Christmas projection on the iconic Queens Hotel in Leeds. This awe-inspiring event will be the first of its kind in the UK for Onionlab, and will take place from December 15th until December 23rd, 2023.

The landmark installation, entitled Magical Night at The Queens, showcases the arrival of Christmas at The Queens, taking spectators on a tour around the iconic hotel with the help of one very special guest – The Gingerbread Man. Unique and innovative, the extravaganza will showcase festive themes and stunning visuals using the elegant architecture of the hotel as a canvas, giving audiences a tantalising glimpse through the doors of The Queens at Christmas. Through state-of-the-art technology combined with world-class design, passers-by will witness the true magic of Christmas take over Leeds.

LeedsBID is delighted to be working with the digital art powerhouse Onionlab on this one-of-a-kind project. Onionlab is celebrated for its expertise in designing installations, audiovisuals, and interactive experiences, tailored for institutions that aspire to bridge technology, design and art. Their groundbreaking work has garnered acclaim worldwide, and this collaboration with LeedsBID marks their UK debut in the field of projection mapping.

Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive, LeedsBID said: “Magical Night at The Queens is bringing something quite spectacular to Leeds city centre this festive season, adding that extra sparkle for people spending time here at Christmas.” 

“In bringing this landmark Leeds building to life, LeedsBID aims to enhance the experience of being in Leeds, providing a free family-friendly attraction that everyone can enjoy.”

British actress Celia Imrie CBE narrates the story of the visual piece. The Olivier-award-winning actress is best known for her roles in Bridget Jones, Nanny McPhee and Calendar Girls. 

“Hats off to The Queens Hotel in Leeds – I have very happy memories of staying there during the filming of The Darling Buds of May,” Celia said. “I was always impressed by its welcoming reception, and I am excited to be working alongside them this Christmas. I love how the ravishing art deco designs have been so lovingly preserved and can’t wait to see what LeedsBID do to enhance these further. I am delighted to be revisiting this entirely unique hotel and the wonderful city it’s in,” she said.

Alistair Campbell, General Manager, The Queens Hotel, said: “We are delighted and filled with joy at The Queens to announce our collaboration with LeedsBID during this festive season. It brings us immense happiness to join hands with the city’s business improvement district to showcase an enchanting festive projection onto our iconic hotel, creating a magical spectacle for the entire city of Leeds to enjoy. The projection, created by Barcelona design house Onionlab, brings to life key aspects of The Queens, including our iconic red lift and famous ballroom. It’ll without a doubt spread festive cheer and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of our community. We look forward to sharing this joyous experience with everyone and making this festive season truly special for the city of Leeds.”

This is the perfect time to visit Leeds, with its extended Christmas Market and this incredible spectacle. A Magical Night at The Queens is showing now until 23rd December, with 9 showings a night. 

Magical Night at The Queens

Dates: 15th December – 23rd December 2023

Times: 4:30 – 8:40pm – every 30 minutes (film lasts 10 minutes)