Celebrate the legacy of composer Gustav Holst at free immersive VR experience in Cheltenham

The University of Gloucestershire is bringing an exciting immersive experience celebrating the work and life of Cheltenham-born composer, Gustav Holst, during a free VR event at its campus planetarium dome.

By Kaleigh Pritchard  |  Published
Composer Gustav Holst was born in Cheltenham and is commemorated in the town with a memorial statue.

During a free event at the University of Gloucestershire's campus in Cheltenham, immersive multi-dimensional projections will display an original storytelling experience inspired by the work of composer, Gustav Holst.

In collaboration with the Holst Birthplace Trust, who manage the Holst Victorian House in Cheltenham, and spatial computing experience designer, PlayLa.bZ, the event is celebrating Holst's 150th birthday.

Holst Spaceship Earth is taking place in the university's Park Campus planetarium dome — expect VR technology, soundscapes and new music by immersive ecology designer Mileece, the Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra and a Gravity Synth audio visual experience by full dome pioneer Leon Trimble.

Supported by Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grants, Holst Spaceship Earth takes inspiration from nature and is a contemporary reimagining of peace, wellbeing and equality, featuring concepts around climate awareness and inclusive community ideas — all while commemorating Holst's legacy.

It showcases work created by UoG students, too, with Ben Springall, a student of sound and music production, commenting: 'The project has been an amazing experience and will aid my pursuit of becoming a classical and folk music recording engineer, a discipline I feel very passionate about and excited to begin within my current freelance practice.'

The event has home ties with the county, as Holst was born in Cheltenham in 1874 and is regarded as one of the most influential and innovative composers of the 20th century, best known for his orchestral suite, The Planets.

Showings take place from 5.30pm on Friday 18 and from 11am on Saturday 19 October 2024.

Tickets to this event are free, but must be booked in advance via the University of Gloucestershire website.

Event

Holst Spaceship Earth at the University of Gloucestershire

Dates

Friday 18 October 2024; Saturday 19 October 2024

Times

Friday's showing runs from 5.30pm until 10pm; and Saturday's from 11am until 3pm

Admission

Tickets are free but must be booked in advance of the event.

More on University of Gloucestershire More

More on Cheltenham More

More from Culture More