More than 18,000 Canberrans and visitors converged on Civic Square to enjoy the lights and entertainment of Before Us as the illuminations of Enlighten Festival were once again expanded to Canberra’s City Centre.
Civic Square was transformed into a lively event centre, featuring illuminated beasts, interactive puppet-based performances, and food trucks, creating a prehistoric playground for all ages to enjoy.
The Before Us outdoor exhibition showcased the biological ‘big bang’ of planet Earth, where prehistoric life multiplied and evolved from kooky critters to massive beasts. This year's Enlighten city program included:
The soundscapes for the exhibition - including the roars, clicks and screeches of the prehistoric beasts - were recorded in Canberra and based on sounds from a one-year-old baby, a light rail vehicle screeching as it stops, and the sounds of Namadgi National Park.
City Renewal Authority A/g Deputy CEO Jennifer Ramsay said the event provided a night out to be enjoyed by the entire family.
“Over the 11 days, we witnessed Civic Square come to life with lights, entertainment and crowds of Canberrans,” Ms Ramsay said.
“The puppet-based performances enabled visitors to walk alongside dinosaurs and seeing the joy it bought to so many children was fantastic.
“The city illuminations are part of the Authority’s Place Experience and Marketing program - a series of events, activities, and installations across the Authority precinct.
“The program endeavours to attract people to eat, drink, shop, and spend time in the precinct, which not only stimulates economic activity for City Centre businesses, but it also activates the city’s public spaces, fostering a sense of community and safety.”
“The City Centre will host the next event of our Placemaking Program, transforming into a winter wonderland for the Winter in the City event in July.”
For more information about the Place Experience and Marketing program, check out the 2023-24 Action Plan.
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