There’s a universal awe that comes from staring up into a sky full of stars. For millennia, people have told stories about the shapes they see in those twinkling dots above – but what if we could actually tell stories by making the stars move. That’s a bit of the magic that drone light shows create. And the result is spectacular. For the first time, the Jasper Dark Sky Festival will feature one of these stunning shows, with narration provided by local Indigenous Knowledge Keeper Matricia Bauer. (Get your free tickets now!). But first:
What is a Drone Light Show?
It’s a way of telling a visually stunning story in the sky. Hundreds of synchronized drones are programmed to fly in a coordinated way that creates 3D moving images in the air. Suspended above, the lights being projected by the drones can change colour, shape, and choreography. A drone light show combines a bit of the otherworldly glitz of fireworks and the refined storytelling control of a picture book, with a good dose of techy coolness too. Fun fact: they’re also “greener” than fireworks; the drones are reusable and do not produce chemical, water, fire, or noise pollution.
So what story will be told at the Jasper Dark Sky Festival?
On Saturday, Oct. 23, the drone light show will begin above Commemoration Park. Overlaid with narration from local storyteller, singer and drummer Matricia Bauer, the light show will tell a Cree origin story about the skies. The show is free, though advance tickets are required (note that the Restriction Exemption Program will be in effect).
Packaged into the experience is an outdoor concert by Jay Ingram and the Beakerhead Band. The musical performance “Lunacy” will tell the history of our obsession with the moon.
The concert kicks off at 8pm at the Jim Vena Stage, and the Drone Light Show will rise into the sky above afterwards. Don’t miss this spectacular, family-friendly and outdoor event!
