What was your reaction when you read or heard that 2016 would be the last year for Lumenocity in Cincinnati? Like many, I was stunned and disappointed. I was further disheartened to discover that not only is it the last year for this fantastic event, it is being moved inside to Taft Theatre. WTHeck?! In my opinion, the most fundamental aspects that made Lumenocity the delight that it most certainly was, was that it took place outside in one of Cincinnati’s loveliest green spaces, Washington Park, with one of our most magnificent landmarks serving as backdrop and canvas.
As a lover of the arts, Cincinnati has a rich offering and Lumenocity showed them off to great advantage during its two-act, multi-performance event. The show I attended in 2015, displayed the talents of our world-renowned Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Louis Langrée, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra under the direction of the beloved John Morris Russell, Cincinnati Opera, May Festival Chorus, and Cincinnati Ballet Second Company. Talk about a wonderful show! And most of this was before the spectacular lights and music show even began in the second act. Another change this year is that the shows will only be one-act, meaning there will be no appearances by Cincinnati Ballet and Cincinnati Opera. The length of the light show will remain the same.
This will only be the 4th year of Lumenocity, but it is already a summertime favorite with lots of Cincinnatians. It debuted in 2013, as a way to welcome Louis Langrée as the orchestra’s incoming music director. The turn-out was amazing – about 35,000 people flooded Washington Park for the two-day event. Due to its unexpected and overwhelming popularity, the event was expanded by a third night, “Lumenocity Village” of food, drink, and craft vendors was added, and free tickets were made available in an attempt to limit the amount of people in the area. Vouchers disappeared online within minutes. I remember my futile attempts to procure tickets only to be told that they were sold out minutes after they’d become available. No Lumenocity 2014 for me.
2015 was the first year of paid tickets. It was said to be another attempt to reduce the crush of people and heighten safety regulations. Interested people entered their names into a lottery and rounds of tickets were sold until they were all sold out. I was a third-round buyer and the only performance left to choose was the Wednesday night dress-rehearsal. I didn’t mind – I was excited to have the opportunity, and it turned out to be a perfect night.
A few of the reasons given for the drastic changes to the 2016 event are that Music Hall will be under construction this summer, less than desirable weather conditions in the past, and the unpopularity of having to show up hours in advance to claim a viewing spot. For me, it was all just part of it. I loved the sense of community – we were all there for this wonderful experience of the arts and to enjoy the delights of Cincinnati. I felt proud of my city. The craft beer and temperate weather only enhanced my experience.
The explanation for 2016 being the final Lumenocity ever is harder to explain, and the CSO is being a bit mysterious about it. It seems definitive that there will be no 2017 event, which makes sense given that everyone will be intensely focused on moving back into the newly renovated Music Hall. Even after announcing that this year will be Lumenocity’s last, the CSO has repeatedly written on social media comments that one should “never say never.”
Let me reiterate that I am hugely disappointed at the changes being made. Nevertheless, I am curious about the possibilities that these changes could bring. Instead of a one-dimensional projection on the facade of Music Hall, there is going to be a 360°, totally immersive experience inside the Taft Theatre. The CSO promises that “it will be nothing short of spectacular.” The outdoor block-party will still take place, just in a new part of town – on Fifth Street between Sycamore and Main Streets. Many of the elements of last year’s Lumenocity Village, including food and drink vendors, live performances, and craft vendors, will be retained. Art installations and a large LED screen will be added this year so that those outside the Taft can see the performances taking place inside the theatre.
Part of my apprehension may be attributed to the fact that, since only half the viewers from last year can be accommodated at the 8-show event, I may not be able to get tickets again this year. Despite my disappointment and misgivings, I am interested to see Lumenocity 2016, and what happens with it going forward. Perhaps I will skip the theatre and decide to enjoy the experience outside on the big screen while sipping a Rhinegeist and watching my son play with some new-found friends.
Are you a Lumenocity fan? How do you feel about the changes taking place? Will I see you down there?
