Grotto Metamorphosis

We always enjoy welcoming film crews as it usually results in us seeing the Grotto in a different light (sometimes literally). The arrival of director Chris Newby and his small band of film makers also gave us the opportunity to appreciate the Grotto’s fantastic acoustics.

Chris has directed two feature films, Anchoress and Madagascar Skin, has had work shown at Tate Britain and continues to make both shorts and features. His latest short film is about the English landscape, depicted through the four natural elements. The Grotto is the location for Air as represented by mezzo-soprano Louise Kleboe performing an aria from Purcell’s Faerie Queen. Louise is pictured here wearing a dress designed by Annie Symons, who has worked on costume design for many TV productions and feature films including Saving Grace and Bhaji on the Beach.

The film will be shown at major film festivals across Europe and is due for completion in 2006.