An 18th-century barracks will be illuminated during a “living parade”, the first manifestation of a five-year plan aimed at increasing the number of visitors.

The artwork, made up of large-scale light projections, is part of The Living Barracks project which aims to “restore and renew” the site in Berwick, Northumberland.

Artist Matthew Rosier is asking local people to volunteer to be filmed walking, dancing or jumping, with the results becoming part of the Berwick parade.

The show will be accompanied by the Pipe Band of the King’s Own Scottish Borderers Regiment which is headquartered in the town.

James Lowther, head of visual arts at The Maltings who commissioned it, said: “Local people are at the heart of Matthew’s projects and we can’t wait to see the results. »

Designed by architect Nicholas Hawksmoor, Berwick’s Grade 1 listed barracks are described by English Heritage as “the largest and finest built in England“.

They could house a full regiment of infantry, whose purpose was to deter uprisings.

Living Barracks is a £12 million project which could see the parade ground used for music, theater and cinema.

Plans also include a new museum, shop and restaurant, and a large part of the building, two-thirds of which is currently empty, will be converted into apartments.

There will also be workshop spaces for local artists to create and sell their work.

Berwick Parade will be on display from February 28 to March 2, 2025.