The seaside resort of Ostend (West Flanders) is pulling out all the stops this winter with the second edition of ‘Lichtgolf’ (Light Wave). This time, the light walk route uses the story of two sea-glow algae that end up in Ostend to link seven light installations scattered throughout the city centre. Actors Wim Opbrouck and Sien Eggers provide the voices for the story. “This year, the story fits in better with the installations,” says Rob Jonckheere of the Ostend Tourism Office, following criticism last year.
This year’s story centres on a young sea sparkle called Noxi, who sets foot ashore in Ostend for the first time and discovers the city alongside the 101-year-old sea sparkle Sola. Sea sparkles are tiny, single-celled marine organisms that create a glowing blue-green light in the ocean when disturbed by movement. “It’s a maritime story that truly brings out Ostend's DNA,” explains Rob Jonckheere.
“As a trusted guide Wim Opbrouck guides visitors through a magical interplay of light, sound and memories, whilst Sien Eggers plays the role of Sola,” he adds. During the 4-kilometre route, they guide you past seven light installations scattered throughout the city centre.
According to Jonckheere, more attention is being paid this year to the link between the story and the light installations, following criticism on this point last year. “That’s why we’ve made adjustments to ensure there’s also a connection between the installations and the story being told,” says Jonckheere.
Light installation at the station
Some venues from the first edition are returning, such as the Kursaal and St Peter and St Paul’s Church. New this year is an installation in the historic station concourse, in collaboration with rail company NMBS. The NMBS is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
100 deckchairs will be placed in the ticket hall, where visitors can watch a video projected onto the ceiling.
Changes following criticism
Last year, the first edition of Lichtgolf attracted 25,000 visitors – a clear success. However, there were also some points of criticism. As well as a lack of a genuine link between the narrative and the installations, there were technical issues, including problems with the synchronisation of sound and light. “These were resolved on the spot each time, but we are now looking for long-term solutions,” says Jonckheere.
The West Flemish accent of narrators also meant, that at times last year, the story was not clearly understandable for visitors from outside the coastal shire. Sien Eggers says she is speaking “her best Dutch” this year, whilst Wim Opbrouck still uses a touch of West Flemish. “But that West Flemish touch does, of course, add to its charm,” emphasises Jonckheere.
The ‘Lichtgolf’ light walk runs from 27 November to 3 January. A ticket costs 8 euros, but anyone booking before 16 November pays 5 euros. Tickets will soon be available via the Ostend Tourism website.