Let there be light and sound!

A BRAND-NEW immersive installation is coming to the bank of the Nith in the new year. As part of the 2026 Northern Lights, the Stove Network has announced the launch of Phanto Spectra. Running from January 15 to 17, the light and sound installation will transform the river area into an immersive exploration of Dumfries’ deep cultural connection with Scotland’s travelling show-people. Created as part of the Stove’s Hear Here initiative and artist Martin Joseph O’Neill, funded by £20,000 of Experiment funding from Immersive Arts UK, the work invites audiences to step into an evocative blend of sound, scenic design, storytelling and place-based memory. Drawing on centuries of show-people heritage dating back to the 1500s, Phanto Spectra uses binaural sound and theatrical sleight of hand to reveal hidden stories and celebrate the remarkable cultural contributions of travelling fairs. The Stove Network has emphasised the importance of this moment for the town and the relevance of immersive storytelling in shaping local conversations, stating: “The Stove is thrilled and honoured to be part of this important national project. This funding will allow us to use immersive technologies to bring to life the compelling stories of less-represented groups in our town, at a moment of significant decision-making about Dumfries’ future.” For more information about Phanto Spectra visit: immersivearts.uk/projects/phanto-spectra/.