AN immersive laser and sound experience will have its world premiere at Caernarfon Castle this October.

It is a collaboration between Chris Levine with acclaimed composer and artist Gruff Rhys.

Annwn is a revolutionary event bringing together pioneering laser art, sound and nature on an epic scale.

The world premier takes place at the castle on October 27 and continues in residency until October 29.

Sonic contributions have been specially created for Annwn by Welsh artist Gruff Rhys, drawn from his back catalogue, archive, and latest experiments.

The experience comprises a fully immersive, programmed performance of laser projection by Chris Levine, harmonised to a tapestry of beautiful elevating sound, composed exclusively for the event by Gruff Rhys.

The resulting 90 minute sound-track has been woven together by one of the world’s leading 3D sound artists and resident spatial sound designer Marco Perry.

During special sessions, Gruff Rhys will perform live with Chris Levine’s laser work in special performances, inspired by the Annwn vision.

Annwn means the Otherworld within the Welsh mythology of the Mabinogi.

Chris Levine said: “On one level, Annwn is the best laser and sound show you could ever hope to witness, but we are bringing together some of the world’s top creative and technical talents to create something which is radically different from anything you will have ever experienced in a truly spectacular setting!

"It was originally commissioned as the centrepiece of Glastonbury’s 50th anniversary in 2020. We are thrilled it is now returning to its roots and premiering in Wales."

At the castle, multiple high powered laser systems and 3D sound arrays will be installed around the ramparts. The experience inside the castle walls will be directed and controlled by the artists and technologists from a specially designed control position adjacent to the performance space.

Gruff said: “This project has been bubbling for years now and I’m happy to finally have the opportunity to make it a reality after hitting a wall in the lock-down period.

"I've worked with the sound designer Marco Perry (who has worked extensively with Bjork among others on spatial sound projects) on creating new versions of some of my songs that are more repetitive and ambient. Songs such as Taranau Mai, Distant Snowy Peaks, Arogldarth and some unique pieces too for the event.”

The event is being staged in support of Samaritans Cymru.

Neil Ingham, Executive Director for Samaritans Cymru, said: “We’re really excited and grateful to the team at Annwn for choosing Samaritans Cymru as their charity. This innovative event seeks to bring people together to share a unique experience and has a strong focus on human connection.

"This is a core value of Samaritans – we believe connection is a strong protective factor for suicide risk and we believe human compassion can change and save lives."