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A large Swan travelling along the water, it is lit from the inside and coming out of fog
A large Swan travelling along the water, it is lit from the inside and coming out of fog

River Stories

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A beautiful family-friendly spectacle suitable for any water-based event.

River Stories is a captivating and accessible nighttime show held entirely on water – and adaptable to any event or location.

River Stories follows our illuminated River Monster, Swan and Fish, who each play key roles in driving forward a family-friendly narrative.

The show is designed to be completely adaptable, with each River Stories production unique to its setting. We can work with local artists and/or community groups to develop the story for your show – and we may even invite them to play their part in how it’s delivered. It’s a fantastic way to bring local history and folklore alive.

River Stories features pyrotechnic special effects, lighting and an original score, and culminates in a firework display to create an unforgettable spectacle. Depending on your budget and expected audience size, the show can be adapted in scale, and could even include local river people taking part on illuminated boats.

The show had its debut at the Reading on Thames Festival in September 2017, when it proved to be a great hit with the crowds.

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River Stories Info Pack

You can find out more info on our illuminated creations here. Share with your colleagues and partners and get in touch with us for a chat.

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‘A huge thank you on behalf of Reading for your wonderful contribution to the Reading on Thames Festival! We absolutely loved working with you and hope to catch up with you both very soon, in between all of your amazing projects!!’

Zsuzsi Lindsay, Reading on Thames Festival Producer

River Stories, Reading, 2017, Salvo Toscano

  • A flexible, site-responsive, 40- to 50-minute show suitable for up to 5,000 spectators, depending on location
  • Perfect as part of a wider river festival programme
  • Adaptable in size and content
  • Illuminated river craft elements make it ideal for late summer/early autumn events
  • Great spectacle if you’re looking for a water-based alternative for your light night events
Liverpool Lunar New Year 2024, Culture Liverpool, Tommy Wong

The Dragon and the Pearl

Our River Monster underwent a transformation for Liverpool's Lunar New Year, Year of the Dragon, 2024 celebrations.

Becoming a fiery dragon, adorned with a pearl necklace, this water-based creation entertained tens of thousands of visitors at the Royal Albert Dock, and enjoyed overwhelming press and social media coverage.

'Huge thank you from the team and myself for all your support in making Lunar New Year a huge success, reflected in the turnout on all three days/nights and the coverage on socials/press. Seeing children’s faces light up at the magic and splendour of the Dragon was amazing.'

Bethany Sprotson, Event Manager Culture Liverpool

A dragon boat in the water at night, with pyro going off behind the dragon in white and pink

Monty the Mersey Monster, Wirral Borough of Culture, Mark McNulty, 2024

Monty the Mersey Monster

This fun filled, family friendly event was produced as the finale event in celebration of Wirral's time as Liverpool Region Borough of Culture.

Drawing on local legend, Monty – first named in 1207 by Sir Percival Montangle – our River Monster took to the water of New Brighton’s Marine Lake in a spectacular display of pyrotechnics and colour. 

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