A FESTIVAL of lights to show off York’s heritage buildings in a blaze of colour is expected to draw more than 50,000 visitors.

The theme for the 2014 Illuminating York festival is Leading Lights, uncovering the rich history and future of innovation and discovery in the city of York.

The main festival piece is Hidden Worlds by Seeper on the Crown Court building.

Hidden Worlds is a 3D projection-mapped animation that will take the audience on a journey into the hidden worlds of the microscopic and the unconscious.

It is inspired by York’s John Snow, the 19th century physician who discovered how cholera spread, and also went on to pioneer the use of anaesthetics – saving countless lives and misery for those undergoing surgery.

Seeper has worked in digital projection mapping for the past 15 years and is known for creating groundbreaking, immersive experiences.

During Illuminating York, Clifford’s Tower will be floodlit in colour to complement the main event Hidden Worlds projection on the adjacent Crown Court Building.

Advance tickets can be purchased at York Theatre Royal Box Office, St Leonard’s Place YO1 7HD, by phone 01904-623568 or at www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

There will be a limited number of tickets for sale each evening from York Theatre Royal Box Office until 9.30pm, and the Eye of York with cash sales only.

Entry is £4 for adults, £3 for under 16s and under fives go free. Each performance lasts around 14 minutes.