Source: Heritage New Zealand
Wellington’s iconic Old St Paul’s (OSP) is partnering with Pyramid Club to present Altared States – a transcendent new series of concerts featuring electronic music by some of Wellington’s leading artists.
Inspired by Brian Sweeney’s New York-founded Ambient Church, Altared States promises an immersive sonic experience that invites audiences to explore sound in a deeply personal and transformative way.
Set within the chancel of the venue’s altar, the historic building – cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga – will host a series of 60-minute immersive sound experiences, with each artist redefining ritual in a contemporary light.
The four Friday night concerts will feature different artists beginning with Ludus on August 1, followed by Stephen Gallagher with David Long and Jules Desmond (August 8); Oghum (August 15); and Dream Chambers (August 22).
Altared States marks a milestone in the property’s story according to Old St Paul’s Event Coordinator Jane Nye.
“We’re weaving OSP’s heritage with the progressive energy of Pōneke’s Pyramid Club together with leading producers and composers to create an event that reflects both venerable architecture and iconography, as well as contemporary vision,” she says.
Versatility is one of OSP’s outstanding virtues, according to Jane, where events range from funeral services, weddings and incredible drag shows through to film and photography shoots, themed Gothic film nights, and now electronic music.
“The Altared States series reaffirms that Old St Paul’s isn’t stuck in history – it’s defined by ongoing rejuvenation,” she says.
“I want to surprise audiences with versatile programming that breaks down stereotypes about what’s ‘appropriate’ in a heritage building – especially one with so many pews!”
