Irvine is now set to host a unique beach opera this year after it had to be called off due to coronavirus.

Glasgow-based producing art house Cryptic have announced the UK premiere of Signal-on-Sea, a captivating large-scale, environmental sound installation on Irvine Beach by Dutch duo, Strijbos and Van Rijswijk to celebrate the areas coast.

Using 24 long-throw speakers, Signal-on-Sea interweaves operatic all-female voices with an enchanting soundscape amplified across a stretch of the beach overlooking the Isle of Arran, making every visitor feel part of the wonder of nature.

The major free event, will run from Friday, July 16 – Sunday, July 25 from 12noon 22.30am supported by EventScotland for Scotlands the Year of Coasts and Waters 20/21 and Scotland’s Events Recovery Fund.

Signal-on-Sea is a unique and moving opportunity to rediscover and explore this remarkable landscape with music and texts evoking imagery that enhance and transform the environment.

Cathie Boyd, Artistic Director of Cryptic said: “Cryptic is thrilled to present this UK premiere of Dutch Duo, Strijbos & Van Rijswijk’s, stunning Signal-on-Sea at Irvine beach in summer 2021. This will be a welcome opportunity for the public to experience one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches as never before.

“From early afternoon through to sunset, dog walkers, joggers, families and picnicers can take a moment to bask in an epic soundscape of beautiful operatic voices through 24 speakers. We thank EventScotland and North Ayrshire Council for their continued support of what is set to be one of Scotland’s cultural highlights this summer. Once experienced, never forgotten.”

Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events at VisitScotland, said: “We are pleased to be supporting Cryptic’s Signal-on-Sea as part of Year of Coasts and Waters 20/21. Scotland offers the perfect stage to enjoy events in dramatic surroundings and Cryptic’s innovative sound installation on Irvine Beach will provide a unique experience for audiences.”

Cryptic are, and will continue to, follow Government COVID-19 Guidance and enhanced safety measures will be in place to ensure the health and safety of all visitors to Signal-on-Sea.

As this is a free outdoor event, spanning a considerable distance, there will be no need to book in advance, however, all visitors are encouraged to wear face coverings and remain socially distanced from others. Signage and visual aids, plus front of house staff will be in attendance to guide and assist throughout. Details of full safety measures and FAQs are available here: http://www.cryptic.org.uk/signal

Accompanying Signal-on-Sea, Cryptic presents visual artist Heather Lander’s Nearer Future, with music by Robert Bentall, in partnership with the Harbour Arts Centre from Friday July 16 – Sunday, July 25, times vary.

This immersive sonic light sculpture shows where technology has taken us – and asks us to question where we might go next. Symmetrical webs and weaves of light build into a crystalline cathedral of light as Bentall’s ambient composition Telian (played on the traditional Swedish nyckelharpa) provides a captivating soundtrack.

Nearer Future is also free to attend, however, capacity will be restricted to allow for social distancing within the HAC and visitors will be required to book a timeslot here: www.cryptic.org.uk/nearer-future.