Lighting expert's festive display supports St Elizabeth Hospice
A 6,500-LED Christmas light show is lighting up an Ipswich home for the 12th year, with thousands of synchronised lights dancing to music while raising funds for local hospice care.
Why it matters: The display was created by lighting designer James Aleksic, whose professional work includes the National Theatre and Edinburgh Fringe Festival. It offers families a free interactive festive experience, with visitors pressing a red button on Rudolph's nose to trigger the show. The display runs daily from 16:00-21:00 throughout December, with all donations supporting St Elizabeth Hospice.
The details: Located at Lister Road, IP1 5EQ, the 10-minute display this year includes upgrades to the control network, updated window lights and a Selfie Elf with over 350 LEDs featuring a cut-out for visitors to pose for photographs.
For context: James runs JLA Sound and Light, working on over 60 theatre productions a year. His work spans venues from the National Theatre and Edinburgh Fringe Festival to local theatres, schools and colleges. Alongside his production work, he teaches technical theatre at Suffolk New College and works at DanceEast.
What he's saying: "It's lovely to have created something that has become a part of so many families' Christmas traditions – we're getting to know some of our regular return visitors, and it's always a joy to be able to look out and see so many people enjoying the display," said James, chairman of local performing arts charity Limelight Performers.
"It's a really special charity, which has supported a number of our family members and friends over the years, and to be able to give a little bit back each Christmas really is an honour," he said.
The bigger picture: Since 2013, the display has raised over £6,200 for St Elizabeth Hospice. The charity has previously recognised James's efforts with its Best Fundraiser award for Christmas Lights displays.
What's next: James hopes this year will set a new fundraising record. "It would be incredible if we manage to make this year the biggest total yet, but we're always so grateful for everyone's generosity and love to do our bit to raise what we can for this incredible charity," he said.
The bottom line: What started as a simple home display has grown into a 12-year festive tradition, where pressing Rudolph's nose sets thousands of LEDs in motion and raises funds for St Elizabeth Hospice.
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