Helios Under the Sun: Aurora Strings
On selected dates we’re keeping the Saloon and Central Hall open late so you can experience Helios as the sun starts to set. Join us and enjoy Helios to solar-themed repertoire performed by the North East's leading string quartet, Aurora Strings.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Helios is a brand-new 7-metre diameter sculpture by internationally renowned artist Luke Jerram. Helios, Ancient Greek for the sun, follows Luke’s previous celestial sculptures of ‘Gaia’ ‘Museum of the Moon’ and ‘Mars’.
With rippling lights, solar imagery and sounds of the sun recorded by NASA, you’re invited to come and experience this audio-visual wonder.
Scaled so that each centimetre represents 2000 kilometres of the real sun’s surface, this is a unique opportunity to take a closer look at the star and details such as sunspots and solar flares.
Aurora Strings will perform under the sun in the Central Hall 5:30-6:15pm and 6:45-7:30pm.
Please note that after 5pm, opening is restricted to the Central Hall and Saloon only.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Accessibility
Helios is accessed via 14 steps. If you require access support, please call us on 0191 237 9100 to discuss your requirements or book a 'Helios: Stairclimber extended opening' slot via the events page of our website.
- Other
This event is free with standard admission or your membership.
Upcoming events
Archaeology documentation
Visit the Mahogany Room off the Entrance Hall to see our Conservation Team at work, cleaning, documenting and safely storing archaeological finds from the Curtain Rises project.
Helios Under the Sun: Sunrise
Set your alarm clocks to be one of the first to see Helios, a brand-new 7-metre diameter sculpture by artist Luke Jerram. Helios, Ancient Greek for the sun, follows Luke’s previous celestial sculptures of ‘Gaia’ ‘Museum of the Moon’ and ‘Mars’.
Helios Under the Sun: Extended Opening
On selected dates we’re keeping the Saloon and Central Hall open late so you can experience Helios as the sun starts to set as well as enjoy a variety of events themed around the sun.