Dynamic statues of Batman, Bugs Bunny, Laurel & Hardy, Mary Poppins, Mr Bean, Paddington, Singin’ in the Rain and Wonder Woman were unveiled in a series of music, dance and lighting performances and special guests including Hugh Bonneville (Paddington) Patricia Kelly (Gene Kelly The Legacy) and Zizi Strallen (Mary Poppins: The Musical West End show) attended this morning.
The unique cultural initiative, called ‘Scenes in the Square’, has been created by Heart of London Business Alliance in partnership with Westminster City Council and major film studios and IP holders.
It marks 350 years since Leicester Square was established in 1670, named after the 2nd Earl of Leicester. Since then it has grown to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Scenes in the Square hopes to add to this cinematic legacy and popularity, with the movie statues appealing to all ages and tastes and giving film lovers an unmissable reason to visit. Each statue depicts a much-loved movie moment from a different decade since the 1920s, with dynamic poses chosen to naturally interact with the scenery in the square, from rooftops to walls, lamp posts to flower beds.
The trail will also come to life on visitors’ mobile phones through a Visit London app, with interactive maps and clips from each film coming to life through NFC technology, along with scannable music playlists through a Spotify partnership.
The eight statues will be in place until at least the Summer, but organisers hope they will remain for years to come, as the initiative welcomes new statues.
‘Scenes in the Square’ is a free, fully accessible trail for film lovers of all ages.
