Between 27th February – 2nd March 2025, Real Ideas Organisation hosted Dazzle! Devonport’s Festival of Light, Creativity and Heritage, a unique free-to-access festival marking 200 years of Devonport.
Building on experience delivering 'Illuminate' and a significant £246,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Dazzle was the culmination of a series of projects to honour Devonport’s incredible transformation over the centuries.
From stunning light installations to immersive experiences, Dazzle invited people to experience the area in a way they’ve never seen before. The Devonport Column, Market Hall and our very own Devonport Towers were transformed into canvases for storytelling using projection mapping, inviting audiences to see the buildings in new ways and deepen their understanding of the history attached to them.
Devonport residents were invited to a ‘first look’ at Dazzle on the launch night to experience the festival before it opened to the wider public as a small way of thanking them for their invaluable contribution to the event. This was followed by a VIP celebration which was joined by the local community and staff from PCH, Plymouth City Council and other organisations contributing to Devonport’s history.
The Dazzle festival featured contributions from local community groups, schools, artists, and volunteers including many of our PCH residents who are enrolled on the Devonport Futures programme, ensuring that it was a celebration made by and for the people of Devonport.
The name "Dazzle" pays homage to Devonport and Plymouth's rich maritime heritage and the groundbreaking use of dazzle camouflage by the Royal Navy. Developed during World War I by marine artist Norman Wilkinson, “dazzle” was designed to confuse enemy submarines by distorting a ship’s size, shape, and direction. It broke from traditional camouflage by embracing bold geometric patterns and contrasting colours. The "Dazzle" festival celebrated this legacy of innovation, creativity, and Plymouth’s enduring connection to the sea.
Residents were delighted to be involved in the festival, and local PCH resident Leroy certainly got stuck in with all things Dazzle. He said: “The Dazzle festival was brilliant, and it was great to be able to be involved. My neighbours and their families also enjoyed the celebrations. Thank you to Real Ideas Organisation for all they have done for our community, and we can’t wait to find out what else they plan in the future.”
Find out more about Dazzle and the Devonport 200 celebrations here.
