A VIRTUAL reality film directed by one of the country’s top choreographers was launched at the Lion Salt Works on Friday.

The Salt project, features poignant and dramatic dance sequences, and uses new virtual reality technology – rarely used in a museum setting.

The four-minute film, viewed through a special headset, is also innovative in the way it interprets the former workers’ lives, bringing together two storylines in a series of imaginative and highly-charged dance sequences.

The film comprises two parts, entitled Industry and Moments.

Part one concentrates on the gruelling physical, six-day a-week work involved in producing salt over huge boiling salt pans.

Part two looks at relationships that developed among the workers at the Lion Salt Works.

Visitors to the exhibition will be provided with a virtual reality headset to view the dance piece, which is set inside a salt pan.

The immersive pieces were produced by renowned dancer and choreographer, Martin Hylton in collaboration with the Museum and Cheshire Dance, who were supported by three dance groups.

Martin said: “I am delighted by the positive response to this film.

“It was a privilege to work with some enthusiastic and talented local dance groups during the early stages of this project.

“It was the collaboration with these young people that inspired the choreography.”

He added: “The fact that our immersive performance can be repeatedly enjoyed by everyone in virtual reality is key.

But so is the fact that all the local young dancers who have taken part in the workshops have been inspired by their local history and have gone on to do their own interpretations of the lives of workers on the site through dance.”

The year-long project is part of Meeting Point2, which is led by contemporary art agency Arts and Heritage.

Timandra Nichols, director at Arts and Heritage, said: “Martin’s innovative ideas around dance and use of new technology make this a very exciting commission.

“It’s helping to push the boundaries of choreography and transform what we think of a traditional museum experience.”

Cllr Louise Gittins, Cheshire West and Chester Council cabinet member for communities and wellbeing, said: “This is a thrilling new interpretation of personal and community life at the Lion Salt Works.

“It is a bold move to interpret the emotional landscape of the place through dance and yet it works.”