THE historic buildings of Oxford Castle Quarter were lit up for a breathtaking display by French aerial dancers – and that was just the rehearsal.

Performers from six-strong troupe Compagnie Retouramont fought off the cold on Thursday night to prepare for two evening spectaculars yesterday and tonight.

With their new piece, Gravitational Waves, the group aims to transform urban spaces using a combination of music, dance and video projection.

This is the second time Compagnie Retouramont has graced the stones of Oxford Castle Quarter, following a successful appearance in 2012 when about 500 people turned out to watch.

The free event, from 9.30pm tonight at Oxford Castle Quarter, was arranged by local group Dancin’ Oxford.

Organiser Euton Daley said: “ This is quite a specialist type of dance; it’s really striking.

We’re always looking out for groups that do something different.”