Bringing Attractions to Life
Today visitors are constantly looking for something different to do – more unique and memorable than simply just walking around an attraction or reading static information. A great way of bringing an attraction ‘to life’ is through the introduction of Living History Characters – a living, breathing addition that not only delivers information, but can respond, adapt, and interact with visitors.
Unlike static interpretation, live performers can present information in a way which is accessible to a wider range of audiences. By simply altering the type of language, depth, and tone of a live performance, the same content can be presented completely differently to appeal to a variety of age groups. Introducing just one character can add multiple dimensions to an experience, reaching out to all the senses.
A talented and well-direct performer can breathe life into content they’re communicating making it much more interesting and creating emotional connections. Would you rather read about what life was like during War Time Britain or hearing it directly from someone who’s ‘living it’? Stories change from an impersonal third person, to incredibly effective first person accounts – a Victorian Maid confiding in you and explaining the strict rules which she lives by. A turn of the century landlord gossiping about local customers and tricks of the trade. Or a 18th Century rogue who can enthral visitors with tales of the high seas.
Choosing and developing the character is incredibly important and can be frustrating at times – not all visitors are going to enjoy the same style of character. But once the character and script are right, it can be the key to creating unique and memorable moments – a live actor can give each individual visitor a different experience, personal to them, which is far more likely to be shared with friends and family, increasing return visits and recommendations.
If budget is an issue at the attraction, why not introduce living history characters for specific time periods or to help celebrate special historical days of the year.
EXAMPLE:
For Flambards, we created a Dreadful Jack character in the Victorian Village for October half term as part of their Halloween events programme, which also included a pumpkin trail. By combining both the quiz and the rogue actors this gave Flambards a great opportunity for PR, as well and creating something different to appeal to regular visitors and season ticket holders who would not necessarily re-visit the indoor attractions each time.