LCI Productions worked with organisers IMG to create a unique narrative and original media, brought to life through multisensory theming techniques and AV spectaculars to transform the guest experience.
The team wanted to build on the basis of last year’s design, retaining key fan favourite characters and installations whilst also expanding into a different magical realm that could captivate, excite and surprise guests at every turn.
This began with a new trail design for the 2.2km route with the objective of improving the flow of visitors, increasing dwell time at the food and beverage area and adding a layer of depth to the overall experience.
The original storyline, compelling characters and interactive moments ensured that visitors were not simply moving from one attraction to another; they were actively participating in a story unfolding. Each scene and storyline unravelled in a way that guided guests organically from one point to the next, keeping them engaged and eager to discover what awaited them around the corner.
The journey begins at a depiction of the Royal crown, winding through illuminated tree-lined paths, and features captivating elements such as holographic fairies, a mesmerising Firefly Forest, and a show-stopping 43m LED Tunnel of Light, all harmoniously integrated within the park’s natural landscape.
LCI created original characters that follow visitors along the trail, encouraging them to move into the next zone. One of the characters was the ‘Fairy Queen’, who greeted visitors on the way into the ‘Fairy Trail’, created using a one metre holofan. She is followed by thirty more holographic fairies and mischievous sprites who drew visitors deeper into the story.
The ‘Fairy Disco’ was a fan favourite last year so strategic additions like expanding this popular area and integrating it with refreshment areas not only increased dwell time, but also boosted guest satisfaction and encouraged spending on F&B refreshments.
‘Fountain Land’ was the first water based experience using water fountains which were set upon the lake. This year instead of six head jets LCI used ten, and spaced them out further across the lake for maximum impact.
An ‘Enchanted Forest’ saw griffins, rabbits, snakes, pegasus, unicorns and horses come to life in a 3D space, walking through the forest then disappearing into the trees on either side. LCI created this illusion using five four metre Holonet gauzes, hidden within the forest so that they were completely invisible from the viewing angle of the path. Three projectors in VIZBOX enclosures created the visuals and strategically placed lighting enhanced the sense of depth and deflected from the edges of the gauze. When the media sequence came to life, it gave the illusion of forest creatures existing in a 3D space. LCI turned this into a multisensory experience with an accompanying spatial audioscape.
This combination of immersive spectaculars underpinned by an original narrative led to a significant increase in dwell time. Visitors stayed longer, captivated by the charming characters and the mesmerising displays. This not only enhanced their enjoyment but also created a positive ripple effect. Longer dwell time meant greater engagement with the refreshment areas, boosting overall visitor satisfaction and contributing to the event’s success.
Partners
- IMG Events
All image credit of Liam Munday – photography.