All aboard as Derren Brown's Ghost Train opens to public
by Tom Anstey | 08 Jul 2016
Derren Brown’s Ghost Train – one of the UK’s most hotly-anticipated attractions – has finally opened to the public.
Originally scheduled to open on 6 May, the one-of-a-kind attraction opened today (8 July) following an an extended postponement to add the “final tweaks” to the experience.
Touted as a ghost train reinvented for the 21st Century, the age-restricted Derren Brown’s Ghost Train incorporates grand illusion, live action, next-generation technology, 4D special effects and physical transit to create an experience unlike any other.
Speaking to Attractions Management in January, Paul Moreton, global creative director for Merlin Magic Making at Merlin Entertainments said that the ride would be “just like Derren’s show.”
“We’re playing with your mind, making you question what’s real and what’s not,” said Moreton. “When the ride ends, we want you to come away with a thought-provoking experience. Did that happen? Did that not happen? That is the new generation experience we are talking about and that’s what will make it very unique.”
A toxic gas leak which is hinted at in the queue line - as guests pass through infection check points. A company called Sub Core Energy has been drilling into the earth’s core, and the results of their actions will lie in wait for guests on board the ride.
To make the experience completely unique, a combination of technologies have been utilised, including virtual reality via the HTC Vive headset. One of the attraction’s key elements, is that each rider will have a unique experience. On the 10-15 minute ride, there are 12 possible journeys to get to two alternate endings. Dependant on choices made, each individual rider will encounter a different path as they go through the experience.
“I’m thrilled that the ghost train is finally launching to the public and everyone will be able to experience what I’ve been working on behind the scenes over the last three years," said Derren Brown.
“This has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve undertaken, but without doubt the most enjoyable. I can’t wait to see the public’s reaction after unleashing this wonderfully twisted experience for the world to enjoy.
“From training the actors to shovelling coal under the suspended Ghost Train, this experience with the team at Merlin Magic Making and Thorpe Park has been a perpetual delight."
Derren Brown Thorpe Park visitor attraction Derren Brown's Ghost Train
Derren Brown has worked extensively to create the experience
The ride offers a unique VR experience
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FEATURE: People profiles – Derren Brown, illusionist and TV personality
Derren Brown’s Ghost Train – one of the UK’s most hotly-anticipated attractions – has finally opened to the public. Originally scheduled to open on 6 May, the one-of-a-kind attraction opened today (8 July) following an an extended postponement to add the “final tweaks” to the experience. Touted as a ghost train reinvented for the 21st Century, the age-restricted Derren Brown’s Ghost Train incorporates grand illusion, live action, next-generation technology, 4D
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