29 February 2024 , 21:34
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The man responsible for a shambolic "Willy Wonka experience" in Glasgow has been unmasked as a repeat offender who also left parents raging when he cancelled a Santa's Grotto event.
Self-hailed author Billy Coull, who relied on artificial intelligence to self-publish 17 novels on Amazon in 2023, is listed as the director of the House of Illuminati. His company promises to "transform" humdrum locations, turning them into "immersive environments" which "transport guests into a realm of wonder".
On Saturday, the event was so far-off of what was promised that enraged parents called the police due to the abysmal quality of the event, which cost them £35 per person. In a clip, Coull sought to address the allegations of dishonest marketing. He said: "We guarantee a full refund from Monday. We used artificial intelligence to create some images for the event."
Coull apparently used AI to create web copy to create an idyllic image of the event. The event advertisement reads: "Delectable Chocolate Fountains. Picture yourself standing before cascading chocolate fountains, each velvety stream inviting you to dip, indulge, and savor the richness of Willy Wonka’s world.
The man who played Willy Wonka thought he'd be better suited to playing an Oompah Loompah rather than the lead role (TWITTER)"These delectable fountains are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a visual spectacle, creating an atmosphere of chocolatey bliss that permeates the air. As we countdown to the day when Willy Wonka’s world comes to life, imagine a day filled with laughter, joy, and the irresistible allure of chocolate. The immersive delights of this event are poised to create lasting memories and redefine what it means to step into a world of pure imagination.'"
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However, footage from inside the event painted a very different story. Several families recorded themselves moving through the so-called "experience" in Glasgow, where they were more than disappointed to find a lacklustre set in a filthy and almost-empty warehouse.
In one clip, a mum pans the camera around to show a handful of props, including a bar of Wonka chocolate, a blue pipe, candy sticks and a solitary Oompa Loompa behind a pop-up table. Her son, other kids and their parents can be seen looking around bemused as they realise they just splashed out £35 for the privilege.
Punters paid £35 for the "shambolic event" (TWITTER)The mum can be heard saying: "I'm not joking, paid £40 a ticket for this." She points the camera to the walls, where large sheets covered with Wonka-like settings are hanging. She explains that the organisers set them up for families to take photos in front of them. "What a waste of money," she added.
As the video ends, a group of workers dressed in non-theatrical clothing are seen spooning treats from metal baking trays. The lead actor, who is seen throughout the video, has since spoken out and lifted the lid on the "shambolic" event, which brought some kids to tears. The Mirror has contacted Billy Coull for comment.