Inside BBC's new David Attenborough exhibit - what visitors will leave thinking

24 March 2023 , 15:38

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The BBC Earth Experience is narrated by David Attenborough and brings Seven Worlds, One Planet to life (Image: Photographer Alex Board copyright BBC NHU)

Fans of Sir David Attenborough will be keen to visit the spectacular BBC Earth Experience coming to Earl's Court in London next week.

The brand new interactive attraction welcomes visitors to journey through the natural world and explore the extraordinary biodiversity of Earth's seven continents.

With bespoke narration from David Attenborough and three breakout zones to explore, it's set to be an educational and mesmerising exhibit for viewers of Seven Worlds, One Planet.

Frederik Van Alkemade, chief creative officer of Mooney Productions, helped to bring the truly epic journey to life - and now he's given the Mirror an insight into its creation.

Creator Frederik Van Alkemade hopes viewers will leave feeling positive, amazed and enriched (BBC Earth Experience)

Talking about the creative process, Frederik said: "It took four years from conception to opening night.

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"As a big fan of the incredible BBC Earth series, we started working on the idea of transporting the audience from the couch to the places the TV show visits, under the guidance of Sir David Attenborough.

"I am a strong believer of the following two principles: 'show, don't tell' and layers.

The new immersive experience will open at Earl's Court in London next week (BBC)

"Like everybody, we are concerned about the future of the planet so sustainability and protecting biodiversity is an important layer that is in the series and in our experience."

The BBC Earth Experience has been designed with sustainability at its heart - the building and its content use materials that can be recycled, reused or given a second life.

The production projectors use the latest LED energy efficient technology, powered only by renewable energy and the screens are made of cotton, which will be repurposed after use.

Sustainability is at the heart of the exhibition, both inside and outside (BBC)

There is also a focus on biodiversity throughout the outside spaces, with plants and insect houses to attract more than 40 different species to populate the gardens, and rainwater harvested in the external spaces.

Frederik hopes visitors will leave the exhibition with a fresh perspective and positive outlook.

"My personal wish is to create events where we transport people into worlds that have been out of reach," he said.

Frederik wishes to transport people across the Earth's seven continents (Woo Architechs)

"My hope is that the audience leave feeling positive, amazed and enriched from the experience."

From a young age, Frederik has always enjoyed storytelling and bringing imagination to life - from working on Cirque du Soleil to Harry Potter: The Exhibition, and now the BBC Earth Experience.

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While he is a "huge fan" of David Attenborough, the creative officer is yet to meet his idol - but bringing his vision to life has truly been an honour.

The BBC Earth Experience will open on March 30th to July 31st at The Daikin Centre in Earl's Court London. Tickets start at £22 and can be booked online now.

Nia Dalton