Situated in the network of 60m long secret tunnels, 26m underground behind the famous White Cliffs of Dover, the attraction makes extensive use of AV technology to present the events of 26 May to 4 June 1940. In the highlight of the attraction, 23 projectors create giant images that run the entire length of the space augmented by spectacular lighting effects.
Denmark-based Kvorning Design & Communication, which designed and produced the new attraction, and Electrosonic faced some difficult tasks, including working in a historic site, dealing with the climate underground and projecting images in spaces where no surface is straight.
"Providing a series of audio-visual experiences in the listed tunnels underneath Dover Castle has presented some unique challenges," says Dirk Bennett, acting head of interpretation at English Heritage. "Electrosonic has provided the expertise, experience and creativity to come up with solutions which will create an immersive and exciting experience unique in the area of heritage interpretation."
During the design phase, Electrosonic's Design Consulting Team worked with Kvorning to determine the audio visual solutions to meet their creative designs. The design works included 'AV and control design' in sufficient detail to allow reliable budgeting and form the basis of tender documents. From the outset many challenges were evident with the design pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Full sized tests needed to be conducted and 3D CAD techniques were used to model the projection optics.
The highlight of the attraction is Rescue from Dunkirk Casemate Z set in one of the 60m long tunnel spaces or casemates. Giant images are displayed on the entire length of the tunnel via 23 Optoma EX785 DLP projectors, computer-controlled to ensure synchronization and to warp and blend the images into one long panorama. Spectacular lighting effects augment the projections, which include fighter planes that appear to zoom down the entire length of the tunnel against a backdrop of ships and small boats. In another sequence, silhouetted photos give the eerie feeling that those planning the evacuation are still present in the tunnels.
Audio in these zones was designed by Electrosonic to meet the needs of Kvorning's sound designer. Sound is used not only for narration and special effects but also to draw visitors through the space.
(Jim Evans)
