“Downton Abbey” might be the most-watched drama in PBS history. The lives of the Crawley family and their servants captivated viewers for six seasons over the past decade, as did the Crawley estate itself. Now, a new immersive exhibition at Perimeter Pointe invites guests to step into post-Edwardian England, courtesy of Atlanta-based experience creators Imagine Exhibitions. “City Lights” Producer Summer Evans booked herself a tour and provides a sneak preview of what to expect.
At the exhibition entrance, a vivid projection of Carson the butler greets visitors and orients them in his classic style. “It does seem slightly odd to me that you should concern yourself with the kitchens and the servant’s quarters, just as I confess that I’m slightly surprised by the clothes that some of you have decided to wear today,” he orates in his classic dry fashion.
Tom Zaller, president and CEO of Imagine, spoke with Evans during her visit. He shared some background on how he was able to involve cast members of “Downton Abbey” in the exhibition’s theatrics. “Mrs. Patmore might be there and say something to you as you’re walking through. Carson is your greeter,” he said. “You get these moments where they’re with you in the space, and you won’t see many exhibitions like this, because it’s too hard to do it, and NBC and Carnival really leaned into this project because they care about it.”
In the character gallery, portraits of the characters line the walls next to cases of jewelry and knick-knacks from the show. An educational element accompanies these features, providing history on the real-life socioeconomics of the British aristocracy of the fictional Crawleys’ era. “The show took place from 1912 to 1926,” said Zaller. “A war happened. The Industrial Revolution was happening. Women’s rights; there was all kinds of important global change that was going on, and I think that it also adds to the richness of the story.”
Passing through the exhibition, visitors can experience audio-visual stories while interacting with their surroundings, perhaps even discovering hidden artifacts in drawers. Meticulous recreations of sets from the show transport guests into the servant’s quarters, Lady Mary’s bedroom, and the dining room — complete with an etiquette lesson from Carson. The Hall of Costumes follows, showcasing cocktail dresses, wedding gowns and riding clothes worn by “Downton’s” characters, for visitors to appreciate in all their detail and ornament.
