Take a video tour of castle
SNEAK PEEK OF WHAT TO EXPECT AS TRANSFORMATION NEARS COMPLETION
A NEW video gives a glimpse of what we can expect from the multi-million-pound transformation of Nottingham Castle.
The video, from the Nottingham Castle project team at Nottingham City Council, comes as work on the facelift of the site nears completion.
Work started in summer 2018 and a provisional reopening date has been set for March 29 this year.
The new castle experience will combine interactive virtual technology – including Robin Hood folklore alongside high-quality art exhibitions – to bring Nottingham’s 1,000year history to life.
In a first look around the castle’s grounds and interior, the video takes viewers through the improved gatehouse entrance, gleaming in the sunlight, then quickly underground along a darkened tunnel.
Once inside, staff are seen working on the technology elements of the new castle experience with a peek at some of the new interactive games.
As well as striking displays showing a timeline of Nottingham Castle’s history, there are also glimpses of large screens with engaging videos of Nottingham’s past that stretch up nearly to the ceiling.
hen the video brings viewers into the light and airy space of the Long Gallery where workers can be seen unveiling art as complete the decoration of the walls.
As well as traditional artwork there are also photographic works from the lace era.
Last, but not least, the camera heads outside firstly to the pillared colonnade now fitted with glass, and then onwards to the playground in the castle grounds.
The castle-themed play area with rope bridges and slides is fit for any young outlaw.
In the latest update from the project team, gallery spaces are said to be taking shape with the exhibition fit-out stage now drawing to a close.
This includes set works, digital elements, cases and graphics all being put in place.
The catering and retail facilities are also near completion with the final touches being added to a brand new adventure play area in the castle grounds.
The team at Nottingham City Museums and Galleries is continuing to bring objects on site, installing paintings on walls and placing artefacts in made-to-measure cases.
There have been focus groups with volunteers who have experienced and tested out the Robin Hood Gallery prior to lockdown as well as participating in online sessions to provide feedback.
Off site, various specialist contractors are busy working on elements as diverse as costumes, replica weaponry and mannequins.
H & H Sculptors Ltd is the organisation behind 26 bespoke mannequins for the Lace Gallery, each made to fit individual lace garments to perfection.
The H&H team will also create two Civil War case mannequins, while Time Tarts – a small company based in Sherwood Forest – has made the musketeers’ outfits.
To see the video go to the online version of this story at nottinghampost.com