The 50ft model of Hogwarts Castle was used for distance shots in the films. Lights go on and off in rooms and shadows pass by windows
was drawn and what ended up being built was very different. So we’d have a drawing for a set at a certain height, but when we put the set in the space, it was much big- ger. It called for a lot of organic planning on our part to accommodate these things. Another challenge was deciding what to
display. We wanted it all – there really is an embarrassment of riches – but 150,000sq ft (14,000sq m) isn’t big enough for every- thing, so we had to cull it down. We put ourselves into the shoes of the
fans to decide which were the poignant, iconic or important sets and pieces from the film that people wanted to see. We’d have huge arguments over what we were going to select!
What was it like working with such a well-known brand? Thinkwell trod very lightly into this world of Harry Potter. We’re the custodians of this, not the creators of any of the beautiful stuff – we’re merely putting the wrapping and packaging around it so visitors can explore it and enjoy it. It’s been a pleasure and honour to work
with the directors, crew and cast. To be involved with these amazing people, who are so wonderful, delightful and pleased to be a part of this process, is a rare opportu- nity and a treat I’ll never forget.
AM 2 2012 ©cybertrek 2012 DaviD KenDal
Retail and Commercial director
What’s the retail offer? We have a really wide selection, all of which was inspired by the films. It ranges from key rings – 25 per cent of our items are under £10 (E12, US$16) – and t-shirts, right up to authentic prop replicas and lim- ited edition artwork from the archives. The most expensive item is Dumbledore’s rep- lica robe at £495 (E596, US$795). We also have the Honeydukes confec-
tionary range. These include Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans with the authentic disgusting flavours, such as sausage and soap, as well as the nice ones. Seventy-five per cent of our range
can only be bought here or at Universal Studios in Orlando.
What size is the shop? It’s a 6,000sq ft (557sq m) retail unit. The shop is a mix of props and retail and was designed to be a continuation of the tour, as opposed to an add-on. The staff really engage with visitors. They
help them choose a wand, interact using toys and give that extra level of service.
What is the F&B offer? We have a Starbucks, plus a café serving fast, hot food with 200 covers. There’s also an outdoor seating area. Our most exciting F&B offer is freshly made Butterbeer, which is sold in a kiosk in the back lot area. The Studio Tour and Universal Studios Orlando are the only two places you can buy it from. The recipe is a closely guarded secret.
How will the retail offer be developed? We’ll be adding to it this autumn and next spring. We have development capital so we can refresh it regularly. We’d love to do a beautiful range with
the Hogwarts castle, so we’re in develop- ment on a few things like that.
TICKET PRICES
Adult – £28.00 Child – £21.00 Family – £83.00
The Complete Studio Tour Package Adult – £37.95
The Complete Studio Tour Package Child – £30.95
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