Projection Mapping
The project
Cheddar Gorge management commissioned us to develop Dreamhunters, an immersive walk-through attraction inside Cox’s Cave in Somerset. They wanted something entertaining yet rooted in prehistory, to tell the story of early humans. As well as enhance the visitor experience within the natural grotto environment.
The challenge
The space presented no straight edges, irregular rock surfaces, stalactites, and stalagmites. Mapping visuals to such organic, unpredictable forms was difficult. Moreover, the timeline was tight. The design concept was approved in December 2015, and the attraction needed to open by Easter 2016.
The solution
Despite the irregular surface space, we created eight individual “chambers,” each with projection mapping, lighting, and audio aligned to the cave’s natural rock geometry. Animations were mapped precisely to contours of rock, and the final chamber featured wraparound projection, lasers, wind effects, as well as dramatic lighting synced to storytelling. The whole attraction was delivered turnkey from concept and content production to technical design and installation.
The impact
Since its opening in 2016, Dreamhunters has been highly praised, winning the IAAPA Brass Ring Award for Best New Product (Shows/Productions). It has helped modernise the Cheddar Gorge visitor experience, offering both educational and emotional resonance for guests of all ages and enhancing the attraction’s reputation.
