Fans of “Downton Abbey” as well as history buffs do not have to travel far to immerse themselves in post-Edwardian England thanks to an exhibit in Skokie.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition runs from Nov. 10 to March 31, 2024, at Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center in the lower level of the former Bloomingdale’s store.
“What I like to do with these experiences (is) I want to take you to someplace. I want to put you somewhere where you feel a part of it,” said Tom Zaller, president and CEO of Imagine Exhibitions, which partnered with NBCUniversal for this traveling exhibit.
“One of my favorite things about this exhibit is we worked together with Gareth Neame, who is the executive producer, and (series creator) Julian Fellowes, who wrote a story for us.”
According to Zaller, the exhibit’s storyline begins with a greeting featuring new footage of “Downton Abbey” characters and includes set recreations of the dining room, Lady Mary’s bedroom and Mrs. Patmore’s kitchen.
Zaller noted that the approximately 20,000-square-foot exhibit also includes an immersive room featuring three walls of video that takes visitors to the battlefield in France during World War I as well as memorable scenes that happened outside on the grounds of the estate featured in the show and films.
“All these costumes and props — that’s another huge fan favorite. We have over 65 costumes,” said Zaller, who added that the garments include classic Edwardian and Victorian pieces to 1920s beaded gowns.
“Downton Abbey: The Exhibition” in Skokie marks the sixth U.S. stop of the tour, which has included engagements in Singapore; New York; West Palm Beach, Florida; Boston; Atlanta; and the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina.
“I love the Chicagoland area as an audience,” said Zaller, whose work before launching Imagine Exhibitions in 2009 included the “Titanic” exhibit in 2000 and “Titanic: The New Exhibition” in 2002 at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry.
“There is this unique retail environment. We have a great store. It’s a great thing for the holidays and any ‘Downton Abbey’ fan.”
In addition to what is billed as an in-depth look at life, culture, fashion and socioeconomics of early 20th century, “Downton Abbey: The Exhibition” includes separate ticketed programming such as afternoon tea, etiquette classes and events about British society or for the holidays.
Zaller was a fan of the franchise about the Crawley family and their servants before he received the call about producer Carnival Films, which is part of Universal International Studios, wanting to create a “Downton Abbey” experience.
“The writing is so good and the attention to detail and the historical accuracy and attention paid just comes through. They spared no expense on the shooting, the costuming and the locations. When you see quality you feel it,” he said.
“People really connect with these characters. I think this (exhibit) is your chance to walk among them and be with them. That’s special for people. People want experiences.”
“Downton Abbey: The Exhibition” tickets include timed entry and Flex and VIP options for admission anytime on the date selected. The exhibit is closed on Dec. 25.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
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When: Nov. 10-March 31, 2024; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays and Dec. 26 and Jan. 1, 2024
Where: Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center, 4905 Old Orchard Center, Skokie
Tickets: $27-$64; free for ages 11 and younger with a paying adult
Information: 888-850-8718; downtonexhibition.com
Jessi Virtusio is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.