The Titanic exhibition is a monumental and unique narrative experience of a deep tragedy that is still spoken of today.
With over 200 historic items on display including handwritten letters, photographs, and personal belongings, some of the victims get to tell their stories from the grave. Visitors are taken back to 1912 where they’re able to walk in the footsteps of the passengers and crew members.
Having teamed up with historians and Titanic experts, each guest journeys through the experience with an audio guide helping to bring the event to life with sound effects, music, and personal accounts of what took place on that fateful day. The story is powerful and compelling, but it’s also dark and interesting. In recent news, a tourist submersible on the way to visit the Titanic is believed to have an unfortunate end and was featured in the exhibit as well. Here are five ways the Titanic Exhibit tells a dark and interesting brand story.
1. Revealing Human Nature
The story of the Titanic highlights various aspects of human nature. It showcases the selflessness and bravery of mankind as many passengers risked their lives to save others. We learn about the story of Captain Smith who attempted to rescue a child from the water. When there was only one space left on the lifeboat, Isidor Strauss, the co-owner of Macy’s Department Store begged his wife Ida to get on the boat but she refused because she did not want to be separated from her husband. While most visitors may not be able to relate to such acts of heroism, it reminds people of what we are capable of when our lives are on the line.
2. Developing Intense Emotions
As the ship sank, passengers and crew experienced a wide range of intense emotions including despair, courage, panic, fear and confusion. No one on-board the Titanic had any idea what was about to take place, and as the water filled the ship, they struggled to understand the magnitude of the disaster. These intense emotions led to disorganized and chaotic responses which complicated evacuation plans. Everyone can relate to the intense emotions experienced in the midst of a difficult situation.
3. Growing Fears and Insecurities
It’s impossible for anyone to imagine the fear experienced by the passengers and crew as the ship sunk. They were left feeling vulnerable and insecure because they didn’t know whether they were going to survive. As the ship plunged deeper into the sea, the fear of the unknown, and loss of control intensified. No matter how hard they fought, those who perished were forced to accept it was the end for them.
4. Bringing In The Real World
The tragedy of the Titanic teaches us many real world lessons, including:
· Consequences of Overconfidence: In 1912, Phillip Franklin, the vice-president of White Star Line said, “There is no danger that the Titanic will sink. The boat is unsinkable and nothing but inconvenience will be suffered by the passengers.” The misfortune of the Titanic proves that no ship is unsinkable. The disaster led to substantial changes in maritime safety practices and regulations to prevent a catastrophe like this happening again.
· Human Fallibility: The people who built the Titanic were some of the most accomplished in their field. Nevertheless, even the most properly constructed projects can be vulnerable to unforeseen circumstances and human errors. It reminds us that despite technological advancements, we will never be immune to tragedies and failure.
· Importance of Preparedness: The disaster emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. It stresses the significance of contingency plans, emergency drills, and safety protocols when it comes to mitigating potential risks.
5. Understanding Tragedy
The story of the Titanic is a heartfelt representation of tragedy; it’s a reminder of the unpredictability of life. Over 1,500 lives were lost on that fateful day and over 111 years later, it still has an emotional impact on people.
A brand story is the heart and soul of your brand. Good storytelling is all about creating an emotional connection with your audience. The Titanic exhibit have excelled at this. Reviewers referred to it as, “A life changing experience,” and “Beautiful and emotional.” Through their excellent rendition of the events that took place on 12 April, 1912 the Titanic Exhibit successfully captured the hearts of their audience.
Author was given two complimentary tickets to the Titanic experience.
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