Mary Rose Museum to get new 4D immersive theatre experience telling story from Henry VIII's time to today

In the week of the 40th anniversary of the raising of Henry VIII’s flagship, the Mary Rose Trust has today announced its biggest expansion since the purpose-built museum in the Historic Dockyards site opened in 2013.

The 4D experience, 1982 – Dive the Mary Rose, will open in spring 2023 to showcase the untold story of the finding, excavation, and recovery of the Mary Rose. Footage will be brought to life through the smells, sounds and movement from the raising, with visitors given 3D glasses and CGI used to optimise the experience.

It will tell the crucial stories of all those who were instrumental in bringing the Mary Rose to the surface of The Solent, acting as a lasting legacy for the hundreds of individuals involved in the world’s largest underwater excavation and recovery.

Dominic Jones, CEO of the Mary Rose Trust said: ‘Never in the history of the Mary Rose Trust have we undertaken such a monumental expansion. We are incredibly proud to announce that in the Spring of 2023 we will be launching this state-of-the-art technological innovation to help bring the fascinating story of the Mary Rose into the modern day. This is a world class immersive experience not to be missed.

‘I can’t thank enough all those who have supported us get to where we are today, from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, to individuals, companies and grant makers. It is our ongoing vision to sustain the Mary Rose’s legacy and her collection as a leading museum. This expansion will kick start next year with us doing just that.’

SEE ALSO: The raising of the Mary Rose in pictures

The trust has teamed up with Figment Productions to work on the experience. The cutting-edge digital media production company has worked with brands including the National Trust, Royal Opera House and Legoland.

Simon Reveley, CEO of Figment Productions, added: ‘This immersive cinema experience will use sensory effects, 3D visuals and most importantly, an authentic, gripping, heart-pounding true story. We’ll offer guests a whole new perspective of the Mary Rose. We want visitors to feel like they played their part in that historic moment in 1982.’