What the Dickens?

The BBC reports that the opening of Dickens World in Chatham, Kent, will be delayed by six weeks.

Dickens World?

Apparantly it's an indoor themed attraction based on the life, books and times of Charles Dickens. According to the park's official website:

The in-house attraction will reproduce the architecture of the period with picturesque archways, cobbled stoned streets and decorative features, together with specialised lighting and appropriate euphonics as well as a host of costumed characters, shop keepers and street entertainers. [...]

The experience will feature a Dickensian Shopping Mall, together with a multitude of attractions and rides, including a mix of themed restaurants, bars and a multiplex cinema.

Dickens World will also have facilities for seasonal variations, particularly over the Christmas period in which the attraction will convert into a Dickensian winter wonderland, replete with snow and other characteristics of a bygone era, complemented by a magnificent water feature which over the festive season changes into a spectacular 'ice fantasia' dominated by 'The Spirit of Christmas', 'JackFrost', 'Scrooge' and a host of other delightful characters who magically come to life. This and other seasonal events throughout the year an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

A series of 'burlesque' evening dinner shows are being especially created to provide a nightly menu of 'naughty delights' in the 'Free and Easy' Victorian Music Hall.

Why do the words 'tacky', 'money-making exercise' and 'dumbed down culture' spring to mind? I bet the poor man is rolling in his grave.

Comments

[Kailana]

Wow, I have never heard of that before. I am not sure what to say. I admit, if it was closer to me I would probably go just to see what it was like...

[Julia]

I wonder if it will have the authentic odours of the period.

[kimbofo]

Julia, yes, I was also wondering about that -- and the rodent count.

[Melanie]

This is simply frightening! Moving right along with the Disney-fication of England...