As an avid reader of historical biographies, I found Waxing Mythical a welcome addition to my bookcase. It follows the rise of Marie Tussaud from a lowly showman’s apprentice to one of the most famous names in the cultural world.
Although best known for her waxwork figures, what fascinates me is Tussaud’s flair for branding and marketing. Berridge’s account describes how Tussaud presented herself as an innocent victim of a bloody revolution on her arrival in England, capitalising on the national thirst for horror and politics. She built up her reputation by seizing opportunities to exhibit portrayals of hot topics at the time and marketing her shows as “accurate models from life” with a high entry price. The educational value of the exhibitions was emphasised via catalogues, and visits were enhanced by tours with Tussaud, who claimed to have been on personal terms with many of the figures on show.
In my job I am responsible for increasing visitor numbers and income, and brand development. Tussaud was a pioneer in this, exploiting various forms of publicity and constantly adapting exhibitions to reflect current events and public opinion.
Laura Hilton is the visitor services manager for Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust
Although best known for her waxwork figures, what fascinates me is Tussaud’s flair for branding and marketing. Berridge’s account describes how Tussaud presented herself as an innocent victim of a bloody revolution on her arrival in England, capitalising on the national thirst for horror and politics. She built up her reputation by seizing opportunities to exhibit portrayals of hot topics at the time and marketing her shows as “accurate models from life” with a high entry price. The educational value of the exhibitions was emphasised via catalogues, and visits were enhanced by tours with Tussaud, who claimed to have been on personal terms with many of the figures on show.
In my job I am responsible for increasing visitor numbers and income, and brand development. Tussaud was a pioneer in this, exploiting various forms of publicity and constantly adapting exhibitions to reflect current events and public opinion.
Laura Hilton is the visitor services manager for Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust
