Sovereign Hill contacted thinkOTS wanting to develop an attraction for an extremely sensitive subject – Australia’s worst mine disaster in 1882, where more than 40 men were trapped for days and 22 died. thinkOTS recreated the disaster that occurred 100-metres underground in a purpose-built, two-level building. Our team used sound effects, music, video, lighting, wind and water to communicate the highs and lows of the three-day rescue effort that had kept the township on tender hooks.

ThinkOTS developed several firsts for the attraction including a three-stage ‘pepper’s ghost’ effect and a reflection pool in the base of the underground theatre, which was paramount to the communication. The attraction’s highly emotive soundtrack included the Australian Boys Choir. Audiences cannot help becoming involved in the first-hand experiences of the many men who died and never again saw their friends and families. Many audience members become emotional due to the soundtrack, lighting and surprises revealed. The culmination of script, interpretive design, scenic art, soundtrack, lighting and video made Trapped! one of the most rewarding projects in which thinkOTS has been involved.