Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be an actor at The London Dungeon? Well here’s your chance to find out. With Halloween just around the corner, we caught up with Actor Trainer, Olivia Clark to find out what it’s really like behind the spooky costumes and creepy makeup. She gives us an insight into her favourite part of the job and what people can expect from one of London’s most popular attractions by Merlin Entertainments.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I wake up every day at 6am, eat breakfast and leave the house at 7am to walk to the station. I then jump on a train and arrive to work at 8:30am on the dot. My work morning consists of small duties like putting radios out around the building and completing any tasks that might need finishing. The majority of my day is spent on the floor as one of the many characters at The London Dungeon. We rotate between three characters a day, which is a great way to keep things fresh. The time I finish work usually depends on what time of year it is as this changes during the school holidays but I tend to usually finish around 4:30pm- 5:30pm.
What can people expect from The London Dungeon?
When you visit The London Dungeon, you will be immersed in a journey through the history of the city. There’s lots of gripping storytelling, 13 live actors and 1000 years of history to be discovered. The tour features state-of-the-art theming and special effects with a thrilling ride at the end for you to enjoy. You’ll laugh, scream and have lots of fun here at the dungeons.
What do you wear to work?
Our amazing studio team provides a range of costumes, which are perfectly designed and suited for each of the characters. I always come to work dressed in my normal day-to-day clothes and then change into whichever costume I may be required to wear that day.
What’s your favourite part of your work environment?
It has to be the great team who work here. There are people from all different backgrounds and each individual brings something unique to the work atmosphere. I couldn’t be prouder to be part of the incredible team at the dungeons .
What’s the best bit about your job?
No two days are ever the same. We are constantly kept on our toes and have the chance to play different characters all the time. The supportive management team are also amazing and another reason why I love my job so much.
What’s the weirdest part of your job?
It’s definitely explaining to people what I do for a living, as this often gets an odd reaction, although once they start hearing more and more about my role they are usually quite envious of how exciting my job is.
How do you wind down after a long day at work?
I usually wind down by watching Louis Theroux documentaries on Netflix whilst drinking too many cups of tea.
What’s your favourite memory of London?
My favourite memory of London has to be seeing the millennium firework display on New Year’s Eve when I was younger. This experience felt absolutely magical as a six year old.
Where’s your favourite place to go in London?
My favourite place to go in the city is Alexandra Palace as by the steps you can see fantastic views of the city. This place is very close to my heart as my parents used to take me there from time to time. Unfortunately, they have since passed away so it's now a very special spot for me to relax and think of good times.
All bookings must be made in advance for The London Dungeon.