Kilburn Live has partnered with Mattel to create an immersive attraction called ‘World of Barbie’, which features human-sized playsets including Barbie’s iconic dreamhouse.
World of Barbie is kicking off its tour of North America in Toronto this summer, before heading to New York, Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles.
“We were asked to bring Barbie’s playset to life,” said Kilburn Live CEO Mark Manuel. “Who can say no to that opportunity?”
“Barbie is as relevant today as she was when she was first introduced to the world 63 years ago, if not more,” Manuel added.
Barbie’s pink camper van
Barbie-inspired sets include a life-size version of Barbie’s pink camper van, as well as Barbie’s dreamhouse, which boasts a living room, kitchen and garden.
“I watched my daughter live and play in her world, I believe it helped shape her sharp and lively imagination, just like it has for millions of other children growing up,” Manuel said.
“So there were a lot of reasons we needed to get this right.”
World of Barbie also has an exhibition that explores Barbie’s development over the years. Playsets include a fashion studio where fans can pose inside oversized Barbie doll boxes and a TV studio where visitors can host ‘The Barbie Show’.
Barbie’s iconic dreamhouse
“Throughout her history and numerous careers, Barbie has represented a world of limitless potential,” said Julie Freeland, senior director of location-based entertainment at Mattel.
“With this exquisitely-designed attraction we were intentional about delivering an exciting experience that would leave younger fans with the sense that they could do anything or be anything,” she added.
“And, for those who grew up with Barbie, we wanted to spark a little bit of nostalgia, give these fans a chance to step back, reinvent themselves, if only for an afternoon, and spend a day in the dream life!”
Images: Mattel/Kilburn Live
