We can’t wait for ‘Gangsta Granny: The Ride’ to arrive at Alton Towers Resort in Spring 2020 in a ground-breaking brand-new family attraction that brings to life David Walliams’ most popular children’s novel.
Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, Gangsta Granny tells the story of Ben who discovers that his Granny is secretly an international jewel thief. The thrilling new 4D ride experience will see guests join the main characters as they attempt the greatest heist in the history of the world: to steal the Crown Jewels.
We spoke to comedian, actor and best-selling author David Walliams and Merlin Magic Making Creative Lead John Burton about the process of bringing the book ‘Gangsta Granny’ to life in an unforgettable, family ride.
On-board a Royal Carriage, guests will set off on a Crown Jewels tour only to be caught up in Ben and Granny’s audacious adventure. The ride will whizz, twist and spin passengers 360° through a series of scenes where they will see, feel, hear and even smell an electrifying and unique re-telling of the Gangsta Granny story.
Using state-of-the-art special effects, 3D projection-mapping and animation inspired by the artwork of Tony Ross, guests will descend with Ben and Granny into the sewers, be chased through the streets of London and even come face to face with the Queen: but will the madcap scheme succeed?
“I’m absolutely thrilled that Gangsta Granny is becoming a ride at Alton Towers. I never imagined it would happen so it’s a real delight to see my characters brought to life in a ride. I’ve worked really closely with the team at Alton Towers to make sure the ride is just as funny and exciting as the book. I think children and their parents … and even their grandparents! … are going to love it!”
DAVID WALLIAMS, ACTOR AND BEST-SELLING AUTHOR“David’s stories are full of witty characters, intrigue and exhilaration so it’s been a fantastic challenge to build all that into a new ride experience. It’s the first time we’ve attempted such a complex combination of a physical ride experience, high-tech special effects and brilliant story-telling to ensure guests feel they are with Granny and Ben on every step of their adventure.”
JOHN BURTON, CREATIVE LEAD FOR ALTON TOWERS RESORT