This exhibition showcases three poignant VR documentaries, each narrating the touching and inspiring tales of Holocaust survivors Marion Deichmann, Rodi Glass, and Doris Fogel.
Attendees will be immersed in the survivors' stories through an innovative blend of technology and emotion, stepping into someone else's life and understanding their journey on a profoundly intimate level.
East City Films created these powerful films in collaboration with the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center. Directed by UK VR artists Charlotte Mikkelborg, Darren Emerson and Mary Matheson. Winner of Best Social Impact the XR Awards 2024.
Letters from Drancy
Through 360 video, animation and spatial sound, audiences are immersed in the memories of 9-year-old Marion Deichmann, as she recounts her daring childhood journey across the borders of Northern Europe. Separated from her family in the chaos of war, Marion’s survival was made possible by the bravery and kindness of strangers. Ultimately this is a story of love and loss, and the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter.
Walk to Westerbork
Journey with Rodi Glass through Amsterdam, Westerbork, and Vittel in a story of survival, resilience, and love. Featuring immersive visuals, 360-degree sound, and family archives, this film highlights the overlooked tragedy of losing 75% of Dutch Jews during the Holocaust.
Escape to Shanghai
Escape to Shanghai is a virtual reality experience that follows Doris Fogel’s epic journey from Nazi Germany to Shanghai, China, as her family made a temporary home and a new life cut off from the horrors playing out in German-occupied Europe.
The Journey Back, A VR Experience was created by Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center in collaboration with East City Films and made possible through the generous support of The Kimberly Duchossois Family Global Technology Initiative
Opening times:
Mon – Sat 11am – 7pm (last entry 6pm)
Sun 11am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)
Running time:
1 hour. Please arrive 10 minutes before your slot to allow time for on-boarding.
Age guidance: 10+
VR is not recommended for under 10s. Visit the Meta Quest safety information page for further information. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.
What is a Virtual Reality experience?
Virtual Reality (VR) is the use of computer technology to create a simulated world. Guests wear a headset with integrated over the ear headphones.
Do I need to book?
Yes, this is a free immersive experience with limited capacity, so book in advance to avoid disappointment on the day.
Do I need to bring anything?
Spectacles may be worn under the VR headset however it may be more comfortable to wear contact lenses or go without your glasses for the experience.
What are the health and safety measures?
Most people do not experience any negative reactions to Virtual Reality. However, VR may be disorientating for individuals who are neurodiverse, have hearing or sight impairments, or experience vertigo, epilepsy, dizziness, seizures, motion sickness or fainting.
If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, please consult with your GP before taking part.
Trained facilitators will be on hand to provide support and guidance throughout the experience should you require it.
We thoroughly clean and sanitise all equipment, including headsets and headphones, with hospital-grade antibacterial wipes and a UV machine before each use. We request that you use the hand sanitiser provided on arrival.
Under 16s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. VR is not recommended for under 10s.
Babies in slings are not permitted inside the experience.
Any guests arriving for the experience who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to take part.
