NEW YORK PAYS A CALL ON THE CRAWLEYS AT DOWNTON ABBEY THE EXHIBITION

Conjuring memorable moments from the episodes, the visit begins with entry to Downton (which is actually shot in parts at Highclere Castle) winds from below stairs – through Mrs. Patmore’s kitchen and Carson’s pantry – and up to the dining room and Lady Mary’s bedroom – courtesy of the show’s set decorator Linda Wilson and assistant art director Caroline Barton. Along the way are fifty costumes and numerous accessories curated by Anne Robinson, costume designer for the final two seasons; fascinating photo and prop displays; historic context; wall to wall screens of clips from the show; and a sorta-interactive, kinda–ornery greeting from Carson and fond farewells from Lord and Lady Grantham. The entire installation was designed by Mather & Co and operated by Imagine Exhibitions. 

Downton Abbey ran for six seasons as a worldwide critical and commercial smash, created by Julian Fellowes, and produced in collaboration with ITV Studios, Carnival Films, NBC Universal and Masterpiece. Its sterling cast – which included film and theater stalwarts Dame Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, and Penelope Wilton – brought to life the dramatic travails of an aristocratic family living in post Edwardian England and depicted with scrupulously authentic period details. Since the show’s finale aired last year, Downton Abbey has been sorely missed, sparking off rumors of a film version that may continue the saga. In the meantime, fans can enjoy revisiting their favorite series at this wonderful exhibition that will be traveling across the US following its New York run. 

Images courtesy of NBC Universal International Studios 

(1) The ribbon cutting (2) NBC Universal International chairman Kevin MacLellan, actors Sophie McShera, Michelle Dockery, Lesley Nicol, Joanne Froggatt, and Allen Leech, with Downton Abbey executive producer Gareth Neame (3) and (4) Costumes from the series (5) photography display