A group of creative volunteers work year round on the Dickens Victorian Village mannequins. During the season when the scenes are on the street, they repair any damage that occurs from the wind or inclement weather. Once the displays are moved to the warehouse (Dickens Universal) in January, these volunteers evaluate the condition of each character to see what needs replaced or repaired. Meanwhile, the Costume Design Team combs thrift stores throughout Ohio, while other members of the team are busy creating new faces, sewing skirts, capes, specialty costumes, designing new hats and making hands. Work on the displays continues at Dickens Universal from March through October with approximately 20 hours spent on each mannequin. Additional hours are required for building and repairing the mannequin frames and platforms. All of the Dickens Victorian Village characters are restored each season.
The Dickens Victorian Village committee would like to extend a special thank you to these volunteers who have contribute countless hours of talent and creativity in creating the unique 186 mannequins! They have also helped increase public awareness by demonstrating their project at numerous public venues and events throughout the year.
The Dickens Ambassadors:
Charged with welcoming visitors and helping them to create memories, these special Dickens volunteers work in the Dickens Welcome Center, 6 days a week, meet and greet tour groups, provide guide service to our motorcoach visitors and dress in costume to stroll the streets during the ten week Victorian celebration.
