Hooray for Harryhausen: Guided Exhibition Tours with Connor Heaney & Vanessa Harryhausen

Guided Exhibition Tours with Connor Heaney & Vanessa Harryhausen

As part of Hooray for Harryhausen: A Day of Films, Creatures & Curiosity, the special opening-day celebration of our major new exhibition Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion, these exclusive guided tours offer a rare opportunity to explore the exhibition alongside two people uniquely connected to Harryhausen's life and legacy.

Led by Vanessa Harryhausen, daughter of the legendary animator and special effects pioneer, and exhibition specialist Connor Heaney, these intimate tours reveal the stories behind the creatures, films and artistic vision that changed fantasy cinema forever.

From the skeleton warriors of Jason and the Argonauts to the mythical beasts of The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, Harryhausen's creations inspired generations of filmmakers and continue to capture imaginations today. This major exhibition brings together remarkable artefacts, artwork and insights into the pioneering techniques that made his creatures appear magically alive.

Along the way, Vanessa and Connor will share behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating details about Harryhausen's creative process, offering a deeper understanding of both the artist and his extraordinary work.

Whether you're a lifelong fan, a film enthusiast, an animation lover or simply curious about one of cinema's greatest innovators, these tours provide a unique way to experience the exhibition.
 

Meet Your Guides

Vanessa Harryhausen (pictured) is dedicated to preserving and sharing her father's legacy through the Ray & Diana Harryhausen Foundation. Her personal perspective offers visitors an unparalleled insight into the man behind the monsters and the enduring impact of his work.

Connor Heaney has worked extensively with the Harryhausen collection and exhibition programme, bringing specialist knowledge, enthusiasm and storytelling to the remarkable objects and films featured throughout the exhibition.

Time: 11:00am and 1:30pm
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
Tickets: £12.50 | £10.50 concession: book your slot at the bottom of this page!
 

More to Explore on Opening Day

The tours are part of Hooray for Harryhausen: Films, Creatures & Curiosity, a special opening-day celebration for Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion.

10:00am
Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (U) Family Screening
Screening: Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger

11:00am and 1:30pm
Guided Exhibition Tours with Connor Heaney & Vanessa Harryhausen
Myths & Motion Exhibition tour in the Gallery

12:00pm
Children's Creature-Making Workshop
Make your own Harryhausen style creature

3:00pm
The Valley of Gwangi (U) Screening and Q&A with Vanessa Harryhausen, Connor Heaney, John Walsh and Mike Hankin followed by a Book Signing & Photo Opportunity
The Valley of Gwangi (U) Screening and Q&A

About the Exhibition

Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion is a major exhibition at The Arc, Winchester, celebrating the life, work and lasting influence of the legendary animator whose groundbreaking stop-motion creations transformed fantasy cinema.

Featuring iconic creatures, original artwork and behind-the-scenes insights, the exhibition explores the imagination and innovation behind some of film's most beloved adventures.

View the exhibition:
Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion

Make a day of it by exploring the exhibition, dropping into our café bar for refreshments, and browsing Harryhausen-inspired gifts and souvenirs in our shop!