Whilst studying a degree in Film, Theatre and Television Studies at The University of Reading, Carol Pestridge channelled her creativity into numerous theatre productions and independent film projects. She first discovered her passion for costume and dressing when the University employed her as Wardrobe Assistant on the first English translated production of Gabriella Zapolska’s The Morality of Mrs Dulska. These skills were transferred to film when Carol took the position of Wardrobe Supervisor for the trailer of comic book adaptation The Gasman.
These experiences formed a strong foundation for Carol’s career in the entertainment industry. As a Wardrobe Mistress she joined Spirit of the Dance Productions on their international tour of The Spirit of Christmas, the UK tour of Le Grand Cirque, and the triple bill at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth of Spirit of Broadway, Spirit of the Dance and Dancing Queen. She also worked with the Armonico Consort Opera Company as Assistant Stage Manager on the UK tour of Henry Purcell’s The Fairy- Queen and as Deputy Stage Manager on the UK tour of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. During this period Carol was also involved in film based advertising as a production runner for Flair PLC’s toy commercials.
Carol’s transition into the tourism industry began when she accepted the role of Live Entertainments Manager at The Star Wars Exhibition in London. She then met Tash Banks and Alistair Reith whilst working as Stage Manager at her first horror attraction, Fright Club. They soon developed a strong working relationship and went on to work together again alongside Carol’s former Reading University colleague Alan Butler. This team (destined to become Apocalypse Ltd.) formed the creative talent behind two new interactive tourist attractions: The London Bridge Experience and The London Tombs. Carol was assigned the position of Deputy Head of Production and combined all of her experience to launch an interactive history tour (The London Bridge Experience), alongside a live action horror attraction (The London Tombs).
