Imagine stepping into a world built entirely of Lego bricks – not just any Lego creations, but breathtaking recreations of the world’s most iconic landmarks. This extraordinary exhibit, featuring the work of Lego-certified professional Ryan McNaught, known as “The Brickman,” has arrived in the Philippines for the first time, transforming The Space at Solaire into a stunning spectacle.
This isn’t simply a display to observe; it’s an invitation to reconnect with the joy of childhood, to pull away from screens and rediscover the tactile pleasure of building. Whether you’re a lifelong Lego enthusiast or seeking a unique family experience, this exhibit promises a captivating journey for all ages.
The exhibit immediately draws you in with “Ancient Wonders of the World,” dominated by a magnificent Great Pyramid of Giza. But it’s more than just visual impact. Each structure is accompanied by fascinating details – the sheer number of bricks used, the countless hours dedicated to its construction, and its impressive scale. The Great Pyramid itself required 28,259 Lego bricks and 71 hours of meticulous work.
Adding to the immersive experience, visitors can build their own miniature pyramids using sand-colored bricks surrounding the colossal model. This interactive element, designed with children in mind, sparks imagination and encourages hands-on creativity. It’s a space where young builders can truly lose themselves in play.
A quick glance might suggest a 15-minute walkthrough, but the exhibit’s depth invites a much longer exploration. Hours can be spent admiring the intricate details of landmarks like Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer, France’s Arc de Triomphe, India’s Taj Mahal, and Britain’s Big Ben and Stonehenge. In total, 45 Wonders of the World await discovery.
The logistics of bringing this monumental exhibit to life are impressive. Samantha Sewell, GMG Productions’ executive producer, explained that the structures arrive in five shipping containers and are meticulously assembled by Brickman professionals over three to four days.
Towering above all else is a 2,560-millimeter replica of Michelangelo’s David, a testament to the artistry and precision of Lego construction. Equally impressive in scale is the Tokyo Subway System map, stretching 4,650 millimeters in length, a collaborative effort between McNaught and Claire Ashworth and Troy Walker.
The true magic, however, lies in witnessing the engagement of children. As Ms. Sewell observed, the tactile nature of the exhibit is unique, inviting young visitors to actively participate and be inspired. It’s a departure from passive observation, fostering a sense of wonder and creativity.
For parents, the exhibit offers a welcome respite from the digital world. Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions, shared his personal experience of seeing his son captivated by the Lego bricks, building alongside the Great Pyramid. He believes it’s a crucial step in re-engaging children with traditional play, especially in a country with high social media usage.
But the exhibit isn’t just for children. Adults will appreciate the engineering marvels on display, like the incredibly detailed model of the Titanic. Constructed from 133,900 bricks over 240 hours, the ship is dramatically depicted broken in half, revealing its interior and the poignant scene of passengers in lifeboats. Hidden details and subtle references to the film add another layer of enjoyment.
Himeji Castle, built from 71,392 bricks over 185 hours, is another standout. Its exterior faithfully replicates the famed Japanese castle, while a cross-section reveals a vibrant interior filled with miniature figurines depicting scenes of sumo wrestling, samurai battles, and even a nod to *The Karate Kid*.
Keep an eye out for playful references to popular culture throughout the exhibit – King Kong atop the Empire State Building, characters from *Finding Nemo* swimming in the Great Barrier Reef, and figures from *The Hunchback of Notre-Dame* adorning Paris’ iconic cathedral. These “Easter eggs” reward close observation and add a delightful touch of whimsy.
Before leaving, visitors can contribute to a collaborative Mystery Mosaic, adding their own Lego creations to a larger artwork. It’s a final opportunity to participate and leave a lasting mark on the exhibit.
The Space at Solaire, a modern event venue spanning over 1,400 square meters, proved to be the ideal location for this ambitious exhibit. GMG Productions had long hoped to bring the Brickman Wonders of the World to the Philippines, waiting for a venue that could truly showcase its grandeur.
Mr. Candal envisions The Space at Solaire as a hub for world-class entertainment, with plans to bring even more international attractions to the Philippines in the coming years. This exhibit is just the beginning of a new era of immersive experiences.
Brickman Wonders of the World is open until February 8th at Solaire Resort in Entertainment City, Parañaque. Santa Claus will be present until January 4th, offering a festive experience for children. Tickets are available through TicketWorld.
