AT A GLANCE
• Derry Girls, which first aired in 2018, follows four teenage girls – and “a wee English fella” – growing up in Derry during the 1990s.
• Fans of the show will be able to view parts of the original sets, including the Quinn living room and kitchen, as well as props like Spice Girls costumes, Erin’s diary, the Child of Prague statue and Ma Mary’s jumpers.
• Jamie Lee O’Donnell, who played Michelle in the hit series, attended the grand opening of the exhibition.
• It’s on till July 2024 at Tower Museum, Derry.
• You can watch Derry Girls on Netflix.
A new Derry Girls Experience has opened at Tower Museum in Derry, and it promises to be “cracker”.
This colourful exhibition, inspired by the beloved TV show Derry Girls, is a delightful journey through the hilarious world of teenagers and school mates Erin, Clare, Michelle, Orla, and “wee English fella” James.
Visitors are treated to a treasure trove of Derry Girls memorabilia, including an impressive collection of props and costumes that transport them back to the iconic moments of the show. From the cast’s school uniforms, meticulously recreated to every detail, to Erin Quinn’s cherished diary, filled with teenage musings and comedic mishaps, the exhibition immerses fans in the hilarious and nostalgic atmosphere of the hit series.
The exhibition features sets that replicate the Quinn living room and kitchen, allowing visitors to step into the heart of Erin’s home. Spice Girls costumes from the third season bring back memories of the gang’s unforgettable school performances, while the Child of Prague statue and Ma Mary’s rosary beads add a touch of spiritual humour.
Principal Sister Michael’s office and Erin’s bedroom are digitally recreated, offering insights into the show’s production and behind-the-scenes secrets. Interactive displays showcase interesting facts and trivia about the series, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the creative process that brought Derry Girls to life.
The exhibition opening was a star-studded affair, with Derry Girls’ very own Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, who portrayed the indomitable Michelle Mallon, gracing the event. The original Derry Girls, the friends of show creator Lisa McGee who inspired her to write the hilarious yet heart-warming series about her school memories, were also at the opening of the exhibition.
The show has been a massive success for Britain’s Channel 4, winning multiple awards. It ran for three series, with the final episode aired on 18th May.
Mayor Patricia Logue expressed her delight at the exhibition, emphasizing its role in establishing a lasting legacy for the city.
The city has already capitalised on the popularity of the comedy with several other tourist attractions on offer in the city and district, including a city centre mural of the main cast on a large gable wall of Badger’s Bar on Orchard Street.
The Derry Girls Experience will be open at Tower Museum until July 2024.
Anglo&Celtic 