Military Museum Curator in Leeds Creates Viral TikTok Video with Gen Z Language
A curator at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds has taken the internet by storm with a TikTok video that has garnered over four and a half million views. Mark Murray-Flutter, the curator behind the viral video, recently sat down with The UK Tonight to discuss the unexpected success of his entertaining cross-generational content. Described as “serving curatorial realness fr [for real],” the video showcases Murray-Flutter’s playful use of popular Gen Z slang terms to describe the museum and its exhibits, aiming to attract a younger audience.
In the video, Murray-Flutter humorously claims to have handed over scriptwriting duties to a Gen Z employee, adopting phrases like “slay,” “pop off queen,” and “main character energy” to engage with viewers in a relatable and engaging manner. The curator’s unconventional approach has not only captured the attention of millions of TikTok users but has also garnered over half a million ‘likes’ on the platform, which is predominantly frequented by younger demographics.
Embracing the vernacular of the younger generation, Murray-Flutter exclaims in the video, “Brat summer is over besties, it’s time to enter your historical era. The Royal Armouries is the most sigma day out in Leeds. No cap.” Through his use of contemporary slang and witty commentary, the curator aims to make history more accessible and engaging to a new audience, bridging the generational gap with humor and authenticity.
Subheadings:
1. The Evolution of Museum Outreach Through Social Media
2. The Impact of Gen Z Language on Traditional Institutions
3. Nurturing Cross-Generational Engagement Through Digital Platforms
As Murray-Flutter gestures towards various sets of armor and weapons, he enthusiastically declares “slay” and introduces the term “smol” to the audience, showcasing a miniature pistol with affectionate humor. Transitioning to the museum’s renowned Lion Armour exhibit, he attributes it with “main character energy,” a term denoting significance and attention-grabbing qualities. Referring to King Henry VIII as “the OG rizzler,” meaning a figure of ultimate romantic allure, Murray-Flutter infuses historical artifacts with modern relevance and relatability.
In his conversation with Sarah-Jane Mee, Murray-Flutter reflects on the collaborative effort that led to the creation of the viral video, acknowledging his communications officer Katie for introducing him to Gen Z slang. Admitting to initially feeling out of touch with the terminology, the curator humorously discloses his use of a dictionary provided by Katie to familiarize himself with the latest expressions. Despite the initial learning curve, Murray-Flutter expresses his enjoyment of engaging with a younger audience in their own language, fostering connection and inclusivity across generations.
Subheadings:
1. Embracing Inter-Generational Communication Through Social Media
2. The Importance of Authentic Engagement in Digital Outreach
3. Cultivating Cultural Relevance Through Language Adaptation
When asked about his experience of unexpectedly going viral, Murray-Flutter admits to being pleasantly surprised by the overwhelmingly positive response to his TikTok video. He attributes the success of the content to its relatable and engaging nature, which resonated with viewers across age groups. Reflecting on the broader goal of attracting a younger demographic to the museum, the curator emphasizes the significance of presenting historical artifacts in a compelling and accessible manner, inviting new audiences to explore and appreciate the collection.
In conclusion, Murray-Flutter’s innovative use of Gen Z language on TikTok has not only propelled the Royal Armouries Museum into the digital spotlight but has also opened up new avenues for cultural institutions to connect with diverse audiences. By embracing contemporary slang and humor, the curator has demonstrated the power of language in bridging generational divides and fostering meaningful engagement with history. As museums continue to adapt to the digital landscape, Murray-Flutter’s viral success serves as a testament to the transformative potential of authentic and inclusive storytelling in the modern age.