Attractions Management

Over 25 years ago I was starting out at Thorpe Park and attended the leisure expo at NEC and picked a copy of Attractions Management and was hooked. I would never have believed that there would be a time where there would be an interview with me inside it. What a moment to treasure and great to talk all about the amazing work we have been doing at The Mary Rose

“I hope this journey resonates with creatives across the artistic spectrum” 🎨 💚 US artist Janell Langford has created a six-room installation exploring the creative process as part of Meow Wolf’s latest permanent attraction in Houston, Texas, US. Obsidiodyssey is Langford’s second permanent installation with Meow Wolf following her CJ’s Temporal Lobby exhibition at House of Eternal Return in Santa Fe, US. It will be one of the central attractions at Meow Wolf’s Houston attraction Radio Tave, which opened in October 2024. Langford, who is known for her intricate world-building and retro-futuristic illustrations, brings her signature blend of fantastical comic book narratives and personal introspection to this new Houston installation. Obsidiodyssey features a series of spaces that represent different stages of the creative process, explored via Langford’s character CJ, described as a “ brilliant yet introverted creative with an active imagination”. Visitors join CJ on her assignment, creating the perfect music video for her art director. Browsing through storyboards in CJ’s studio, participants can also engage with interactive experiences that capture the flow state of creativity, navigate the challenges of Insidiopolis – an alley inspired by film noir style that symbolises the artist’s fears and anxieties – and celebrate at Fantastrophe’s House Party, complete with an interactive DJ booth. Langford plays with the concept of time with a clock on the wall where time passes quickly, recognising that in the creative process time can fly by when in a flow state. “I wanted to make an experience that takes guests through the ebb and flow of darkness and joy that comes with putting your whole self into works of art,” said Langford. “For me, making art can be the most beautiful, euphoric thing in the world, but often, getting it out requires facing many of my demons. I hope this journey I’ve put before our guests resonates with creatives across the artistic spectrum.” Radio Tave – Meow Wolf’s fifth permanent attraction – invites visitors to take part in the story of a community radio station transported into a strange realm. It features labyrinthine passageways and hidden doors leading to multi-sensory experiences that include a grotto with instruments that come to life, a honky tonk dive bar, a never-ending dance party, and an open air market. Meow Wolf’s sixth permanent attraction is due to open in Los Angeles in 2026. To see the full story in Attractions Management, follow the link below. http://lei.sr/s5j2a Be the first to know what's happening in the industry by signing up to our digital releases here: https://lnkd.in/dw7CipZk

Some of the most interesting projects start with a question. Why aren't we talking about the mental health toll of creating attractions? Why isn't there a museum dedicated to telling the story of the Windrush generation? How can we make the topic of AI feel more human? Do video game designers really have the power to change the world? The amazing people featured in the new issue of Attractions Management are asking these questions and many more. NorthernLight's Peter Slavenburg, Denize L. on the National Windrush Museum, Meow Wolf, Dominic Jones FRSA, Kyle Morrand✨Clara Rice, Mikkel Sonne Andrew Hudson Matt Barton Emma Newell

COMING SOON - the new issue of Attractions Management magazine! Sign up now to get your free digital copy. (See link in comments below). In this issue: • Peter Slavenburg on Drents Museum in the Netherlands' radically new collection presentation • Children's author Dr Jess French sees her fantastical creations brought to life at Chester Zoo • Dominic Jones, CEO of the MARY ROSE TRUST(THE) on bringing his commercial nous to the museum world • US artist Janelle Langford on helping to create Meow Wolf’s latest attraction • Zip World UK CEO Andrew Hudson outlines his ambitions for the company following its takeover of the world’s longest tunnel slide and observation deck ... and much more... #attractions #themeparks #waterparks #immersiveEntertainment #zoos #art #wellness #immersiveWellness #museums #planetarium #AR #VR

Drents Museum launches radical new collection 🎨🏛️ Drents Museum in the Netherlands has launched a radically different presentation of its permanent collection. The 170-year-old museum teamed up with exhibition design agency NorthernLight to create Labyrinthia, a new way of experiencing the highlights of its collection, which include the Yde Girl (an iron age bog body), paintings by Van Gogh and the world's oldest boat. Labyrinthia invites visitors to go on a journey through 15 rooms, each focused on just one artefact, with a range of activities aimed at bringing the stories to life. "In Labyrinthia you can look with your hands, smell the paint of the Northern Figuratives and touch shards from the time of the dolmen builders," according to Drents Museum's website. "Learn the techniques of the mammoth hunters, pose with the jewellery of the Princess of Zweeloo and dance at a farmer's wedding." Each room has been designed to highlight the artefacts - dark, oppressive colours create an eerie atmosphere in the room dedicated to the Yde girl, while a bright blue space adds a modern twist to the gallery dedicated to the realist art of Matthijs Röling. “We wanted to help visitors really understand these masterpieces through stories,” said Northern Light director Peter Slavenburg. “Labyrinthia is kind of like a book of fairytales, except that all of the fairytales are true.” Read the full story by following this link http://lei.sr/s9g8a Be the first to know what's happening in the industry by signing up to our digital releases here http://lei.sr/6w8k7 Steven Schaeken Martin Schoonheim Paul Klarenbeek Harry Tupan

Time for a knowledge drop. Many thanks to Attractions Management for covering the work of the Themed Entertainment Association's Wellness Council today. I look forward to talking with TEA members about the initiative next week at #IAAPAExpo as we work to prioritize mental and physical wellbeing and create a community where members can thrive. If you haven't signed up for our net-walking event, the Footprints from the Heart 5K benefiting Give Kids The World Village, please join us! DM me for more information. Now, this is my 14th IAAPA Expo US, so here are my 14 Tips for Conference Confidence! Be sure to check out AttractionPros' "Thrival Guide" for even more great insights. 1. Do your homework - research the companies and people you want to meet so you already have talking points in hand. I've poured through every trade pub, and it's done wonders for helping me feel prepared. 2. Pack your business cards. 3. Also pack comfy shoes. I have Dr. Scholl's ballet flats I wear in between my hotel and the trade show floor. They roll up easily in my purse. Game changer. Those who wear pantyhose/nylons a) you are a brave warrior human and b) spend a few extra dollars/pounds/euros/yen on a good brand so you don't have to worry about them running/ripping. 4. Stock your hotel fridge - if you are trying to abstain or moderate your alcohol consumption, hop on over to Total Wines and grab some non-alcoholic wines, beers, and mocktails so you'll have something to take to the parties. Though I must say, props to (most) party organizers for offering and advertising teetotaler options! 5. Take photos of all your receipts as soon as you purchase something so that you don't have to wade through dozens of pieces of paper later. Save them in a folder on your phone. You and your finance manager will thank you. 6. Sleep. You don't have to close the bar (every night). 7. Eat...real (non-Dippin' Dot) food. And pack (healthy) snacks. 8. Drink...WATER. 9. Exercise all (or at least most) mornings. Find an accountability partner so you're not (down bad cryin' at the gym) alone. 10. Have a plan. Allow enough walking time between your meetings and organize your show floor trips so that you hit a specific section each time. 11. Take breaks to go outside or find a quiet corner and JUST BREATHE. 12. Don't over-program. You don't have to do all. the. things. 13. Take notes in your meetings. Then, before you go to the parties each night, take your handwritten notes and either dictate them into your phone or enter them into your CRM. 14. Have fun! Everyone will have some degree of nerves. Be flexible, be authentic, be YOU. BONUS STUDENT/NEXTGEN TIPS: Remember that companies are primarily there to sell. Approach booths on Friday or when you see they are not busy, and you will likely find a warmer response. Also, be sure to check out IAAPA Career Slam! I'll be there, as will several of my colleagues. See you soon! IAAPA #conferences #tradeshows #momentsofClaraty

Efteling launches Danse Macabre dark ride and creepy forest zone 👻🌳 Dutch fairytale theme park Efteling has launched its new Danse Macabre dark ride and new themed area Huyverwoud Forest. Inspired by the orchestral piece with the same name by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, the Danse Macabre ride has been developed with Swiss ride manufacturer Intamin and is described as a “thrill ride with immersive show technology”. It consists of a turntable 18m in diameter topped by six smaller turntables, each with choir stall seating for 18 people. The large turntable rises, tilts and ‘spins like a coin’ before falling flat. Danse Macabre replaces Efteling’s iconic Spookslot haunted castle attraction, which closed in September 2022. Speaking to Attractions Management, Efteling CEO Fons Jurgens described Danse Macabre as: “Unique in the attractions industry … spectacular, creepy, exciting, thrilling, immersive and overwhelming – a haunted spectacle full of dark twists.” The attraction sits with the new Huyverwoud Forest themed area, which was inspired by the original Spookslot haunted house attraction and houses themed catering, retail and entertainment. Visitors enter Huyverwoud Forest via an abandoned and derelict abbey square, and pass through an ‘ominous gateway’ and ‘grim graveyard’ as they queue for Danse Macabre. ‘It’s the first time at Efteling that we are realising a completely new themed area in one go, adding hospitality and retail in addition to a major attraction,” said head designer Jeroen Verheij. “The entire themed area has been designed with great respect for and inspired by the iconic building of the Spookslot Haunted House. I am proud that my drawings were brought to life so beautifully by all the skilled people involved. Efteling visitors those who dare of course – will be completely immersed in a spooky world at Danse Macabre." Read the full story by clicking the link below. Be the first to know what's happening in the industry by signing up to our digital releases here http://lei.sr/6w8k7 #Attractionsmanagement #Efteling #Themeparks #Attractionsnews

Long-awaited Nintendo Museum opens in Kyoto 🇯🇵🕹 One of 2024’s most anticipated new attractions, Nintendo Museum, has finally opened in Kyoto, Japan, showcasing play, history and highly creative re-imaginings of historic Nintendo games. Located on the site of a former Nintendo factory that made playing cards and repaired toys and consoles, the Nintendo Museum finally gives fans a place to discover and learn about the history of the Japanese video game company. Founded in Kyoto in 1889 when craftsman Fusajiro Yamauchi began producing handmade hanafuda playing cards, Nintendo entered a partnership with the Walt Disney Company in 1959, opening up the children’s market, and began manufacturing toys and video games in the 1960s and 1970s. This history is celebrated in the new museum via displays, interactive games and workshops. “In more than 100 years since the company was founded, Nintendo has created many different forms of entertainment,” said Nintendo game director Shigeru Miyamoto, introducing the museum. “Although the products we’ve made have changed with the times, our desire to create fun for the whole family remains the same. This museum is a place where you can learn about our commitment to crafting play and creativity – both of which are integral to Nintendo." Visitors enter the museum via a Mario-themed Plaza. Inside, the museum is split into three sections: Learn, Experience, and Create and Play. The Experience section, on the first floor, features eight unique interactive games created especially for the museum. These are based on past Nintendo content, creatively reimagined using modern technology. These experiences include a reinvention of the handheld electronic Game & Watch console on a huge screen operated by visitors’ shadows, classic Nintendo games played via enormous controllers and an experience that allows visitors to explore classic Japanese Hyakunin Isshu poems using smart devices and a giant screen on the floor. In the 1970s, Nintendo renovated bowling alleys, turning them into commercial shooting galleries called Laser Clay. For the museum, Laser Clay has been reinterpreted using light guns and video walls as a shooting game called Zapper and Scope SP, which can be played by up to 13 people at one time. Read the full story by following this link http://lei.sr/1y5F2 Be the first to know what's happening in the industry by signing up to our digital releases here http://lei.sr/6w8k7 Shuntaro Furukawa #AttractionsManagement #Nintnedo #Kyoto

The world’s first Dragon Ball theme park will be built near Riyadh, and it’s going to be massive 🐉🎢 In March 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya | القدية Investment Company (QIC) announced that it plans to build a theme park based on the Japanese animated series Dragon Ball as part of the Qiddiya City project. Covering more than 500,000sq metres within Qiddiya City near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the park will feature seven themed lands recreating iconic locations from the original series, including Kame House, Capsule Corporation and Beerus’s Planet. Dragon Ball theme park will feature more than 30 attractions, including five state-of-the-art rides. A 70m-high figure of the dragon Shenron from the series will house the park’s signature rollercoaster ride and themed restaurants and hotels will continue the story. Falcon's Creative Group has been chosen as the masterplanner, attraction designer and creative guardian of the Dragon Ball theme park. Here Falcon's Beyond CEO Cecil D. Magpuri lets us into the plans for this major new attraction. You can read the full interview, in detail, in our most recent release of Attractions Management by follow this link http://lei.sr/g1R6F #AttractionsManagement #Themeparks #DragonBallZ #Qiddiya

Immersive art, neuroscience, AI and social bathing are set to come together in a disruptive new spa attraction concept 🌌🛁 Imagine you’re lying in a warm saltwater pool, gently floating and gazing at astral projections, while listening to underwater sounds in sequence with the images. On top of this, every detail has been meticulously and scientifically developed to transport you into an elevated state of consciousness. And there isn’t just one room, there are 12. And each is designed to induce a different heightened emotion – whether that’s awe, wonder, euphoria, inspiration, connection or transcendence. It sounds otherworldly and fantastical. But the concept is coming to market and is set to disrupt both the attractions and the wellness industries. Submersive is billed as the world’s first immersive art bathhouse. The 25,000sq ft facility is due to open in Austin, Texas in 2026 – but we can expect 11 more worldwide. Submersive brings together elements of a traditional spa such as therapeutic thermal pools, steam and sauna rooms, waterfalls, grottos, floatation and – importantly – cooler options for multiple contrast bathing possibilities and amplifies them with thought-provoking art installations, AI technology, lighting, video and sound effects. Corvas Brinkerhoff, co-founder of Meow Wolf – the company behind mind-bending interactive art and entertainment installations across the US – is the creator of Submersive. Yet while he’s made a name for himself in the attractions industry, his passion for wellness has been bubbling under for the past 15 years. “Early on in my career I had an obsession with creating immersive experiences,” he says. “I was always asking – what if artwork came off the walls and surrounded you? What if this world had a story behind it and people who inhabited it? “But parallel to this, I had a deepening love for contrast therapy. It wasn’t popular at the time and the science behind it wasn’t well known, but I knew that every time I did it I felt amazing.” In fact, his epiphany for Submersive even came in a bathhouse relaxation room, following a rigorous series of hot-cold circuits. “I had a flood of images pouring into my mind,” he recalls, “they were combinations of immersive art and bathing elements. It was wondrous and magical.” This post was taken from the most recent issue of Attractions Management. You can read the full feature here http://lei.sr/O8t8z To get our digital edition sent directly to you FREE as soon as it is published, register here now: https://lnkd.in/dw7CipZk Krystal Hauserman 💫 Vince Kadlubek Didi Bethurum Spencer Olsen John Lee Hans Vollrath Mark Gilbert #AttractionsManagement #ImmersiveExperiences #ExperienceEconomy #Submersive #MeowWolf