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Richard "Harold" Chance, 1921-2010
The founder of the Chance Manufacturing Company, Richard “Harold” Chance, passed away on July 10, surrounded by family. He was 88 years old.
OCT orders duelling coaster for Wuhan
Following the popularity of China’s first ever wooden coaster at Happy Valley Shanghai, Martin & Vleminckx (M&V) has been contracted to supply a duelling coaster for the OCT group’s new park in Wuhan.
World of Color
World of Color, a dazzling array of animated characters, astonishing special effects and specially-composed music is captivating guests at Disney California Adventure.
AAE planned for Singapore in 2011
IAAPA has confirmed that Asian Attractions Expo will take place in Singapore next June. The venue will be the convention centre at Resorts World Sentosa, the city’s new multi-billion dollar destination resort.
Oil spill impacts waterpark
The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is now impacting amusement venues in Florida.
World’s longest waterslide coaster
One-third of a mile long, Wildebeest is the world’s longest waterslide coaster, now open at Splashin’ Safari waterpark next to Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana.
Extreme slides at Area 47
The world’s first combined slide tower and diving platform has opened at Austria’s “ultimate outdoor playground.”
Rock 'n' Twist!
SBF recently supplied a Drop ‘n’ Twist tower to a corporate client in Southern Europe. The 17-metre-high ride was operated at two Rock in Rio music festivals, in Lisbon and Madrid.
Underwater at Ocean Park
Hong Kong’s leading theme park has opened a new Yangtze River themed attraction.
Merlin announces new shareholder
Europe's leading attraction operator, Merlin Entertainments has announced that CVC Capital Partners (CVC) has agreed to acquire a 28% stake in the group.
Parks & Resorts Scandinavia expands portfolio
The Swedish operator Parks & Resorts Scandinavia (PRS) has acquired the Furuvik animal park in the city of Gävle.
Steel track for wooden coasters
Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC), of Hayden, Idaho, reckons it has hit on something that will revolutionise wooden rollercoasters.
Premier Rides moves
Premier Rides has relocated its headquarters to Baltimore, Maryland, as part of plans for expansion.
Zamperla Air Race
Combining several different movements, Air Race is the latest family thrill ride from Zamperla. Open since the end of May at Luna Park in Coney Island, New York, the ride also provides a spectacular visual effect.
P&P's new projects
Despite its 20 years in the attractions business, the Dutch design firm P&P Projects had never done any work for Efteling until recently. Now it's completed two jobs for Holland's most famous theme park.
Joris en de Draak
Based around the story of George and the Dragon, Efteling's new duelling coaster opened to the public on July 1.
Kiddie wave pool!
Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags New England has introduced Mr Six’s Splash Island. This 30,000 gallon shaded wave pool is designed especially for little ones, and features a 150ft interactive lazy river with dumping coconuts, rain curtains and squirting effects.
Legoland Water Park
The world’s first Lego-themed waterpark opened on May 28. Legoland Water Park, part of the Legoland California Resort, represents the largest expansion in the history of Carlsbad-based park.
Holiday World’s Will Koch dies
Will Koch, owner and president of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, passed away June 13 at the age of 48. His brother Dan has been named the park's new president and CEO.
Merlin goes pirate crazy!
Pirates are an enduring theme for parks and attractions across the globe and this season Merlin Entertainments is introducing them to even more of its properties.
New era for Coney Island
The new Luna Park at Coney Island opened its gates on May 29, with thousands of local residents and tourists alike lining up to be among the first to attend New York City's first new amusement park in more than four decades.
Simworx at Futuroscope
Futuroscope, the French science park, has enlisted the help of the UK’s largest simulation specialist to provide key elements in one of its latest attractions.
Ghost Ship docks at Morey's Piers
A new walk-through attraction has arrived at Morey's Piers, Wildwood, New Jersey.
Turtle talks at Sea Life
Animalive, the British developer of live interactive theatres, is to roll out its Chatterbox Mini product to three more Sea Life centres in the UK following a successful trial in Brighton.
King Kong meets the dinosaurs
Visitors to a theme park in China can discover King Kong rubbing shoulders with the dinosaurs. The hairy beast can be found in a brand new area of Changzhou Dinosaur Park, about two hours’ west of Shanghai, together with a raft of other attractions.
Ednör – L'attaque
The launch of Ednör – L'attaque at La Ronde signals the start of the Montreal amusement park’s transition into a theme park.
SkyJump Las Vegas
Las Vegas’ Stratosphere Hotel & Casino has opened one of the world’s tallest SkyJump attractions. Located 855ft above the Vegas Strip, the attraction is best described as a controlled freefall.
IAAPA to open Asian office
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) is to open an office in either Hong Kong or Singapore to service its members in the Asia-Pacific region.
Omaka Rocka opens
Omaka Rocka, ProSlide’s innovative new two-man ”surprise adventure” tubing ride (marketed by the manufacturer as Topsy Turvy), has opened at Aquatica in Orlando. H
Jackson returns to Disney
Michael Jackson will soon appear in 3D form at four of the five global Disney resorts.
Laser tag – the next generation
The Sudden Impact! Entertainment Company has given a new lease of life to laser tag by marrying it with a branded property.
17th Annual Thea Awards
The TEA (Themed Entertainment Association) is now accepting nominations for the 17th Annual Thea Awards, with final submissions due by July 8.
Hart rescues Kentucky Kingdom
Ed Hart, who formerly owned Kentucky Kingdom, is expected to negotiate a lease agreement for the Kentucky amusement park, which Six Flags announced plans to withdraw from earlier this year.
Liseberg has AtmosFEAR
The Swedish amusement park Liseberg is to transform its observation tower into Europe’s tallest freefall attraction. The conversion will be carried out by Intamin.
Parques Reunidos buys Movie Park
Palamon Capital Partners has sold Movie Park in Germany, the one remaining asset in its Star Park group, to the Spanish operator Parques Reunidos. The purchase price is undisclosed.
Bobbejaanland founder dies
Bobbejaan Schoepen, the founder of Bobbejaanland in Belgium, passed away on May 17, the day after his 85th birthday.
Weber replaces Shapiro at Six Flags
Alexander Weber Jnr has been named president and interim chief executive officer (CEO) of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, effective immediately. Former president and CEO Mark Shapiro is no longer with the company, the second senior executive to leave in recent weeks.
Intimidator at Carowinds
The skyline has changed at Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina. Inspired by the nickname given to motor racing legend Dale Earnhardt, Intimidator is a $23 million (€17m) steel megacoaster towering 232 feet (70.7-metres) tall. Paul Ruben reports.
Skyraker 001
The UK’s only Drop ‘n’ Twist Tower has opened at Flambards in Cornwall. The 28-metre attraction is the tallest of its kind from the Italian manufacturer SBF, and is proving a big hit with park guests.
WOW - snow in the dessert!
The Middle East's largest waterpark is set to open on June 1, bringing a taste of the Antarctic to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Peppa Pig at Paultons
The first themed area dedicated to the character Peppa Pig will open Easter 2011 at Paultons Park in Hampshire, England. The hit pre-school brand is broadcast on TV channels in 180 countries and in the UK alone generated sales of over £100 million ($1.54m/€115m) in the last financial year.
Theme Index – 2009 park attendance figures released
The park industry managed to weather the economic storm at a level equal or greater than many other industries in 2009, according to the latest amusement park attendance report from TEA and AECOM (formerly Economics Research Associates/ERA).
Tourism & Property summit returns to Shanghai
A third Asia Tourism Property & Attraction Summit (ATPAS) is planned for Shanghai on May 31 and June 1 – timed to coincide with Expo 2010.
Cedar Fair terminates Apollo deal
Cedar Fair and affiliates of Apollo Global Management have agreed to terminate their previously announced merger agreement.
Freestyle Music Park ‘unlikely’ to open
According to the Myrtle Beach SunNews, the owners of the $400-million Freestyle Music Park missed a court-ordered deadline to make a debt payment, meaning the venue is unlikely to open this season.
Five years for Etheredge
Wild West World founder Thomas Etheredge has been sentenced to five years in prison – 30 times longer than his park survived – for defrauding investors.
Whale Adventures - Splash Tours
What could possibly be the world’s first whale watching-themed attraction opened last month at Europa-Park near Freiburg, kicking off the German park’s 35th anniversary celebration.
BALPPA urges politicians to Take Tourism Seriously
Members of BALPPA, the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions, gathered in London on March 15 for their annual general meeting, followed by a parliamentary lunch at the House of Commons.
Space Fantasy launches at Universal Studios Japan
Guests at Universal Studios Japan are invited on a mission to save the sun. Replacing ET Adventure, and housed inside the same building, Space Fantasy – The Ride is a spinning coaster in the dark with an interstellar storyline.
Robotland promised for 2013
Scheduled to open in 2013, subject to funding, Robotland is a one-of-a-kind theme park planned for the South Korean city of Incheon, less than an hour from Seoul.
Sum of all Thrills
Located within the Innovations pavilion of EPCOT at Walt Disney World in Florida, Sum of all Thrills allows guests to custom-design their own thrill ride using mathematical tools, touch-screen controls and a robotic simulator.
Three Maurer coasters for China
Maurer Rides is building two SkyLoop coasters (as pictured) and an X-Car Launch Coaster for China.
Kolmården SAFARI
After celebrating its best year ever in 2009, Scandinavia’s largest wildlife park is to open a first-of-a-kind attraction in time for the 2011 season. SAFARI will be an open gondola lift that brings people up close and personal with Kolmården’s many wild animals.
Star Flyer soars to new heights
The world’s tallest Star Flyer is currrently taking shape at the Prater in Vienna.
Networking and park visits announced for Asian Expo
Several familiar IAAPA faces and a number of leading local attractions will be taking part in the education programme, social events and park visits planned during July’s Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) in Kuala Lumpur.
Toverland expansion announced
The Dutch park Toverland is to expand its Troy zone with the opening of a new harbour area and a pirate ship attraction. Even bigger things are planned for 2011, when the park celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Merlin expands Blackpool operations
Blackpool Council has taken the British resort's landmark tower and Winter Gardens into public ownership, and appointed Merlin Entertainments to run a number of associated attractions.
Ferrari World - opening confirmed
The wait is almost over. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will open to the public on October 28, three weeks ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Chance gives Nickelodeon BrainSurge
The first Unicoaster from Chance Morgan has opened at Nickelodeon Universe inside the Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota.
Bondholders to own Six Flags
Six Flags Inc junior bondholders will own the bankrupt theme park operator under a settlement reached on March 19, ending a two-week long trial.
Tuff-Tuff Tåget at Gröna Lund
One of Sweden’s leading parks is promising big thrills for its young guests this coming season in the shape of a new kiddie coaster from Zamperla.
Klump Island on track at Tivoli
Klump Island, a new play are based around the licensed character Rasmus Klump (also known as Petzi), is taking shape at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen.
ProFun to manage Shanghai Expo pavilion
The Information and Communication Pavilion at Expo 2010 in Shanghai will be operated by the ProFun Management Group, the California firm has confirmed.
Universal Studios Singapore - opening confirmed
Following a week of previews in February, the new Universal Studios at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore will open for business on March 18.
Pony power!
Visitors to Slagharen in the Netherlands are being promised a “new” park when it reopens for the season on March 26, plus the return of a fondly remembered feature: Ponies.
Yak & Yeti Restaurant
The new Yak & Yeti Restaurant alongside at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida has been recognised by the International Council of Shopping Centers for its innovative design.
Wild West fraud
A jury has found Thomas Etheredge (pictured), 55, founder of the failed Wild West World theme park in Wichita, Kansas, guilty on seven of nine counts in his securities fraud trial.
DEAL offers double education opportunities
Visitors to this April's DEAL trade show in Dubai will be able to soak up knowledge at two associated seminar events.
Experience UK
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) has launched an online directory of creative companies supplying the attractions industry.
Dinosaurs Unleashed on Oxford Street
Pedestrians on one of the busiest shopping streets in London can enjoy an up-close encounter with a dinosaur at a “pop up” attraction open until the end of April.
BugWorld eyes European sites
The company that manages the BugWorld Experience in Liverpool, England, is looking for new sites elsewhere in Europe.
Wild plans for Abu Dhabi animal park
An Abu Dhabi animal attraction is to be transformed into a major resort destination almost 20 times its existing size.
Arthur 4D
Unveiled at the tail end of 2009, Arthur and the revenge of the Maltazard is a new 4D attraction at Futuroscope, the French science park in Poitiers. Based upon the Luc Besson’s movie of the same name, it is shown inside a custom themed theatre created by Jora Vision of Holland.
Ripley's Surfers Paradise
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Surfers Paradise, Australia, is the newest and the most interactive exhibition of the strange and weird, according to its creators.
Ho Ho H20
Santa’s Village, Jefferson, New Hampshire is adding a new water feature for 2010 season. Ho Ho H2O will feature a shallow wading pool, lots of climbing, sliding and water cannons. WhiteWater West Industries is the manufacturer of the 6,400 sq ft attraction.
Google in the park
A number of theme parks have recently been captured in digital form by Google, allowing users of Google Maps to take a virtual tour via the "Street View" function.
New at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Virginia, is revamping its Ireland section (pictured) with two new attractions.
Harry Potter opening nears
The magnificence of Hogwarts Castle will be unveiled soon inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.
Magic Mountain's 17th coaster
Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California, will introduce Mr Six’s DanceCoaster, named after the company’s fun-loving, dancing mascot, as its 17th rollercoaster.
Bromilow joins Drayton Manor
David Bromilow is the new operations manager at Drayton Manor in England.
Disney's Year to Vounteer
Disney’s US parks are launching a promotion to celebrate the spirit of volunteer service and encourage families to volunteer in their communities.
New entertainment at Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo DisneySea will premiere a new after dark entertainment spectacular titled Fantasmic! to celebrate the Japanese park’s 10th anniversary in 2011. At the neighbouring Tokyo Disneyland park, Mickey’s PhilharMagic (pictured) will open in 2011.
TheHouse returns!
Following the spine-chilling success of Castle of Chaos in Branson, Missouri, Alterface is to build a second version of TheHouse, this time in Europe.
10 years of the London Eye
The London landmark that started a Ferris Wheel renaissance celebrated 10 years of operations on March 9.
KMG unleashes a Monster
KMG was granted German TÜV approval earlier this month for its second XXL swing ride. The mammoth machine, named Monster, is due to be delivered to Swiss showman HP Maier.
Mauro Ferrari
The president of Italian ride manufacturer Preston & Barbieri, Mauro Ferrari passed away recently at the age of 63. His funeral took place in Reggio Emilia on March 5.
Mack lands IAAPA Europe advisory role
Europa-Park and Mack Rides director Michael Mack has been appointed to the IAAPA Europe advisory board.
Merlin reveals 2009 results
Merlin Entertainments enjoyed strong and resilient growth in the face of the global downturn, according to its latest set of financial results, released this month.
Whale kills SeaWorld trainer
An experienced trainer at SeaWorld Orlando was killed by a 12,000-pound (5,443kg), 22-ft-long (6.7-metres) orca whale on February 24.
Morey's mystery
Morey’s Piers, Wildwood, New Jersey, is planning a major new attraction for 2010 on the the site of its old miniature golf course at Mariner’s Landing Pier.
S&S 4th Dimension Coaster for China
S&S Worldwide is to build a 4th Dimension Coaster at Changzhou Dinosaur Park in China in time for 2011 season.
Luna Park 2.0
New York City’s (NYC) mayor, Michael Bloomberg, and Central Amusement International (CAI) have unveiled plans for a new amusement park featuring Zamperla rides on three City-owned parcels of land (identified below) at Coney Island.
Liseberg launches Quick Pass
Liseberg will become the first Swedish amusement park to implement a ride reservation system when in introduces its new Quick Pass for the 2010 season.
Kentucky Kingdom to close
Six Flags has announced it is to pull out of its operation in Louisville, Kentucky, having failed to secure a new lease deal with the Kentucky State Fair Board. Four other operators have now come forward and expressed an interest in operating the park.
Inversion USA
KMG, the Dutch ride builder, has sold an Inversion to Demas Enterprises, set to be the second ride of its kind in the United States.
ScareCON 2010
Europe's only haunted attractions trade show returns for a third year in London on May 6, and Park World readers can benefit from an exclusive discount!
IAAPA Safety Institute 2010
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) is to expand its Safety Institute in 2010 by holding separate one-day workshops beginning in March in Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and the United States.
Eating 'treats' OK on a day out
A survey carried out on behalf of Merlin Entertainments has confirmed that parents drop their guard when it comes to feeding their children healthily on a family day out.
Madame Tussauds Vienna
Merlin Entertainments will open its 11th Madame Tussauds attraction in early 2011. The new outlet will feature as part of the Riesenradplatz entrance plaza (pictured) in Vienna’s famous Prater park.
Soarin' Success
Disney’s Soarin’ Over California large screen motion simulator has inspired no fewer than three established ride manufacturers (that we know of) to offer similar attractions.
The Global Theme Park Industry
Praised as an essential reference source by, among others, Bob Rogers, and sold out before the end of IAAPA in Las Vegas, this 448-work by Spanish academic Salvador Anton Clavé is a useful and thorough account of the amusement park industry.
Never-ending Rainbow
New Zealand’s largest amusement park, Rainbow’s End, has been granted an extended lease through until 2034 following five-years of talks with Manukau City Council. In exchange the park, located near Auckland, must surrender 4,000 square metres of land and move its Power Surge ride.
SkyJump Las Vegas
The Stratosphere Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is preparing to add its next big thrill.
Changzhou Dino Coaster
Zamperla’s new junior coaster will be one of several new attractions opening in 2010 at Changzhou Dinosaur Park in China, and it features a unique twist: a choice of regular or sit-astride themed ride vehicles.
Gillian's Funland expands
Opened last summer, Gillian's Funland at Sea Isle City in New Jersey will expand this season with the addition of five new rides.
Miracle Strip 2.0
Many of the old rides from Miracle Strip amusement park in Panama City Beach, Florida, are due to by employed by another park in the same resort.
Omaka Rocka at Aquatica
ProSlide’s new two-man Topsy-Turvy tubing ride opens this spring at Aquatica in Orlando, where it will appear with the name Omaka Rocka.
Wailua Kapua at Lost Island
Construction at Lost Island in Waterloo, Iowa, is right on schedule for the waterpark’s new waterslide coaster, which will open In time for the venue’s 10th anniversary in June.
Gaia: The Living World
Seoul Grand Park is to enter a new phase by combining its amusement park, zoo and botanical garden into a single destination showcasing Korean heritage. The move is predicted to revitalise the attraction in the South Korean capital according to Thinkwell, the Californian company that will design it.
Chester Zoo's Natural Vision
The UK’s most popular zoo has completed a planning application for the first phase of expansion programme designed to transform it into one of the world’s top five zoos.
Wild Asia at Chessington
An ancient and mythical Asian kingdom will be unveiled next month …near London. Wild Asia is the name of a new area at Chessington World of Adventures set to replace Beano Land when it opens on March 27.
Clostermann reveals dark ride work for 2010
Clostermann Design is currently working on a handful of new dark ride and walk through attraction experiences in Europe.
New uses for augmented reality
Total Immersion is working with a range of partners, in and outside the attractions industry, to develop new uses for augmented reality.
Disneyland helps guests with visual impairment
Guests with visual disabilities at Disneyland Resort, California, can now become more fully immersed into the resort’s attractions and storytelling through a new audio description service.
Vitala in Vietnam
The Vitala Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Thanh Nien Joint Stock Corporation to finance eight separate projects in Vietnam. The first will be the US$110 million Cam Ranh Eco Resort.
Sesame Street Safari
In keeping with the rest of the park, the new Sesame Street-themed area of Busch Gardens in Florida will celebrate the spirit of Africa.
Legoland Florida
Merlin Entertainments is to transform the former Cypress Gardens park in Winter Haven, Florida, into Legoland Florida – the biggest Lego theme park to date.
Europarks gone ...but mission lives on
Europarks, the lobbying group established to represent the amusement park industry within the European parliament, is no more. Its activities and priorities will now be continued through the offices of IAAPA Europe in Brussels.
TiLEzone London 2010
The fifth TiLEzone London seminar takes place on Thursday, February 25, where operators of visitor attractions, and their suppliers, will be presented with hot new ideas to future proof their attractions and insight into current trends.
Magic makeover for Beijing Watercube
Beijing’s famous Olympic swimming venue is about to be transformed into a world-class indoor waterpark. This summer the National Aquatic Center will reopen as the Happy Magic Watercube. Park World takes a closer look at this exciting project.
Mack makes tea cups interactive
Mack Rides has introduced Twist ‘n’ Splash, an interactive, water-based version of its classic tea cup ride.
Reinventing the wave pool
The American company Ocean Innovations boasts nine waterpark patents, with a further nine pending. The Liquid Slide is its answer to the question, “How can we improve the traditional wave pool?”
E-DA World
E-DA World is the name of a new 90-hectare shopping and entertainment district in Kaohsiung, south Taiwan. The project is a flagship for the E-United Group, a local conglomerate with roots in the steel business.
Nigerian park planned
A new amusement park development is planned for Nigeria. The $80 million Great Adventures Amusement Park & Resort is scheduled to open late 2012 in Udi, part of the state of Enugu.
Gerstlauer Sky Fly
Sky Fly is a new ride from the German manufacturer Gerstlauer. Available with one or two arms, it seats either six or 12 riders. Riders can control their orientation as they fly through the sky in open seats where their legs hang free. The rotation of the seat is controlled with wings attached at the side.
S&S launches new rides in China
S&S Worldwide is building two new compressed air launch coasters and several tower rides for 2010 delivery to China.
New coaster concepts from Vekoma
Vekoma has unveiled a new coaster concept called Dragon Fly. Riders are tilted forward in a kneeling position on this family swinging flying coaster, pictured here.
Fourth Fantawild park promised in China
The multimedia attractions developer Hytechnology is planning to open its fourth Fantawild theme park in the Chinese city of Wuhu. The park is one of two new outlets scheduled to open in 2010 and will open in time for either the Chinese New Year (February) or National Day (October) holiday.
Sally unveils Power Blast
Power Blast is a new family dark ride available from the Sally Corporation. This intergalactic black light adventure features a choice of 12 scenes in a 20,250 sq ft enclosure, using almost 850ft of track.
Tony's Mystery Golf
After success with its Mechanical Minigolf installations in the Benelux, Jora Vision has now produced its first blacklight golf attraction. Tony’s Mystery Golf in Leiderdorp features a fun storyline aimed at kids.
New from Bob's Space Racers
Lucky Duck (pictured above) from is based around the classic carnival game, but now has a flat screen display that shows the player electronically what size prize they have won while providing the operator with built-in revenue accountability.
Intamin's order book is wet
ntamin has a high number of water rides on its order books for future delivery. "The success of Pilgrim's Plunge at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari [pictured] contributed to that," believes Intamin and Ride Trade's Sascha Czibulka.
Accessible fun for all in San Antonio
Scheduled to open this coming April, Morgan's Wonderland is the world's first ultra accessible family fun park. The 25-acre park is located in 2010 in San Antonio, Texas, and has been designed specifically for guests with special needs.
Big wheels keep on turning
In the last few months, Great City Attractions (formerly World Tourist Attractions) has opened new giant observation wheels in London, Paris, Copenhagen, Malmö, Sweden, and the English cities of Birmingham and Middlesbrough.
Six Flags contracts 5D
Austrian multimedia attractions specialist 5D International has confirmed that it has been chosen by Six Flags to provide an anchor attraction as part of the American park chain’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2011.
Busy BRC
An international portfolio of projects will keep BRC Imagination Arts busy in the next 12 months.
Three theatres for Simworx
Simworx has three confirmed orders for special effects theatres in 2010. These include a 100-seat installation at the Land’s End visitor centre in England, a 48-seat theatre for the refurbished Grand Pier in Weston Super Mare, also in England, and a 112-seat theatre for a site in Bourgas, Bulgaria.
Horse Talk with Mr Zhed!
Meet Hilda, the taking goat. This computer-generated character interacts with guests and is one of several animated animals available from Living Pictures of California.
Technical Park comes out Fighting!
Technical Park, the Italian ride manufacturer, has unveiled two new variations of its Streetfighter ride.
Mega Disk'O' for Seabreeze
Seabreeze, Rochester, New York, will introduce a Mega Disk'O from Zamperla for the 2010 season.
Cedar Fair sold to asset management firm
Cedar Fair, the American park chain, is to be acquired by Apollo Global Management. The transaction is valued at approximately $2.4 billion (€1.7bn), including the refinancing of the company’s outstanding debt (thought to be more than $1.6bn).
Madame Tussauds Bangkok
The world’s most famous waxwork museum is heading for Thailand. Madame Tussauds Bangkok will open in Septmeber 2010 as part of the revamped Siam Discovery shopping mall.
Merlin appoints new chairman
Europe’s number one attraction operator has a new non-executive chairman. Sir John Sunderland, former chief executive and chairman of Cadbury Schweppes and president of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), replaces Peter Phillipson.
16th Annual Thea Awards
Awarded by the TEA (Themed Entertainment Association), the prestigious Thea Awards honour excellence in the creation of visitor attractions, experiences, exhibits and places. Read on for winners of the 16th annual awards.
IAAPA Awards 2009
During IAAPA Attractions Expo this November in Las Vegas, the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions presented no fewer than 10 sets of awards. Read on for the full rundown.
BEC now SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
Following the sale of Busch Entertainment Corporation (BEC) to Blackstone Capital Partners there comes a new name for the company that operates some of America’s best-known and popular theme parks.
Barbara Knoebel, 1943-2009
Barbara Ellen (Cook) Knoebel died on November 27, 2009 at the age of 66. At Knoebels Amusement Resort in Pennsylvania she was an important member of the family business.
Cinecitta World set for 2011 debut in Rome
Italy’s largest theme park dedicated to the cinema will open its gates in less than two years’ time. Cincecitta World, in the Castel Romano area of Rome, is set for a spring 2011 debut, and its developers hope to attract over four million guests a year.
Reinventing the wheel
Amusement industry think tank US Thrillrides claims to reinvent the way we have fun. This time, company founder Bill Kitchen is at it again. The creator of the Skycoaster, Skyventure, and Unicoaster has applied his ingenuity to reinventing the wheel, or rather the Ferris Wheel.
ProFun to manage Suzanne Mubarak park
Operational management and strategic direction of the new Suzanne Mubarak Family Park in Cairo is to be handled by the ProFun Management Group. The California-based company has formed a local operation, ProFun Egypt Ltd, to work with the Heliopolis Association to open and manage the new park.
Chance finishes first Unicoaster
The first Unicoaster ride from Chance is finished. This brand new ride features eight rotating arms with two passenger vehicles on each arm and allows each vehicle’s passengers to control their own spin, both forward and backward.
Crealy planning decision bodes well for other UK parks
A landmark appeal decision has clarified the planning status of amusement park rides in the United Kingdom.
Scenic Railway secure following government grant
The Dreamland Trust has been awarded a UK government grant of £3.7million ($6.2m/€4.2m). Cited as the most important milestone in the six-year campaign to save Dreamland park in Margate, Kent, the grant secures the future of the Scenic Railway (pictured), Britain’s oldest surviving rollercoaster.
Coney Island site acquired by New York City
The City of New York has signed a contract to acquire 6.9-acres of Coney Island from Thor Equities for $95.6 million. This will allow the City to expand, enhance and make permanent the historic amusement district.
Silver Dollar City anniversary will be a Blast!
Silver Dollar City, Branson, Missouri, launches its 50th anniversary year in 2010 with a new interactive water ride from Mack. There will also be special birthday events, entertainment and a $50,000 prize giveaway.
New trains for Holiday World coaster
The Voyage, the highly-ranked wooden coaster at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, is expected to feel faster and a lot smoother in 2010 thanks to a new set of trains.
HIT attraction planned for Malaysia
HIT Entertainment’s first Little Big Club attraction will open in 2012 at the prestigious Puteri Harbour development in Nusajaya, Malaysia.
Disney gets the go-ahead in Shanghai
After years of speculation, The Walt Disney Company has confirmed it is has received approval from the central government of China to develop a theme park in the Pudong district of Shanghai.
Europa-Park plans Iceland expansion
After celebrating the best season in its 34-year history, Europa-Park near Freiburg in Germany is to expand its Iceland area for 2010.
Water coaster on a cruise ship!
The Disney Cruise Line is to introduce an industry first when it installs a waterslide coaster on a passenger ship.
Italian show meets organiser’s expectations
The trade show Amusement Expo Europe, which took place in Genoa, Italy, from October 28 to 30, attracted over 3,000 visitors from more than 35 countries according to organiser Fiera di Genova.
Will Morey elected IAAPA third vice-chair
Will Morey of Morey’s Piers in New Jersey (pictured) has been elected IAAPA’s new third vice-chairman. He will move through the positions of third, second and first vice-chairman before leading the association as its chairman in 2013.
29th WWA Symposium
Despite a difficult season, in which many operators faced one of the coolest summers on record, the 29th Annual World Waterpark Association Symposium & Trade Show was deemed a success according to organisers.
Middle East Attractions Forum
Taking place this coming February at the Dubai Marine Hotel, the Middle East Attractions Forum (MEAF) is a new conference-based event from Trade Shows International (TSI).
Lulu talks back at Sea Life
Guests at Sea Life in Brighton, England, can now talk to resident turtle Lulu – and watch her talk back – in an interactive new attraction courtesy of Animalive.
‘6D’ arrives in Romania
After months of research and development, Kraftwerk’s first Moovid6D mobile theatre has finally opened it doors. The grand opening took place this summer as the attraction debuted inside the Liberty Center in Bucharest, Romania.
Record order for Severn Lamb UK
Severn Lamb recently secured the largest order in its 61-year history. The UK-based supplier of people-moving products is getting ready to ship the first of five ‘Lincoln’ rail trains (pictured) to an eco-resort in South Korea.
Simworx goes to Drievliet
Guests have been queuing up to see Curse of Skullrock at Drievliet in Holland. The film plays inside a 4D effects theatre from Simworx, housed inside an old Cine 180 dome rethemed by Jora Vision.
Demon Drop moves west
Knotts Berry Farm, Buena Park, California, will be replacing its S&S Screamin’ Swing ride next season with the former Demon Drop from Cedar Point in Ohio.
Zamperla starts Water Fight
Zamperla is the latest manufacturer to offer its customers an interactive water ride. The new Water Fight is available in a variety of themes and configurations with either an underwater pump or cable drive system.
KumbaK makes comeback!
KumbaK appeared at its first trade show in several years when it exhibited at the Euro Attractions Show (EAS) in Amsterdam from September 30 to October 2. There on its prominent stand were three coaster trains, each of which should keep the Dutch amusement engineers busy in the months to come.
Ocean Express serves Ocean Park guests
Guests at Ocean Park in Hong Kong no longer have to take a daredevil cable car ride to get from one side of the park to the other. The new Ocean Express funicular transportation system has opened as part of the park’s ongoing HK$5.55 billion Master Redevelopment Project (MRP), linking the Waterfront and Summit areas in just three minutes.
Technical Park's interactive jet set
Aqua Show family park in Portugal will next season unveil a Baby Aviator ride (as pictured above) courtesy of Technical Park. The attraction will be a park version of a suspended coaster already travelling in Italy, but feature a new twist: water guns in the planes and on the ground.
Solid order book for KMG
Capacity is booked through until September 2010 for the innovative Dutch ride manufacturer KMG. This winter it will build two new XXL rides (as pictured below) for showmen in Switzerland and Belgium.
Chance get busy
Chance Rides team has been busy in 2009 with many international and domestic projects. For example, Innovative Film City in India, and E-Da World, Taiwan, both installed 36ft Double Decker Carousels and Israel’s Tel Aviv Luna Park purchased a CP Huntington Train.
New rides from Amusement Technical
The British ride manufacturer Amusement Technical is working on a number of new products including a mid-size panoramic observation tower, available up to 40-metres in height, a 20-metre Ferris Wheel, monorail and dark ride transportation system.
Vekoma SLC for La Ronde
La Ronde, Montreal, Canada, will add a new Vekoma Suspended Looping Coaster (SLC) for the 2010 season. Half of the twisting 2,261ft course will be over water.
EnterTRAINment Junction – one year on
The first 12 months of business have been positive for EnterTRAINment Junction in West Chester, Ohio. The world’s only train-themed family entertainment centre (FEC) was built at a cost of $10 million (€6.8m) and covers 80,000 sq ft, including one of the world’s largest indoor model train displays, a children’s interactive play area, American Railroading Museum, event centre and seasonal themed maze.
New Disneyland president in California
George Kalogridis (pictured), a 38-year Disney veteran, has been named president of Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, California. For the past three years he served as the chief operating officer for Disneyland Paris.
Season Snapshot 2009
How was business this season at your park or attraction? Let us know, then read on for reports from venues on three continents, starting with Tivoli in Copenhagen.
Legoland Discovery Centre Texas
Merlin Entertainments is to continue its aggressive growth plan with the opening in March 2011 of a Legoland Discovery Centre (LDC) at the Grapevine Mills shopping mall in Grapevine, Texas.
Tivoli plans Petzi World
After opening a teen-friendly interactive ride in 2009 (Insane), Tivoli is to extend an olive branch to families when it unveils a new children’s area in 2010. Petzi’s World will open next summer and be based around the Danish cartoon character of the same name.
Castle of Chaos
Haunted attractions are big business in the United States but this Halloween visitors to Branson, Missouri, were able to experience the next generation of haunted house. Park World peeks inside Castle of Chaos, the world's first "5D" haunted attraction.
Knoebels Flying Turns - ready when it's done
The million-dollar question at Knoebels Amusement Resort, Elysburg, Pennsylvania, is "When is the Flying Turns going to open?" The answer, according to Dick Knoebel, is "When it's done.” Park World gets a progress report.
Bitter victory for Paultons
Paultons Park in Hampshire, England, has been officially recognised as an amusement park after submitting planning application to change its status from a county park. However a separate, retrospective planning application for two rides has been turned down by the New Forest National Park Authority.
Swiss Ride for Swiss Pavilion
Swiss Rides has landed a prestigious contract to supply a chair ride for the Swiss Pavilion at Expo 2010 in Shanghai. The ride will start inside the building, then travel outside across a grass-covered roof and back down via a spiral. Hourly capacity if predicted at 1,500 using pairs of six-seater ride vehicles like the one pictured here.
IALEI-IAAPA deal complete
The International Association for the Leisure and Entertainment Industry (IALEI) is about to become history. Officials from the family entertainment centre (FEC) trade body have confirmed that all the required approvals are in place as they prepare to dissolve IALEI and merge its membership into IAAPA (the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions).
Blackstone buys Busch Entertainment
As strongly predicted, Belgium’s Anheuser-Busch InBev has agreed to sell Busch Entertainment to Blackstone Capital Partners.
Wet ‘n Wild Phoenix
Operated by the Australian Village Roadshow chain, Wet 'n Wild Phoenix opened this June and is Arizona's largest waterpark, located on a 35-acre site at the Adobe Dam Regional Park. Previously known as Waterworld Safari, the park is packed full of new attractions, many by WhiteWater West, which also assisted with the venue’s redesign.
Cape of Good Hope
Ukraine’s largest waterpark celebrated a successful summer as thousands flocked to the renowned mineral waters of the Azov Sea. Located in one of the former Soviet Republic’s most popular resorts, the Cape of Good Hope in Berdyansk welcomed record crowds, and the best ever for a Ukrainian waterpark.
Schlitterbahn Vacation Village
Located in Kansas City, Schlitterbahn Vacation Village is the newest attraction in the Schlitterbahn family of waterparks and resorts. Built at a cost of $750 million (€508m), the year-round facility opened this spring and combines retail, dining, entertainment and lodging.
Sanatorium Zapolarie
The Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi will, in five years’ time, host the Winter Olympics. This summer, however, holidaymakers have been able to enjoy a much warmer way to have fun.
Cypress Gardens closes (for the third time)
Cypress Gardens and Splash Island Water Park, Winter Haven, Florida, abruptly closed on September 23, leaving in doubt the future of an attraction that has lured visitors since 1936.
Six Flags Over Georgia – and under water
The flooding in the state of Georgia during late September has made for many remarkable photos. Digital Globe, a satellite imaging company, has released this photo of the flooding around the Six Flags Over Georgia amusement park in Atlanta.
AIMS seminar adds aquatic certification
This November's AIMS Safety Seminar, to be held as part of IAAPA Attraction Expo, will for the first time this year include a track for operators of aquatic attractions. Scheduled classes include such topics as waterpark inspections and the prevention of waterborne illnesses, plus formal aquatic certification testing.
Cafe with a view
Located in Wildwood, New Jersey, Morey's Piers' Ocean Cafe offers one of the best views on the island, whether on a deck overlooking the water or inside the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club. But the real treat is the menu, one that goes beyond regular boardwalk fayre.
Jolly Roger adds attractions
Jolly Roger Amusement Park, Ocean City, Maryland, continues to add new attractions. This season saw the introduction of a 33-metre giant Ferris Wheel by Vekoma, a wheel that previously operated in Wisconsin Dells.
Six Flags offers baby-friendly facilities
In its continued efforts to attract families, Six Flags New England, Agawam, Massachusetts, recently opened a baby care centre.
Crealy funds third PlayPump
Up to 2,500 people in Mozambique will be able to enjoy clean water thanks to a fund-raising effort by Crealy Great Adventure Parks, which will ensure the installation of a Roundabout PlayPump.
Sea Life Phoenix
Merlin Entertainments is planning to build a $15 million Sea Life aquarium at Phoenix’s Arizona Mills Mall. If approved by the City of Tempe, it will become the second Sea Life Aquarium in the United States, joining Sea Life Carlsbad, California, which opened in August 2008 adjacent to Legoland California.
Sea Life success in Portugal
Merlin Entertainments’ first attraction in Portugal, Sea Life Porto welcomed 100,000 visitors in its first two months (to mid-August). So popular is the new aquarium that some weekends it even stayed open until midnight!
Zip on over to Wisconsosin!
Wisconsin’s first tree top zip lining adventure, spanning nearly 2,500ft, is now open at the Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort in Wisconsin Dells.
Has your attraction got the X-factor?
Amusement operators visiting the Euro Attractions Show (EAS) in Amsterdam later this month are being issued with a challenge by a group of Dutch exhibitors: face the “X-perience” jury and get some free advice in return.
Steel Pier secures long-term lease
The Catanoso family has secured a new long-term lease with Trump Entertainment to operate the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The agreement means the Catanosos can now concentrate on building up the park after years of planning one season at time.
Universal details Harry Potter plans
Ahead of its debut next spring, Universal Orlando Resort has revealed more details about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure.
Thomas Town Shinmisato
HIT Entertainment has teamed up with Pleasurecast, the attractions division of Bandai Namco Group, to open the first indoor Thomas & Friends-themed amusement facility in Japan.
Disney announces plans for US parks
Significant expansions to its American theme parks have been announced by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Jay Rasulo, including new attractions at the Magic Kingdom in Orlando and Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim, plus a 3D Star Wars attraction at both domestic resorts.
Scare Kingdom Scream Park
A new horror attraction is to be created in the grounds of an English farm this autumn. AtmosFEAR! Scare Attractions plans to operate the Scare Kingdom Scream Park on a 10-acre site at Hawkshaw Farm Park at Clayton-le-Dale near Preston from October 22 onwards, with a fireworks finale on November 5.
TiLEzone at EAS
The organiser of TiLE (Trends in Leisure and Entertainment) is to stage a one-day conference on sustainability during Euro Attractions Show (EAS) in Amsterdam on October 1.
IAAPA Latin America
IAAPA, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, is to establish a regional office in Latin America, staffed by executive director Paulina Reyes (pictured).
New water ride for Cedar Point
Shoot the Rapids, a 2,100-ft long water ride from IntaRide, will soak guests from the start of next season at Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio.
Disney's Marvel-ous deal
The Walt Disney Company is buying Marvel Entertainment for $4-billion (E2.7bn), bringing characters like Hulk, X-Men and Spider-Man into the house of Mouse. Under the deal, which will be completed by a combination of cash and stock, Disney will acquire ownership of around 5,000 Marvel characters.
Euro Attractions Show or Amusement Expo Europe …you decide!
Now that IAAPA’s Euro Attractions Show (EAS) has taken up residency as a permanent autumn fixture – just a month before Amusement Expo Europe (formerly Technofolies) – park owners from across Europe will have to ask themselves which exhibition they should attend.
Heimo diversifies
Heimo is now offering an expanded range of services to its clients. While it continues to design and build theming and animatronics, a newer and busier area of the business right now is in the design and planning of complete parks and attractions.
Dreamland heritage park secures lottery funding
The UK’s Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has given the green light to The Dreamland Trust to move forward with its plans for the world’s first amusement park of historic rides.
World’s largest water play structure!
Sitting on a two-acre site, Cowabunga Bay waterpark is located in Draper, Utah, just south of Salt Lake City. Opened in mid-July, the park is the latest offering from Huish Entertainment Group and includes the world’s largest waterplay structure.
Deluge at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom
ProSlide’s first Rocket waterslide coaster is now up and running in Louisville, Kentucky.
Aquasplash adds extreme slides
Guests at Aquasplash in the south of France this summer enjoyed two high-energy attractions courtesy of Polin. The Turkish slide supplier installed both a Turbo Lance and Space Boat at this waterpark near Antibes.
Meet the Scarecrow!
The Scarecrow is the latest Tilt Tower from ABC Engineering and it’s been thrilling guests all season at Märchenpark Neusiedlersee in Burgenland, Austria.
BillyBird's first coaster
BillyBird Park in Holland now has its first rollercoaster! The ride is the second Tube Coaster from ABC Engineering of Switzerland and best described as a bobsled run on a rollercoaster track.
Mega coaster for Kings Dominion
Virginia’s Kings Dominion amusement park will introduce its 15th and most expensive coaster next season.
Kennywood's new coaster
Kennywood, West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, will add a Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) launch coaster by Premier Rides for the 2010 season. Totalling 2,100ft in length the ride will feature a zero to 50 mph launch in three seconds, a vertical ascent, 90-degree drop and three inversions.
Gerstlauer designs small spinning coaster
Gerstlauer Amusement Rides has announced plans for a new spinning coaster aimed to suit the pockets of small to medium-sized park operators.
Asia's first AquaLoop
Spa World in Osaka, Japan, recently unveiled Asia’s first looping waterslide. The gravity-defying AquaLoop offers riders a heart pounding ride and was supplied by Whitewater West.
Waldameer Disk 'O'
Waldameer Park, Erie, Pennsylvania introduced a Mega Disk 'O' by Zamperla for the 2009 season. There are three other Mega Disk’O' rides in the US, at Kennywood, Pennsylvania; Dollywood, Tennessee; and Martin’s Fantasy Island, New York.
Galway Swing
Perks’ Leisureland in Galway, Ireland, this summer added two new rides from Zamperla amid what was a generally disappointing season in terms of business.
Holiday World announces record-breaking ride for 2010
Fresh from installing the world’s tallest water ride, Holiday World is preparing to unveil another record-breaker for 2010. Located at the adjacent Splashin’ Safari waterpark, Wildebeest will be the world’s longest waterslide coaster.
Woodie revealed for Efteling
The Efteling has revealed plans for a duelling wooden coaster, set to open at the famous Dutch park in around a year’s time.
Morey’s history is ‘A Wild Ride’
The rise of Morey’s Piers is chronicled in a new book by, A Wild Ride, a ride so wild it’s available with a choice of two covers!
TEA reveals SATE speakers
Joe Rohde (pictured), David Smith, Linda Smith, Mike West and Phil Hettema have been confirmed as speakers for September's SATE conference from the TEA (Themed Entertainment Association).
Merlin 'sponsors' London Eye
Merlin Entertainments has revealed the second part of its three-year upgrade plan for the London Eye. The leading attractions operator now lends its own name to the ride, which visitors can enjoy together with a complementary 4D cinema experience.
Rich Allen becomes S&S CEO
Following recent management changes this summer, S&S Worldwide has announced the appointment of Rich Allen as its new president and chief executive officer. Kevin Rohwer, meanwhile, becomes vice-president of sales and marketing.
Hong Kong Disneyland expansion
Three new themed areas will be added to Hong Kong Disneyland (HKDL) over the next five years, bringing the total number of attractions, entertainment, and interactive experiences at the resort to over 100. The plans were approved recently by the Hong Kong SAR Government.
Great City Attractions - it all started with a Ferris Wheel
Great City Attractions is the name of a new company that becomes the world’s leading operator of observation wheels. Formed by a merger between the Great Wheel Corporation (GWC) and World Tourist Attractions (WTA), the new enterprise boasts a portfolio of permanent and semi-permanent rides ranging from 40 to over 100-metres in height.
Beatles Story gets bigger!
In an effort to catch more tourists, The Beatles Story in Liverpool, England, has opened a second outlet just a stone’s throw from its existing site at the Albert Dock. Constructed at a cost £10.5 million ($17m/€12m), The Beatles Story Pier Head can be found inside the Mersey Ferries terminal building on the city’s renowned waterfront.
Augmented reality arrives in Asia
The first installation of Total Immersion’s Interactive Live Show (ILS) is due to open any day now as part of a new visitor attraction in Incheon, South Korea.
Peter Petz unveils solar-powered carousel
Peter Petz’s first solar-powered carousel was created in 1989, a simple three-seater construction. But now the German rider manufacturer has produced this new 7-metre diameter ride accommodating 52 passengers on 16 moving horses, four rotating balloons and additional seating.
Correcaminos Bip Bip!
Road Runner has arrived at Parque Warner Madrid. Correcaminos Bip, Bip is the name of the park’s new family coaster from Mack Rides, themed around the adventures of Road Runner and Wile E Coyote.
Sylvan Beach unveils new additions
Sylvan Beach Amusement Park, located along Oneida Lake in Sylvan Beach, New York has added a Super Himalaya, Rotor and the Sylvan Beach Screamer Speedboat, a turbo powered boat that whips and zips up to 38 passengers across Oneida Lake at mind-blowing speeds.
Chimelong expands hotel offering
Chimelong Resort in Guangzhou, China, has opened a new hotel and convention centre. The 1,100 Chimelong Hotel is underpinned by an ecological theme with stylish touches to remind guests of their location close to the resort’s Xiangjiang Safari Park.
Disneyland Hotel to renovated
California’s Disneyland Hotel this month embarks on a renovation project that will include major improvements to its guest rooms and considerable changes to the exterior of the property.
Simworx creates 4D simulator for Disney film
The British-based simulation and effects theatre manufacturer Simworx recently completed a mobile Morphis simulator equipped with 4D technology to promote the Disney movie Race to Witch Mountain.
Fabbri starts new coaster division
The Italian Fabbri Group has established a rollercoaster division called Giant Coasters, kicking off with designs for three new rides.
Vekoma I-Ride
Vekoma Rides Manufacturing is partnering with Brogent Technologies of Taiwan to develop an advanced motion platform called the I-Ride.
King Kong 3
Huss Park Attractions has announced that its third King Kong ride will open at China Dinosaur Park in Changzhou.
Vivaldi Ocean World
Located on the slopes of Mount Palbongsan, Ocean World is part of the Vivaldi Park ski resort in South Korea. The Eygptian-themed waterpark recently completed a 50,000 square metre expansion project when it opened a package of new attractions from WhiteWater West.
KMG's new deliveries
Fresh from unveiling its High Swing tower recently in Antwerp (see here), the Dutch manufacturer KMG continues to deliver a number of its popular Speed and Inversion rides.
Gorilla bowl!
The Curse of the Silverback, a CanonBowl waterslide from Proslide Technology, is now open at Enchanted Forest/Water Safari, Old Forge, New York. The attraction is the first new ride at the waterpark since the installation of the Shadow in 2002, and gives guests an exhilarating adventure.
Cliffhanger is back!
America’s only rollercoaster on the side of a mountain has reopened at Ghost Town in the Sky, Maggie Valley, North Carolina.
Wilderness Resort adds new attractions
The Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, has unveiled several new attractions, including an 18-hole Jurassic themed outdoor mini golf course from Halloween Productions and Lost World Go-Karts from Johnson Karts (pictured).
Sacoa India
Sacoa, the leading provider of wireless debit card and point of sale (POS) systems for amusement parks and FECs, has opened a sales and support office in India.
Morey's moves rides
Morey’s Piers has introduced a number of upgrades this year across its four piers in Wildwood, New Jersey.
Fisherman's revamp
Macau’s Fisherman’s Wharf development is to undergo a string of improvements as part of a revamp costing a reported three billion Hong Kong dollars ($387m/E272m).
Maya Tal
TAA (Theming and Animatronics) Industries recently completed a large installation at Heide Park in Soltau, Germany, where it rethemed the Maya Tal (Maya Valley) area. The area was previously known informally as “Huss Land” thanks to the large concentration of rides by the German manufacturer.
Madame Tussauds Hollywood
The largest Madame Tussauds to date opened last month in Hollywood. The $55 million (€35m) attraction is the ninth Madame Tussauds to open worldwide and fourth in the USA, joining sister attractions in New York, Las Vegas and Washington DC.
Freestyle Music Park introduces new characters
Freestyle Music Park, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has introduced three new family-friendly characters as it continues to distance itself from the former Hard Rock Park. Boom The Troll, Piper the Elf and Clover the Garden Fairy perform live in the Faerie Glenn area of the park.
Coney Island plan approved
New York City's ambitious plan to transform Coney Island into a year-round entertainment complex complete with high-rise hotels, restaurants and retail stores has been approved by the City Council.
Merlin scares rival operator into out-of-court settlement
Merlin Entertainments is to receive a “substantial” compensation payment from the London Bridge Experience (LBE) following objections about tactics used against its nearby scare attraction The London Dungeon.
Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester
Merlin Entertainments’ first new standalone attraction in the UK for almost 10 years will open in the northern city of Manchester in time for next Easter. Located inside the Trafford Centre shopping mall, the £7.5 million (€8.7m/$12.8m) development will be the country’s first Legoland Discovery Centre (LDC), one of two opening worldwide in 2010.
BALPPA confirms new chief executive
Following the recent announcement of Colin Dawson’s planned retirement, the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA) has confirmed that Martin Barratt (pictured) will replace him as chief executive next spring.
Finland's first Star Flyer
Finland’s tallest amusement ride was unveiled in May when Tykkimäki in Kouvola opened the country’s first Star Flyer. The ride is the latest version of the hit attraction from Funtime in Austria and stands 72-metres tall with a top speed of almost 70 km/h.
Looney Tunes Live - The Experiment
Currently playing at three Butlins holiday parks in the UK, this new hi-tech stage show fuses live action with animation featuring a cast of popular Looney Tunes characters. The show was devised by OddPost Entertainment using motion capture technology from Animazoo/Animalive and has been a big hit with Butlins guests since it debuted in May.
Free Fly opens in Sweden
The first of what S&S hopes will be a successful line of new coasters debuted late June at the Swedish park Skara Sommarland. Tranan (The Crane) is a Free Fly coaster featuring longitudinally spinning cars suspended from the outside of the track.
Chimelong confirms new park project
The Chimelong Group has been revealed as the developer of a planned marine park, safari and hotel development at Hengqin Island in Zhuhai, part of China’s Guangdong Province.
Alien takeover at Gardaland
June 20 witnessed the unveiling of Ramses: Il Risveglio (The Awakening), Gardaland’s new-look dark ride.
Rip Ride Rockit ...almost ready!
Due to open any day now, Universal Studios in Orlando will soon unveil “one of the most radically innovative rollercoasters ever created” – Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Built by Maurer Söhne, the ride combines a number of new coaster moves with a highly sophisticated audio and video system to offer unique ride experience.
Buccaneer Battle sets sail
At Six Flags Great Adventure, Gurnee, Illinois, the battle lines have been drawn and the flags have been raised as the park’s new interactive water ride, Buccaneer Battle, sets sail.
King Kong returns to Universal
King Kong is set to appear in 4D form on the newly upgraded Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour, starting summer 2010.
Ripley's Impossible LaseRace
Imagine playing inside a video game. At Ripley’s new Impossible LaseRace in Grand Prairie, Texas, visitors do just that as they jump, crawl and straddle a gauntlet of laser lights. The player’s mission is to beat the clock and reach the end without breaking a single laser beam. If they do, time is added to their score.
Mousetown USA
Funtown/Splashtown USA, Saco, Maine, has introduced a Wild Mouse coaster from Maurer Söhne for the new season. The ride features hairpin turns, including a crazy 270-degree turn. steep hills, and dips.
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KMG debuts High Swing
KMG, the Dutch ride builder, premiered its new High Swing tower in Antwerp last month. The ride stands 60-metres tall and accommodates up to 24 passengers (12 pairs) at a time in high-flying seats as the central column rotates.
Shark marketing!
How’s this for a guerrilla marketing opportunity? Hundreds of mysterious sharks appeared all over San Diego recently as the Sea Life Aquarium spread the word about its new Sharks Revealed exhibit using “sea tagging.”
iSpeed launches at Mirabilanidia
Promising the “adrenaline of Formula One,” Mirabilandia launched its new iSpeed rollercoaster on June 20 with the appearance of motorcycle champion Mark Simoncelli.
Santa Cruz swings
Sea Swings has lifted off at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, California. From Bertazzon 3B, the classic-looking ride replaces the park's old Typhoon.
New kids rides for Pacific Park
At Pacific Park on the Pier in Santa Monica, California, five new family rides have been introduced for 2009. These include Inkie’s Air Lift, a Zamperla balloon ride; Sig Alert EV, round bumper cars from RDC; Santa Monica Pier Patrol, a truck ride by SBF/Visa; Sea Planes (pictured), a Zamperla plane ride, plus a Rockin’ Tug, from the same manufacturer Zamperla,
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles dark ride for South Korea
4Kids Entertainment and Mirage Studios have approved the first-ever theme park ride based around the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property, which is “shell-ebrating” its 25th anniversary this year.
Drievliet goes '5D'
As reported recently in Park World, Dutch family park Drievliet is to add the 3D film Curse of Skullrock. We have since learned that the accompanying theatre by Simworx will feature “5D” effects seats.
Jumping Dragon at Lagoon Park
Lagoon Park, Farmington, Utah, has introduced a new family ride from Zierer called Jumping Dragon. Similar to a Musik Express, the ride moves in a circuit with hills and valley and is ornately decorated with a serpent-like figure featuring a 15ft moving tail.
Forest Falcon
A new attraction has risen from the forest at Duinrell in the Netherlands. Operating since May, Falcon is smallest of several EuroFighter coasters installed this season by Gerstlauer. The ride features 361-metres of track, a vertical lift and a signature 97-degree drop. A small family park and campsite, Duinrell is located near the coast at Wassenaar, close to The Hague (Den Haag).
PARC Foundation makes first award
Darien Lake Theme Park Resort, PARC Management and its new philanthropic arm, The PARC Foundation, recently awarded the inaugural Jack Kemp Community Service Award to celebrate the life and work of the American politician, vice-presidential nominee and professional football player.
Eye on the future
The first capsule was removed on June 25 as part of a £12 million upgrade to the London Eye, the UK’s number one paid-for visitor attraction. Since it opened in 2000, the world-famous observation wheel has welcomed over 33 million visitors, and Merlin now wants to “future proof” it and maintain its position on London’s Southbank for many years to come.
Happy Valley Wuhan
The leading Chinese attractions operator OCT has confirmed Wuhan will be the location for its fifth Happy Valley theme park after signing an agreement in late May with the local government.
Six Flags restructures
Six Flags Inc has begun proceedings under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, saying it needs to reorganise and shed $1.8 billion (€1.3bn) of debt.
Asian Attractions Expo 2010
IAAPA has named the host city for Asian Attractions Expo in 2010. The event will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and revert to a July fixture.
Coney Island Advisory Panel speaks
The Coney Island Amusement Advisory Panel has announced its preliminary findings and recommendations for the 27-acre amusement and entertainment district at Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York.
MELAC - a trade associaition for the Middle East
Twenty-four companies have signed up as founder members of the Middle East Leisure & Attractions Council, or MELAC. The association was officially launched at DEAL back in April after two years of meetings and will be chaired by Majid Al Hokair of the Al Hokair Group in Saudi Arabia.
King Kong
Huss Park Attractions’ long-awaited King Kong ride finally opened at the start of the season at not one but two parks in Europe. First to sample the thrill of an encounter with the beast were guests at Bobbejaanland in Lichtaart, Belgium.
Hard Rock park refreshes for 2009
Freestyle Music Park, the former Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has renamed and re-themed the rollercoaster formerly known as Led Zeppelin – The Ride. The B&M-built attraction (pictured) will now be known as The Time Machine.
Prowler lurks at Worlds of Fun
Deep in the woods of Worlds of Fun, Missouri, a dangerous predator lurks. The Prowler, a beast of a wooden coaster, is now thrilling guests at this Kansas City park.
Tokyo Disneyland announces new attractions
The Oriental Land Co has opened a new dark ride at Tokyo Disneyland, as well as announcing plans for a number of new attractions through until 2012 at both the Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea parks in Japan.
Steel Pier adds rides
The Steel Pier, Atlantic City, New Jersey, has added two rides for the upcoming season. A Chance Sea Dragon (pictured) and Zamperla Balloon Race 8 were acquired from DelGrosso's in Pennsylvania.
Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii
Real estate investment trust CNL Lifestyle Properties has acquired the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park in Kapolei, on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The waterpark will continue to be operated by a subsidiary of Village Roadshow from Australia, its former owner, under a long-term lease deal.
Pilgrim's Plunge at Holiday World
When Holiday World opened for the 63rd season on May 2, all attention was on the record-breaking new ride, Pilgrims Plunge from Intamin. Competing with The Voyage rollercoaster as the tallest ride in the park, Pilgrims Plunge sets a new height record for water rides with its 131ft drop (the complete attraction towers 165ft-tall).
Launch coaster at Plopsaland
Anubis: The Ride is the name of the new rollercoaster at Plopsaland in De Panne, Belgium. The attraction is a Gerstlauer launch coaster and arguably one of the most extreme attractions in the family park to date.
Sealion showcase in North Wales
The owners of England’s West Midland Safari Park have opened a state-of-the art sea lion show and arena at their Seaquarium site in Rhyl, North Wales. Sea Lion Cove is situated on the resort’s promenade and represents a £1 million ($1.6m/E1.1m) investment for the ex-Sea Life Centre, purchased by WMSP in 2001.
Count's Splash Castle opens at Sesame Place
Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, has opened the largest attraction in its 29-year history. From SCS Interactive, the Count’s Splash Castle is a multi-level interactive waterplay structure that provides exciting hands-on entertainment for the entire family.
Award-winning 3D
Red Star Studio has won another award for Curse of Skull Rock. The 3D film picked up the Animation for Young Audiences award at the Red Stick International Animation Festival in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at the end of April.
Aqualand in the loop
The German indoor waterpark Aqualand in Cologne (Köln) has added a looping waterslide courtesy of AquaRena/Hartwigsen Freizeitanlage.
Desperados #25
Presented for the first time in 2006 at Bobbejaanland in Belgium, the Desperados interactive theatre game from Alterface recently celebrated its 25th installation with the announcement of a new outlet at Héliopolis near Cairo in Egypt.
Quassy's new coaster
Quassy Amusement Park, Middlebury, Connecticut, is to erect its first all-wood rollercoaster as part of a $5 million multi-year improvement plan at the lakeside park. In addition to the coaster, Quassy will add a 35ft drop tower and a “Bullet Bowl” water raft attraction as part of its Saturation Station water play area.
Lo-Q = no queue?
Mirabilandia in Ravenna, Italy, is employing a VQ2020 virtual queuing system from Lo-Q for the 2009 season. By renting a Q-bot hand held wireless device (as pictured), guests can reserve their place in line for a number of the park’s rides and attractions.
OmniTicket gets new owner
OmniTicket Network (OTN) has agreed to a “merger” with Best Union Company (BUC), an Italian ticketing and service provider listed on the Milan stock exchange. BUC will take 100% of OTN’s capital, but the OmniTicket name and operations will remain.
Manta takes flight
The construction walls were pulled down around Central Florida's latest rollercoaster over the first weekend in May as the attraction went into soft opening phase ahead of an official launch over the Memorial Day weekend at the end of the month.
Merlin's 2008 results
Merlin Entertainment has released its 2008 results, the first since it acquired the Tussauds Group and Gardaland in Italy, helping it put on an additional 7.6 million visits compared to 2007 (35.1 million in total). This in turn contributed to the world’s second largest attraction operator posting a 37% increase in revenue to £662.3 million ($1.05bn/E754m).
Classic carousel for sale
Looking for a classic wooden carousel? How about this majestic four-abreast ride, nearly a century old?
Suspense heightens at Potts Park
ABC Engineering is preparing a new suspended family coaster for Potts Park in Germany, ready for a summer debut. Featuring six 3-seater glider vehicles, Turbo-Drachen (Turbo-Dragon) will feature 450-metres of track and a number of family-friendly specifications to suit Potts’ young clientele.
Nigoland's new wheel
A little bit of Bavaria is coming to the Champagne-Ardenne region of France. Nigoland in Dolancourt will soon unveil a new Ferris Wheel from the German manufacturer Gerstlauer and not only has the ride been built in the Bavarian town of Munsterhausen, it also features themed cars reminiscent of the area.
Park planned in Manila
The Japanese ride manufacturer Okamoto plans to build a park on a one-acre site next to the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden in the Philippines. A footbridge will be built to connect the new park to Paraiso ng Batang Maynila, which will also be modernised.
Half of the admission revenue from the new park will go to the city to help finance the Manila Zoo. As part of the deal, indigents will be given one day each week to enter the park for free and senior citizens will also be granted discounts.
Paultons has the Edge
Paultons Park in England has unveiled its new Disk ‘O’ Coaster from Zamperla. The ride, named Edge, was a big hit with guests visiting the park over Easter and is the first of its kind in the UK.
Mystery Park returns
Mystery Park is due to reopen this summer near Interlaken, Switzerland, three years after it went bankrupt. Launched by Swiss author Erich von Däniken, the theme park features a number of "unsolved puzzles" involving human civilisation and extra terrestrial activity, including Stonehenge and the pyramids.
Marcel Meier, the manager appointed by the new owners, told the Berner Zeitung newspaper he believes the current economic crisis could attract families looking to cut down on travel and visit attractions closer to home.
Around CHF100,000 (e65,693/$87,904) is to be invested to bring Mystery Park up to standard, by adding more family friendly activities such as a children’s playground. The entrance price will also be lowered. Reports suggest the reopening will be for one season only.
Laser Raiders at Legoland
Sally Corporation’s latest interactive dark ride, Laser Raiders opened recently at Legoland Windsor near London as part of the new Kingdom of the Pharoahs area. The 7,000 sq ft rides features 10 black-lit scenes including the popular Lego characters Johnny Thunder, Miss Pippin Reed and Dr Kilroy.
Dollywood offers zipline experience
Guests at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, can fly like an eagle over the 150-acre property as they experience the new SkyZip, the first multiple station zip-line experience at a US theme park.
Wake Nation
Wake Nation Cincinnati, a watersports’ complex dedicated to wakeboarding, wakeskating, water skiing and knee boarding, has opened in Fairfield, Ohio, just outside Cincinnati.
Congo River Expedition
A new family water ride opens this summer at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort, New Braunfels, Texas. The highly themed Congo River Expedition will take guests deep into the heart of the rainforest.
Animal Maze opens in Hong Kong
Amazing Asian Animals, the first major new attraction to be completed under Ocean Park’s HK$5.55 billion redevelopment plan, was set to open at the popular Hong Kong attraction on April 30. To launch the new exhibit, Ocean Park also unveiled two new mascots called Later Gator and Goldie the goldfish.
Bart Kinzel named at Carowinds
Bart Kinzel has been named the new vice-president and general manager of Carowinds, Charlotte, North Carolina.
Dino Park opens new outlet
West Media, the operator of the Dino Park chain in the Czech Republic and Slovakia (see profile here), has opened a fourth outlet in the city of Ostrava.
Del Grosso's adds three rides
DelGrosso's Amusement Park, Tipton, Pennsylvania, has purchased three rides for the 2009 season from Cypress Gardens, and expects to have them up and running for opening day in early May.
BALPPA chief slams British Budget
Following the recent Budget review by the British Government, BALPPA chief executive Colin Dawson has expressed his disappointment in the chancellor’s refusal to make any concessions on VAT for members of the tourist industry. Such a move would, he argued, have stimulated a much needed boost to the economy.
Attraction Attendance 2008
The TEA (Themed Entertainment Association) and ERA (Economics Research Associates) have just released their eagerly-awaited Attraction Attendance report for 2008, and the figures reveal that destination theme parks were hit harder than regional parks as the recession took hold late last year.
Glow in the Park
Two additional Glow in the Park parades will open this season at Six Flags parks in the United States. Six Flags St Louis, Eureka, Missouri, and Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington, Texas are the new additions, joining Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, New Jersey, Six Flags New England, Agawam, Massachusetts, and also Six Flags Mexico in Mexico City.
Cobra at Conny-Land
Conny-Land in Lipperswil, Switzerland, is gearing up for a big season with the arrival of two eagerly-awaited attractions. Both were originally due to open in 2008 but after a number of setbacks are back firmly on the calendar and ready for an imminent debut.
Fluch von Novgorod
“There are many roller coasters in the world but there is only one Fluch von Novgorod (Curse of Novgorod),” say the folks at Hansa in Germany. This new ride, which opened on April 9, combines a launch system with a vertical chain lift and beyond vertical drop for the very first time. Furthermore, around 50% of the experience takes place in the dark!
Sea Life arrives in London
April 7 saw the unveiling of Merlin Entertainments’ new-look London Aquarium, introducing the Sea Life brand into the British capital for the first time.
Hard Rock goes Freestyle
Freestyle Music Park is the new name for the former Hard Rock Park, which reopnes this May in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It represents new owner FPI MB Entertainment’s renewed vision and direction for the park in 2009 and beyond.
Blue Fire at Europa-Park
Europa-Park in Germany kicks off its new season on April 4 by unveiling its eagerly awaited Blue Fire Megacoaster. The new ride is the first launch coaster by Mack Rides, as well as the first looping coaster at Europa-Park, and forms part of the park’s latest European-themed area, devoted to Iceland.
Coney Island Advisory Panel formed
A virtual "who's who" of amusement industry leaders has been appointed by New York City to form the Coney Island Amusement Advisory Panel, which will help “structure and expedite the city’s plans for interim amusements at Coney Island in Summer 2010.”
Ride marathon concludes
Tim Smith and Kevin Burshten won a "Coast for the Cruise" ride challenge recently at Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota.
BALPPA reveals change in personnel
The British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA) has a new chairman in the shape of John Bollom, managing director of Ameco and owner of Mumbles Pier in South Wales. Meanwhile the association’s chief executive, Colin Dawson (pictured), has revealed he is to retire in over a year’s time.
Grand Pier rises from the ashes
The owners of the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, south west England, have had plans approved for a new pavilion to replace the one destroyed by fire last July. The application was passed by North Somerset Council on March 12 and clears the way for a number of new structures, including an 85-metre panorama/observation tower. Work is expected to be commence very soon, in anticipation of a summer 2010 opening.
The great Jungle Cruise get-together!
Two Jungle Cruise skippers from California's Disneyland Resort, Kevin Lively and Mickey Wright, set sail recently for Tokyo, where they joined other lucky Jungle Cruise skippers from Disney Parks around the world.
JRA lands project in Nigeria
Jack Rouse Associates (JRA) has landed its first project in Nigeria. The Cincinnati-based design firm has been chosen to provide the masterplan and preliminary concept design for the new Calabar Theme Park in the city of the same name.
La Ronde welcomes The Mummy
La Ronde, Montreal, Canada, will present The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, live! this season.
Silver Dollar City reveals 2009 show programme
Silver Dollar City, Branson, Missouri, is planning its biggest ever year of live entertainment with more than a dozen “blue-ribbon” productions planned.
Schlitterbahn Vacation Village
There may have been plenty of icy weather to endure throughout the winter months, but the Schlitterbahn waterpark in Kansas City is starting to take shape, and at the time of writing over 90% of site work was complete.
Dr Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror
Sister waterparks Splish Splash in Riverhead, New York, and Wet ’n’ Wild Emerald Pointe in Greensboro, North Carolina, will both debut an attraction this season called Dr Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror! Both properties are part of the Palace Entertainments/Parques Reunidos group.
Buccaneer Battle
A mutiny is brewing at Six Flags Great America, Gurnee, Illinois, as work continues on Buccaneer Battle, the park’s new interactive water ride slated to open May 15. The pirate-themed attraction, by Mack Rides, incorporates music, lighting, theming and special effects and sits in the County Fair section of the park next to the Farmers’ Market.
Awards Night wins award!
The 4D theatre experience Awards Night was one of several attractions to pick up a Thea Award from the TEA (Themed Entertainment Association) last month in California, during its gala evening at the Disneyland Hotel.
Gillians expands into the sea
Jay Gillian (pictued), operator of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in Ocean City, New Jersey, has been granted a 10-year lease to run an amusement park on city land in Sea Isle City, New Jersey. Gillian’s Funland of Sea Isle City, the first amusement park in Sea Isle City in almost 10 years, will include 10 or 11 kiddie rides.
Zip over to Hawaii!
Hawaii’s newest and longest zipline attraction is now operating on the 800-acre historic Piiholo Ranch, 2,000ft above Makawao, Maui. It was built by ERi, the world’s leading zipline builder.
Victorian Town relaunched
The Blists Hill Victorian Town in the heart of England is to be relaunched to mark the 300th anniversary of Ironbridge Gorge becoming the location for the birth of the Industrial Revolution.
Former IAAPA chairman returns to Cypress Gardens
Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven, Florida, reopened last month with a new operations director, former IAAPA chairman Bill Sims. The former CEO of Silver Springs Nature Park in Ocala, Florida, previously worked at Cypress Gardens with founder Dick Pope Snr.
Wyatt Design becomes MSI
The Wyatt Design Group, led by principal Larry Wyatt, has completed its merger with MSI and will now trade simply as MSI.
Santa Claus comes to Chengdu!
Guests at the new Happy Valley park in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, recently celebrated Chinese New Year with the help of …Santa Claus! North Pole Adventure is the latest North Pole Adventure family dark ride from Sally Corporation and quickly filled to capacity when the park opened at the start of the year.
Romano joins Quassy
Gina Romano, a veteran of the amusement park industry for more than 20 years, has been named human resources director at Quassy Amusement Park, Middlebury, Connecticut.
City of Dreams
City of Dreams is an integrated entertainment resort and “must experience” destination being developed in Macau by Melco Crown Entertainment Limited (MPEL). Featured as part of the offering will be unique multimedia entertainment by Falcon’s Treehouse called Dragon’s Treasure.
Drayton's 4D pirate invasion!
Drayton Manor’s eagerly-awaited 4D effects theatre by Simworx was unveiled to the general public March 21. The popular UK park opened the attraction in time for the start of the 2009 season, allowing guests to enjoy the effect-laden film Curse of Skullrock by Red Star Studios.
We came, we SAW...
Thorpe Park’s eagerly awaited new rollercoaster has opened, bringing a slice horror movie action to this popular park on the outskirts of London. SAW – The Ride is based around the film franchise of the same name and features a 100ft-high, beyond vertical first drop into a unique “head chopper” section featuring serrated rotary blades. The ride is manufactured by Gerstlauer using its EuroFighter design.
Ghost Town In The Sky files for bankruptcy
Ghost Town in the Sky, Maggie Valley, North Carolina, has filed for bankruptcy protection and reorganisation under Chapter 11 of the US Federal Code. The park’s owners say finding the money run an attraction that was dormant for five years before they bought it in 2006 has proved tricky.
New creative director at Thinkwell
Thinkwell, a creator of experience-based entertainment for theme parks and leisure destinations worldwide, has added industry veteran Danny Hartigan to its team in the role of director of creative.
HB's new MD
HB Leisure, the specialist games operator headed by Tim Batstone, has appointed a new managing director. Alex Sparks (pictured) joins from the retail industry, where he spent 10 years with the Virgin Group and 15 years with Blockbuster Entertainment, where he was managing director for the UK.
Tower of David Spectacular
The Tower of David in Israel, a museum dedicated to the history of Jerusalem, has launched a spectacular new night show, created by the French company Skertzo.
Southern Star
The world’s latest observation wheel has suffered a number of setbacks since it opened at the tail end of last year. The Southern Star, in Melbourne, Australia, was forced to close last month (February) after an excessive heatwave, and was still out of order at the time of writing.
Busch puts Dubai plans on hold
The suspension of Busch Entertainment’s ambitious Worlds of Discovery project in Dubai and the delay Formula 1 theme park are some of the latest and highest profile casualty amid the current, some would say inevitable, construction setback in the United Arab Emirates.
Asia Tourism Resort & Attraction
Following its inaugural event last summer, the Global Leaders Institute is to stage a second Asia Tourism Resort & Attraction conference this June in Shanghai, this time in the Sheshan district of the city – close to the new Happy Valley theme park from OCT.
Residents fail to disrupt Luna Park party
Attempts by a group of well-heeled local residents to shut down rides at Sydney Luna Park (LPS) have failed in the New South Wales Supreme Court, Australia.
New at Dutch Wonderland
Dutch Wonderland will open its castle doors in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for its 46th season on May 2 with a couple of new attractions.
Waterplay ...without the big footprint!
Who says interactive water playrgrounds have to be big? SCS Interactive recently installed this compact waterplay structure at The Alaska Club Valley health and fitness club in Wasilla, Alaska.
Bed and brick-fast!
The City of Carlsbad Planning Commission has approved Legoland California’s request to build a hotel on resort property. “This is an exciting step in the planning process for the Legoland Hotel,” says Peter Ronchetti, the resort’s newly installed general manager. “While the opening of the hotel is not in the immediate future, we are looking forward to this new chapter in our development.”
Hard Rock Park sold
Hard Rock Park could be open again by the end of May in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. A conglomerate called FPI MB Entertainment has paid $25 million (€20m) for the park’s assets and promised to spend a further $15 million to reopen it for the 2009 season.
Disney streamlines Parks & Resorts
Walt Disney has announced that it wants to deliver a “one-Disney” experience at its parks and resorts by simplifying its operating structure. “These changes are essential to maintaining our leadership position in family tourism and reflect today’s economic realities,” highlights Jay Rasulo (pictured), chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
Vitala signs deal in Vietnam
The Hanh Liem Group in Vietnam has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Vitala Group to carry out and approve eight separate project feasibility studies and finance those that are then approved.
On the Edge in the Philippines
The Crown Regency Hotel and Towers in Cebu, the Philippines, recently launched Sky Experience Adventure. Located on the 38th level of the hotel building, the attraction comprises the first Edge Coaster from Interactive Rides of Utah, USA.
3-2-1 Penguins in 4D
London-based licensing company Entertainment Rights is to develop a 3-2-1 Penguins! franchise for 4D theatre attractions in partnership with 3DBA. Deals are due to be concluded soon with partners across South East Asia and the Middle East.
Village Roadshow management changes
The board of Village Roadshow Theme Parks in Australia has announced a comprehensive management review of its Gold Coast operations. According to chairman John Kirby and CEO Graham Burke of parent company Village Roadshow, the changes will “provide greater depth of management and optimise profitability into the next decade.”
Astroland donates rocket to City
Carol Hill Albert, co-owner of Astroland at Coney Island in New York, has donated the park’s most famous icon, the 71ft Astroland Rocket, to the City of New York.
Pauton’s February fixture
Paultons will be one of several British amusement parks opening this February for the ‘half-term’ school holidays. Visitors to the park in Hampshire will get a sneak peak of the new ride for 2009 – The Edge – during the nine-day opening period (February 15 to 23).
Stengel receives German honour
Werner Stengel has been awarded the Bundesverdienstkreuz (Cross of Merit) by the Federal Republic of Germany for his outstanding contribution to rollercoaster design and development.
ScareCON 2009
Following an inaugural one-day event last year, Scare Attractions UK has revealed that ScareCON will take place for the second time this May in Birmingham, England.
Orlando parks downsize staff
According to the Orlando Sentinel, Universal Orlando laid off about 70 employees in January and senior staff at Walt Disney World have been offered buyouts to leave, as these and other resorts confront an increasingly dire economic outlook.
Popcorn Pioneer!
JC Evans, chairman of Gold Medal Products, is the first person to receive the new Pioneer Award from the Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA), the trade association for the American carnival industry.
Wild WaterDome
Eastern Tennessee’s latest and largest indoor waterpark has opened as part of Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville.
Celebrate!
Disneyland, Anaheim, California, will introduce a new parade called Celebrate! A Street Party on March 27. Described as “interactive street party” it will travel along the parade route daily, replacing the outgoing Parade of Dreams.
Disney spots latest guest trend
Responding to new research shows that families are planning trips with loved ones around life milestones, both Disney’s US resorts are inviting guests to celebrate these special moments with family and friends at their parks. This new trend is dubbed “celebration vacations.”
Legoland stages Obama inauguration
The 56th US presidential inauguration took place outside the US Capitol building on January 20, but guests at Legoland California were also able to enjoy their own brick-built version of this historic event.
Cedar Fair attendances up
Combined attendance at Cedar Fair’s 18 park properties in the United States was up by 3% in 2008, it has been revealed. The company’s fourth quarter figures show that total attendance during the year was 22.7 million, up from of 22.1 million in 2007.
New kiddie coaster for Liseberg
Liseberg in Gothenburg, Sweden, is to replace its popular Circus Express with a new family coaster called Rebalder. The 90-metre long attraction, featuring 222-metres of track is being supplied by Zierer from Germany.
Chinese New Year ...Disney style!
Chinese New Year arrived early at Hong Kong Disneyland as the park launched its Mickey Celebrates the Year of the Ox event on January 15. Centred around the themes of luck, energy and unity, the celebration is due to run until February 8. The Chinese year 4047 started officially on January 26.
Empex Watertoys makes Japanese installation
Empex Watertoys has installed its first Aquadunker attraction as part of a water playground at the Jozankei View Hotel in Japan. The new feature is a mid-size water bucket, the first of its kind in Japan which, when full, tips onto the children below with dramatic results.
Gosetto goes ‘Down Under’ the sea!
The Italian manufacturer Gosetto recently completed a brand new Fun House for a client in Australia. Sea Circus is a three-story construction packed full of effects and animatronics, and kids are sure to love the fun marine theme.
Monorail makeover
Alton Towers in England has revamped its 1987 monorail with the help of the London-based design firm Sarner. The people-moving system is used to transport guests on a loop between the park’s car park, main entrance and two hotels and at the height of the season can transport 4,800 people every hour.
The friendly Yeti!
Garner Holt Productions has developed a new animatronic Yeti character, due to be installed at a themed attraction in early 2009. Weighing in at 1,700 pounds and standing 9ft tall, the Yeti is also one of the largest single animated figures ever built, yet incredibly friendly.
Bombay Express
Bombay Amusement Rides (BARPL) recently completed a new 33-seater land train for India’s Lavasa tourism resort project between Pune and Mumbai.
Santa Claus is coming to town ...in 3D!
Blacklight Attractions recently created a seasonal 3D attraction for the Bayville Adventure Park FEC in New York. Santa's Magical Toy Factory in 3D took visitors through a magical world inside Santa's works, where they experienced Mrs Claus' kitchen, a winter wonderland, the elves’ toy factory and a face to face reindeer encounter.
Flying Fury for Tivoli
Danish amusement institution Tivoli is to install a Flying Fury interactive plane ride from the Italian manufacturer Technical Park for the 2009 season.
IAAPA Connections
IAAPA has pulled the plug on its planned “educational” event in the Bahamas, blaming the economy and its impact on members’ ability to participate in the three-day get-together.
Shanghai Disneyland
After years of speculation, Disney executives have confirmed that a report has been submitted to the Shanghai government regarding a possible theme park project in Mainland China. Park World has since learned, however, that “no deal has been agreed to, no project has been approved.”
Four million and counting …Europa-Park does it again!
Europa-Park’s latest winter season, which was due to come to close on January 11, has attracted over 400,000 guests, meaning the popular German park again eclipsed 4 million visitors for its 2008 season.
ETC and Disney settle
According to the Philadelphia Business Journal, Environmental Tectonics Corp (ETC) and the Walt Disney World Company have reached a confidential settlement in a legal dispute over the Mission: Space ride at Epcot in Florida.
Hard Rock Park to liquidate
Hard Rock Park, the 55-acre, $400 million in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, opened last April with much excitement, hoping to attract visitors who love roller coasters and rock music – but soon it could be pulled apart.
Mummy goes to Singapore
Premier Rides has announced that it has been awarded a contract to build another Revenge of the Mummy attraction for Universal Studios, this time at the new park in Singapore, which is scheduled to open at the end of 2009.
Goodbye Golden Nugget
Despite its best intentions and efforts to try to preserve the Golden Nugget Mine Ride, a classic boardwalk attraction, the Morey Organization has decided to remove it from the former Hunt’s Pier in Wildwood, New Jersey.
Drayton Manor’s winter wonder
Drayton Manor’s first Magical Christmas has been hailed a success. The winter season – which ran from November 22, 2008, to January 4, 2009 – was focused around he British park’s new Thomas Land children’s area, zoo and the Big Top Theatre, which hosted a special seasonal show.
Gröna Lund grows
Gröna Lund, the waterfront amusement park in the city of Stockholm, has applied for planning permission to develop its “Skeppsholmsviken” parking area into a new area of the park housing additional rides.
Home needed for Coney Island icon
A new home is being sought for the famed Astroland Rocket Ship on Coney Island’s Boardwalk, one of the first and only surviving early amusement park simulators.
Wedding in the Sky
After launching Dinner in the Sky in 2006, the Belgian company Events in the Sky has released a number of new variations on the concept.
Themepark-Manager
Twenty-year-old German theme park fan and IT specialist Markus Ertner has developed a software application allowing fellow fans to research their park-going activities.
A new type of Haunted House
Belgian technology specialist Alterface has joined forces with Germany’s Clostermann Design to create a new type of haunted house. The concept introduces a multimedia element to create what its developers describe as a cross between a 4D cinema and a dark ride.
SBF introduces new family coaster
The Italian SBF/Visa Group has been working on a number of new ride concepts of late, several of which were on show at the recent IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando.
KMG appoints US agent
Clients and potential clients of KMG in the USA will be pleased to learn that the Dutch ride builder has appointed a new American agent in the shape of Rides 4-U. According to Len Soled, the company has already sold its first KMG Inversion ride to an unnamed US client.
Left Coast Engineering
After nine years’ experience in trend-setting wireless technologies, Park-Tours Inc has spun off its engineering consultancy, Left Coast Engineering.
Meet Yeti...
Garner Holt Productions has developed a new animatronic Yeti character, due to be installed at a themed attraction in early 2009. Weighing in at 1,700 pounds and standing 9ft tall, the Yeti is also one of the largest single animated figures ever built, yet incredibly friendly.
Mechanical Minigolf
Guests at the Belgian holiday park Molenheide can now enjoy an award-winning new miniature golf attraction. The Forgotten Mine (De Vergeten Mijn) is a highly themed ‘Mechanical Minigolf’ installation from the Dutch design firm Jora Vision and it’s just been recognised for a Thea Award by the TEA (Themed Entertainment Association).
MagiQuest adds AquaQuest
MagiQuest, a live-action interactive game powered by sophisticated technology and played with a magic wand, will expand into at least five new locations in 2009, as well as being available to waterpark for the very first time in the form of AquaQuest.
Ring Race
When Ring Race, a new compressed air launch coaster from S&S Worldwide, debuts in July 2009, it will set a new land-speed record for rollercoasters.
Merlin's latest US move
Merlin Entertainments has confirmed it has acquired the Underwater Adventures aquarium in Minnesota, USA, from The Minnesota Aquarium LLC. Located inside the iconic Mall of America (pictured), the aquarium currently welcomes more than 600,000 visitors a year.
Legoland Malaysia
Merlin Entertainments has revealed plans for its first Legoland park in Asia. The new attraction is scheduled to open in the upcoming Malaysian city of Nusajaya by 2013.
Six Flags Over Qatar
A Six Flags branded attraction is due to open in Qatar by 2012 following the signing of a deal between the US park group and Oryx Holdings.
Manta takes shape
Manta, a flying rollercoaster from Bolliger & Mabillard, is rising at SeaWorld Orlando in Florida. Park visitors can already see the construction cranes and the main lift hill, and even trace the path of Manta on a diagram posted at the construction site.
Playland goes P-O-P!
Playland Park in Rye, New York, has decided to drop ride tickets in favour of a new pay-one-price admission structure for 2009. The only amusement park in America owned by a county government, Playland was until now funded in part by tax dollars, but “Westchester (County) property taxpayers will no longer subsidise the amusement park,” declares county executive Andy Spano.
New York City steps in at Coney Island
New York City is negotiating to buy 10.5 acres of real estate in Coney Island that once appeared unobtainable. If successful it would both save Astroland Park and enhance the mayor's plans to revive the slumping seaside amusement district.
Karl Bacon dies
Karl Bacon, who started Arrow Development with Ed Morgan in 1946, passed away on November 14, 2008. He was 98. Karl is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jane Bacon, two daughters, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Free Fly Coaster
Here’s a shot of the unique ride vehicle from S&S Power’s new Free Fly Coaster, debuting June at Skara Sommarland in Sweden.
Here comes summer ...Down Under!
Three new attractions opened on Boxing Day, December 26, just in time for the peak “summer” season at Warner Village in Queensland, Australia.
Eastern optimism
The trade show calendar is beginning to look increasingly busy in Asia, proof that in certain parts of the world there is optimism about the state of the amusement industry.
WWA 2009 events
The World Waterpark Association (WWA) has announced a record number of symposiums and events for its global membership in 2009. Nearly all are due to be held on site at a waterpark or resort, meaning attendees will gain great first hand insights to back up the information shared in the seminars and networking events.
New from Proslide
Tantrum Twist (pictured), a mini Tornado slide employing four-man cloverleaf tubes, is new from ProSlide Technologies of Canada.
Merlin moves staff around the globe
Merlin Entertainments has announced a number of senior promotions, as its staff benefit from new opportunities available to them worldwide as a result of the group’s continued expansion.
PARC Management acquires 11 FECs
PARC Management, LLC, has agreed to acquire the operations of 11 family entertainment centres (FECs) located throughout North America. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Kennywood president resigns
Peter J McAneny, president of Kennywood Entertainment in Pennsylvania, was due to resign his position with the company at the end of 2008 to pursue new business opportunities.
In the loop ...at last!
Europa-Park has revealed details of the launch coaster it is adding next season, courtesy of Mack Rides. Surprisingly, it will be the first coaster to turn guests at the German park upside down since the venue opened in 1975!
Maurer Söhne reveals new projects
The German manufacturer Maurer Söhne is preparing a dual-track rollercoaster for a client in Abu Dhabi that will simulate an automobile race. There will be four separate LSM launch sections with two flywheel power storage units. The coaster will carry on-board music and cameras.
Fabbri secures second Giant Wheel
The Fabbri Group has secured an order for a second giant Ferris Wheel in Asia. Although neither customer can yet be revealed, both rides will be 85-metres-tall and feature ski lift-style gondolas designed in Switzerland. One wheel will in fact stand 115-metre-tall as it will be mounted on top of a shopping mall.
Swiss Rides go to Saudi
Swiss Rides recently supplied water rides to four malls and entertainment outlets in Saudi Arabia, including Al Hokairland (pictured) and the new Galleria mall in Riyadh, the Red Sea Mall in Jeddah, and the Al-Hokair-operated Mall of Dhahran, in the city of the same name.
Intamin announces new projects
Ride Trade, acting as agent for Intamin, is shipping rides around the world. Two Megalite coasters are scheduled to open in China in 2009. Happy Valley Shanghai, an OCT park, will introduce a Mine Train, Gyro Swing and Flying Island. A Flying Island has also gone to the recently opened Happy Valley Chengdu.
Vekoma defies economic climate
How does one rollercoaster salesman view the outlook right now in the amusement industry? According to Vekoma Rides Manufacturing's Peter van Bilsen, compared to last year many existing parks are continuing with their plans for new attractions, while in emerging markets people are withholding plans because financing is unsure. In this economic climate, Vekoma is stocked with orders.
Modest growth predicted
Global growth in the theme park market is forecast to be moderate during through until 2010, according to a new report by Global Industry Analysts of California.
CNL sees promise
In a relatively short time, CNL Lifestyle Properties has become America's third-largest gated attractions owner. The real estate investment trust (REIT) has invested more than $500 million in theme parks, waterparks and FECs since 2005, building a portfolio of 25 properties across the US. So what does one of its executives make of the current economic climate in the leisure industry?
Giant Wheels go Dutch
The Giant Wheels marketed by Ronald Bussink as “Wheels of Excellence” have been acquired by Vekoma Rides Manufacturing, which will handle them under a new division called Dutch Wheels BV. Bussink, meanwhile, will now concentrate on the supply of Ferris Wheels 100-metres and taller via the new company Bussink Landmarks.
Aérophile bound for Walt Disney World
Downtown Disney in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, is one of the latest tourist spots to get a giant, tethered balloon from the French company Aérophile. The attraction will take guests 300ft into the air to view the vistas of Walt Disney World Resort starting spring 2009.
5D International makes US sales
Simulating a low altitude flight over the capital of Austria, Vienna Airlines has been a hit since it opened at the city’s famous Prater amusement park, and now the company that created it is poised to deliver more experiences using the same ride system.
Bob goes to Legoland!
HIT Entertainment is working with SD Entertainment and Threshold Animation Studios to produce a Bob the Builder 4D movie for Merlin Entertainments.
Total Immersion makes an impact
Multimedia attractions are big news at the moment, and it would seem a safe bet to say that the “augmented reality” technology pioneered by the French company Total Immersion is poised to make a big impact and parks and attractions over the next few years.
Mack offers Hidden Reality
Mack Rides has partnered with Total Immersion to create Hidden Reality, a very flexible dark ride with animation based around the French firm’s augmented reality technology.
Introducing MIT
Preston & Barbieri revealed its new offshoot in public for the first time during IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando.
Old Macdonald's trophy
Joseph Manning and his family have been presented with an award for excellence at their Old Macdonald’s Farm park near London. The award was given on behalf of Enjoy England in recognition of the Brentwood attraction’s contribution to sustainable tourism.
Stripped to the bone
Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven, Florida, has closed for the winter and when it reopens in March will be minus amusement rides and zoo. South Holdings LLC, the company that now owns the 72-year-old park, plans a renewed focus on three areas including the ski show that was the park's original draw, the botanical gardens, and the waterpark that opened a few years ago.
Turtle Talk in Tokyo!
Now open inside the SS Columbia at the park’s American Waterfront area, Turtle Talk has come to Tokyo DisneySea, Japan.
Drayton’s Magical Christmas
Drayton Manor theme park in Staffordshire, England, will welcome its first winter season when the park reopens for a Christmas themed event from November 22 onwards.
Christmas at the Junction
EnterTRAINment Junction, a train-themed family entertainment centre in Ohio, will introduce Christmas at the Junction for the holiday season. In addition to festive train layouts, there will also be a journey to the North Pole to see Santa and his workshop.
Medusa - the remix
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, New Jersey, is to dramatically transform Medusa, its floorless looping coaster. The ride, which was the first of its kind when it opened in 1999, will deliver a “multi-sensory ride experience” with new audiovisual, fire, fog and water effects.
Granville Trimper dies
Granville Daniel Trimper died on October 27, aged 79. He was the last remaining grandson of German immigrant Daniel Trimper, who in 1890 founded Windsor Resort/Trimper’s Rides in Ocean City, Maryland.
Hard Rock Park for sale
Hard Rock Park, the 55-acre, $400 million theme park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is for sale.
SeaWorld Orlando reaches new heights
Construction crews at SeaWorld Orlando recently secured into place the highest track portion of Manta, the park’s new flying coaster from B&M.
Mtatsminda Park
Plans are moving forward to reopen Mtatsminda Park in Tbilisi, Georgia, which was famously seized by the authorities last November after just nine weeks of opening.
Suzhou Giant Wheel Park
A new park is taking shape in the Chinese city of Suzhou, about two hours from Shanghai. Taking its name from one of its star attractions, the Giant Wheel Park will also feature a world-first rollercoaster.
Scandinavian 3
An Intamin ZacSpin coaster, the world’s first Free Fly coaster from S&S and a Vekoma family coaster will all be unveiled next season at parks in Sweden thanks to a SEK150 million (€15.2m/$20m) investment being made by the Parks & Resorts Scandinavia group.
Introducing Wheels of Excellence
Visitors to the recent Euro Attractions Show (EAS) in Munich can’t failed to have noticed the 50-metre giant Ferris Wheel erected outside the Messe München exhibition centre (seen here). The “R50” ride is one of the latest attractions from Ronald Bussink Professional Rides of Switzerland and is destined for a site in Perth, Australia – if no one else takes it first.
Inflatable pioneer dies
John Tom Scurlock, a plastics specialist who invented the Space Walk, the inflatable toy that in its various forms has become a fixture of countless events and attractions, passed away September 27 in New Orleans. He was 83.
Huss soars!
Huss Park Attractions has sold its first Flying Theatre rides. The new media-based attractions are a radical departure for Huss, which has partnered with Hollywood-based production company Super 78 to produce a dedicated ride film.
Herschend makes new appointments
Jane Cooper (pictured) has been promoted to president of Herschend Family Entertainment’s (HFE) attractions division, responsible for all regions and properties except those within the Dollywood Company.
Meet the Mob and feel the Falls!
Niagara's Fury is a new attraction bringing to life the story of the evolution of the thundering Niagara Falls. Now open at Table Rock adjacent to the Horseshoe Falls, Ontario, it has been developed by the Niagara Parks Commission.
Fly Me To The Moon
The 3D film Fly Me To The Moon, produced by attraction specialist nWave, is now on general release at movie theatres in 37 countries and at the time of writing had grossed over $22 million.
Rocket takes off over St Petersburg
The owners of Divo-Ostrov in St Petersburg, Russia, have made several bold statements since the park opened a few years ago and their latest came this summer when they added a world first by Funtime.
Fly By Wire for sale
New Zealand inventor Neil Harrap of Fly by Wire International has reached retirement age and is offering to sell the patents that protect the Fly by Wire concept, a 200ft-high extreme ride capable of speeds over 95 mph.
Kids' New Years Eve
Always on the lookout for a new shoulder season promotion, Legoland California in Carlsbad has had a great idea. Midnight at the park will strike at 6pm when it celebrates the earliest New Year’s event in the area, Kids’ New Year’s Eve.
Sally markets Goosebumps attractions
Sally Corporation has signed an agreement with Scholastic Media to design and market interactive dark ride attractions based on the scary but funny kids’ franchise Goosebumps. The company is due to showcase two Goosebumps ride concepts during the imminent IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando.
Spring Kong
Huss Park Attractions has revealed that both of its planned King Kong attractions will now open in the spring. As readers may be aware, the original ride scheduled to open this summer at Bobbejaanland in Belgium was delayed.
Gateway to Atlantis
Gateway Ticketing was responsible for complete ticketing, access control and even dolphin encounter reservations at the new Atlantis The Palm resort in Dubai.
“The only thing we didn’t provide was the hotel reservations,” notes Gateway’s Michael Turner.
ABC busy in Scandinavia
Following successful installations in London (pictured) and Hamburg, the Swiss manufacturer ABC is to supply a freefall tower to Merlin Entertainments’ Edinburgh Dungeon. A similar ride, but with a very different theme, will go to Hunderfossen near Lillehammer in Norway.
Inversion x6
KMG recently supplied its third Inversion ride to the German showman Thomas Weber, pictured here. A fourth will go to Holland, a fifth to Austria and a sixth to Australia, where a Speed propeller ride has also been sold. The original, now travelling in Holland, is pictured here.
Fresh Fabbri deliveries
The Fabbri Group was due to deliver its second Sky Tower (the first is pictured here) to a customer in France any day now.
Fresh Fabbri deliveries
The Fabbri Group was due to deliver its second Sky Tower (the first is pictured here) to a customer in France any day now.
Over The Hill and full of thrills!
British seaside park Adventure Island, Southend, recently unveiled a new look dark ride just in time for Halloween.
Reverchon goes bump
Reverchon International Design, the French bumper car specialist, has ceased trading after more than 80 years in business. The firm shut the doors at its premises in Samois, about an hour from Paris, earlier this year, citing “adverse trading conditions in the amusement business.”
Back to the 1920s!
Disney’s California Adventure has opened the Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar to give guests an exclusive preview of what is in store for the expansion of the Disneyland Resort.
Count's Splash Castle
Next Spring Sesame Place, Langhorne, Pennsylvania, will introduce the largest new attraction in its history, Count’s Splash Castle. This multi-level interactive waterplay attraction will span over 38,000 sq ft and feature over 90 play elements including a 1,000 gallon tipping bucket.
Halloween Horror Nights
Guests surveys at Universal Orlando show that this year’s Halloween Horror Nights rated highly with the park’s fearless visitors. “Last year’s event was so popular it broke attendance records and gained national recognition,” notes Mark Kupferman, director of consumer insights. “This year’s survey results show that guests like this year’s even better.”
Simworx lands Drayton deal
After a two-year courtship, Simworx has finally concluded the sale of a 4D effects theatre to Drayton Manor park in England. Due to open at the beginning of the 2009 season, the 152-seat attraction will be housed inside in an existing building.
Ravine Flyer II
For years it has been a dream of Waldameer Park CEO Paul Nelson to replace the original Ravine Flyer rollercoaster by Miller and Baker, which operated from 1922 to 1938, with a new version. But, says Paul Ruben, the process wasn't easy. After 10 years of planning, the park in Erie, Pennsylvania, has succeeded, creating a unique ride poised to deliver a double digit attendance increase.
China's first woodie
Martin & Vleminckx Rides LLC (MVR) is currently building the first wooden rollercoaster in China at Happy Valley Shanghai.
Celebration City closes
Due to “a shift in business strategy,” Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE) is closing Celebration City in Branson, Missouri. The park, which featured 30 rides and attractions, opened in 2003 as an afternoon and evening alternative to HFE's nearby Silver Dollar City.
Magic Mountain adds 16th Coaster
Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California, will add a new wooden rollercoaster for the 2009 season. Terminator: The Coaster will be the park's 16th coaster.
New ride at Flamingo Land? Mumbo Jumbo!
The first S&S El Loco coaster in Europe will debut next summer at Flamingo Land in England. Named Mumbo Jumbo, it will feature a 96ft 125-degree drop – thought to be the steepest in the world.
EAASI makes a stand
During the recent Euro Attractions Show in Munich, the European suppliers’ association EAASI took action against a Chinese exhibitor on behalf of four Italian ride manufacturers whose products were displayed without their consent in one of the company’s catalogues.
Solid Steel Networking
Maurer Söhne, the Munich-based manufacturer of rollercoasters and bridge protection systems, trades off its reputation for “Innovation in Steel” yet surely one of the biggest achievements was to transform a cavernous steel warehouse at its Munich headquarters into a party venue for the night. Yet that’s what it achieved on Monday, September 29, when it held its latest Rollercoaster Event to coincide with the Euro Attractions Show.
Interschau-Technofolies
The organisers of Interschau-Technofolies in Stuttgart have announced some of the exhibitors confirmed to take part in the show in just a few weeks’ time. Included are well-known Italian names such as Bertazzon, Zamperla, Moser Fabbri and Sartori, as well as Germany’s own Huss Park Attractions and Dietz.
Märchenpark expands
After a successful jubilee season, in which the park attracted more than 300,000 guests for the very first time, Märchenpark in Austria has announced further expansion plans for 2009.
New York City invests in Coney Island
New York City has purchased an acre of Wonder Wheel Park from Ward Realty Corp for $11 million as part of Mayor Bloomberg’s plan to preserve the historic character of Coney Island.
We came, we Saw, we screamed…
Thorpe Park near London has announced the name of its new EuroFighter coaster from Gerstlauer. Based on the most profitable horror franchise in movie history, the attraction will be called SAW – The Ride.
Halloween UK
Although relatively new to the UK, the haunted attraction sector is continuing to grow in Great Britain and now even has its own web community (www.hauntedattractions.co.uk).
Warner Bros undercover!
The operators of Warner Bros Movie World (WBMW) in Australia are marketing the venue as “the only all-weather theme park on the Gold Coast,” following the launch on October 10 of a new 4,000 square metre roof.
Robocoaster 4D
Kuka, the German robot manufacturer, has added a new dimension to its Robocoaster ride by offering a 4D Simulator version. The attraction includes a new enclosed “bubble” capsule.
Welcome on board!
Roland Mack will become the first German to join the board of directors at IAAPA (the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions), when he is made third vice chair during the upcoming IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando.
Wheel Simple
Mondial of Holland is currently preparing a 55-metre tall giant Ferris Wheel for the Dutch showman Arthur Harms. Despite its size, the main structure will pack onto just three trailers, with minimal transport required for the cars thanks to the collapsible design you see here.
Europarks appoints new chairman
Colin Dawson, the chief executive of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA), has been elected president of Europarks, the European lobbying group for the amusement park industry.
MIT replaces L&T
A new company has been formed by the Preston & Barberi group to handle the product range formerly offered by L&T Systems, which ceased trading this summer at its premises in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
Merlin bolsters ‘Midway’ team
Merlin Entertainments plans to continue the aggressive growth of its short stay attractions following the reorganisation of its “Midway” division and the appointment of a new site search and acquisitions director.
Efteling Bosrijk
Efteling has announced details of a major new hotel development. The importance to parks and attractions of on-site accommodation such as this is highlighted by the fact that the Bosrijk project will be the Dutch park’s largest investment to date.
Hard Rock park bankrupt
The owner of Hard Rock Park, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and the 55-acre park has closed for the rest of the season. The attraction will reopen in 2009, however.
Cirque du Soleil debuts in Macau
The first permanent Cirque du Soleil production to open in Asia premiered recently at The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel on the Cotai Strip in Macau, China.
Bush 'n' Beach!
Ruwaad Destinations has submitted a proposal to build a theme park resort in South Africa. The Dubai-based real estate developer headed by Darrell Metzger (pictured) wants to construct two parks, 20 hotels and a number of residences on the coast in KwaZulu-Natal.
Here comes the Prowler!
Worlds of Fun, Kansas City, Missouri, will add Prowler, a new wooden coaster from Great Coasters International (GCI) for the 2009 season.
The Lego Aquarium
North America’s first Sea Life Aquarium opened its doors recently at Legoland California in Carlsbad recently, signalling the renaming of the park as a resort. It is also the first aquarium to incorporate Lego models, including a 10ft-tall statue of Poseidon and an 11ft-long Lego submarine.
Let Battle commence!
Dollywood’s new interactive water ride has opened. Located in the Timber Canyon area of the park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the River Battle is a themed water raft ride equipped with powerful soaker guns.
Chance goes on Safari
US manufacturer Chance Morgan, which continues to knock out wildlife carousels for a variety of zoos, has just released a new attraction that should appeal to operators of other animal attractions.
Train returns to Cypress Gardens
The Citrus Line Railroad, featuring a CP Huntington train from Chance Morgan, is chugging along again at Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven in Florida.
Mazzoli moves Stateside
The Italian attraction design firm Valerio Mazzoli Studio has opened an office in Orlando and plans eventually to shift its headquarters there permanently.
Let the Fight begin!
Although Chinese ride manufacturers now offer a wide range of attractions in their catalogues, so far very few are actually built for customers outside the People’s Republic.
Dutch park gets Spanish owner
The Spanish operator Aspro has acquired its first Dutch property, Deltapark Neetlje Jans. Described as “the coolest water park in the Netherlands,” the facility is the largest attraction of the Zeeland province and boasts a turnover of €5.5 million.
Sean has the solution!
“We are extremely busy at the moment,” says Sean Brian of Amusement Technical Services. The UK firm continues to refurbishment and install a number of used rides at parks and attractions around the world.
Golden Horse plans park chain
Leading Chinese ride manufacturer Golden Horse Amusement has revealed that financing is in place develop a nationwide chain of parks.
Disney makes Asian appointments
Bill Ernest has been named president and managing director, Asia, for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. In his new role, Ernst will oversee the company's properties throughout Asia, including Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL), where previously served as executive vice-president and managing director.
Space Needle gets new CEO
Ron Sevart has been chosen as the new CEO of the Space Needle in Seattle, the city’s famous tower attraction. He brings extensive experience in the attractions industry, including major attraction development, entertainment venues, restaurants and water resorts.
A tree named Danny
Costume character specialist Rainbow Productions was asked by the Dutch park Drouwenerzand to transform its tree icon into a mascot, and here’s the result: a character called Danny.
Safari park triples cheetah population!
West Midland Safari Park in England has introduced a further six Cheetah to its Cheetah Plains exhibit, in turning creating the largest group of cheetah in the UK.
Diggerland expands
A new visitors’ centre has opened at Diggerland in Castleford, the largest of four digger and dumper truck theme parks in the UK. The building was constructed structural and civil engineering consultancy Paul Waite Associates.
Prater goes Turbo!
Here’s a shot of Turbo, new this season at the Prater in Vienna, Austria. Operated by the Dostal family, this S&S Screamin’ Swing ride replaces The Bell by Funtime, which has since been moved to Hansa Park in northern Germany.
Astroland closed
Astroland, one of the two remaining Coney Island amusement parks in New York City, has closed for good because a new lease deal couldn't be reached with developer Thor Equities, which purchased the 3.1-acre parcel of land in 2006.
The forecast is bright …or should be!
A British park owner has employed his own weatherman after claiming continued negative forecasts are damaging his business. Philip Miller of Adventure Island in Southend (pictured) has asked the Met Office, the government agency that produces the UK’s weather forecasts, why it can’t get more of them right.
World's tallest water ride
The world's tallest water ride – 135ft high – will headline the list of new additions next season at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, Santa Claus, Indiana.
Tunnel vision!
One of Ocean Park’s signature features is the spectacular cable car ride that links the Hong Kong facility’s lowland and headland areas. Yet this breathtaking journey alongside the South China Sea is not for everyone, and neither is it a quick way to commute from one part of the park to the other.
New owner for Myrtle Waves and NASCAR SpeedParks
PARC Management has acquired Myrtle Waves Water Park and all five NASCAR SpeedParks in North America. The six properties were acquired from South Carolina based developer Burroughs & Chapin Company, Inc.
ITPS wins Turkish contract
International Theme Park Services (ITPS) of Cincanatti has been selected to manage a major new theme park project due to open by 2010 in Turkish capital of Istanbul.
Steel Lasso opens at Frontier City
Oklahoma’s only Suspended Family Coaster, the Steel Lasso, has opened at Frontier City, Oklahoma City.
Pier Support
The owners of the Grand Pier at Weston-Super-Mare on England’s South West coast have expressed their gratitude for the support offered following a recent fire.
Mickey's WaterWorks
It can get quite hot and muggy on Lantau Island, home to Hong Kong Disneyland. That’s why the Mickey’s WaterWorks parade, repeated for a second time this summer, is a prefect way for guests to cool down at the end of the day.
King Kong 2
Before the first version of its new King Kong has even opened (the prototype at Bobbejaanland is still delayed), Huss Park Attractions has announced the sale of a second such ride.
Private equity eyes Busch Entertainment
Anheuser-Busch has agreed to be acquired by InBev for about US$52 billion (€35 billion). The deal will create the world's largest brewer and puts the iconic American beer maker in the hands of the Belgian-based company behind the Stella Artois and Beck's brands. It is still unclear, however, what will happen to the Busch Entertainment Corporation, the company’s theme park division, which owns and operates 10 properties in the United States.
Thinkwell expands
Thinkwell Design & Production, the California-based producer of entertainment experiences, is celebrating its seventh year in business with the opening of an office in Dubai and a new project management division.
Scenic Railway returns!
The world's oldest continually operating rollercoaster is back in action after some renewal work at the start of the year. Luna Park Melbourne's 1911 Scenic Railway has had each of its carriages painstakingly refurbished. Other areas of the rollercoaster were also fixed up or replaced.
Zookeeper held captive!
George the Gorilla and Zookeeper have been making guest appearances this summer at Chessington World of Adventures near London.
Kings Island’s new coaster
Kings Island, near Cincinnati, Ohio, is building the biggest attraction in its 36-year history, a 5,282ft-long mega coaster from Bolliger & Mabillard. The ride, named Diamondback, will make its debut in April 2009.
Evel Knievel
Six Flags St Louis, Eureka, Missouri, has introduced the $7 million Evel Knievel wooden coaster. The ride was unveiled recently during a special ceremony attended by friends and family of the late daredevil motorcyclist, who died last year.
Everland expands
South Korea’s largest theme park, Samsung Everland in Yougin, has this season added an Intamin wooden coaster, Mondial Top Scan (pictured) and a host of new attractions at its Caribbean Bay waterpark.
Drievliet’s 70th anniversary season
In the June issue of Park World we carried a news item about the Dutch park Drievliet celebrating its 70th anniversary by theming a number of its attractions, yet we omitted to say who had done the design work.
EnterTRAINment Junction
Believed to be the world’s only train-themed FEC, EnterTRAINment Junction has opened in suburban Cincinnati, Ohio. The new, $10 million project includes the world’s largest (25,000 sq ft) indoor train display.
Meet the new TEA president...
Steve Thorburn, principal of AV entertainment specialist Thorburn Associates, has been voted in as president elect of the TEA (Themed Entertainment Association).
Haunted hatred!
It would appear the owners of a new haunted attraction in London have scared not only their own guests but also the operators of an established venue close by.
Fisher's fresh approach
Maze designer Adrian Fisher (piuctured) has set up a new company together with his wife Marie. Adrian Fisher Design Ltd will provide a “personal and attentive service” providing mazes of all kinds, hands-free action adventures, landscape design, public art and urban planning.
Taking the plunge!
A combination of education and amusement park, Oltremare near Riccione in Italy this season added an interactive boat ride (pictured) by ABC Engineering in Switzerland.
Minitalia Leolandia
Located not far from Milan’s Bergamo airport, Minitalia Leolandia reproduces in miniature the coasts of Sicily and Sardinia. This season the park celebrated a new phase in its development with the addition of 12 rides by Zamperla.
Banana Battle
This summer Bobbejaanland in Belgium unveiled the world’s first indoor Splash Battle from 3DBA/Preston & Barbieri as part of its new Banana Bos (Banana Forest) area.
Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds is known the world over for its accurate waxwork depictions of celebrities, political figures and sporting legends. An important but less obvious feature of each museum is the sets the figures are presented in. Philipp van Stratum of P&P Projects in the Netherlands, which recently finished working on the new Madame Tussauds Berlin, gives Park World a little insight.