August 2011 - Amusement Today

40 Pages·2011·9.85 MB·English


AIMS NEWS & NOTES - PAGE 30
SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS TURNS 50, SECTION B
TM
Celebrating Our 15th Year
Vol. 15 • Issue 5 AUGUST 2011
Rev-O-Lution spins into Lake Compounce
Zamperla Mega Disk’O
highlights summer at
America’s oldest
amusement park

STORY: Scott Rutherford
[email protected]
BRISTOL, Conn. —
Connecticut’s Lake Compounce,
the nation’s oldest amusement
park, is marking its 166th anni-
versary this season with a new
ride, attractions and various
other improvements.
Topping the list is Rev-O-
Lution, a flashy new European
Morey’s Piers’ new-for-2011 attraction – It – is a KMG addition to the park’s ride
Fireball swinging pendulum ride. Representing KMG on lineup. Replacing the classic
the ride sale was New Jersey-based Rides-4-U. Rotor attraction, this modern,
AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD high capacity flat ride is a Mega
Disk’O supplied by Italy’s
Morey’s Piers’ new KMG
Zamperla.
Located just in front of
Fireball lights up shore the area once occupied by the
Rotor, Rev-O-Lution seats 24
riders on outward-facing ped-
STORY: Scott Rutherford ed a new ride that was tall estal seats similar to those
[email protected] and loud with bright lights. found on Zamperla’s popular
WILDWOOD, N.J. — And we wanted it to have Moto-Coasters. The disk and
Over the last few years, the a relatively small footprint its U-shaped half-pipe track
Morey family has been dis- to preserve space for an $11 sport a blue-and-orange color
cussing ways to breath new million wooden roller coast- scheme. During operation, Rev-
life into their Surfside Pier er coming to the park next O-Lution reaches a height of
property, which is located summer.” nearly five stories above the
at 26th Street and the board- The family found just ground on either end of its
track. Both the disk and the
walk in Wildwood, N.J. what they were looking for Lake Compounce celebrates its 166th anniversary with the
running rails are outlined in
“Inspiration for an thanks to Dutch ride man- Rev-O-Lution, a 24-seat Mega Disk’O supplied by Italy’s
brilliant white lights, which add
attraction can come from just ufacturer KMG and New Zamperla. The new ride replaces the park’s classic Rotor.
another dynamic dimension to
about anywhere,” explains Jersey-based Rides-4-U, AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD
the guest experience when Lake
Jack Morey, executive vice the firm that brokered the
Compounce is open after sun- been responding positively to Lution, Lake Compounce also
president of Morey’s Piers, deal for Morey’s Piers’ new-
set. Rev-O-Lution,” said Sara Frias, opened Dippin’ Dot Sundae
who travels to carnivals and est addition to its already
If the size of the queue spill- Lake Compounce’s director of Shop featuring Dot Sundaes
amusement parks all over impressive line-up. The new ing out onto the midway is any marketing. “The gigantic smiles and Dot Floats along with Zeb’s
the world to keep abreast of attraction – It – is a KMG indication, the park has anoth- on their faces as they are riding Paintball. The latter is an in-
industry trends. “We want- 4See MOREY’S, page 4 er winner in its newest ride. say it all!” house designed and built paint-
“Guests of all ages have really In addition to the Rev-O- 4See COMPOUNCE, page 4
R It’s Coming!
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DTS TRSRP 2011 Golden Ticket Awards • Holiday World & Spashin’ Safari • Santa Claus, Indiana
2 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2011
NEWSTALK
OPINIONS CARTOON LETTERS AT CONTACTS
EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint
Six Flags and innovation
Six Flags Over Texas was developed by
Angus G. Wynne, Jr. as a way to help fund
his startup Great Southwest Industrial Dis-
trict. It did just that and much more. Thanks
to the many industry legends involved, the
Texas history theme park was an instant
success. In its early years it shared the same
Slade
mindset that proved to be Disneyland’s suc-
cessful formula.
That success led to both Wynne and Walt Disney visit-
ing each other’s parks on an annual basis, after all, the two
themers were the only parks of their kind at the time.
That loosely-based friendship would help lead to
several ‘industry’ firsts that would be enjoyed by the Texas
park.
Arrow Development got its ride start thanks to Walt
giving the California firm several ride projects during the
original building of the Anaheim park. The Arrow name
was brought to Wynne as the source for new industry
‘themed’ experiences. Wynne would only consider rides
that could be themed or rides that were very unique in
design. The end result from Arrow was the very first log
EDITORIAL: Andrew Mellor, [email protected]
flume ride and the first mine train type steel coaster.
The Six Flags’ need for innovation didn’t stop with Making the most of what you’ve got
just Arrow. A Switzerland-based company called Intamin
The off-season has of those very special places.
would soon have several former Von Roll skyride employ-
passed and that special time of A warm ocean breeze and the excited cry of a
ees, with whom the park had trusted following the opening
year those of us in the amuse- wheeling gull fills the morning air as I write this
of the Von Roll skyride in 1961. Although Intamin brokered
ment industry live for is finally on the fifth-floor balcony of a classic 1950s hotel
a small ride to the park called Jet Set, it was the massive
upon us. Though I dearly love overlooking the broad expanse of white sand and
undertaking of building a replica oil derrick observation the crisp nights of autumn and blue-green water that make up the Wildwood,
tower a few years later, that would thrust the company into look forward to colorful foliage New Jersey landscape. In the distance, the silhou-
the ride building business. and the promise of holidays to ette of a wooden roller coaster and a Ferris Wheel
Mellor
Opening in 1969, the 300 foot tall Oil Derrick became come at year’s end, it is this on Morey’s Piers both rise up through a light fog
time I most enjoy. Long days that will soon burn off. At rest in the rising sun,
Intamin’s first ride. The new tower let park visitors view
of endless blue skies over crowded midways and those rides and all the others patiently wait for the
the skylines of both Dallas and Fort Worth from heights of
fairgrounds is our reward for the cold and snow stroke of noon when they will awaken and accept
251 and 267 feet. Disneyland’s much publicized icon was
many of us endured during the downtime. their first eager passengers of the day.
the Matterhorn Mountain. Six Flags Over Texas now had Whether you’re “Goin’ down the shore” or Next stop on this working vacation is Seaside
the Oil Derrick as its icon. headed to “The beach,” those and other similar Heights and its two piers followed by visits to
As Six Flags Over Texas celebrates this 50th anniversa- phrases evoke the same emotional response: a other amusement centers on the Jersey shore and
ry, one can only wonder what industry innovation, or icon, feeling of anticipation and simple joy at the points north. And then we hit that hallowed strip
prospect of finding something amusement-related of ocean-side real estate in Brooklyn where it all
is in store during the next 50 years.
for entertainment at the ocean. The true seaside began – Coney Island. That legend by the sea is
—Gary Slade
amusement park is a destination that exempli- making a comeback thanks to the efforts of those
fies all that is summer. While inland parks and stalwarts who’ve stuck it out over the dark years,
Gary Slade is the founder and publisher of Amusement traveling shows are wonderful in their own right, and the newcomers eager to make their own mark.
Today. His love for amusement parks began at age six there’s something special about parks that hug This summer is starting off just the way I like it.
when he first visited Pontchartrain Beach Amusement the coastlines. I’m fortunate to be employed in a So here’s to wishing everyone fair skies and
Park and Six Flags Over Texas. His long newspaper career capacity that requires me to experience many such good luck.
locations. And now my job has brought me to one Have a great season!
helped lead to the launch of AT in 1997.
AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF
Gary Slade, Founder Tim Baldwin Sammy Piccola
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation
[phone] [email protected] [phone]
Deliveries Member of:
[email protected] [email protected]
2012 E. Randol Mill Rd, Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA,
Pam Sherborne
Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA,
Stacey Childress Editorial Sue Nichols
NAARSO and IISF
Web & Graphic Design [email protected] Advertising
[phone] [phone] Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $50 in the USA; $70 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $90/$130;
[email protected] Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $130/$190. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to
Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt.
Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed.
John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. [email protected] Beth Jenkins
Daily E-mail Newsletter Advertising Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O.
Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth,
[email protected] Bubba Flint [phone]
Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related Web sites are copyrighted and trademarked
Cartoonist [email protected] by Amusement Today 2011, with all rights reserved.
[email protected]
POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas
Contributors: Dean Lamanna, Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, Jeffrey L. Seifert, Janice Witherow, WHR Inc., Eric Youkin 76005-5427.
August 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3
THIS MONTH IN HISTORY
2
MINUTE
•1905: A lion escaped its Presented by
enclosure on the evening of
DRILL August 22, at Electric Park,
in Vailsburg (Newark), N.J.
where an estimated 5,000
COMPILED: Janice Witherow
guests were enjoying the park.
Deborah Eicher, Picsolve Inc. USA
Many were hurt as the crowd
tried to leave the park. The www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org
Deborah Eicher has
lion was captured safely, and
been with Picsolve, one
harmed no one during its two hours of freedom.
of the world’s lead-

ing ride photography
•1917: Cedar Point’s newest roller coaster, the Leap Frog Rail-
companies, for only
way, opened August 25, in Sandusky, Ohio. The delay wasn’t
two years, but already
she is making a name weather related, but attributed to a limited labor force avail-
for herself. No stranger able during the war raging overseas. It opened almost three
to the industry, prior to months late, but proved to be a wonderful attraction, with
Picsolve, Deborah was what many believe is the only coaster ever built with a first
president of Flight Avi- drop incorporating a triple dip.
onics of North America,
which specializes in •1928: In early August, John A. Miller and Norman Bartlett
partnerships with at- Deborah Eicher, left, and Charlie Bray, IAAPA, present during
announced for the first time that they were joining forces to
tractions throughout the 2010 Golden Ticket Awars at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
design and build a new ride device, based on the popular bob-
the U.S. Originally from
sled runs, with a train of cars careening down a wooden trough.
Iowa, she has resided in sunny Florida
Called the Flying Turns, they would build their first prototype
for the last 12 years where she relishes Favorite cocktail
time on the beach and days with her Anything with a small umbrella in it! at Lakeside Park, in Dayton, Ohio for the 1929 season.
daughter.
You are in the airport. What do you •1939: Roller Coaster builder Harry C. Baker passed away on
Title usually do while waiting for your August 23, during the first year of the N.Y. World’s Fair, where
President, Chief Op- flight? he operated a dozen different amusement devices. Born in
erations Officer, North Catch up on e-mails and make calls. Kawanee, Illinois, his career is probably best known as the
America.
builder of the famous Coney Island Cyclone and the monster-
If I could choose a cartoon character
ous Blue Streak at Woodcliffe Pleasure Park, in Poughkeepsie,
Number of years with to bring to life, it would be …
New York. Involved with the Amusement Park Association,
Picsolve Inc. USA Superman.
he was also the treasurer of the Recreational Equipment As-
Two years, 12 years in the
industry. Eicher Favorite summertime sport to play sociation. He was also the holder of ride patents with John A.
Miller, with whom he enjoyed a short partnership in the early
Frisbee or surfing, anything on the
Best thing about the industry beach. 1920s. He died at his home in Larchmont, New York, at the
The collective passion in the industry to age of 52.
deliver an exceptional experience and The last time I wore high-heeled shoes
the lasting friendships made along the was … •1944: With a crowd of thrill seekers seeking relief from the
way. At dinner at the Grand Floridian. hot weather, the end of Brooklyn’s Luna Park came on August

12, when a fire destroyed more than half the park, including the
Favorite amusement ride Pick one to watch: ESPN or HGTV?
park’s signature attraction, the Mile Sky Chaser coaster. The
Goliath at Six Flags in Atlanta. ESPN all the way.
fire began in the park’s ancient Dragon’s Gorge scenic railway
and quickly spread through the park’s flimsy structures, level-
If I wasn’t working in the amusement In one word, describe your car
ing over a dozen buildings and concessions. Now reduced in
industry, I would be … Comfortable.
An accountant, attorney or in some form size by over half, the park would limp along for parts of two
of retail. My dream house is … seasons, but closed after the property was sold for housing in
On the beach with a deck facing the 1946. It was a sad ending to the great landmark that helped
Biggest challenge facing our industry sunset. put Coney Island on the map in 1903, along with Steeplechase,
Keeping the guests at the attractions in which would last until 1965.
a prolonged difficult economy. After a long day, I relax by doing this
A work out at the gym. •1951: On August 12, Paul and Alethea Roads would open
The thing I like most about amuse-
Kiddieland on a small site in Amarillo, Texas’ Thompson Park.
ment/water park season is … On a typical Friday night, I am …
Now known as Wonderland Park, the family-owned park fea-
Knowing the kids are out of school and With friends and family or shuttling my
tures more than 28 rides and attractions.
looking for fun in the sun! daughter around.
—Compiled by Jeffrey L. Seifert/AT
My favorite summer movie was … My commute to work is … and Richard Munch/NRCMA
Jaws! And that didn’t keep me away A time to reflect and plan.
from the beach!
You have just won the lotto. The very
The last vacation I took was to … first thing you do is … TM
P.O. Box 5427
Antigua for a week of SCUBA diving with Make a plan to take care of my family Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 5-time Award Winner
sharks, stingrays and barracudas. and then go to work! [phone]
Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397)
Would you fit in better in a big city or Favorite breakfast food
small town? Yogurt and granola with a banana. Find us on Facebook
I grew up in a small farm town in Iowa, facebook.com/amusementtoday
so I always prefer small towns, but I love The celebrity who is really getting on
to visit any big city. my nerves lately is …
Charlie Sheen. Follow us on Twitter
twitter.com/amusementtoday
I have always wanted to …
Fly an airplane, keeping an eye out for
my idol Amelia Earhart.
G et the free mobile app for your phone Subscribe to our YouTube channel
http://gettag.mobi youtube.com/amusementtoday
4 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2011
MOREY’S
LETTERS to the EDITOR
Continued from page 1
Fireball (aka Afterburner)
swinging pendulum ride that
NEAAPA fills open position; new
has had guests queuing up all
Alan Ramsay Safety Award created summer for a spin above the
boards.
Dear Gary, Located on the northern
On Tuesday June 28th, a special meeting of the New edge of Morey’s Surfside Pier,
England Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions the new ride presents a strik-
Board of Directors took place at the Hilton Garden Inn in ing profile thanks to its bril-
Worchester. The purpose of this meeting was to assess liant red-green-yellow light
Located on Morey’s Surfside Pier, It features a new lap bar-
the current status of NEAAPA with the recent passing of package. Accommodating
only restraint system, which was developed jointly by KMG
our secretary/treasurer Alan Ramsay, and to take appro- 24 riders per cycle, It stands
and Morey’s Piers engineers to offer improved rider comfort
priate actions to continue the work of the association as 78-feet-tall and reaches a max-
as well as safety.
seamlessly as possible. I am happy to report that we are imum swing of 120 degrees
in fine shape thanks to the efforts of a dedicated board of – six-stories high – in either AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD
directors and the assistance of Alan’s associates at CLM direction. straint with individual lap roster and know our guests
Entertainment. A first for this style of ride bars that provide increased will surely love It. It is just the
We have obtained access and signatory authority on is the new and improved re- rider freedom yet still offer the beginning of our plans for the
all financial accounts. Per the association’s by-laws, which straint system, which was de- same degree of security. continued re-development of
were updated in recent years, the Finance Committee veloped jointly by KMG and Referencing this new Surfside Pier. Try It, you’ll like
Chair Dave Sugrue will take over handling the accounts engineers from Morey’s Piers. attraction looking to the It.”
receivables and payables and the financial reporting. His This new system replaces the future, Jack Morey adds, “We Indeed.
committee, especially Charlene Conway, have stepped up former over-the-shoulder re- are proud to add It to our ride
to offer assistance as needed. Special thanks to Paul Cava-
naugh and David Daly from Daly Cavanaugh for their legal
COMPOUNCE
assistance that allowed us to navigate some of the paper-
work needed to make this transition possible. Continued from page 1
Regarding the secretary position, the board of direc-
tors unanimously selected Ed Hodgdon from Funtown ball shooting gallery located
Splashtown USA (Saco, Maine) as the new secretary of between the exit and entrance
NEAAPA. Ed had immediately stepped in when I asked to the award-winning Boulder
him to be acting secretary and expressed interest in hold- Dash wooden roller coaster.
ing the position permanently. Thanks to Kenneth Cormier Housed within a rustic shed
structure, Zeb’s Paintball chal-
and Cory Hutchinson from Funtown Splashtown USA for
lenges guests to test their skill
allowing Ed to take some time from his duties to assist
by firing at various targets with
NEAAPA. Ed traveled to Providence and is in possession
paintball rifles. Zeb’s Paintball
of all of the association’s archives and documents. Again,
is considered another of the
thanks to the fine folks at CLM Entertainment for their as-
park’s ‘green’ attractions since
sistance by providing access to Alan’s office and NEAAPA’s
it was built using reclaimed
documents and files.
wood and other components
The board of directors also supported a motion to cre-
from various park projects.
ate a new award in memory of Alan Ramsay. Starting at
During a visit to the park
this year’s Summer Meeting, we will present the Alan E. in late June, Amusement Today
Ramsay Safety Award. More information will be sent to the spoke with Lake Compounce’s
membership in short order as soon as the criteria and ap- Sara Frias about the success
plication have been established. of the new concession. “Zeb’s
In closing, I wish to thank all of our NEAAPA family for Paintball has been a hit! Guests
the support given, in a multitude of ways, as a result of have been enjoying aiming and
Alan’s passing. I am very proud to serve as the president taking their shot at all of the
of an association made up of compassionate, professional country-themed memorabil-
and dedicated individuals. Past President Stephen Lipkin ia,” said Frias. “This is a fairly
e-mailed me shortly after Alan’s passing stating, “Alan was unique attraction for an amuse-
the straw that stirred the NEAAPA drink.” Each of you make ment park and guests are loving
it. “
up the drink that Alan was so proud of. Thanks again for all
Other new features for the
your support during this difficult time. NEAAPA continues
park’s 2011 season include an
to move forward in a positive direction because of its mem-
unlimited parking pass avail-
bers. I’m certain Alan would be proud. I look forward to
able for purchase to all season
seeing you at the 2011 NEAAPA Summer Meeting at The
pass holders, and online meal
Big E and at the annual Tom Morrow dinner in Orlando.
deals where guests can pre-pur-
Best,
chase their meals for the Potato
Greg Chiecko
Patch, Harborside Pizza and the
President, NEAAPA, West Springfield, Mass.
Parkside Diner.
“After the extremely snowy

and cold winter we had, the staff
LETTERS POLICY
at Lake Compounce is ready
Letters must include printed name, company if any, city,
to serve up summer fun, and
state or country and valid email address. Letters must be we know our newest ride, Rev-
the author’s original words. Suggested length is 200 words O-Lution, and other improve-
or less. Longer letters may be edited to fit available space. ments will be well received,” Also new this season at Lake Compounce is Zeb’s Paintball.
To send us a letter: email: gslade@amusementtoday. added Lake Compounce A ‘green’ attraction, the new in-house designed shooting
com, fax: [phone] or by mail to Amusement Today, General Manager Jerry Brick. gallery concession was built using reclaimed wood and
P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. other components from various park projects.
AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD
August 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5
INTERNATIONAL
PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS SUPPLIERS
At Trans Studio Indoor Theme Park
BRIEF
Premier Rides’ LIM shuttle coaster opens in Indonesia
Euro Disney,
Hertz extend INDONESIA — Premier
Rides’ newest high tech thrill
Europe deal
ride, the Yamaha Racing
Coaster, has opened in
FRANCE — Euro Dis- Bandung, Indonesia at the
ney SCA and Hertz have Trans Studio Indoor Theme
signed a new, five-year Park’s grand opening. The new
official partnership agree- themer is the largest indoor
ment for Europe, Middle facility of its type in the world.
East and Africa. The two Premier Rides designed, built,
companies are also cel- and supervised installation of
ebrating the 15th anniver- the signature attraction.
sary of their partnership. The Yamaha Racing
This partnership will Coaster is a 164-foot-tall shut-
continue to offer an ar- tle loop launch coaster that
ray of services for guests uses magnetic drive technol-
and Disney Cast Members ogy to slingshot riders from
(company employees) zero to over 62 mph in just
alike at Disneyland Paris, over two seconds. The ride
Europe’s largest tourist features a top hat inversion
destination, with over 15 and a vertical zero-G spike
million guests annually. that gives riders the sensation
Guests staying in any of they will be shot off the end of
the resort’s hotel rooms the track.
may use a direct line to “The Yamaha Racing The Yamaha Racing Coaster, an LIM shuttle loop launch coaster supplied by Premier Rides,
the Hertz rental agency in Coaster is one of the most is the high-profile calling card attraction at Indonesia’s new Trans Studio Indoor Theme Park.
Chessy Marne-la-Vallée to 4See PREMIER, page 6 COURTESY PREMIER RIDES
rent a vehicle. Cast Mem-
bers may also benefit from
Polin supplies equipment for
special rates when renting
a vehicle or buying a used
Australian Aquatic Center
vehicle from Hertz.
Hertz will continue
AUSTRALIA—Polin and training venue for swim-
to enjoy strong visibil-
Waterparks and Pool Systems ming, diving and water polo.
ity throughout the amuse-
of Turkey was chosen to sup- The facility features multiple
ment theme park, with the
ply the equipment for South swimming pools, waterslides,
ongoing sponsorship of
Australian Aquatic and a water play structure, a com-
Main Street Vehicles, as
Leisure Center, Adelaide, munity gym and café. The
well as the stroller rental
Australia. South Australian $100 million SAALC, which
service in the Resort’s
Aquatic and Leisure Center opened in April 2011, will host
Disneyland Park and the
(SAALC) is South Australia’s major both national and inter-
Walt Disney Studios Park.
premier aquatic and rec- national aquatic events.
The Hertz brand will also
reational facility and is the The SAALC’s aquat-
be present in various em-
region’s main competition ic facilities were designed
blematic spots including in
and constructed by AVP
the sets at Disney Studio
This slide tower complex, Commercial Pools of Australia
1 and on the car license
from Turkey-based Polin, while Polin provided three
plates of taxis parked in
recently opened at the of its installations. This trio
front of Restaurant des
South Australian Aquatic includes a bowl slide, a tunnel
Stars and Disney’s Hotel
and Leisure Center. slide and a multi-level interac-
New York.
COURTESY POLIN 4See POLIN, page 6
6 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2011
Gerstlauer completes European and U.S. projects
Shuttle family
coaster a new
addition to
product range
STORY: Andrew Mellor
[email protected]
GERMANY — The Ger-
man roller coaster specialist
Gerstlauer Amusement Rides
has completed a number of
projects for the 2011 season,
including several in Europe
and two in the U.S.
Among the most recent
openings in Europe is the new
Gipfel-Stürmer (German for
‘summiteer’) Shuttle Family
Coaster at Freizeitpark Ruh-
polding in Bavaria, southern
Germany. The ‘pink knuckle’
ride is a brand new addition to
the Gerstlauer range of coast-
ers and is the first of its type to
be opened.
The Midgard Serpent family coaster, new for 2011 at Hansa-
Once the individual seat
Park in northern Germany.
restraints are secured, riders
COURTESY GERSTLAUER
in the 14-seat train are taken
backwards out of the station of Gerstlauer as the train is several other new coaster proj-
and up the first lift hill, from released once again to travel ects for the 2011 season. These
where they can enjoy a view along the track backwards to include Van Helsing’s Fac-
of the whole park and the sur- return to the station. tory at Movie Park Germany,
rounding landscape. After a The Shuttle Family Coast- a bobsled coaster and dark
few seconds, the train is re- er is suitable for anyone of one ride combination; the Mid-
leased to travel at top speed meter in height and above. It gard Serpent family coaster at
back down the hill, through the has a maximum structural Hansa-Park, also in Germany,
station and into a ‘wild’ course height of 12 meters (40 feet) which features a new train
featuring banked curves, sud- and a track length of 170 me- concept; Wickie The Ride, a
den changes of direction and ters (558 feet). Maximum spinning coaster at Plopsa Coo
airtime, after which it climbs speed is 50 kph (32 mph) and in Belgium; Dare Devil Dive, a
a second lift hill, featuring an one train is used, made up of Euro-Fighter at Six Flags Over
active lift, and stops at the top. seven two-seater cars. The cost Georgia in the U.S.; Untamed,
At this point riders see noth- of the standard ride is under also a Euro-Fighter, at Canobie
ing but the end of the track €1 million (U.S. $1.4 million). Lake and coaster trains for the
Freizeitpark Ruhpolding’s newest ride is one of several in- and the sky. In addition to the Freize- New Texas Giant at Six Flags
stalled by Gerstlauer at parks in Europe and the U.S. for the The next part of the expe- itpark Ruhpolding project, Over Texas.
2011 season. rience is unique in the history Gerstlauer has also completed
PREMIER POLIN prised of numerous twists and
“The ride is the calling card to the
turns. Produced using Polin’s
Continued from page 5 Continued from page 5
elaborate park standing in front of the RTM process with ‘Natural
advanced technology attrac- tive waterplay structure. Light Effects’ applied, the
facility with a giant sign adorning the
tions we have built and we The Space Hole bowl slide slide is perfectly smooth and
are certainly honored to have imposing structure.” begins with a launch from the has a shiny finish on both
had the opportunity to export top of 49-foot-tall tower into an sides. The color combination
such an amazing piece of —Jim Seay, president Premier Rides enclosed flume that exits into enhances the visual impact.
equipment to Trans Studio, a huge open bowl. After sev- The final piece of Polin
the entertainment leader in commented: “We wanted to with a giant sign adorning the eral whirls around the sides equipment is the interactive
Indonesia,” said Jim Seay, make a strong statement to imposing structure,” added of the bowl, the 249-foot-long multilevel waterplay struc-
president of Premier. “It is our guests that we were bring- Seay. “At night, spotlights ride concludes with a speedy ture, an Aquatower Type 160,
amazing to watch the ride in ing the best and most innova- bathe the structure which exit from the bowl section into that includes waterslides,
action especially where the tive attractions to Trans Studio can be seen for miles around. a splash pool. The Space Hole valves, water cannons and a
five ton train loaded with Bandung and with Premier’s Guests who ride the attraction was produced using Polin’s dumping bucket.
riders is lifted vertically to a Yamaha Racing Coaster, we actually board indoors in a RTM (Resin Transfer Molding) “We are happy to supply
height of 164 feet with only now have one of the fastest highly themed environment manufacturing process, which our waterslides for this proj-
a powerful magnetic wave and most thrilling coasters in that highlights the accom- contributes to the overall aes- ect,” said Baris Pakis, Polin
touching the train.” the world.” plishments of Yamaha motor- thetics of the facility. Waterparks and Pool Systems.
Chairul Tanjung, the CEO “The ride is the calling cycle racing and the racing The SAALC’s second “This facility proves itself as
of Para Group, the parent card to the elaborate park theme is integrated into the major attraction is a 336-foot- the premier leisure center in
organization of Trans Studio, standing in front of the facility ride experience.” long enclosed tube slide com- Australia.”
August 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7
Zamperla Mega Disk‘O leads new attractions at Aussie World
STORY: Andrew Mellor
[email protected]
AUSTRALIA — Aussie
World, situated on the Sun-
shine Coast in Queensland,
Australia, has added several
new attractions for 2011.
The first was the new Gi-
ant Redback thrill ride, a Mega
Disk’O 24 from Italian manu-
facturer Zamperla, themed on
the Redback spiders consid-
ered to be one of the most dan-
gerous spiders in the country.
Launched in April, the attrac-
tion has a footprint of 123 feet
by 36 feet (37.5 meters by 11.1
meters) and a track length of
156 feet (47 meters). Featuring
24 seats positioned in a circle
Riders face outwards and spin round as they travel up and down the track on Aussie World’s new Giant Redback. This
facing outwards, it takes pas-
Zamperla-built Mega Disk’O is just one of three new attractions at Australia’s Aussie World for 2011.
sengers up and down the track
COURTESY AUSSIE WORLD
at speeds of up to 43 mph (70
kph), while at the same time ter Show. Aptly named, it is The three new attractions principles and the unique di- trance prices.”
revolving at 14 rpm. The track 150 feet (46 meters) long, 50 take Aussie World’s invest- versity of the complex, such The three new rides will
goes up to 43 feet (13 meters) feet (15 meters) high and 30 ment in 2011 past the AUS $2 as being the largest off site enhance the current six func-
in height and hourly capacity feet (9 meters) wide. A third million (US $2.1) mark and function venue on the coast, tion areas and 30 rides and
is approximately 600 people ride, details of which are yet to will entice more visitors to we are successfully forging attractions on site, which in-
per hour. be announced (at the time of come to the Sunshine Coast ahead and are able to make clude the Town Hall, The
Also, in May, the park writing), will open in time for and to stay for longer, accord- this significant investment,” Shed, Wild Mouse roller coast-
purchased the Giant Slide the September school holidays ing to park general manger he said. “We will also remain er, Ferris Wheel, Rock ‘n Roll
which was a popular attrac- and will be the first of its kind David Thompson. an affordable and fun day out Rebel dark ride, dodgems and
tion at the Sydney Royal Eas- on the Sunshine Coast. “Due to our management by not increasing our gate en- Side Show Alley.
8 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2011
August 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9
PARKS & ATTRACTIONS
RIDES ENTERTAINMENT REVENUE SUPPLIERS
That’s entertainment! Parks roll out new shows
New entertainment lands Carowinds lights up the night
in San Antonio at
CHARLOTTE, N.C. —
Guests who extend their
Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld Carowinds visit into the eve-
ning hours this summer will
find a large section of the
STORY: Tim Baldwin ry walls during the summer
Southern themer drenched in
[email protected] nights. While still popular, the
color, light and sound thanks
show was completely over-
to Snoopy’s Starlight Spec-
SAN ANTONIO, Texas hauled with an entirely new
tacular, a million dollar night-
— Summer is often the time laser system, sound system
time walk-through experience
theme parks offer big shows and effects for 2011. Audiences
featuring the Peanuts gang.
to their peak season audienc- spread out on a grassy lawn,
To showcase the new show,
es. San Antonio is a prime ex- sprawling before the quarry
Carowinds will extend its op-
ample as the city’s two theme wall where the show — which
erating hours until 10 p.m. ev-
parks have made significant is the size of a football field —
ery day from June 27 through
changes to their largest shows. takes place.
Aug. 7, 2011
Six Flags Fiesta Texas, The storyline of the show
Utilizing a diverse mix-
known for superior theme celebrates all things Texas with
ture of low energy and high Carowinds has given guests something new to enjoy at night
park shows for almost 20 years, an emphasis on the Lone Star
efficiency LED lighting, this with this “walk-through” experience themed to Snoopy
launched “Lone Star Nights” State’s largest cities from the
immersive light and sound and the Peanuts comic strip gang. The experience is titled
on May 28. Since the park tip of the Gulf Coast and up
spectacular stretches from the “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular”.
was built under the Opryland to the Panhandle. San Anto-
4See CAROWINDS, page 11 AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD
umbrella in 1992, a laser and nio tops off the great locations
fireworks show has delighted around Texas. Tributes to mili- Canada’s Wonderland mountain errupts
audiences on the park’s quar- 4See SHOWS, page 10
TORONTO — As part
of the 30th anniversary cel-
ebrations for Canada’s
Wonderland, artists at
Tantrum Design created
‘Starlight Spectacular,’ a
vibrant display of stunning
visuals that bring the park’s
Wonder Mountain to life.
“Starlight Spectacular is
wowing our guests and is
being called one of our best
shows in our 30-year histo-
ry,” said Dave Phillips, vice
president, marketing & sales
at Canada’s Wonderland. “It’s
the perfect way to finish off a
great day of thrilling rides and
waterpark fun.”
Six Flags Fiesta Texas has put the pressure on voters to bring
The innovative show,
the coveted Golden Ticket back to their park. New in 2011
unveiled on June 25 and run-
are two major productions, “Lone Star Nights” laser light
ning throughout the summer,
show and the outstanding production “Ovation” featuring Canada’s Wonderland iconic mountain has been brought to
dazzles the senses as Wonder
20 singers and a nine-piece live band performing in the al- life this year in “Starlight Spectacular” and its storyline of
Mountain is transformed
ways spectatular Zaragoza Theater. projected images shown onto the mountain.
COURTESY SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS 4See CANADA, page 12 COURTESY TANTRUM
10 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2011
SHOWS
AMUSEMENT
Continued from page 9
MARKET PLACE
tary personnel, sports fandom
and a grand finale to Texas
pride are also featured in the
all-new presentation that fea-
tures video, colorful still im-
ages and lasers all working in
conjunction with each other.
The park reports that the ad-
vanced new laser system takes
up a mere fraction of the space
that the earlier system devel-
oped 20 years ago required.
The new lasers are clearly
brighter and more colorful.
Surround sound provides ad-
vanced audio throughout the
production.
Having launched the
show Memorial Day weekend,
Six Flags Fiesta Texas received
e
Magnetic Brake Retrofit an alarming shock on June 23.
The best stop is a smooth one. EMG is proud to M San Antonio issued a city-wide
be the exclusive representative for Velocity g
Magnetics magnetic retrofit braking systems. fireworks ban that affected
even the theme parks, catch-
Replacement Chain ing Fiesta Texas off-guard. The
As the representative for Elecon Chain EMG can
ban came due to the extreme
provide replacement chain, sprockets and drive
systems for roller coasters, water rides, and flat rides. drought situation facing many
parts of Texas. Efforts were
Custom Spare Parts
made to still deliver the laser
If you are having trouble finding a pump,
commutator or piece from an old ride contact EMG. and fireworks show as prom-
We have the ability to track down and source rides ised, but part of the summer
from any era.
saw just the laser and multi-
Entertainment Management Group sensory production compo-
1-410-643-9300, ext. 303
nents ending the evenings at
[email protected] All three SeaWorld parks, including SeaWorld San Antonio,
Group of Companies
the park, certainly frustrating
recently revealed its latest version of its Shamu shows, this
to Six Flags.
one titled “One Ocean.” Following last year’s tragic death
“We (including SeaWorld
at Orlando park, trainers are still not allowed in the water
and the San Antonio Tourism
with the killer whales. Now guests see the trainers interact-
Council) have had conversa-
ing through the side glass panels. An original musical score,
tions with city officials regard-
LED screens and storyline are but a few must sees from this
ing our history and safety re-
wonderfully produced show.
cord producing professional
AT/GARY SLADE
fireworks displays,” says
Sydne Purvis, public relations show. Following a grand finale are still in place, such as the
manager for Six Flags Fiesta featuring the entire cast, Fiesta impressive acrobatic maneu-
Texas, in July. “But the ban has Texas audiences have been vers by the mammals, as well
not yet been lifted.” As this is- leaping to their feet in stand- as the hilarious spectacle of
sue went to press, San Antonio ing ovation. The show is aptly dousing many audience mem-
lifted the ban for professional titled. During the summer sea- bers seated in the soak zone.
firework displays — with son, performances were sched- New to “One Ocean” is the ad-
heavy restrictions — at the end uled for Wednesday through dition of fountains that interact
of July. Sunday. with the whale’s playful antics.
Perhaps more impressive A mere 15 miles away, The show incorporates
is the park’s newest live per- SeaWorld San Antonio re- a three-story set utilizing
formance show held in the vealed its latest killer whale panoramic LED screens and
Structural Technologies Inc
Zaragoza Theater which con- show with “One Ocean.” With surround-sound speakers.
tains the largest stage in all of SeaWorld Orlando opening An original musical score fea-
New Construction
San Antonio. “Ovation” brings the show in April, San Diego turing contemporary global
Renovations
together 20 singers and a nine- over Memorial Day weekend, rhythms combine with the
Daily Maintenance
piece live band in a Broadway “One Ocean” reached San An- narration and video images to
Relocations
extravaganza. This production tonio in mid-June. Replacing convey the show’s message:
Track Replacement
is theme park entertainment at the popular “Believe” show we are all part of one world
Demolition
its finest allowing each amaz- that ran for five years, this new and have the power to make
Inspections
ing vocalist moments to shine production aims to connect a difference. It isn’t often that
Emergency Work
in the spotlight with segments audiences not only with the theme park shows try to in-
380 Bad Man Hill Rd. • Paxinos, Pa 17860 spotlighting Mamma Mia, remarkable killer whales, but spire their guests with positive
[phone] or [phone] American Idiot, Rent, The to all the color and life of the goals, so in this aspect, the Sea-
[email protected] Wedding Singer and Wicked. underwater world. World production has carved
A duel between The Jersey Since an incident in Or- its own niche.
Boys and Dreamgirls is another lando in February of 2010, the San Antonio is a major
Keep our amusement park industry strong! lively segment. Dramatic light- trainers no longer swim in the tourist city, and the two parks
ing, projections, and elaborate water with the killer whales, seem poised to entertain fu-
Buy products and services from these suppliers.
costumes accent the 35-minute but several familiar moments ture visitors in the years ahead.