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INSIDE:
Singing Mushrooms return to
TM & ©2014 Amusement Today, Inc.
Kings Dominion — PAGE 26
August 2014 | Vol. 18 • Issue 5 www.amusementtoday.com
No kidding here, these coasters deliver
Story Land turns 60, adds Roar-O-Saurus
STORY: B. Derek Shaw Central to the Story Land not ever overwhelming,” said
[email protected]
experience are the classic chil- Jack Mahany, assistant general
GLEN, N.H. — The legacy dren’s fairy tale adventures manager who started with the
that Bob and Ruth Morrell cre- that are found in the original park in 1967. He continued,
ated in 1954 continues today, section of the park. The in- “They can touch Cinderella.
entertaining young families spiration came from a set of It’s special.”
and their children, while cre- dolls given the elder Morrells Story Land started adding
ating lasting memories. The when living in Europe in the rides in the early 1960s. They
37-acre property, now run by early 1950’s. The park opened have three complete Chance
Palace Entertainment (after as Story Town; however it was Manufacturing train rides,
the demise of son and daugh- changed the next year due to along with a spare engine.
ter-in-law Stoney and Nancy); Charlie Woods’ Storytown The engines include: number
features 23 rides, five shows park (now The Great Escape 2 (from 1961), 4, 18 and 47. All
and multiple play areas. New in Glens Falls, N.Y.), that had three trains run on a circuit
for 2014, in conjunction with opened in 1953. that has three train stations Six Flags Magic Mountain’s new Bugs Bunny World children’s
Story Land’s 60th anniversary, One of the favorite attrac- situated throughout the park. area included this new Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers kid-
is Roar-O-Saurus, a 40-foot tions with the smaller set is Other rides include the Polar die coaster, supplied by Zamperla. COURTESY SFMM
Gravity Group LLC wooden Cinderella’s Tea Room, giving Coaster (OD Hopkins, 1987);
Speedy Gonzales coaster
roller coaster that opened on young Princesses the opportu- Dr. Geyser’s Remarkable Raft
Memorial Day weekend. nity to have tea with her. “It’s 4See STORY LAND, page 4
revs up kids’ area revamp at
To help celebrate Story Land’s 60th
Six Flags Magic Mountain
anniversary, the park added this
family wooden coaster from The Gravity
Group. With a top speed of just 34 mph STORY: Dean Lamanna park in the U.S.
this ride is able to deliver the thrills and [email protected] Also new at Bugs Bunny
become a ‘must do’ with park guests. VALENCIA, Calif. — Six World is the Looney Tunes Kids
COURTESY STORY LAND Flags Magic Mountain (SFMM) Club show, which is staged at
officially launched its record- the Carrot Club Theater. Fea-
setting 19th roller coaster with turing Bugs Bunny himself as
the June 25 debut of Speedy Club President, this audience
Gonzales Hot Rod Racers, a participatory game show is de-
new kiddie coaster that adds signed to appeal to all ages.
another highlight to the park’s “We are excited to show-
colorfully spruced up Bugs case our newest coaster and
Bunny World children’s sec- newly revitalized children’s
tion. area this year,” said Bonnie
The adventure-themed Rabjohn, president of SFMM
coaster, with trains designed and Hurricane Harbor. “We’re
as race cars, carries riders staying true to our thrill prom-
around an undulating course ise by adding yet another
to a checkered-flag finish line. coaster to our collection — this
It brings the total number of time a fun adventure for our lit-
coasters in the kids’ area to four tlest thrillseekers. No doubt we
— more than any other theme 4See SFMM, page 4
R
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2 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2014
NEWSTALK
EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint
What’s old is also new
Disneyland has long been known for taking
care of their historic and iconic attractions. The
park’s Matterhorn Bobsled and Big Thunder
Mountain Railroad are but two of their most
recent examples.
Now we’ve seen local neighbor Knott’s
Berry Farm do the same with its complete
Slade refurbishment of their two Bud Hurlbut
attractions, Timber Mountain Log Ride last year and the Calico
Mine Ride this year.
In all the cases mentioned above, guest response has been
as popular, if not more, than if a major new attraction had been
added. Last season, the gate increase at Knott’s was near an
all-time record. This gives proof to park leaders, and their
marketing staffs, that the paying guest does indeed care about
the history of their local park. The guest has his or her favorite
“old time” attraction and they enjoy riding it even more when it
has been refurbished to like new.
The refurb story doesn’t stop there.
In Denver, Hyland Hills Water World this year is starting a
two-year rehab of its two most popular attractions: The 1990-
built The Lost River of the Pharaohs and the 1993-built Voyage
to the Center of the Earth.
These two cutting edge family raft rides also include dark
EDITORIAL: Scott Rutherford, [email protected]
ride portions where the brilliant minds at R&R Creative Design Happy Birthday Kings Dominion!
added theming and Sally Corp. produced the animation that
created two different and very unique storylines for riders While working on stories was missing.
floating by in their tubes. for this issue, I revisited one of Once Cedar Fair acquired KD (2007), things
The rides are getting updates to their theming and my favorite theme parks: Kings started to change. Slowly, the park began to
animation pieces as well as adding the latest technology re- Dominion. I’ve been visiting reacquire facets of its former identity. It has
lated to sound and LED lighting. It’s a great move by the park KD since it opened in 1975. I been an arduous but significant process.
to take care of their classics. was just an awe-struck kid back When I went back this spring to cover
Back at Cedar Fair, Kings Dominion is taking tips from the then but I knew it was special. the park’s 40th Celebration, I was sincerely
success its sister park Knott’s has enjoyed, just in time for their Rutherford I’d already been to KD’s prede- impressed. Cedar Fair had listened to what
40th anniversary celebration. cessors and direct inspiration– guests wanted and spent the time, money and
Kings Dominion guests had repeatedly asked for the park Ohio’s Coney Island and Kings Island. The basic effort not only to update various elements, but
to bring back the Singing Mushrooms that entertained guests layout was similar to KI, especially International they also looked back at what made the park
Street, the fountain and, of course, the Eiffel so special in the first place. They painted and
during the early seasons and later became a local household
Tower. But there was something else happen- spruced up virtually the entire property. And
name in after film Rollercoaster. So the park asked Garner
ing at KD ... something uniquely Virginian. they brought back the Singing Mushrooms, the
Holt Productions, who Knott’s had worked with on their two
Over the years, as a lifelong airline employ- Floral Clock and Candy Apple Grove midway.
ride rehabs, to recreate the four singing mushrooms and one
ee who moved around constantly, I always These things may seem simple and insignificant
cigar-puffing frog playing a piano. The response from the
made sure to include KD in my travels. I recall to outsiders, but to longtime fans of the park,
guests has been so big, it’s as if the Singing Mushrooms are
being delighted each time in what was hap- they mean the world. They’ve rekindled cher-
now their own show and probably should be listed on the
pening at the park, even when Paramount ished memories and guests absolutely love it.
park’s show schedule.
stepped in (1993) and radically Hollywood-ized I’ll bet there’s a kid visiting the park today
In addition, the park took one of its historic 1917 PTC
the place. Though they had the needed funds for the first time, just like I did forty summers
carousel horses and made it a 40th Anniversary Celebration
and did things the previous owners could never ago. And I’ll wager he’ll be just as enchanted
centerpiece with a custom-painting that reintroduced the horse
have afforded, they also began to eliminate as I was.
as “Ruby.” Ruby is now one of the most photographed horses
certain aspects that made KD exceptional. All Happy Birthday Kings Dominion! Here’s to
on the carousel by guests.
those new film-themed rides were a huge and 40 more.
Something old can be made new again, to the delight of
profitable hit with guests, but I felt something
your park guests.
AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF
Gary Slade, Founder Dean Lamanna Sammy Piccola
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation
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[email protected] [email protected] Bubba Flint
Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O.
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August 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3
THIS MONTH
2
MINUTE
IN HISTORY
DRILL
Presented by the National Rollercoaster Museum
COMPILED: Richard Munch
COMPILED: Janice Witherow
Michael Schwitek — Frontier City Theme Park •1891: The niece of the Postmaster General of the United States was
injured on the L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway in Atlantic City, New
A self-professed amuse-
Jersey on the evening of August 25. Bessie Wanamaker and several
ment park and roller
others were seriously injured when the gripman (driver) lost control of
coaster fan, Michael the brakes and the train derailed on a descent throwing passengers
Schwitek is living out to the ground. Wanamaker’s leg was broken, while other passengers
his dream working as received cuts, bruises and injuries to the face. An investigation attrib-
operations manager uted the accident to a broken bolt, and all recovered over the next
for Frontier City Theme few weeks.
Park in Oklahoma City,
•1916: Charles Looff purchased the land just south of the Santa Mon-
Okla. Michael began
ica Municipal Pier, Santa Monica, California, and started construction
his industry career as an
of a new pier alongside it in 1916. The new pier was billed as the largest
operations supervisor
pleasure wharf of its kind in the United States and featured amuse-
with Cedar Fair, which ment rides that included the Blue Streak Racer roller coaster. The pier
then led to a full-time partially opened on August 6, with the new coaster which had been
position at Alabama relocated from Wonderland in San Diego.
Adventure and eventu-
ally to Frontier City. •1951: Kiddieland, a small amusement park for children opened in
Thompson Park, in Amarillo, Texas, on August 12. Paul and Alethea
When he is not work-
Roads leased the property from the city, adding landscaping and
ing and partaking in his hobby of visiting You live in Oklahoma. How many pair of
three rides, including an Allan Herschell Little Dipper roller coaster,
amusement parks, Michael can be found cowboy boots do you own?
one of the first of its kind in the United States. With additional attrac-
creating videos, enjoying music and mov- Zero! I’m originally from Illinois.
tions, the park changed its name to Wonderland Park in 1969, in
ies. honor of Lewis Carroll’s book, “Through the Looking Glass.” Paul E.
When I was 10 years old, I wanted to be Roads passed away in 2003, and Roads’ daughter Paula and husband
A singer Paul Borchardt, along with their daughter Rebecca Parker, now op-
Title erate the only park in the Texas panhandle, with an assortment of
Operations Manager. My all-time favorite country song is steel coasters and major rides.
Anything by Garth Brooks.
•1975: Self proclaimed coaster nut Michael Boodley, a 17 year old
Number of years in the
resident of Dutch Neck, New Jersey, set a new Guinness World Record
industry If I were to set a Guinness World Record,
for continuous roller coaster riding on August 14 at Coney Island,
13. it would be for
Schwitek Brooklyn, New York. Riding for 36 hours and completing 1001 circuits
Riding the most roller coasters in the world! on the Cyclone, his accomplishment would be met with amazement,
Best thing about the industry as he began the marathon days earlier, only for it to be rained out.
The uniqueness of each and every park Dream vacation He started again, and would go on to complete the 606.67 mile trip
around the world. An amusement park tour of Asia. in good shape. Boodley would eventually work in the amusement in-
dustry, consulting with some of the renowned coaster firms including
Favorite amusement ride You are going to the moon. The three Philadelphia Toboggan Company, Morgan and Custom Coasters
International. In 1994, he formed Great Coasters International
Skyrush at Hersheypark. things you would take on the Space
with Clair Hain Jr., which today remains just one of only a handful of
Shuttle are:
wooden coaster design firms in the world.
If I wasn’t working in the amusement My iPod filled with all of my favorite music;
industry, I would be pictures of my family and friends; and hot
•1976: In response to the opening of Great America in Gurnee, Il-
In the performing arts. wings. linois in May, Cedar Point officials signed an agreement with the city
of Battle Creek, Michigan on August 3, to purchase 760 acres of land
Biggest challenge facing our industry The errand I most dread to run for construction of its second amusement park. The land accord deal
Keeping up with technology. While not really an errand, I dread paying was signed with the understanding that a number of conditions would
bills. be resolved before the agreement would be finalized. President and
CEO Robert Munger Jr. said the company liked the location be-
The thing I like most about amusement/
tween Chicago and Detroit, and expected the park might open by
water park season is Take your pick – an afternoon at a winery
the summer of 1978. Cedar Point would eventually drop the project
The smell of cotton candy, and roller or an evening at a brewery
in April, 1977, much to the dismay of city officials who believed they
coaster track grease! Evening at a brewery.
had met all the criteria expected by Cedar Point. In June 2001, Cedar
Fair (the parent company of Cedar Point) would purchase Michigan’s
Favorite flavor of ice cream The most underrated professional ath- Adventure from the Roger Jourden family, giving them a presence in
Cookies and Cream. lete is Michigan, just three hours from both Chicago and Detroit.
Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma Thun-
When I want to really chill out, I... der!
Get in my car and drive without a destina-
tion. Favorite rainy day activity P.O. Box 5427 5-time Award Winner
Playing Pokemon. Arlington, Texas 76005-5427
The celebrity I would most like to live [phone]
Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397)
next door to would have to be NFL season is upon us. Which team do
Jim Carrey. you root for? Find us on Facebook
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My Mom always told me
Save your money! The last item I purchased online was
Follow us on Twitter
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4 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2014
STORY LAND book area.” Roar-O-Saurus is
expanding the park’s graph-
Continued from page 1
ics; with nine out of 10 adults
completely enjoying the ride.
Ride, (OD Hopkins, 1989);
Dziedzic is also quick to men-
Turtle Twirl (Sellner, 1996);
tion Story Land’s additional
Flying Fish (Larson Flying
new assignment, “We are
Scooters 2005) and Farm Trac-
duction of Splash Battle: Pha- breeding roller coaster riders!”
tors (SBF, 2003).
raoh’s Reign (300-foot long The park does well in all
The park has been cater-
Preston & Barbieri compact aspects of the operation, in-
ing to the pre-teen set for years
water canyon ride) in 2011. cluding food and retail, that
and expanded their upper
The park was searching really add to their per caps.
demographics with the intro-
for that new crown jewel. They Story Land operates as a day
contacted Gravity Group, who park (9 a.m. – 6 p.m., which
FAST FACTS created the perfect addition matches their demographics).
to the northern perimeter of By 6 p.m., many of their core
the property: Roar-O-Saurus. visitors are tuckered out after
Name/Park
When asked how the manu- a full day.
Roar-O-Saurus/
facturer was selected, Dziedzic This season, Story Land
Story Land, Glen, N.H.
stated, “We got what best fit has 59 foreign exchange stu-
our spot.” The short ride (32 dents, augmenting the com-
Type
seconds top of lift to brake plement of 50 retirees who
Family wooden
run) is long on thrills with 12 work there as well. In fact, one
roller coaster
moments of “air-time,” dur- employee, Bob Grant, has been
ing the 1,242-foot long coast- here for 50 years. He retired
Opening
er. Dziedzic (who grew up from head of operations and is
May 24, 2014
with Boulder Dash (GCI Lake now the parks groundskeeper
Compounce, Bristol, Conn.) during the summer season.
Height/Length/Speed
was responsible for tweaking Founder Bob Morrell had
40 feet/1,241 feet/
the original layout. Instead of this philosophy about who
34 mph
heading into the hillside, he they hire as employees.
suggested the ride be laid out “We don’t hire people and
Number of Trains/
the opposite way, so riders as- transform them into being
Cars per Train Story Land’s new Roar-O-Saurus may only stand in a 40 feet
cending the lift could view the nice. We hire nice people,” said
1/6 tall, but with 1,241 feet of tight compact track, it is still able
spectacular White Mountain Mahaney, He also said that son
to pack in a thrilling ride.
Range in the distance, prior to Stoney always summed up
Number of Passengers COURTESY STORY LAND
the first drop. The train is cus- the Story Land experience this
per Train
12 tomized with “Rory,” the little ning striking the operator con- When asked about how the way: “Our product is not one
dinosaur with the big roar on trol box. Parts were quickly ride fits into the overall make- taken home in your pocket.
Designer/Manufacturer the front. shipped in from Pennsylvania. up of Story Land, Dziedzic It’s taken home in your heart.”
The Gravity Group, LLC During the July 4th week- “The roller coaster by far is the said, “There are people that go Dziedzic chimed in, “Our
Cincinnati, Ohio end, Roar-O-Saurus was down signature ride now,” said Gen- straight to the roller coaster, goal is to create memories.”
a couple days, due to light- eral Manager Eric Dziedzic. while others head to the story
SFMM
Fallen tree halts
FAST FACTS
Continued from page 1
Ninja coaster,
Name/Park
causes minor injuries will be creating lots of magical
Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod
memories at the ‘Thrill Capital
Racers/Six Flags Magic
of the World.’”
VALENCIA, Calif. — A
Mountain, Valencia, Calif.
tree falling onto the track of The reopening of the re-
the Ninja suspended coaster at freshed Bugs Bunny World took
Six Flags Magic Mountain on place about two weeks after Type
July 7 caused a train filled with SFMM announced that its sig- Steel kiddie roller coaster
passengers to stop abruptly nature wooden coaster, Colos-
and partially derail, leaving 22 sus, will be closing August 16. Opening
riders stranded about 40 feet
While speculation about what June 25, 2014
above the ground for several
will become of the 1978-built
hours.
ride has been rampant on the Lift Height/Track Length/
All passengers were safely
evacuated, with four report- WorldWideWeb for months, Speed/Duration
edly suffering minor injuries. and there have been sugges- 20 feet/262.5 feet/
As Amusement Today tions within industry circles 10 mph/25 seconds
went to press, the mishap was that a cutting-edge, world-class
still under investigation by coaster is in the offing, park of-
Number of Trains/
the California Division of Oc- ficials have not yet publicly re-
Cars per Train
cupational Safety and Health. leased plans for the site.
1/6
Two visitors who were on the SFMM is milking the sus-
ride when it struck the tree
pense and nostalgia of the im-
had filed suit against the park, Number of
pending Colossus closure for
seeking unspecified damages. Passengers per Train
all it’s worth, even placing a
Ninja, which debuted in 12
replica of the Griswold fam-
1988 and reaches a top speed
of 55 mph, was to remain ily’s station wagon from Na- The entire Looney Tunes gang gathered at Six Flags Magic
Designer/Manufacturer
closed pending thorough in- tional Lampoon’s Vacation at the Mountain on June 25 to celebrate the grand reopening of
Zamperla, Inc.,
spections of its track and the entrance to the coaster. SFMM the park’s Bugs Bunny World children’s area. The new high-
Boonton, N.J.
surrounding terrain. played a fictitious park called light of the improved section is the Speedy Gonzales Hot
—Dean Lamanna Walley World in the hit 1983 Rod Racers kiddie coaster, the park’s 19th roller coaster.
movie. COURTESY SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN
August 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5
Holiday World invests $8 million in 2014; Chance Mayflower thrilling guests
STORY: Tim Baldwin ads, fresh fruit, wrap sand- a specific sound and feel in-
[email protected]
wiches and more. With virtu- stead of such a wide range.”
ally no wait time for grilled She adds, “Of course, when
SANTA CLAUS, Ind. or fried-type items, the new it came to Splashin’ Safari, I
— While Holiday World & deli-style eatery can accom- had to stay true to my father
Splashin’ Safari blogged their modate a healthy crowd of (the late Will Koch) and keep
way through “66 Days at hungry guests with good all of the Beach Boys and
Sea,” teasing fans about their throughput. Beatles!”
2015 announcement on July Another addition is Safa- With a thematic focus on
24, the park was already en- ri Outpost, a new shop also in Christmas this year, Amuse-
joying major improvements, Splashin’ Safari. Swimwear, ment Today asked Koch if
upgrades and new capital for sundries and souvenirs make there is another holiday that
the 2014 season. it more of a one-stop shop- she is eager to tackle, or if
Leading the pack is May- ping within the water park. she wants to further develop
flower, a Chance swinging Additional cabanas — and the Christmas section. She
ship ride nestled into the nice ones at that — have also reports, “Since Christmas is
Thanksgiving section. “It helped Splashin’ Safari now our anchor/original holiday,
was the fastest named ride have more than 30 through- I would still like to continue
ever at the park,” laughs out the water park. to focus on Christmas. It has
Holiday World added the Mayflower swinging ship ride from
Park President Matt Eckert. When asking Koch what so much potential, and I re-
Chance Rides for 2014. It is nestled into the Thanksgiving
Park officials share that such she would like to accomplish ally want our guests to have
section and features a custom designed medallion created
a ride has been suggested by in enhancing the thematic an overwhelming feeling
by Lauren Koch that sits atop the ride’s A frame support
many of their guests. Paula music at the park, she tells that despite the fact that it’s
structure. AT/TIM BALDWIN
Werne, director of public re- AT, “Before I started work- 95 degrees outside, this is
lations, agrees. “We probably into more of the traffic flow. ter plan into the future. The ing on the music throughout Christmas Day. That’s not to
have about two thousand With a new emphasis on partnership has gone and our park, our soundscape say that we won’t focus on
guests who think they named theming, the park felt it was continues to go very well.” included anything remotely other holidays (keep an eye
the ride,” she chuckles. time to add a new position Eckert observes, “We are related to the holiday. Our on Thanksgiving for 2015),
Sharing the holiday on staff: director of them- a unique park that offers a Christmas section seemed to but Christmas is my top pri-
section along with Turkey ing. Eckert says, “Although unique experience. PGAV have every single Christmas ority for the next few years.”
Whirl, Gobbler Getaway and we’re known as Holiday Destinations ‘gets’ that.” song that ever existed, as As park president, Eckert
the legendary award win- World & Splashin’ Safari PGAV also helped with well as about 10 renditions also adds, “I do plan for our
ning wooden coaster — The now, we started off as Santa additions in the Splashin’ Sa- of each of those songs. When theming efforts to grow each
Voyage — Mayflower ex- Claus Land when we opened fari water park as well. Wil- I took a look at it, I want- year. We not only want them-
pands the section with an- back in 1946. As we move debeestro is admittedly per- ed the music to be specific ing to enhance any new addi-
other ride offering. Of note, into our fourth generation of haps the most cleverly named sounds of Christmas. There tions to the park, but we also
the removal of the Pilgrim’s family ownership, it became eatery, capitalizing on the is so much Christmas mu- want to go back and ‘retrofit’
Plunge splash ride will al- very apparent to me that we park’s award winning Wil- sic available, it’s really easy things throughout Holiday
low another sizable ride to needed to start adding more debeest water coaster, one of to narrow it down to truly World & Splashin’ Safari to
bolster the area even further emphasis on theming. En- the most popular rides in the great and classic Christmas add that little extra touch.
with their new-for-2015 ride ter Lauren Koch, one of our water park. This new “grab music. I took this approach Often times, the small things
announced on July 24. founder’s great-grandchil- and go” food outlet offers a with every holiday and cus- make a big difference.”
The installation of the dren; Lauren has the educa- fresher fare that includes sal- tomized the music so it had
Mayflower was not just one tion and natural talent to take
placed on a concrete slab, us to the next level in them-
but is adorned with a watery ing. Lauren embraces this
base, flowery landscaping, role and truly understands
and a lighted medallion at the magic that theming can
the ride’s top, designed by add to our guests’ visit.”
the park’s Lauren Koch. “I love that when you see
Other additions might and walk into Mrs. Klaus’
not be quite so noticeable, Kitchen, you get the unde-
but are vital to improving niable and overwhelming
the guest experience. Work- feeling Christmas has ar-
ing with PGAV Destinations rived — it really is like step-
out of St. Louis, the park has ping into Santa’s workshop
a new focus on enhanced in Indiana,” says Koch. “Our
theming. The first location to new theming details really
receive fresh touches is the help our guests leave reality
Christmas section. Thematic behind and travel into our
elements are placed inside magical world of each holi- PGAV Destination of St. Lou-
and out in the yuletide sec- day.” is assisted Holiday World and
tion. Mrs. Klaus’ Kitchen is “PGAV is in tune with the Splashin’ Safari with many
now expanded and decked story we want to tell,” says thematic improvements in
out with huge gifts and Eckert. “They are very well 2014. Here in the water park
sweets, providing a new known in our industry; we are (above) a new “grab and
home for visits with Santa. wanted a solid company that go” food outlet in the Wilde-
Previously, the sweet shop we could partner with and beestro; top right, the new
was underutilized according share our vision for growth. Safari Outpost gift shop and
to management, and the the- We have big plans and big right, additional themed ca-
matic overhaul has integrat- dreams, and we chose PGAV banas bring the park’s total
ed the re-envisioned facility to help us fine-tune our mas- to 30. AT/TIM BALDWIN
6 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2014
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August 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7
INTERNATIONAL
Waterpark planned for Ocean Park — See Page 8 / Legoland park planned for Japan — See Page 9
Alton Towers to add more on-site accommodations in 2015
STORY: Andrew Mellor Picsolve launches interactive
[email protected]
photo studio at Alton Towers
STAFFORDSHIRE, U.K.
— The U.K.’s Alton Towers
new for 2014: CBeebies Land
Resort has secured planning
permission to add further to
LONDON, England — Picsolve, a leading image capture
its on-site accommodation of-
partner for the leisure and entertainment industry, has integrat-
fering.
ed its award-winning GSX photo solution as a core experience
Set to open in spring 2015,
within the new CBeebies Land at Alton Towers Resort.
the new Enchanted Village
The CBeebies Photo Studio has a prominent position with-
will be built next to the resort’s
in the attraction to offer children an interactive experience that
existing hotels and will incor-
captures a unique photo memory of their time with some of
porate 120 fairytale lodges and
their favorite TV characters. It has been launched to re-create the
five unique luxury tree houses.
actual studios the children will be familiar with and includes a
It will be completely themed
wide variety of engaging photo content from their much-loved
around a fairytale hideaway
CBeebies heroes.
and located in woodland ad-
Incorporating Picsolve’s renowned green screen technol-
jacent to the Alton Towers
ogy, the Photo Studio at Alton Towers Resort lets children feel
Hotel. Offering a distinctive The new Enchanted Village at Alton Towers will offer guests,
as if they are immersed within the show by displaying them on-
short break for guests visiting beginning in 2015, an alternative accommodation offering
screen with the characters. The scenes are brought further to life
the U.K.’s most visited theme to the resort’s existing hotel facilities.
with the clever use of props, such as the use of an oversized
park venue, the luxury tree COURTESY ALTON TOWERS RESORT
special delivery letter, to allow children to “help” Postman Pat.
houses will sleep groups of
Currently the Photo Studio provides the chance to capture a
eight while the fairytale lodg-
special memory with characters from six popular TV programs
es will provide family accom-
including Postman Pat, In the Night Garden, Something Special,
modation sleeping five.
Charlie & Lola, Mike the Knight and Mr. Bloom. Over a period
Children’s play areas and
of time Picsolve will work closely with Alton Towers Resort to
a brand new themed restau-
monitor guest’s feedback on their experience, with the opportu-
rant featuring family enter-
nity for ongoing new product development in response to user
tainment will also form part of
4See PICSOLVE, page 8
demand.
the overall project.
Commenting on the devel-
opment, Alton Towers Resort
development director Mark
Kerrigan said: “We are de-
lighted to have been given the
go-ahead on the Alton Tow-
ers Enchanted Village. The
new accommodation will fur-
CBeebies Land opened this year at Alton Towers Resort and
ther enhance our position as
brings to life the characters and shows from the popular
a short break destination and
BBC TV children’s channel.
also provide significant op- COURTESY ALTON TOWERS RESORT
portunities for the local area.
We have worked incredibly tainments plc, and work on is CBeebies Land, an interac-
hard in recent years to grow the Enchanted Village will tive new land that inspires
tourism in Staffordshire and start later this year. It is antici- youngsters to learn through
are extremely excited about pated the additional accom- play. Based on the popular
bringing this new concept to modation will result in over BBC TV channel and its ar-
life over the coming months.” 30 new full time and almost ray of characters and shows,
The development repre- 100 part time positions at the the new area includes rides, Alton Towers guests at Picsolve’s Photo Studio have six
sents a significant capital in- resort. immersive play areas, live ex- scenes to choose from in the popular CBeebies TV program
vestment for the Alton Towers Among the new attrac- periences and entertainment, including Postman Pat, shown here.
Resort, part of Merlin Enter- tions at Alton Towers for 2014 4See ALTON TOWERS, page 8 COURTESY PICSOLVE
8 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2014
European Showmen’s Union celebrates 60th anniversary
Italy’s Gardaland
announces B&M
AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands ministration in the national states – the ated over the years. It is unparalleled
coaster for 2015 — The European Showmen’s Union ESU representative support in count- in Europe. But we also know that the
(ESU) was founded in Amsterdam in less appointments every day the in- benefits of the ESU in the future can
VENETO, Italy — Garda-
1954. It is the oldest European profes- terests of their colleagues. They make only be met if we all stand true to our
land officials have confirmed
sional organization with more than through their volunteer work an in- membership in this strong internation-
that construction has begun
70,000 members in 24 national asso- valuable contribution to the develop- al professional association. Only in the
on the park’s new-for-2015
attraction, a steel roller ciations and provides as a non-gov- ment of the ESU. solidarity we can continue in the future
coaster supplied by Switzer- ernmental organization for decades a “And so we can proudly look back to the current success.
land’s Bolliger & Mabillard. successful and recognized work for the on six decades of successful association “The executive committee of the
The as-yet-unnamed
benefit of the showmen profession and work. Our association has grown to- European Showmen’s Union thanks all
ride will highlight the Italian
the fairgrounds in Europe. gether more and more in that time. The members in the national federations,
park’s 40th anniversary next
season and will be the larg- In a recent press release, the ESU cooperation between the member as- the function-makers, expert advis-
est investment in its entire said: sociations was further expanded, true ers, the European Showmen’s Women
history. “The ESU is fighting for its mem- to the international showmen motto: Union and the European Showmen’s
Gardaland and B&M
bers and for the future of funfair equip- Unity is strength. Through the friendly Youth Union for their exemplary and
collaborated in 2011 with
ment in Europe. Whether it is in talks ties that maintain the European show- hard work for the benefit of funfair
the introduction of Raptor, a
with the European Parliament, the EU men for decades about the national equipment and fairgrounds in Eu-
B&M Wing Coaster that con-
tinues to thrill park guests Commission or with politics and ad- boundaries, a connection has been cre- rope.”
today.
Major water park development planned for Ocean Park
Though full details have
not been released, industry
sources claim this new ride STORY: Andrew Mellor
will be a custom-designed [email protected]
B&M Dive Coaster.
ABERDEEN, Hong Kong
— Ocean Park’s Tai Shue Wan
ALTON TOWERS (TSW) area, which was tempo-
rarily closed in January 2011 as
Continued from page 7
part of the Hong Kong park’s
character appearances and is a Master Redevelopment Plan,
fun, safe environment for pre- is to be redeveloped with a
schoolers to play and learn. major water park attraction
The attraction will be up- and other new facilities.
dated with new content on an Currently the TSW area
on-going basis, while a varied includes an entrance/exit
program of events will run building, aviary, Bird Para-
alongside the main attractions dise Pond, Flamingo Pond,
ensuring that no two visits Treasure Palace and the Mid-
to CBeebies Land will be the dle Kingdom restaurant, al-
same. though the TSW entrance has
PICSOLVE been closed since 2011 with

the main entry to Ocean Park
Continued from page 7
being through the new main
Picsolve’s retail integra- entrance plaza at Wong Chuk
tion also enhances the guest Hang.
experience by offering a seam- Having opened Aqua City
less journey for them to access and the Rainforest in 2011 and
their images immediately at Thrill Mountain and Polar Ad-
the end of the attraction. Visi- venture in 2012, the continued The new indoor/outdoor
tors will have the opportunity development of the park with water park project at Ocean
to purchase a set of six images this latest project will see the Park will overlook the
(one with each character) or creation of a year-round wa- Aberdeen Channel (above)
pick their favorite and pur- terpark which will operate as a in Hong Kong. It will be a
chase one. Those who pur- second gate to the main theme spectacular development
chase photos will also be pro- park. Related retail, dining and will increase visitors’
vided with a free download and associated facilities will length of stay as well as
code to access their images also be added and the new creating a new all-year
through Picsolve’s digital plat- area will draw visitation from round second gate.
form (web, mobile and app) both the local resident market COURTESY OCEAN PARK
and share with friends and and tourists. Long-term, there
family via social media! are also plans to incorporate door/outdoor water park will visitors’ length of stay. The de- former featuring attractions
Oliver Biddles, Picsolve two hotel developments. have an instantaneous capaci- sign will focus on providing a such as a wave pool, lazy riv-
Global Retail Marketing man- The project will be a sig- ty of approximately 7,000 visi- multitude of activities and fun er, play structure, water slides,
ager, commented: “Produc- nificant design statement tors and an estimated highest for all ages. surf-rider, various pools and
ing this project with the BBC for Hong Kong, featuring a daily attendance of approxi- The project area, of ap- F&B facilities. The outdoor
Worldwide and Alton Towers translucent and sweeping mately 10,500 visitors. The proximately 6.63 ha (16.3 area will feature a wave pool,
Resort from concept to execu- roof, along with world class all-season attraction, together acres), is expected to comprise lazy river, water slides, ride
tion has been amazing. It has facilities and services. The with its retail, dining and en- of a series of platforms match- platforms, various pools, sea
allowed us to be really creative development area is located tertainment areas, will allow ing with the natural topog- turtle exhibit and some small-
with our customer journey to the south-western side of year round visits to Ocean raphy of TSW and will not scale F&B facilities.
whilst working with some of Brick Hill facing the Aberdeen Park and will complement the involve any marine works. It The new water park is
the strongest characters in the Channel. existing park by adding to vis- will incorporate both indoor scheduled to open in 2017.
children’s market today.” The state-of-the-art in- itor numbers and increasing and outdoor zones with the
August 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9
Merlin announces new Legoland park for Japan
STORY: Andrew Mellor
KIRKBI Invest A/S, a subsid- with the potential for up to 20
[email protected]
iary of KIRKBI A/S, a private- parks across the world, and
POOLE, England — Mer- ly held investment and hold- we remain committed to our
lin Entertainments plc has an- ing company with a 75 percent target of opening a new park
nounced that it will open its ownership share in the Lego every two to three years.”
first Legoland park in Japan Group and a 29.9 percent Legoland Japan will be of
in 2017 in the city of Nagoya. shareholding in Merlin. similar scale to the recently
The new park will be built Commenting on the an- opened Legoland park in Ma-
at a cost of approximately ¥32 nouncement, Merlin CEO laysia and that in Florida and
billion (U.S. $313 million) in Nick Varney said: “Today’s an- is expected to employ up to
total and will add to Merlin’s nouncement is another major 1,000 staff.
existing portfolio of six Lego- milestone in the development Nagoya is ideally located
land parks in five countries. It of the Legoland brand. We are in the centre of Japan and in-
will be opened under Merlin’s delighted to be working close- dependent market research
“operated and leased” model, ly with the City of Nagoya suggests a potential catchment
with the infrastructure of the and with KIRKBI on the proj- area in excess of 20 million
park being funded by a third ect, both of whom appreciate people. The initial develop-
The new Legoland park in Japan will be the seventh such
party. the potential of the brand in ment will focus on the theme
park in six countries. At a cost of $313 million, it is sched-
Merlin will directly invest the second biggest theme park park, with potential options
uled for a 2017 opening.
approximately ¥9.2 billion market in the world. available for further park ex-
COURTESY MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS PLC
(U.S. $90 million) in the park “The park will make a pansion and the development
over the next three years and significant contribution to the quarter of 2017, as well as sup- term, we continue to believe of on-site, themed accommo-
lease the balance of the assets growth of the Merlin group porting our continued geo- that there is significant oppor- dation over future periods.
from a company owned by from opening in the second graphic diversification. Long tunity for the Legoland brand,
2014 Asian Attractions Expo breaks records
Angry Birds on tour in UAE
BEIJING, China — Pre- does demand for attractions
DUBAI, UAE — Dubai Summer Surprises, the leading
liminary estimates indicate industry-focused profession-
summer festival in the region, is hosting the world premier
a record-breaking 9,000 in- al development. IAAPA helps
of the travelling exhibition “Angry Birds Universe: The Art
dustry professionals partici- fulfill that need through the
and Science Behind a Global Phenomenon.”
pated in the 2014 Asian At- AAE education conference
Dubai Summer Surprises, organized by Dubai Festivals
tractions Expo (AAE), held and by producing other learn-
& Retail Establishment (DFRE), runs from August 2 to Sep-
June 18-20 in Beijing, China. ing opportunities around Asia
tember 5 and promises a month-long festival of great shop-
The explosive growth of the and throughout the year.”
ping deals and fun-filled, family-oriented entertainment
throughout the city. industry in Asia, and spe- The 2015 Asian Attrac-
Imagine Exhibitions, Inc., in partnership with Rovio En- cifically in Mainland China, tions Expo will be held at the
tertainment Ltd., and Jack Rouse Associates (JRA), devel- was evident throughout the Hong Kong Convention and
oped this unique exhibition to present, in partnership with three-day Expo as a record Exhibition Centre June 16-
Live Nation Middle East, an educational and highly interac- number of industry leaders 325 companies representing 19, 2015. Exhibitor informa-
tive attraction unlike any other on the market. participated in the event and 33 countries and regions. The tion on the 2015 event is now
Throughout the immersive experience, families will be a record number of compa- exhibits covered approxi- available on the IAAPA web-
introduced to the beloved Angry Birds characters like never nies showcased the newest mately 9,100 net square me- site and attendee information
before in an interactive adventure with approximately 30 products and services on the ters of space which was an will be available in the fall.
hands-on activities including 10 simple machine bird launch- largest trade show floor in the increase of more than 30 per-
ing stations, four full body experiences, six map stamping event’s history. Asian Attrac- cent over the 2013 Expo.
Expo by the numbers
stations, 20 iPad gaming stations, and 12 opportunities for tions Expo, is produced by Total attendance at the
•325 companies from
personal creativity and hands-on creation. These hands-on the International Association Expo education programs,
33 countries and regions
activities seamlessly teach STEAM (Science, Technology, En- of Amusement Parks and At- seminars, institutes, tours,
displayed new and innova-
gineering, Art and Mathematics) concepts and aim to de- tractions (IAAPA). and networking events ex-
tive products on 9,100 net
light guests of all ages. The estimated total num- ceeded 2,500.
square meters of space,
The exhibition’s most thrilling attraction is a one-of-a- ber of 9,000 registered partici- “Business is booming in
the largest exhibition floor
kind “be the bird” experience: safely propelling guests on pants represents an increase Asia,” said IAAPA President
in the Expo’s history.
zip lines to knock over enormous foam structures, just like of more than 67 percent com- and CEO, Paul Noland. “The
•6,500 qualified buy-
the Angry Birds. In addition, other full-body attractions in- pared to the 2013 Expo in Expo was packed with ex- ers met with industry sup-
clude a Laser Maze, Climbing Wall, Planetarium, and over-
Singapore. That number in- ecutives and decision makers pliers, attended education
sized Sling Shot activity.
cludes more than 6,500 buy- developing brand new parks sessions, and participated
Angry Birds Universe features numerous opportunities
ers, an increase of 80 percent and attractions in record in networking events.
for families to work together, building creativity, innovation
compared to 2013. The buy- numbers and with leaders of •Attendance at the
and entrepreneurial skills. For example, parents and children
ers are owners, executives, well-established parks look- education conference
are able to build and test a variety of structures against the
managers, and leaders from ing for the next big idea to seminars was approxi-
impact of Angry Birds launched by other guests. Addition-
theme parks, water parks, drive their business to new mately 1,200. The IAAPA
ally, guests of all ages can utilize a state-of-the-art design
family entertainment centers, heights.” Institute for Attractions
studio to explore their creative side through experiments zoos, aquariums, museums, Commenting on the edu- Managers sold out at 85,
with character design, animation and sound production re- and more than 180 people
science centers, resorts, and cation program, IAAPA Vice
lated to the Angry Birds games. These exhibits give young participated in the IAAPA
real estate development com- President of Asia-Pacific An-
visitors an idea of what it’s like to pursue careers in science Safety Institute.
panies from more than 70 na- drew Lee said, “The educa-
and technology – all while having fun! •285 people partici-
tions and regions around the tion conference is always
Angry Birds Universe: The Art and Science Behind pated in tours of Forbid-
globe. an important reason many
a Global Phenomenon will be open daily to the public at den City, Happy Valley Bei-
The sold-out exhibition people participate in Asian
Modhesh World in Dubai World Trade Centre. Visit www. jing, and the Great Wall of
floor featured new products Attractions Expo. As the in-
modheshworld.com. China.
and innovative services from dustry grows in the region, so
10 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2014
Register today
at WWASHOW.org
for the only show
for
exclusively
water leisure
professionals
Questions?
Call [phone]
“
During our ten years
attending WWA shows, our
waterpark revenue has more than
tripled, and a good slice of our revenue
growth has been due to the ideas,
People are talking!
knowledge and help we have
”
gained from the shows.
“The value of the WWA show is most apparent
– John ChilD, MAnAging DireCtor,
in its commitment to connectivity. Being able to SAnDCAStle WAterpArk
visit on the show floor, while sharing a meal, or
socially at one of the great networking events
makes for a great experience.”
– Tommy Woog, PresidenT, WaTer Wars/Whirl Whims
“We find great value in attending the WWA
Symposium and Trade Show each year.”
– BoB Pena, Big surf WaTerPark