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17 APRIL 2019 ISSUE 128 www.attractionsmanagement.com Harry Potter studio tour welcomes Gringotts

Warner Bros' Harry Potter studio tour outside London, UK has opened its biggest expansion to date, with the launch of the iconic Gringotts Wizarding Bank.

Offi cially opened on 6 April, the 16,500sq ft expansion has been designed and built by many of the original crew members who worked on the hugely successful magical fi lm series – including Oscar and BAFTA-winning production designer Stuart Craig, construction manager Paul Hayes and head propmaker Pierre Bohanna. The Gringotts bank – run by goblins QThe Gringotts bank – run by goblins – – features heavily in the Harry Potter features heavily in the Harry Potter universe universe, especially on fi lm. The permanent attraction will allow visitors "There are hidden gems everywhere to walk through the bank, the Lestrange and secrets to fi nd," said special vault, a gallery of goblins and more. effects supervisor John Richardson, Lined by towering marble pillars, describing the new addition. "The the grand banking hall features the children love it because it's magical and There are hidden goblin tellers’ desks – complete with the grown-ups all love it because many gems everywhere inkwells, quills, ledgers and piles of them grew up with Harry Potter." and secrets to fi nd of galleons, sickles and knuts. MORE: http://lei.sr/C7R7M_A John Richardson

MUSEUMS NEW OPENING MAJOR PROJECT National Children’s Museum Germany’s largest Smurfs attraction for to open in November science centre opens Shanghai’s Dream City Crystal Bowyer wants to p4 Experimenta hopes for p10 Shanghai site to house p13 create a "dream-like world" 250,000 visitors each year 20 themed attractions Attractions people

Know your people, know yourself: insights from Disney's top female execs

hat does it take for a that meant for the guest Wwoman to be successful experience," she said. at Disney? Talent and "I became a housekeeper determination are a given, and a greeter so I could learn but in an article in Attractions what it meant to be day-in Management Q1 2019, a and day-out with our guests." panel of the organisation’s For Melissa Vallquete, vice female leaders give extra president, Epcot, Walt Disney insights into their journey to World Resort, there used the top and the challenges to be a great deal of advice they faced along the way. that she should have more Tracey Powell, for example, is "command" or "physical now vice president of revenue presence" in her leadership management at Walt Disney style. "It felt to me like I was World in Florida, but she had QTracey Powell is VP of revenue management at Walt Disney World being coached to be a little previously built a career to more masculine," she said. executive director level at "I had the opportunity to lead 10,000 Vallquette now reflects that Carnival Cruise Lines. She took cast members and I had to learn it doesn’t matter if someone a step backwards to join Disney what it meant to be frontline" at the top looks or acts but became an executive differently to you and your own again within two years. guests was to "walk a mile cast members and I had style. "You can be the first one Her great lesson in in their shoes": "I had the to learn what it meant to to do it your way," she said. managing both teams and opportunity to lead 10,000 be frontline, and what MORE: http://lei.sr/C4d9u_A

£27m Bauhaus Museum designed by Heike Hanada opens its doors in honour of minimalist design school

new museum celebrating "When they told me where they A the works and impact wanted the museum I thought they Bauhaus movement, were crazy – in fact, I got quite angry" the German design school built on the famous "form designed to coincide with spoke of the movement’s follows function" ethos has the 100th anniversary of impact itself, adding: opened in Weimar, Germany. the Bauhaus movement. "Bauhaus has influenced The €27m (US$30.3m, "When they told me where design all over the world. £23.3m) Bauhaus Museum, they wanted the museum I "Bauhaus pioneers designed by German architect thought they were crazy – in dealt with urgent issues of Heike Hanada, is true to form fact, I got quite angry," their times, like housing in its minimalist appearance said Hanada. "But then I shortages which are QHeike Hanada's design for – one solid concrete cubic began to see its potential. still relevant today." the museum was inspired by structure with very few frills The goal was to give this Museum officials the minimalist appearance on the city's outskirts. place a new identity." expect to attract 100,000 of the Bauhaus movement The opening of the Museum director Ulrike visitors a year. museum on 6 April was Bestgen, meanwhile, MORE: http://lei.sr/h6e6Q_A

2 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 JOBS START ON PAGE 26 >>>

MANAGEMENT NEWS Contents issue 128

4 Dreamworld owner Ardent restructures finance Operator secures new financing deal that it says will allow it to invest further in its parks.

4 National Children’s Museum to open in November New Washington DC attraction will give young guests a chance to float, explore and "dream of the impossible".

6 Australia's Monarto Zoo reveals AU$16.8m expansion Addition forms the first phase QGovan has been director of the LA County Museum since 2006 of the Wild Africa expansion, which will allow visitors overnight stays for the first time. "Now we can go ahead with construction drawings and go 10 Germany’s largest raise the rest of the funds" science centre opens New attraction backed by the Dieter Schwarz Foundation, Michael Govan hails decision to a non-profit investment arm approve S$650m LACMA plans of supermarket giant Lidl.

new home for the Los drawings and go raise the rest A Angeles County Museum of the funds with the assurance of Art (LACMA) – worth this is going forward.” CLASSIFIED & JOBS an estimated US$650m Diana Thater, an artist who (€574.6m, £497.3m) – has has exhibited at the museum, Job opportunities 26 cleared a major hurdle having added: “I want L.A. to have had its plans approved. this building. The city needs a Designed by Swiss architect beautiful, memorable museum Sign up to Leisure Opportunities: Peter Zumthor, a former that people will flock to visit. Online: www.leisuresubs.com Pritzker Prize winner, the The design could potentially Email: [email protected] new building’s plans were unify the campus, creating Tel: +44 (0)1462 471930 approved at a county vote, a more expansive, parklike Annual subscriptions: UK £48, which also cleared US$117.5m setting and establish a UK students £25, Europe £65, RoW £94 (€103.9m, £89.9m) in horizontality where art from taxpayer funding for it. different cultures can be Attractions Management News is published 26 times a year by The “This is the big green light considered simultaneously.” Leisure Media Company Ltd, Portmill House, Portmill Lane, Hitchin, everybody has been waiting The project is expected to Herts SG5 1DJ, UK. The views expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. All for,” said the museum’s director take five years and the museum rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored Michael Govan. “Now we can is set to open in 2024. in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, recorded or otherwise, without the prior permission of the go ahead with construction MORE: http://lei.sr/E4r8v_A copyright holder, Cybertrek Ltd. ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSN 2516-9114

ISSUE 128 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 attractionsmanagement.com 3 news

THEME PARKS Dreamworld owner Ardent restructures finance

Ardent Leisure Group, existing Australian bank debt, owner of the Dreamworld, and the company’s statement WhiteWater World and said that "the balance of the SkyPoint theme parks in proceeds will be available to Australia, has secured a support investment in theme new financing deal that it parks and Main Event, as says will allow it to invest well as general corporate further in its parks. purposes". Main Event The US$200m (€177.3m, operates family entertainment £152.8m) term loan facility centres with activities such is secured and guaranteed as billiards, bowling, mini by Ardent’s wholly-owned golf arcade games, rock US subsidiary, Main Event climbing and gravity ropes. Entertainment, and is non- In a statement regarding QArdent theme parks will benefit from the new finance facility recourse to other assets the arrangement, Ardent of Ardent. It consists of a Leisure said that the funding US$125m drawn term loan would "enable it to make and a US$75m delayed the necessary investments The funding will enable draw term loan. A US$25m to return the Theme Parks Ardent to make the necessary (€22.17m, £19.11m) revolving operations to profitability and investments it needs to return credit facility is also available. to support the development the parks to profitability The funding has enabled of new Main Event centres". Ardent Leisure to repay its MORE: http://lei.sr/K4Y3J_A

MUSEUMS National Children’s Museum to open in November

After a nearly five year closure, the National Children’s Museum in Washington, DC, has announced that it will re-open on 1 November 2019. QA rendering of the Dream Machine concept Its new home is a 30,000sq ft at the National Children's Museum (9,144sq m) space between Pennsylvania Avenue and the Mall – a US$15m "Our goal is to create a dream- (€13.3m, £11.47m) development that like world where children can see will focus on STEM education and will themselves accomplishing something include a 50-foot climbing and sliding they never thought possible," said structure called The Dream Machine Crystal Bowyer, president and CEO of Our goal is to create as the museum’s centrepiece. the National Children’s Museum. "We’re a dream-like world Museum officials said this will give driven by the desire to design a place Crystal Bowyer guests a chance to float, explore that will expand young minds." and "dream of the impossible". MORE: http://lei.sr/c4S9D_A

4 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 JOBS START ON PAGE 26 >>> MEET THE TEAM

For email use: [email protected]

Editor Liz Terry +44 (0)1462 431385

Managing editor Tom Anstey +44 (0)1462 471916

Publisher Julie Badrick +44 (0)1462 471971

QFrench environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau (second from Advertising sales left) is one of those working on the animal conservation project Paul Thorman +44 (0)1462 471904 Whale Sanctuary to Advertising sales Sarah Gibbs oversee release of +44 (0)1462 471908 Russia’s 'illegal' whales Advertising sales lmost 100 whales that the four companies Chris Barnard A illegally captured last involved in capturing them are +44 (0)1462 471907 year will be released to be charged with breaking from their sea pens in Russian fi shing laws, which Russia after the animals stipulate that whales can only Advertising sales were intercepted by Russian be caught legally for scientifi c Gurpreet Lidder authorities purportedly and educational purposes. +44 (0)1462 471914 en-route to Chinese marine The Ministry has called entertainment parks. in a team of experts from Russian president the Whale Sanctuary Vladimir Putin ordered the Project, led by explorer and Newsdesk country’s Ministry of Natural environmentalist Jean-Michel Tom Walker Resources and Environment Cousteau, to assess the +44 (0)1462 431385 to determine the best future condition of the whales and for the 10 orcas and 87 decide how best to return beluga whales, which were them to the open ocean Product Editor Lauren Heath-Jones discovered several months without harming them. +44 (0)1462 471927 ago. It has been reported MORE: http://lei.sr/N2d7J_A

Led by environmentalist Jean-Michel Circulation Cousteau, the team will decide how best Joe Neary +44 (0)1462 471910 to return the whales to the open ocean

ISSUE 128 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 leisureopportunities.co.uk 5 news JOBS START ON PAGE 26 >>>

EXPANSION Monarto Zoo to build AU$16.8m visitor centre

Adelaide’s Monarto According to Zoos SA Zoo has revealed CEO Elaine Bensted, the plans for a AU$16.8m new facilities are a "much (US$12.1m, €10.7m, needed upgrade". £9.2m) visitor centre. "Monarto Zoo has become The building will house an increasingly popular exhibition spaces, a tourist attraction and has well nature play space, a gift outgrown the existing visitor shop and café – and centre facilities," Bensted said. is one of the largest "The current visitor facilities redevelopment projects ever at were built in 1997 and undertaken by the zoo. are struggling to cope with Zoos SA, the operator the rapid growth in visitation which runs the Monarto Zoo we’ve experienced." QThe building is part of the zoo's Wild Africa expansion project and Adelaide Zoo, received s Zoos ZA also recently AU$15.8m (US$12.1m, secured a five-year extension €10.7m, £9.2m) in public to keep two giant pandas at funding for the project, rubber the Adelaide Zoo. According to stamping its construction. The estimates, the pandas have The current facilities are project is the first phase of the contributed up to AU$57.5m struggling to cope with Wild Africa expansion, which (US$41.2m) to the South the growth in visitation will allow visitors overnight Australian economy. Elaine Bensted stays for the first time. MORE: http://lei.sr/F4G8S_A

MUSEUMS New Lanzarote museum tells story of island's heritage

A new archaeological museum has opened in Lanzarote – part of Spain's Canary Islands – telling the story of its heritage via the civili- sations that have settled there. QMuseo Arqueológico de Lanzarote consists of Working through the Roman, ancient two halls, charting the islands heritage and art Greek, Phoenician, Ottoman and modern- day Spanish heritage of Lanzarote, Museo and branding practice Folch Studio Arqueológico de Lanzarote consists for the project’s branding. of two halls – one with a permanent “The challenge was to brand such a exhibition about the culture of the Majos long name and/or a contraction of a The challenge (aboriginal people from Lanzarote) and difficult pronunciation and verbalisation,” was to brand such another for temporary exhibitions. said Albert Folch, creative director a long name The museum commissioned and founder of Folch Studio. Albert Foch Barcelona-based design, concept MORE: http://lei.sr/N2d7J_A

6 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 The only limit to what’s possible is your imagination. Be Boundless.

Pure creative thinking brings the impossible into reach. WhiteWater can help bring your vision to life and deliver the attractions of tomorrow. www.whitewaterwest.comwhitewaterwest.com 2019 Ecsite Conference The European conference for science engagement

Copenhagen, Denmark 6 - 8 June

#Ecsite2019 Online registration 13 February - 21 May 2019

Main conference 6 - 8 June 2019 Pre-conference 4 - 5 June 2019

Open to all professionals who engage audiences with science and technology

The Ecsite Conference offers an intense mix of intellectual stimulation, purposeful and creative sessions and inspiring human encounters. An annual professional development opportunity: sharpen your critical mind, recharge your batteries, harvest contacts and tools, make business and let off steam on the dance floor.

The Ecsite Conference celebrates its 30 th edition in 2019 We invite the science engagement community to build on three decades of science communication and look ahead, challenging the boundaries of our field and practices.

It is by pushing our own boundaries for science communication that we ourselves become inspired to walk down new and creative paths.

Experimentarium will host the 2019 Ecsite Conference, which will be held inside Experimentarium in the former Tuborg Brewery. Following a 3-year renovation, Experimentarium re-opened in January 2017 with 16 brand new exhibitions, all exploring new boundaries for science communication.

Discover the mix between old and new, unwind by the beautiful lakes, canals and sea around Copenhagen, glance at the historical architecture and enjoy Danish design. Experience Copenhagen as a smart city with its public transport, bicycle paths and public parks. www.ecsite.eu/annual-conference news JOBS START ON PAGE 26 >>>

SCIENCE ATTRACTIONS Germany’s largest science centre opens

The largest science centre told Attractions Management in Germany has opened in about the process and its Heilbronn, with four permanent thinking behind its galleries. exhibition galleries set across "We worked with around 3,200sq m (34,445sq ft). 50 people – engineers, Backed by the Dieter robotics engineers, Schwarz Foundation, a designers etc," he said. non-profi t investment arm of "It’s one of the best supermarket giant Lidl, the projects I’ve worked on in new centre will also feature a my 20 years in the fi eld. dome theatre, an observatory The client helped to get and various workshop some of the most innovative spaces. It was spawned from thinking out of our heads, the original Experimenta, which was great." QExperimenta expects around 250,000 visitors each year which closed in 2017 so The other two galleries were that the new, expanded produced by Hüttinger and version could replace it. designed by Berlin company Two of the four permanent Triad and Stuttgart fi rm Milla galleries were created by and Partner respectively. This is one of the best Dutch experience specialist Experimenta expects projects I've worked NorthernLight and the around 250,000 visitors on in 20 years company’s co-founder and through its doors annually. Steven Schaeken director, Steven Schaeken, MORE: http://lei.sr/4A5y6_A

ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRACTIONS Turkish zoo to highlight animal rights concerns

Turkey’s parliament is planning to bring more attention to animal rights in the country via the unusual method of opening a zoo outside its buildings in the capital, Ankara. The project comes as Set to sit in the grounds of Ankara's QThe zoo will stretch across 10,000sq m and will a result of increasing Grand National Assembly, the new feature deer and peacocks, among other species worries over animal zoo will stretch across 10,000sq m welfare in Turkey (107,639sq ft) if it receives approval Turkey, such as Antalya, provide welfare and will feature pheasants, partridges, for animals, including street-level quail, squirrels, deer and peacocks with water and food points for dogs and other species to be added over time. cats. Others, however, are reportedly The project comes as a result of far more barbaric, collecting and increasing worries over animal welfare culling strays in large numbers. in Turkey. Some local authorities in MORE: http://lei.sr/4z5t5_A

10 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 www.qubicaamf.com news

NEW OPENING Merlin opens Dungeon at Alton Towers

The Dungeon attraction at guests on opening weekend Merlin’s Alton Towers theme certainly enjoyed the range park in Staffordshire has of creepy characters in the opened, becoming the sixth Dungeon – particularly those Dungeon site in the UK. who had spent time in the A total of 23 actors, wearing Torturer’s chair," said Chris 309 garments and using a raft Carter, head of entertainments of props, will entertain and for Alton Towers Resort. scare visitors, transporting "Many guests hadn’t them back in time to visited a Dungeon before so history’s more gruesome were intrigued and delighted periods throughout the by what they found. The 45-minute long experience. Dungeon is a fantastic Q The Alton Towers Dungeon replaces the former Charlie Visitors board a boat addition to Alton Towers and and the Chocolate Factory ride at the popular theme park on the Black River and are we hope guests will continue transported in before entering to enjoy this journey through an array of rooms, including a Staffordshire’s horrible history." court and a torture chamber The Dungeon attraction where characters choose replaces the park's former The Dungeon is a a participant to frighten. Charlie and the Chocolate fantastic addition "The team have worked really Factory ride, which closed to Alton Towers hard to deliver the right balance permanently in 2015. Chris Carter of scariness and laughter and MORE: http://lei.sr/G2A6b_A

IP ATTRACTIONS attraction opens in Japan

The first phase of Japan’s new Moomins attraction, Moominvalley Park, has now officially opened its doors. Located in Hanno, Saitama Prefecture, The park is near the Japanese capital Tokyo, expected to attract the new theme park will attract one up to one million million visitors annually, according to QThe second phase of the project, Metsa visitors annually its operator Moomin Monogatari. Village, is due to open in November The second phase of the project, Metsa Village, is due to open in November under Finnish playground equipment group the project’s phased opening plans but Puuha International Oy has acted as the Moominvalley promises to be the main main supplier to the park, which was attraction for Moomins fans as its features built in a 190,000sq m (2,000,000sq a recreation of the iconic Moominhouse ft) forest area by Lake Miyazawako. and other Moomin-themed features. MORE: http://lei.sr/9G3w6_A

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IP ATTRACTIONS Smurfs attraction for Shanghai’s Dream City

Shanghai developer Shimao has combined licensing and Property Holdings is to preliminary design planning build a new Smurfs-themed with Shimao for the project. destination in the Dream City The land will be divided amusement park development into four sections, where in the Chinese city. visitors can interact with Designed by KCC fan-favourite characters like Entertainment Design, the Smurfette and Brainy Smurf. new land will have an indoor The area will be the and outdoor function, both of first Smurfs themed equal footing in a 20,000sq m destination in Asia. (215,278sq ft) area and will "We want the visitor to be sit next to the Intercontinental completely immersed into Shanghai Wonderland. the life of the Smurfs and QThe theme park will be divided into four sections More than 20 themed get the feeling they are part attractions will be on of the Smurfs family," said offer, including a Smurfs KCC CEO Yannick Maes. Berry roller coaster, an "By adapting the lighting AR Gargamel attraction, and by using projections, we We want the visitor climbing courses and a will mimic different times to be completely themed golf game. of the day and different immersed IPMS, the Belgian company weather conditions." Yannick Maes that owns the Smurfs IP, MORE: http://lei.sr/f7N6Q_A

MAJOR PROJECT Sun Centre Studios plans movie-themed attraction

Sun Centre Studios, Pensylvania’s first purpose-built film and television production studio facility, is planning to QSun Centre is looking for US$7.5m in tax build a US$200m (€178m, £152.9m) funding to help establish the new attraction movie-themed attraction at its site in Aston, near Philadelphia. by the studio experience and themed Sun Centre recently filed an application around movies and television shows with the Pennsylvania Department of filmed at Sun Centre, including the Rocky Community and Economic Development franchise sequel Creed, which features for a 90,000sq ft (8,361sq m) indoor and Silvester Stallone and Michael B Jordan. outdoor themed tourist attraction and "We’ve done our research and we feel The East Coast is special events facility with retail, dining, live ready to begin," said Jeffrey Rotwitt, ripe for this type entertainment and a water fountain show. CEO of Sun Centre. "The East Coast of attraction A 175-bedroom hotel is also planned is ripe for this type of attraction." Jeffrey Rotwitt for the attraction, which will be driven MORE: http://lei.sr/E7f8e_A

ISSUE 128 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 attractionsmanagement.com 13 Insight

Michael Mercadante

The new TEA International Board president outlines his plans to take the association to the “next level”

he Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) has a new president, with Michael Mercadante, president of US-based experience Tdesign fi rm Main Street Design, taking up the position. As part of the TEA for a nearly a decade – and a member of the organisation’s board since 2012 – Mercadante revealed his plan to take the association to the “next level” during his term as TEA president. “In broad strokes, it means implementing best practices that position the association to remain viable into the future, building and protecting our brand, and upholding standards of excellence for the industry,” he says. “The TEA is maturing – in a few years, our organisation will hit the 30-year mark. Today we’re in a strong position to embark on a new phase of long-term planning.”

Strong foundations QMercadante has served on Mercadante succeeds David Willrich, the TEA’s International Board of who completed his second term as Directors for the past six years president after taking the position in 2016. During his time at the helm of the TEA, Willrich worked to create a “truly global” TEA, introducing new educational My own background puts me in an events, such as SATE Europe. ideal position to help expand the “David worked hard to bolster the visibility and involvement of the TEA Europe conversation within the museum and Middle East Division members and and zoo communities region and get more exposure for TEA

14 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 QMercadante is also president and senior exhibit designer at Main Street Design

The industry is evolving and diversifying in terms of market sectors, types of projects, guest expectations and business culture in the burgeoning Asia Pacifi c markets,” Beyond education, Mercadante is says Mercadante. “I have no doubt he planning to increase the TEA’s presence will now be a very supportive immediate in each of its world regions, growing past president. TEA past presidents tend them even further and expanding the to stay involved after their terms are association, though according to the completed, and the TEA Past Presidents new president, geography is not the only Committee is a great resource.” measure: “The industry is evolving and diversifying in terms of market sectors, Global outreach types of projects, guest expectations Over the course of 2019, the TEA has and business culture,” says Mercadante. more than 100 events planned across “My own background puts me in an ideal its regional divisions, each supporting position to help expand the conversation professional development, education and within the museum and zoo communities networking. With Willrich building a strong and to grow the TEA’s presence in those QIn his new position Mercadante foundation for the events taking place in communities around the world. There are is working closely alongside every corner of the globe, Mercadante will many business spaces in need of what TEA TEA COO Jennie Nevin (left) be keen to continue and improve upon this. members can do in terms of storytelling, “A huge benefi t of TEA membership is placemaking and compelling experiences.” the access to people, places, discussions In terms of his new position, Mercadante and venues we provide,” he says. describes this new opportunity as his “It’s just as important for established chance to “give back in a big way”. industry members as for NextGen “We will all work together to help TEA members, with our offerings refl ecting become an ever-richer resource – to help the needs of the community we serve.” plan and shape its future” he explains. O

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QAtlantic has created many documentaries alongside Sir David Attenborough, including his Great Barrier Reef series

Star attraction

Anthony Geffen, CEO of Atlantic Productions has worked with some of the world's biggest stars to create films for the museum sector

ir David Attenborough, Stephen documentary series, including the Hawking and even Her Majesty, award-winning Great Barrier Reef, Queen Elizabeth II. These Galapagos and The Wildest Dream. are just a few of the people “Atlantic Productions grew out of a renowned documentarian and period where I had been at the BBC Sfilmmaker Anthony Geffen has worked for 10 years, making some of their with over the course of a glittering career, major documentaries and dramas,” creating stunning works of art for TV, the Geffen tells Attractions Management. big screen and the museum sector. “While working in Hollywood, I saw On the cutting edge of storytelling and studios like Pixar and the kind of things they QAnthony Geffen, CEO and creative immersive technologies, Geffen’s company, were doing. I was interested in working out director, Atlantic Productions Atlantic Productions, has produced how we could use tools such as animation some of the world’s most-watched to look at the past and into the future.

16 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 QAtlantic now works with some of the world’s biggest museum’s to create content

“I wanted to put under one roof last year Atlantic Production produced a VR a multitude of skills to do what I experience with astronaut Tim Peake and considered to be at that time the next the London Science Museum. Other projects stage of immersive storytelling.” included an adaptation of Great Barrier We believe Reef and First Life with David Attenborough. Free spirit museums are a These major projects have been showcased Geffen founded Atlantic Productions in globally, with productions from Geffen 1992, quickly establishing a diverse output really important in museums in locations worldwide. which included history, science, natural space for us and “We believe museums are a really history, current affairs, music and the arts. important space for us,” he says. “We Known for his jaw-dropping documentaries, we love to work love to work with them, with the challenge Geffen has also carved out a signifi cant path with them being how to take content to a younger in the museum sector. Among its projects, audience in a more interactive way.” O

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This accessible high-quality museum celebrates important local, national and international sporting history Vicky Hope-Walker The power of sport

A visitor attraction celebrating the Paralympic movement has opened in England, showcasing a collection of objects previously unavailable to the general public

world fi rst heritage centre, dedicated to the Paralympic movement has opened in Stoke Mandeville, England, Atelling the story of disability sport from its inception in the 1940s to present day. The main exhibition for the Paralympic Heritage Centre was developed by design consultancy Mather & Co and is located at the Stoke Mandeville Stadium in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire – the National Centre for Disability Sport in the United Kingdom.

The father of Paralympics The centre is focused on the story of Sir Ludwig Guttmann, who encouraged wounded WWII veterans to play sport for spinal injury rehabilitation while treating QThe centre is focused on the story of Sir Ludwig them at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, which Guttman, considered the founder of the movement then led to the Stoke Mandeville Games

18 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 QThe centre houses a number of interactive displays and exhibits

The project includes a nationwide programme of regional exhibitions in a number towns around the UK

and eventually the Paralympic Games. dating from the 1950s right up to the The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) awarded present day – showing how technology the National Paralympic Heritage Trust has transformed the Games. £1m (US$1.3m, €1.2m) for the project, "This accessible high-quality museum helping its entire collection to be digitised celebrates important local, national and preserved for future generations. and international history," said Vicky The collection has also been Hope-Walker, project manager at the archived, catalogued and shared to National Paralympic Heritage Trust. reach the widest audience possible, "It tells the story of the Paralympics while a nationwide programme from its birth in 1948 through to of regional exhibitions are also today, with displays on Professor displayed or to be displayed in Sir Ludwig Guttmann, a timeline, Norwich, Manchester, Bradford, Bath wheelchair sport and celebrations." QThe centre charts the history and London to share the Paralympic The heritage centre is supported by the of the Paralympic movement story with people across the UK. British Paralympic Association, WheelPower, from its birth in 1948 British Wheelchair Sport, Aylesbury Vale Touch and feel District Council and Bucks County Council. Visitors have tactile access at the Beyond HLF, funding was also received centre, with items on display for handling from AIM Biffa Award ‘History Makers’ including a goalball, a para-hockey Programme, the Rothschild Foundation, blade, the latest Ottobock running Aylesbury Vale Community Chest, Heart blade and a collection of wheelchairs of Bucks and the Wellcome Trust. O

ISSUE 128 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 attractionsmanagement.com 19 MANAGEMENT NEWS Diary dates

2-3 MAY 2018 SATE Europe Europa Park, Rust, Germany The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) brings its SATE (Storytelling + Architecture + Technology = Experience) QThe event is set to attract more than 3,000 booths and 500 exhibitors this year event back to Europe for a second year. A two-day event, SATE Europe will explore the 9-11 MAY 2019 3,000 booths and more than 500 elements changing and influencing award Asia Amusement & Attractions exhibitors. AAA – which has integrated winning visitor attractions across the sector. Expo (AAA) 2019 with the CIAE & TPAE shows – has Tel: +91 22 6523 1643 China Import & Export become the largest event in Asia. Email: [email protected] Fair Complex (Area A) Tel: +86-20-22106418 www.teaconnect.org This years event is set to cover an Contact: [email protected] exhibition area of 100,000sq m, with www.aaaexpos.com 11-14 JUNE 2019 IAAPA Expo Asia Shanghai New International Expo Centre 21-24 SEPTEMBER 2019 UK. Run by the industry for the industry, IAAPA Expo Asia (formerly Asian Attractions ASTC 2019 Annual Conference VAC is firmly established as the key place Expo) is IAAPA’s exclusive Expo in the Ontario Science Centre to meet and network with contemporaries Asia Pacific region. It attracts industry Toronto, Ontario, Canada and to participate in a stimulating professionals from around the world, The Association of Science-Technology programme – whatever your interest in offering them the opportunity to learn and Centers (ASTC) Annual Conference the sector. experience what’s new, innovative, and provides an opportunity to display www.vacevents.com next. As well as educational sessions, products and services to the largest more than 300 global companies will gathering of science museum 16-19 SEPTEMBER 2019 showcase new products and services. professionals from across the IAAPA Expo Europe Tel: +1 321/319-7600 globe. Nearly 2,000 attendees from Paris Expo Porte de Contact: [email protected] science centres, museums, nature Versailles, France ww.iaapa.org/expos/iaapa-expo-asia centres, aquariums, planetariums, IAAPA Expo Europe is the largest and natural history museums will international conference and trade 30 JUN - 10 JUL 2019 take part. They come to network, show for the leisure and attractions UNESCO World Heritage attend more than 100 sessions, and industry in the Europe, Middle East, Committee session learn about products or services. Africa (EMEA) region. More than Baku, Azerbaijan Tel: +1 202 783 7200 15,000 leisure and attractions The 43rd session of Unesco's World Contact: [email protected] industry professionals from more Heritage Committee will take place in www.astc.org/conference than 100 countries, including 9,000 Baku, Azerbaijan between 30 June and 10 influential buyers and over 550 July. The annual meeting aims to regularly 4 OCTOBER 2019 manufacturer and supplier companies examine the state of conservation of VAC 2019 will gather to learn about and properties inscribed on the World Heritage QEII Conference Centre, demonstrate the latest technology and List, adding or removing properties from London, UK innovative products and services. the prestigious list as appropriate. The Annual National Conference of Visitor Tel: +43 (0) 22 162 915 1 Tel: +33 (0)1 45 68 11 04 Attractions (VAC) is the pre-eminent event Contact: [email protected] whc.unesco.org for all types of Visitor Attractions in the www.iaapa.org/expos

20 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 ROCKET FROM ZERO TO OVER 100 KILOMETERS PER HOUR IN LESS THAN FOUR SECONDS IN OUR LAUNCH COASTERS

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OThe LED display solution offers exceptional pixel pitches

Kraftwerk launches LED dome display solution for planetariums

ustrian AV integration fl exible and can be adapted in providing complex and Afi rm Kraftwerk Living to suit a number of different high-performance LED Technologies (Kraftwerk) shapes and sizes, from smaller display systems as well has created a new LED Dome applications to large domes in as its knowledge and solution for planetariums planetariums and fl ying theatres. experience in the fi eld of and science centres. Manfred Meier, CEO and control systems, playback The technology, which was founder of Kraftwerk said: "25 and signal processing, this created internally, was in years of experience and an new technology perfectly development for some time aspiration to always offer the rounds off the product as Projekt KVS and offers a latest and most innovative portfolio for Kraftwerk LT spherical LED solution with technologies in the area of and its broad range of client OManfred Meier, CEO exceptional pixel pitches. LED applications, which allow s – with applications in and founder, Kraftwerk The solution is launching in us to work the market and industry, entertainment and phases, with pixel pitches in the perfectly address its needs the cultural sector, offered fi rst phase measuring 2.7mm with a well-rounded range of as turnkey solutions." and 4mm with resolutions products and services. ATTRACTIONS-KIT KEYWORD totalling up to 12 x 12K pixels. "With the company’s KRAFTWERK The technology is completely system integration experience

ISSUE 128 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 attractionsmanagement.com 23 PRODUCT INNOVATION

thejuice named as exclusive distributor of Delta Zero 4D

edia attractions specialist M thejuice has announced that it will become the exclusive distributor of Delta Zero 4D, a new 4K film ride. ODelta Zero takes riders on a thrilling adventure through deep space Billed as 'a visually explosive and thrilling motion including smoke, fog, seat drop, Delta Zero as we have platform experience', Delta tickler, splash, seat vibration, not seen a ride film to Zero Delta Zero takes riders heat, wind, aroma and lighting this standard of quality in on an action-packed journey effects, and is available in the market place before through the outer reaches of 4K and 60 FPS, and multiple and feel there is scope OPauline Quayle, the galaxy as they attempt formats including flat screen for great opportunities director of thejuice to save civilisation from the 4D, flying theatre, dome for additional revenue threat of alien invasion. theatre, widescreen and HD. streams with this film." Available for immediate Pauline Quayle, director ATTRACTIONS-KIT KEYWORD licensing, the film incorporates of thejuice, said: "We are THEJUICE more than 100 effects particularly excited to sign

Rovio and Namco to launch Angry Birds Adventure Golf

amco UK and Rovio launch in September 2019, director at Namco, said: NEntertainment have with plans to develop further "This will be the UK's first partnered with intu sites over the next three years, Angry Birds Adventure Golf shopping centres to launch and will create a new leisure and there's no better place a new-concept Angry Birds- experience at the shopping to launch such a fun and themed adventure golf centre, which boasts an entertaining experience. attraction – the UK's first annual footfall of 20 million. We're looking for more leasing – at the intu Metrocentre in Since its inception in 2009, opportunities within high Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. the Angry Birds franchise has footfall locations to ensure The attraction is expected to generated more than four billion this new attraction can really flourish across the UK." OKate Grant, regional Kate Grant, regional MD managing director at intu at intu, said: Angry Birds Adventure Golf is going mobile game downloads and to provide a thoroughly includes a hit movie, multiple entertaining and completely mobile games, animated new leisure experience for series and a number of brand the centre's 20 m annual licensing ventures with theme footfall alongside its mix parks, including the Angry of retail and dining." Birds Activity Park at Sundown ATTRACTIONS-KIT KEYWORD Adventureland in Puerto Rico. ROVIO ENTERTAINMENT OAngry Birds Adventure Golf will launch in September 2019 Philip Milward, commercial

24 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 Specialist Visitor Attraction display products for System Integrators & Visitors

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Jobs start MANAGEMENT NEWS here Recruitment headaches? Looking for great people? Attractions Management News can help

Tell me about Attractions Management News I hear you're part of Leisure Media Whatever leisure facilities you're responsible for, Yes, we give you access to Leisure Media's the AM News service can raise your recruitment entire network of print, digital, online and social to another level and help you find great people. brands, enabling you to build your profile as an Employer of Choice™ via Leisure Opportunities, How does it work? Health Club Management, Sports Management, We work in partnership with you to get Leisure Management, Attractions Management, your job vacancies in front of qualified, and Spa Business/Spa Opportunities. experienced industry people via specially customised recruitment campaigns. What packages are available? We off er everything you need, from rolling There are loads of recruitment Powerpack campaigns which earn you extra job services, how is AM News special? marketing goodies and discounts, to targeted AM News is the only recruitment service in the ad hoc campaigns, reputation management industry off ering job marketing in print, on digital, promotions, executive job marketing and open social, email, via an online job board and on video, so day and schools and apprenticeship marketing. you get the best of all worlds for one competitive price. Is there more? What are the most powerful features? Yes, we also off er a range of HR services through our We positions your job vacancy listings right next sister company, HR Support, such as cv screening, to our popular industry news feeds, so your career shortlisting and interviewing to final shortlist. opportunities catch the eye of those hard-to reach candidates who aren't currently job hunting. What now? In addition, to celebrate the 100th issue We have packages to suit all budgets and of AM News, we've also relaunched the requirements and we'd love to talk to you about website with fantastic enhanced search how we can partner to bring inspirational people functionality which enables you to target into your organisation to give you that competitive the best candidates with a laser focus. advantage you know will make a diff erence.

Meet the Attractions Management News recruitment team

Liz Terry Julie Badrick Paul Thorman Sarah Gibbs Chris Barnard Gurpreet Lidder

Hope to hear from you soon on +44 (0)1462 431385 or email [email protected]

26 attractionsmanagement.com ©Cybertrek Ltd 2019 ISSUE 128 Q HUNDREDS MORE JOBS ONLINE AT: www.attractionsmanagement.com ATTRACTIONS

VACANCIES Merlin Attractions in Australia and NZ

A job with Merlin isn’t like a job anywhere else. With attractions around the world, from rollercoasters to wax fi gures, we don’t trade in suits, handshakes or briefcases. We trade in fun. In smiles, shrieks and spine-tingles. In Memories. In magic. But there are no tricks behind our magic. Instead, there are people like you. Passionate, dedicated people who are committed to making sure our worldwide attractions and guests’ experiences are the best they can be.

Due to continuing growth and development of Merlin’s attractions and brands on a APPOINTMENTS global scale, we are looking for experienced professionals to join our Global ecommerce team, part of the Merlin Digital family. These roles will be based in Sydney, Australia. We’re looking for people who are able to demonstrate a true passion for the digital marketing sector; trying new strategies and using ‘out of the box’ tactics is something that excites our perfect candidate. They will be able to drive smart strategy whilst also getting their hands dirty with implementation; this is an absolute non-negotiable! Digital Ecommerce Manager Responsible for implementing intelligent and innovative digital strategy across the ANZ region with a focus on eCommerce website performance. Primarily, the role takes ownership of optimising and updating website content, and employing ecommerce principles to ensure functionality, local relevancy, optimal technical and brand- alignment, accessibility and effi ciency for driving strong conversion rates and yield.

Apply now: http://lei.sr/7I6l1

Customer Relationship Manager (APAC) Primarily responsible for employing intelligent and innovative digital and direct marketing techniques that leverage the email database to grow converting website traffi c, web revenue and yield across the region. The ability to use data and think beyond email and consider other digital touch points for smart integrated marketing using data will be crucial to success in this role. In time, when appropriate systems are in place, this role will also be responsible for managing the CRM/DMP.

The Benefi ts… Great people, great perks! Alongside a fun and collaborative environment, with a competitive salary, you can enjoy our amazing benefi ts package, including a discretionary company bonus and of course a Merlin Magic Pass, which entitles you and your family and friends free admission to all our attractions worldwide.

Apply now: http://lei.sr/W1W1Z

27 TO ADVERTISE call +44 (0)1462 431385 email: [email protected] www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/livechatlive chat: click here APPOINTMENTS

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER ARIZONA

ATTRACTION OPERATIONS MANAGER

Do you have the Magic in you to create memorable experiences all for the love of fun? Do you wish to cast a spell of laughter and enjoyment to the people around you? Want to join a team that creates smiles and memories globally on a daily basis?

ATTRACTIONS Then you have the magic to be Team Merlin at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona!

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona is In return you will find a competitive salary looking for an experienced Attraction and benefits package (including a medical, Operations Manager to join the team! vision, dental, life insurance and 401(k) matching plan offering), share program About The Role Manage a team of fun driven opportunities, and benefit from free and enthusiastic magic and memorable entry to all of our Merlin attractions. experience makers. The Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day smooth Merlin Entertainments, plc Merlin and profitable operation of our dynamic Entertainments is a business built on fun. attraction and has the ability to work at a We are the world’s second-largest visitor quick pace and exhibit situational flexibility. attraction operator. The objective is to provide a truly memorable experience and a great We are looking for a highly self–motivated day out for all members of the family. strong leader with proven success managing operational teams. Passion for providing We offer flexible opportunities, in excellent experiences to our guests is critical. a totally unique environment.

We know this is a great place to work, but don’t just take our word for it ... click to apply: http://lei.sr/c1H4i

28 Q HUNDREDS MORE JOBS ONLINE AT: www.attractionsmanagement.com ATTRACTIONS

WORK WITH US APPOINTMENTS Assistant Director Visitor & Site Operations circa £42k pa

We’re looking for a proven leader to join our team in this newly created role!

The successful candidate will lead all aspects of development and delivery of the day-to-day operations across Eureka!, including management of our Site and Facilities, Visitor Services and Food Services teams. They will also lead on the creation and implementation of sustainability plans and future site developments. This is an exciting time to join the team here at Eureka! as we enjoy a period of significant growth and development. We’re nothing without our team. The amazing people that work at Eureka! are our biggest asset and our greatest source of pride.

Deadline: 9am on Tuesday 23rd April 2019 Interviews to take place w/c 29th April.

Want to join us? Click: http://lei.sr/l9N6W

29 TO ADVERTISE call +44 (0)1462 431385 email: [email protected] www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/livechatlive chat: click here APPOINTMENTS Head of Cultural and Community Services

LOCATION: DERBYSHIRE, UK SALARY: UP TO £65,000

South Derbyshire is a beautiful and successful place, with a thriving visitor economy alongside an expanding business sector, and more and more people every year choosing to make our busy market towns and friendly villages their home. And this change and improvement

ATTRACTIONS is rooted in a deeply-held, shared set of values: a rich and continually-renewed story of ourselves.

Following a recent restructure which created a number of new Head of Service posts, we are inviting external applications for this exciting, visible and vital role. It's an extremely attractive opportunity to play your part in the future of South Derbyshire. We want to hear from credible people who can offer expert advice across their portfolio: proactive, acollaboration in delivering the bigger picture. A track record of innovation will be tempered by an acute understanding of how to manage risk: you must ‘do the detail’, and be able to bring others with you. Political awareness and a commitment to communities are essential.

The rewards of living and working in this stunning, flourishing and well- connected part of the world speak for themselves; but perhaps equally important is the career boost that these exceptional roles will offer.

Click link for more information http://lei.sr/T2O7K

30 TO ADVERTISE call +44 (0)1462 431385 email: [email protected] www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/livechatlive chat: click here ATTRACTIONS

For more details on the following jobs visit www.attractionsmanagement.com or to advertise call the team on +44 (0)1462 431385

Duty Manager Head of Cultural and Salary: Competitive salary + benefi ts Community Services Company: Superbowl UK Salary: Up to £65,000 Location: Various locations, UK Company: South Derbyshire District Council Location: Derbyshire, UK General Manager

Salary: Competitive salary + benefi ts General Managers APPOINTMENTS Company: Superbowl UK Salary: £37,000 - £42,000 per annum Plus Location: Various locations, UK Market-Leading Bonus Company: Hollywood Bowl Group Regional Manager Location: North London, United Kingdom Salary: Competitive salary + benefi ts Company: Superbowl UK Castle Development Location: Various locations, UK Manager Salary: Scale SO1, £26,999 to £28,785 Head of Marketing Company: Rutland County Council Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 Location: Oakham, UK Company: West Midland Safari and Leisure Park Location: Bewdley, UK Regional HSS Manager (Asia) Destinations Salary: Competitive Development Officer Company: Merlin Entertainments Group Location: Shanghai, China Salary: £30,500 (depending on experience) + excellent benefi ts Company: Canal & River Trust Operations Manager Location: Birmingham, UK Salary: Competitive Company: The Eye Brand Customer Relationship Location: Sydney NSW, Australia Manager Attraction Operations Salary: Competitive Company: Merlin Entertainments Group Manager Location: Sydney NSW, Australia Salary: Competitive Company: Legoland Discovery Centre Digital Ecommerce Location: Tempe, Arizona, USA Manager Group Sales Assistant Salary: Competitive Salary: Competitive Company: Merlin Entertainments Group Company: Legoland Discovery Centre Location: Sydney NSW, Australia Location: Somerville, Massachusetts, USA Head of Technical Assistant Director Visitor Services and Site Operations Salary: Competitive Salary: Circa £42,000 per annum Company: Sea Life Company: Eureka Location: Sydney NSW, Australia Location: Halifax, UK

For more details on the above jobs visit www.attractionsmanagement.com

31 The only limit to what’s possible is your imagination. Be Boundless.

Pure creative thinking brings the impossible into reach. WhiteWater can help bring your vision to life and deliver the attractions of tomorrow. whitewaterwest.com