Gardaland announces the arrival for the upcoming 2025 season – and on the occasion of its fiftieth anniversary – of a new world premiere experience: Animal Treasure Island. The Italian amusement park will be the first among the entire Merlin Group to offer the new Intellectual Property (IP) developed by Merlin Magic Making (the creative studios of Merlin Entertainments) and designed for international development.

“We are proud that Merlin has chosen Italy and Gardaland for the launch of Animal Treasure Island” declares Sabrina de Carvalho, CEO of Gardaland. She continues “It will be a new and immersive experience that is suitable for everyone, characterised by an adventurous spirit and a fascinating awe-inspiring setting”.

With an investment of approximately 10 million euros, Animal Treasure Island, the new IP registered by Merlin Entertainments (the number one family entertainment leader in Europe and second largest operator in the world by number of visitors) will take Gardaland visitors on a unique and exclusive adventure through a water dark ride that isentirely underground, encompassing 6000 square metres with twenty new highly engaging scenes.

“Animal Treasure Island is part of an international roll-out project by Merlin Entertainments, which plans to replicate the experience – after its inauguration in Gardaland in 2025 – in other parks owned by the group”, explains Sabrina de Carvalho. The CEO concludes:“We are sure that our visitors will appreciate this new iconic experience based on an adventurous story full of twists and turns, thanks also to many new and original characters created by Merlin Studios to involve our guests in a truly immersive experience“.

The protagonists of the exciting new story will bring timeless themes to the stage, such as the struggle between good and evil, intertwined with an immersive treasure hunt, taking visitors on an emotional adventure.

The launch of Animal Treasure Island comes in a very important year for Gardaland Resort, which marks the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Park. It is marked by growing investment in advertising and a communication strategy for 2025 strongly focused on this important milestone, as well as on all the novelties being introduced at the park for this great event.

ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s “Out of This World” annual IAAPA Expo Customer Appreciation Party brought together more than 400 members of the company’s intergalactic family of customers, staff and industry colleagues for pre-show festivities in Orlando on November 19, 2024. Guests came from as far away as Asia, Australia, the Middle East, South America and Alpha Centauri to celebrate the launch of the amusement galaxy’s biggest trade show.

All things otherworldly was the evening’s theme and Intercard staff and guests dressed for outer space success in a variety of space-themed costumes. The guests enjoyed special Milky Way Margaritas at two bars and feasted on a lavish Mexican buffet with at Rocco’s Tacos in the upscale Dr. Phillips entertainment district. DJFreefall provided the intergalactic beats and the private party space overlooking the lights of ICON Park was buzzing until late in the evening.

“We are over the moon to be back at the biggest IAAPA Expo of the year celebrating with our global family of customers, partners and friends,” says Scott Sherrod, Intercard CEO. “We enjoy having some fun to get everyone ready for the hard work of the show.”

ORLANDO — Just in time for the holiday shopping season, Universal Orlando Resort is offering two free days of admission to the award-winning theme park destination with the purchase of a two-day ticket. On sale now for travel now through April 30, 2025, the “Buy 2 Days, Get 2 Days” ticket offer gives U.S. and Canada residents the opportunity to enjoy four days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure to enjoy some of the most innovative and immersive theme park experiences ever created. Guests also have the option to upgrade their ticket to include Volcano Bay water theme park – a tropical oasis that offers the perfect balance of relaxation and thrills.   

This incredible offer will give guests plenty of time to enjoy the exciting collection of experiences that can only be found at Universal Orlando’s theme parks, including the destination’s newest addition, DreamWorks Land – a vibrant themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved characters from Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda. Plus, guests can experience fan-favorite seasonal events included with admission to the theme parks, such as Universal Holidays celebration  – featuring festive experiences like Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular and more from November 22 through December 31; and Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval –  featuring delicious cuisine inspired by Carnaval celebrations from around the world, a spectacular parade, live music, tons of beads and more from February 1 through March 30, 2025. 

ARLINGTON, Texas — North Texas’ premier Christmas event, Holiday in the Park®, returns to Six Flags Over Texas bigger, brighter, and better than ever. This year’s festival will feature seven new shows and four new seasonal activities for the whole family, partnered with fan favorites such as photos with Santa, thrilling rides and dazzling lights. Holiday in the Park opens Sunday, Nov. 24 and runs weekends and select weekdays through Dec. 31. 

“This year’s Holiday in the Park event will bring all-new Christmas magic to North Texas,” said Richard Douaihy, park president. “There’s no better place for families to experience exciting rides, twinkling lights, heartwarming entertainment, festive food and the joy that this wonderful time of year brings.” 

New additions to Holiday in the Park include: 

• Nightly Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring zany dancing elves and Santa Claus himself; 
• Holly Jolly Trolley, a lively musical production with old-fashioned charm; 
• FROST, a dynamic, cirque-style show featuring amazing acrobatics, holiday music and dance in the Southern Palace; 
• Yule Logs musical duo playing fireside tunes; 
• ‘Twas: A Merry Mishap, a modern and comical twist on ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas; 
• The MistleTones, a trio of seasonal songstresses singing holiday classics; 
• Polar Party for kids to dance along with frosty friends; 
• Midway Merriment featuring characters like Jack Frost, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Ebenezer Scrooge and his gang of ghosts; 
• Kid-sized Drive-In Theater for classic holiday entertainment; 
• North Pole Post Office, where kids can write letters to Santa and make handmade gifts for their loved ones; and 
• Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, where families are invited to decorate their own delicious creations.

Holiday in the Park highlights back by popular demand include:

• Haunted house, Krampus in Paradise, allowing fear-seeking guests the chance to visit Santa’s spooky counterpart; 
• Christmas Karaoke featuring holiday classics and contemporary seasonal hits; 
• Merry Marketplace offering four food outlets with seasonal fare, holiday-inspired Six Flags Over Texas merchandise, local craft vendors and a glassblower; 
• Holidaze Dance Party starring the Looney Tunes; 
• Storytime with Mrs. Claus for the little ones; and 
• Attractions themed for the season, including Christmas in Speelunker Cave, Dino Holiday Safari, and a special winter addition to Runaway Mountain.  

The Interactive Dark Coaster “Primordial” by Triotech has claimed the 2024 IAAPA Brass Ring Award for Best New Product in the Major Ride/Attraction category. This marks a significant achievement in Triotech’s 25-year history as a leader in immersive and interactive media-based attractions.

Developed in partnership with Lagoon Amusement Park, “Primordial” represents a leap forward in immersive storytelling and rider engagement. Combining cutting-edge interactive technology, dynamic ride mechanics, and an original storyline with multiple endings, “Primordial” delivers a one-of-a-kind adventure that redefines what’s possible in a dark coaster experience.

“The journey of creating this Interactive Dark Coaster ‘Primordial’ has been incredible, from initial concept to the ride experience that’s now thrilling guests. We share this recognition with our amazing partners at Lagoon and everyone who helped bring this vision to life,” declared Ernest Yale, CEO & Founder of Triotech.

“Primordial” distinguishes itself with unique replayability. Riders can experience six possible endings through various paths. This innovative design not only enhances the element of surprise but also encourages guests to return for a different experience.

The Brass Ring Award is IAAPA’s highest honor, awarded to companies that demonstrate outstanding achievement, creativity, and impact within the attractions industry. 

The company is showcasing its attractions at IAAPA Expo in Orlando from November 19 to 22 in booths 1359 & 1361.

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort’s Holidays celebration officially kicks off this Friday, inviting guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of year with an incredible collection of festive experiences for the whole family inspired by beloved characters and stories. Beginning November 22 and running daily through December 31, guests can enjoy a jolly slate of experiences – including witnessing awe-inspiring Christmas magic in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, meeting the mean, green one himself during Grinchmas, watching larger-than-life balloons and floats wind the streets of Universal Studios during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, exploring the all-new holiday-themed Tribute Store, savoring delicious seasonal treats and so much more.

See below for more information about the festive offerings available at Universal Orlando this holiday season:

Holiday In-Park Experiences at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure
Guests visiting Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure can celebrate the holiday season with festivities that are included with their theme park admission including:

• Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Holiday magic comes to life in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley as both areas are adorned with themed décor to celebrate the season. Guests can enjoy Hot Butterbeer, special holiday-themed performances and the wondrous spectacle, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” – which highlights Christmas moments inspired by the cherished characters and stories from the “Harry Potter” films;
• Grinchmas: Guests can step into the whimsical Who-ville in Seuss Landing, where they’ll meet the mean-one himself – the Grinch – and enjoy a live-retelling of the Dr. Seuss holiday classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” in the beloved stage show, “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular;”
• Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s: Guests will watch cherished holiday traditions and pop culture-inspired stories and characters come to life as larger-than-life balloons and colorful holiday floats during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s;
• And more!

Shop the All-New Holiday Tribute Store in Universal Studios Florida
The Holidays celebration continues with this year’s all-new Holiday Tribute Store where guests will journey through holiday pop-up books brought to life across four festively-adorned rooms inspired by Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and fan-favorite character, Earl the Squirrel. Guests can shop this immersive retail space featuring seasonal treats and merchandise like Hogsmeade-themed home décor, pajamas and accessories, Grinchmas apparel, slippers and ornaments, and Earl the Squirrel’s very own story book, “The Tale of Earl the Squirrel.” Guests can also browse select items from Universal’s assortment of Holidays merchandise and purchase online by visiting www.Shop.UniversalOrlando.com.

Delight in Holiday-Themed Treats Across the Destination
This holiday season, guests can savor a menu of delicious, holiday-themed food and beverage offerings across the destination, including a Peppermint Cheesecake Bar, Pistachio Holiday Wreath, Roasting Chestnuts Mont Blanc, and Grinch-themed treats like Grinch Cookies. At Universal CityWalk, guests can also enjoy the Ugly Sweater Shake at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen – complete with vanilla ice cream with spiced streusel, mini marshmallows, holiday sprinkles and an ugly sweater sugar cookie,and enjoy a selection of seasonal food and beverage items at Bigfire and VIVO Italian Kitchen.

Holiday Add-On Experiences (available for an additional cost)
Guests can take their festivities to the next level with special add-on experiences, including:

• The Universal Holiday Tour, where they’ll embark on a guided journey through Universal’s holiday experiences, get access to exclusive meet and greets with Santa Claus, the Grinch and his faithful dog Max, dine on small bites and delectable desserts, access reserved seating at “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” enjoy a special showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” and more;
• The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast, where guests can start their day alongside the Grinch and other favorite characters from Seuss Landing while dining on a delicious plated breakfast in Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous in Universal Islands of Adventure.

The Holidays Continue at Universal CityWalk and Universal Orlando’s Hotels
The holiday spirit continues at Universal CityWalk with live entertainment and themed holiday cocktails at The Green & Red Coconut Club at Red Coconut Club through December 31, and festive meet and greets with Earl the Squirrel on select dates from November 29 through December 29 at CityWalk Plaza. Plus, all eight Universal Orlando Resort hotels will be decked out with festive décor for the season and offer special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve in addition to special holiday celebrations, including Christmas tree lightings, Hannukah menorah lighting ceremonies and more.

Guests can also ring in the New Year across the destination with live entertainment at Universal Studios Florida, hype squads full of music and characters at Universal Islands of Adventure, a midnight countdown at both theme parks and Universal CityWalk, and access to select venues after midnight to continue the festivities.

ORLANDO — WhiteWater’s press conference at IAAPA Expo 2024 was a celebration of new projects, thrilling products, and noteworthy achievements. The company announced its ISO 14001 certification, gave updates on major projects, shared insights into trends, and celebrated CEO Geoff Chutter’s induction into the IAAPA Hall of Fame.

ISO 14001 Certification and Impact Report
WhiteWater is proud to share that the company has achieved ISO 14001 certification, the internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems. It is assurance for partners and clients that WhiteWater is proactively taking measures to minimize its negative impacts on the environment. The current scope covers the management of environmental risks associated with product development and design, marketing, sales, manufacturing, logistics, installation, and servicing originating from the head office, with the scope to expand in the following years.

Releasing its first-ever Impact Report, WhiteWater publicly details its environmental, social, supply chain, and governance activities, which demonstrate the commitment the company has to managing its business ethically. As Geoff comments, “How we do business is as important to us as what we make.” And what WhiteWater makes are exceptional attractions around the world for clients who push boundaries.

It is why world-class clients return to us when it’s time for their next new park or expansion.

Yas Waterworld Expansion
Having worked with Yas Waterworld since its inception, WhiteWater is proud to be collaborating again with Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, for the most anticipated expansion project in the Middle East. Yas Waterworld will be increasing its guest capacity by 20% in 2025, introducing 18 new rides and 3.3 km (2 mi) of slide path—all from WhiteWater—to bring the total number of attractions to over 70. Making headlines will be the UAE’s highest water slide—a Flatline Loop at 40 meters (131 feet) in height—and a Shoot the Chute, the first water ride in the world to be integrated into a water slide tower. Following the park’s theme of Emirati heritage, this 20-seat amusement ride will extend the Legend of the Lost Pearl storyline and take guests down a 15-meter (49-foot) plunge with a refreshing splash for both riders and spectators.

Promising adventure around every corner, additional highlights for this expansion area will include first-of-its-kind Master Blasters, the biggest and longest Parallel Pursuit competition slides in the world, and a new kids’ area featuring the world’s first Mini Blaster Fusion slide. 

Americas Are Riding High
Latin America’s leisure sector is heating up; developers are now very active, especially in hotels and resorts. WhiteWater has a number of projects in progress in discerning properties.

Regionally, families are a dominating force, and Thermas dos Laranjais in Brazil will open a tower with two six-person raft rides, each a fusion of three large iconic water slide features, in 2025. Another prominent project in Brazil will be the tallest water coaster in the world at Beach Park: a Master Blaster launching at 27.9 meters (91.5 feet) in height.

Still in Brazil, the surf park movement is gaining steam. A great example is Endless Surf Angra—to be the largest surf pool in South America—that will open in 2026 at the exclusive Brasil Surfe Clube.

Along with significant potentials, the growth of the Latin American market has an emphasis on sustainability, which WhiteWater is well poised to serve, with the company’s continuing efforts on reducing its environmental footprint.

Meanwhile in the USA, notable project openings in 2025 include:

• The world’s first Wall Runner, called “Rafter’s Rage,” at Soaky Mountain Waterpark in Tennessee; it will introduce drifting sensations unlike any other, with lateral acceleration that extends the zero-G feeling
• Ohio’s first and only duelling water coaster, a Blaster Battle called, “RiverRacers,” at Kings Island’s Soak City Water Park
• A beautifully themed Boomerango ride called, “Dawn Breaker” at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions – Sandusky, Ohio, that takes riders from darkness to sunrise

Just as important as rides is the intangible overall guest experience. Vantage, WhiteWater’s attractions management platform, is demonstrating its appeal across different venue types. With existing implementations in water parks to personalize guest experience and optimize operations, Vantage is now collaborating with San Antonio Zoo. A suite of products will enhance guest engagement and increase ROI, including SmartPay, SmartNotify, SmartControl, and SmartVue. Vantage’s agnostic approach means that the system is built to be extensible, with the ability to integrate with a range of third-party systems, ensuring flexibility for venue partners.

Indoor Water Parks Are Trending
While indoor water parks might not be new, advances in building systems, HVAC, and design concepts are supporting a renewed growth in this segment. The new generation of indoor water parks now has better lighting, with the ability to incorporate retractable roofs or walls and offers additional entertainment as well a section to cater to adults. Examples of some latest projects, with all aquatic attractions supplied by WhiteWater, include:

• The biggest indoor water park in Michigan at Bavarian Inn, opening this winter and featuring 20 new attractions, including the state’s first dueling water slides and a uniquely Bavarian-themed aquatic play structure
• Expansion at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, in 2026, with a kids’ area and a family water slide complex featuring the world’s first covered Boomerango, which will extend outside the building envelope
• Virginia’s largest indoor water park, spanning 16,250 square meters (175,000 square feet), opening in 2026 at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions – Spotsylvania County

And the trend is also evident outside North America, with WhiteWater supplying all the water slides and aquatic play equipment to major projects such as:

• Water World at Shanghai L+SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort in China, the water park at the biggest indoor ski hall in the world (opened 2024)
• Aquapark Dalmatia in Croatia (opening this winter), with attractions for a new indoor water park to complement its renowned outdoor park
• Sportoase Sint Niklaas in Belgium (opening 2026), a sports complex funded by public and private partnership with a focus on sustainability

With WhiteWater having supported clients across the world to bring their ambitious visions to life and shaped aquatic entertainment over four decades, the company’s CEO was honoured with one of the industry’s highest recognitions.

CEO Geoff Chutter Inducted into IAAPA Hall of Fame
At the “LEGENDS: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair” event on November 18, Geoff Chutter was inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame. Since founding WhiteWater in 1980, Geoff has been very influential across the attractions industry, covering water park, theme park, resort, and surf spaces worldwide. Not stopping there, he will be lending his wealth of knowledge and business expertise to serve on the 2025 IAAPA Board of Directors.

“I’m truly humbled to be inducted into IAAPA’s Hall of Fame,” said Geoff. “I interpret this as a reflection of the hard work of our teams across our six business units. My recent appointment to the IAAPA Board only underscores this gratitude. I look forward to serving.”

While the year might not be over quite yet, the recognition from the industry and getting to celebrate with peers has been a highlight as WhiteWater looks forward to another great year.

COSTA MESA, Calif. — BenQ, an internationally renowned provider of visual display and collaboration solutions, today announced the launch of three new simulation projectors: the LH835ST, LH850ST, and LU960UST+. Designed to meet the growing demand in projection mapping, medical simulation, and immersive display markets, these models offer advanced features and high performance to deliver exceptional visual experiences in a wide range of professional applications.

“The projector industry has undergone significant changes in the past two years, particularly in the immersive space. BenQ has strategically positioned itself to capitalize on these opportunities,” said Bob Wudeck, senior director of business development at BenQ America. “Our focus on advanced technologies like laser and LED light sources, combined with features such as 360-degree orientation, IP5X-rated sealed designs, and 24/7 operation capability, has allowed us to overcome limitations that users previously had to accept. We’re bringing unprecedented innovations to the field at price points that challenge established solutions. BenQ’s growth in these segments demonstrates that there’s a new, exciting player in the market, ready to meet the evolving needs of professionals in projection mapping, medical simulation, and immersive experiences.”

The LH835ST, LH850ST, and LU960UST+ projectors share several features that make them uniquely suited for simulation and immersive display applications. By utilizing laser light source technology, all three BenQ projectors boast longer lifespans than traditional lamp-based projectors. With maintenance-free operation ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 hours the projectors reduce the need for lamp replacements and lower overall maintenance costs. Additionally, each model incorporates BenQ’s dustproof technology, with IP5X-certified sealed engines that protect critical components from dust and debris, and eliminate the recurring maintenance costs associated with cleaning filters that are found in traditional simulation projectors. Designed for flexible installation, these projectors feature various image adjustment capabilities such as keystone correction, corner fit, and digital shrink and shift. They all sport high brightness levels, ensuring clear and vivid images even in well-lit environments.

Compared to traditional simulation projectors with expensive optional short throw lenses, the breakthrough LH835ST offers 4000 ANSI lumens brightness and an integrated motorized zoom lens with a short throw ratio of just 0.69-0.83. This lens also has motorized auto-focus and the ability to automatically reconfigure the aspect ratio and correct for off-axis mounting locations with a touch of the remote, making it easy to keep an installation looking sharp. The LH835ST features a 95% Rec. 709 wide color gamut for accurate color reproduction and can project images larger than 150 inches from just 8.8 feet away. Designed for tight operating budgets and eco-friendliness, it reduces power consumption by 37% compared to traditional lamp projectors at the same brightness levels.

The LH850ST, a 4000 ANSI lumen laser projector with 1080p resolution, features a short-throw ratio of 0.5, ideal for indoor interactive entertainment and commercial space exhibitions. It includes BenQ’s unique factory white balance adjustment for seamless multi-projector setups and a specialized Simulation Mode that enhances greens, yellows, and reds for lifelike visuals. The LH850ST utilizes DLP technology with a dual color wheel system for precise color reproduction and supports digital shrink and shift for accurate image adjustment.

The LU960UST+ represents a significant upgrade in the ultra-short throw category. With 5200 ANSI lumens, WUXGA resolution, and a throw ratio of 0.25, this model can project images up to 200 inches diagonally — surpassing previous BenQ models and competing brands. It features a Fast Mode with latency under 16.67ms, making it ideal for realistic simulation and gaming. The LU960UST+ offers flexible installation options, including 360-degree and portrait projection, and supports HDBaseT connectivity for long-distance transmission. Its dual color wheel system achieves 92% Rec.709 color coverage, ensuring superior color performance.

All three projectors support 24/7 operation, making them suitable for continuous use in various settings such as museums, exhibitions, and simulation environments. They also offer advanced connectivity options, including support for wireless projection (with optional dongles) and compatibility with various control systems for centralized management.

More information on the BenQ LH850ST, LH835ST, and LU960UST+ is available at www.benq.com.

At the beginning of Liseberg’s summer season in 2025, a major new attraction awaits: Kraftverket, meaning ‘the power house’.

The name Kraftverket reflects the raw forces you’ll encounter while riding. Every rotation generates power and ramps up the pace.

– This ride, of the “Break Dance 5” model, represents the absolute latest in attraction innovation—it has only been a few months since the prototype debuted at Prater in Vienna, says Mirko Schulze, CEO Huss Park Attractions GmbH, responsible for designing Kraftverket.

Kraftverket is currently being constructed in the southern part of the park, tucked under one of Liseberg’s largest attractions, Valkyria. The placement is no coincidence; it has been carefully chosen to maximize excitement, offer visitors a unique experience, and make the most of the park’s limited space.

– Kraftverket may seem unassuming based on its size, but don’t let that fool you. This will be a true family thrill ride. We are very proud to bring back this classic to Liseberg, says Andreas Andersen, CEO of Liseberg.

For seasoned Liseberg guests, the Break Dance 5 will reignite nostalgic memories of the breakdance ride that operated at Liseberg between 1987 and 1993, but now in a more modern and adrenaline-fueled version.

– There are long-term development plans for Liseberg, specifically for the southern part of the park. The plan for Kraftverket has been in place since the construction of Valkyria in 2016, and now the time has finally come to unleash the power. Kraftverket will be a perfect complement to the park’s other attractions, says Andreas Andersen, CEO of Liseberg.

Liseberg is one of Europe’s leading amusement parks, making it vital for Gothenburg and the city’s tourism industry that it continues to appeal to new generations. A new attraction like Kraftverket is expected to be an electrifying and entertaining addition in spring 2025.

NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments, today announced further expansion into location-based entertainment experiences in Asia with the opening of a new headquarters in Shanghai. The end-to-end professional services provided by RWS Global around the world will be further expanded in Asia to include master planning, design, build, execution and operations for cruise, theater and sport clients through a new strategic partnership with leading creators from Max-Matching Entertainments. 

Continued worldwide growth for RWS Global, including a new office in Orlando as well as the new Shanghai headquarters, will be led by newly appointed Chief Growth Officer, Veronica Hart. As Chief Growth Officer, Hart will leverage her extensive experience in franchise planning, global licensing, strategic planning, retail and brand positioning to guide and elevate the company’s marketing, business and client strategy across all markets. Hart has spent more than two decades in leadership roles at Paramount, HIT Entertainment, Sesame Workshop and CBS Studios among others, and now transitions from a board position to full-time executive with RWS Global. 

“After nearly three decades of serving Asia with projects including Nickelodeon Playtime, Lao Niu Children’s Discovery Museum and Science Center Singapore, RWS Global is underscoring our leadership in this market by opening a full-time office in Shanghai and expanding to include our end-to-end suite of services that promises unforgettable live moments,” said Ryan Stana, RWS Global Founder, Chairman & CEO. “There is simply no better expert in the entertainment industry to lead our worldwide growth than Veronica Hart.”

“Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with incredible brands and amazing people around the world, none more inspiring than those within RWS Global,” said Veronica Hart, Chief Growth Officer, RWS Global. “I’m thrilled to join the team and look forward to further elevating experiences and opportunities for our talent, brands, clients, guests and fans.”

The teams based full-time in the new RWS Global Shanghai and Orlando offices will be supported by offices in NYC, Cincinnati, London and Sydney plus dedicated full-service rehearsal spaces at RWS Studios in New York City and the United Kingdom. With the most accomplished and award-winning talent around the world, RWS Global seamlessly integrates intellectual property (IP) partnerships with world-class brands ensuring that brands, clients, sports fans and guests experience unmatched immersive entertainment. 

As part of the expansion, RWS Global and Max-Matching Entertainments, a prominent player in the location-based entertainment industry in Asia, are excited to announce a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the entertainment landscape in China. The partnership will capitalize on Max-Matching’s strengths in operational excellence, local market expertise, and resources, alongside RWS Global’s innovative capabilities and global network, to develop and deliver award-winning entertainment products and experiences in China. The Shanghai office also positions the company to tap into new opportunities by providing immersive content to Max-Matching’s ongoing IP projects in China which include Top Park, the largest international IP-themed Family Entertainment Centers (FEC) cluster in Asia which will house the world premiere of PEPPA PIG Ice World, the first Crayola experience outside of United States, and themed experiences of brands by key IP holders, Hasbro, Mattel and WildBrain.  

“This partnership represents an exciting opportunity for us to harness RWS Global’s extensive expertise and innovative practices to deliver even more engaging and unique experiences including themed experiences on cruise lines, award-winning musicals and top-selling concerts to the Chinese market. We look forward to this remarkable journey ahead and are excited about the potential this partnership holds for our company and our valued audiences in China and beyond,” said Owen Zhao, Founder and President of Max-Matching Entertainments.  

“We believe this synergy will foster exciting opportunities for growth and innovation in the entertainment sector. We look forward to delivering groundbreaking experiences that will redefine entertainment as we know it,” added Stana.

RWS Global offers everything (and everyone) necessary to deliver an unmatched guest experience – from idea to operation, anywhere in the world.  Visit rwsglobal.com to learn more.