Industry veteran Craig Hanna has announced his retirement, concluding a storied 35-year career that has left an indelible mark on the location-based entertainment, museum, theme park, and live experience industries. Hanna, known for his creativity, mentorship, and visionary storytelling, will transition to an emeritus advisory role with TAIT while pursuing personal passions and creative endeavors.
“Craig’s contributions have set a standard for innovation in the experience industry,” says TAIT CEO Adam Davis. “His work resonates with humanity, creativity, and transformation, inspiring audiences and the teams he mentored. His legacy will leave a lasting imprint on the future of our industry and our creative teams at TAIT.”
Hanna’s journey began with early roles at Iwerks Entertainment and Universal Studios, where he served as Director of Attraction Development. He later co-founded Thinkwell Group, where he became a defining force behind iconic experiential attractions. His contributions include serving as Executive Creative Director for Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor theme park at its opening, and leading the creative development of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Both projects earned Thea Awards, recognizing their innovation and excellence.
Shares Joe Zenas, former CEO and Partner of Thinkwell Group and EVP, Global Development and Strategic Partnerships at TAIT, “Craig’s vision and creativity laid the foundation for everything we achieved at Thinkwell. His initial dream of launching a company with friends to create meaningful, fun projects has grown into a legacy that has touched millions.”
Adds François Bergeron, Thinkwell co-founder and EVP, Strategic Development and Execution at TAIT, “What we built together at Thinkwell is more than a company – and every project and challenge we overcame was a testament to Craig’s talent, hard work, and unwavering commitment to making the impossible possible.”
As a mentor and leader, Hanna guided countless creative team members over the years, leaving a legacy of talent that continues to engage audiences worldwide. His leadership within the industry includes his time as International President of the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) and earning three patents for his inventive approaches to experience design.
His farewell to full-time work is not a goodbye to the industry he has helped shape. In his ongoing role with TAIT, Craig will continue to provide strategic guidance, ensuring his vision and legacy remain a vital force in the world of experiential design.
