IMG Worlds of Adventure, a new Dubai-based theme park that opened on August 31st, features four themed zones, including Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard.
InPark News Editor Joe Kleiman asked David Schaefer, Vice President of Falcon’s Creative Group about their work on the project. Here’s what he had to say.
IMG Worlds of Adventure is comprised of four distinct zones. Is there an overriding story line or theme that ties them together?
Each zone has its own unique style and feel however the concept of Adventure is certainly a connecting thread throughout all zones. Whether it’s saving the world or escaping from hungry dinosaurs, there’s a strong sense of adventure in each area.
How does the design approach differentiate for IP-based content as compared to original content?
The approach and process is quite similar in fact. The main difference is where the inspiration is pulled from. With IP-based content there are rich backgrounds that guide the stories, characters, colors etc. whereas with original content there is freedom create from new.
Are lighting and sound design approached differently for a full enclosed indoor theme park as compared to a traditional outdoor one?
Having a fully enclosed park gave the lighting design team the ability to approach the design more theatrically. Since the lighting levels are 100% controlled throughout the day, more dramatic lighting was used to accent and highlight the spaces.
Are there any innovative technologies or design approaches that we will see in IMG Worlds of Adventure?
Yes, we are excited that IMG Worlds of Adventure is the first park to feature the CircuMotion® attraction. It is a new immersive ride system that will surprise and wow guests. It features a highly dynamic motion base with a 3D 360 dome theater.
Where else in the world do you see an indoor park of this scale succeeding?
There are multiple advantages to building large scale indoor parks that could support the development of this type of park in other tier-one cities around the globe. For example, light control, temperature control, protection from rain or other weather elements make this model quite appealing to many cities.
While Dubai’s climate drives the need for indoor activities due to heat, there are many cities that could benefit from an indoor park during the winter months due to the cold temperatures. This would enable many large cities which currently have seasonal parks to consider year round operations.
