Showing posts with label Nickelodeon Attractions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nickelodeon Attractions. Show all posts

Monday, May 31, 2021

Nickelodeon Reportedly Planning to Open Theme Park in Nanjing, China

ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI) is reportedly planning to open a brand new Nickelodeon-branded indoor theme park in China!

Nickelodeon Playtime entrance in Shenzhen.

Titled Nickelodeon Real-Topia (悦托邦), the amusement park is set to open in the G52 district of Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province in eastern China.

The news follows ViacomCBS opening the Nickelodeon Playtime family entertainment centre in Shenzhen earlier this year, and has a third in development, Nickelodeon Park, set to open as part of the Foshan Cultural and Ecological Coastal Project.


大悦城的超级实验

大悦城(3.910, 0.00, 0.00%)的超级实验

 室内主题乐园能帮大悦城破局吗?

花朵财经原创

如果在全国随机询问一个普通购房者,大悦城完全是一个陌生的名字。但你如果问一个上海人,是否知道中粮海景壹号,那他会告诉你那是比汤臣一品景观还好的顶级豪宅。如果你问一个北京人,是否知道大悦城,那他会告诉你那是北京最知名的商业mall。

这就是大悦城的尴尬。作为央企中粮集团的地产板块,愣是把自己的名字改成跟中粮毫无关系;作为宁高宁最得意的商业品牌,愣是错过商业综合体风行全国的黄金周期。

如果不翻看资料,连笔者都不知道,中粮集团是三亚亚龙湾的整体开发商。大悦城是亚龙湾美高梅和瑞吉酒店的所有者。而美高梅地下那规模庞大但从未开放的赌厅,默默诉说大悦城曾经离大陆地区第一块合法博彩牌照多么近。

大悦城这几年的历程就像是标准的国有房企模板:曾经辉煌,但在市场的涤荡中逐渐平庸。大悦城也对得起平庸两个字,千亿目标年年喊,排名和估价一样原地踏步。

换人

大悦城的投资者在3月15日会留意到一条公报,周政卸任董事长。这位给可口可乐做包装出身的领导人,终于退出了地产行业。接替他的是中储粮出身的由伟。从公开的简历看,这同样是一位完全没有地产经验的领导。在集团层面,直接由中粮集团总裁栾日成分管大悦城。这位2020年10月刚刚担任总裁的纺织行业出身的领导人,同样没有任何地产经验。

周政的离开,背后是中粮集团对大悦城难以掩盖的失望。周政掌舵十年来,中粮集团的地产板块虽然从百亿规模成为为接近900亿,但是这十年来,多少不知名的小房企跻身千亿俱乐部,甚至冲击十强。横向来看,中粮地产板块的增长是行业带来的,而不是自身能力打造的。

作为非地产出身的领导人,周政掌舵十年更多需要倚重更加专业的业务负责人。2016年大悦城品牌奠基人之一韩石的离任,一定程度上反映了中粮地产板块用人的风格。据接近中粮集团的人士介绍,周政掌舵时期最倚重的是商管和战略两个部门。商管负责人是吴谷丰,从沈阳大悦城柜姐岗位因周政赏识一路青云直上;战略负责人是魏学问,从静安大悦城总经理调任掌管整个地产板块。地产从业者都清楚,商业地产和住宅地产是完全不同的两个逻辑。周政依靠两个商业出身的业务负责人,必然决定大悦城将错过住宅市场级数增长的黄金周期。

地产行业有一个共识,企业领导人决定企业上限,集团战略总决定企业下限。跑输房地产大盘的大悦城,商业总吴谷丰马上就到了退休的年龄,董事长周政的离开也许仅仅是换人的第一步。

破局

5月20日是南京第一批集中供地,被当地地产圈誉为载入史册的一天。不仅是新的政策顺利落地,更重要的是,这天出现了招商大战金地商置、宝龙联合体,158轮出价88.9亿摘地的惊天战况。

也是这一天,对行业极为敏感的自媒体人士也感到意外,江北新区G52地块角逐激烈的地块背后,出现了沉寂很久的身影——大悦城。大悦城和新希望(15.230, 0.05, 0.33%)的联合体,在竞价66轮后总价达到60.6亿元,和招商一样是击退了金地商置和宝龙的联合体。

G52是一个身世神秘的地块,从土地出让对产业的要求可见一斑,需要打造一个室内主题乐园,引入世界前十传媒集团的IP资源。早在2017年的新闻中,就能找到相关产业的影子,杭州、上海、绍兴、金华等地政府密切对接过一个海外文娱项目的落地。2018年南京江北新区文旅项目签约仪式中,一家名为维康金杖的企业出现在了签约台上,项目将引入维亚康姆集团的相关文娱资源,而维亚康姆集团正是好莱坞派拉蒙影视的母公司。直到2020年,在G52土地推荐会上,这家神秘的维康金杖与世茂、富力、金陵饭店(8.410, 0.18, 2.19%)坐在了一起,与地块直接产生联系。据政府人士介绍,G52地块是南京集中供地中占地面积最大的土地,最初的签约托底方是融创。

参拍有明确托底方的土地,通过公开竞价打退竞争者,尝试全新的室内主题乐园产业。这一系列操作,突然让商业地产的观察者和评论者们不认识大悦城了。难道真如老话所说,换人如换刀,领导人改变了企业的气质与风格。对南京土地市场来说,大悦城也许只给同行带来短暂的震惊;但是对于大悦城来说,这个项目弥补了大悦城全国布局的短板。


根据上市公司公开资料显示,大悦城在全国已开业13个,筹备开业11个大悦城(或春风里)。其中既有北上深这样的中国顶级城市,杭州西安这样的新兴城市,也有烟台鞍山这样不太符合商业逻辑的布局。唯独没能进入南京这样的长三角区域中心城市。相比于南京颇为中心化的商业格局这一客观环境,行业内更倾向解读为大悦城应对市场化的能力不足。最典型的案例是2020年G13地块,金地商置的强势报名甚至让当时的大悦城完全没有敢出价,让金地商置以底价捡了一个大便宜。据公开资料显示,G52地块使得大悦城控股每一个区域公司都有一个大悦城综合体,补上了最后一块拼图。

大悦城以一个挑战者的身份,用市场的手段,在老大难区域完成了破局,似乎预示着这个老牌央企可能有些不一样的东西。

周期

外部的环境,其实并不友好。

在全球层面还在持续的疫情,其实从根本上改变了人们的消费方式。从影院的大屏幕走向手机的小屏幕,从餐厅的大餐桌走向放外卖的小餐桌,从专卖店拎着购物袋到快递小哥递来包裹,消费习惯正在强烈的去中心化。

特别是报复性消费潮退去,传统商业在冲击中的疲态尽显。同样是大悦城的例子,静安大悦城的销售额下降了近19%。这个位于上海静安区苏荷湾核心区,顶着一个摩天轮的商业综合体,同样没有抗击消费习惯浪潮的能力。这就需要商业从业者们去思索一个回到本源的问题,消费者到底在消费什么。

商业地产早已是红海,只是很多从未涉足其中的企业觉得这是住宅地产修罗场的一个出路。中骏、旭辉、雅居乐、龙光、中南,都提出了自己的商业战略。殊不知老牌的商业地产企业,华润、万达、宝龙还有本文主角大悦城,都在商业报表面前苦苦挣扎。

也不是没有企业做出跨越周期的尝试。几年前喧嚣尘上万达茂的室内主题乐园是非常好的探索。奈何彼时万达已经显出下行的疲态,其商业模型又并支持打造一个核心IP。随着大量资产的出让,万达没有能把这次探索继续下去。但这道商业本源问题,却有了答题思路——传统商业需要提供新的体验型消费。

回到南京G52地块,我们似乎可以发现大悦城正在开始按这个思路解题。项目要求建设的室内主题乐园,可能就是大悦城突破周期最重要的工具。

当然,那个神秘的产业方也向大悦城抛出了橄榄枝。据规划系统人士透露,最终这个室内主题乐园将定名为“Nickelodeon Real-Topia”,中文译名——悦托邦。

梦想

Nicklodeon Real-Topia,两个太独特的单词了。在笔者团队围绕这两个单词,展开了一系列的挖掘工作。

Real-Topia明显来自Utopia(乌托邦)这个词,上一个大家熟知的相关词汇是全球大火的电影《zootopia》(中译名:疯狂动物城)。用Real(真实)替换了原有词根U(虚无),不得不说命名者肯定有一定的野心,打算打造一个真实的乌托邦。

Nicklodeon这个词能挖掘的信息就更加丰富了。这是尼克国际儿童频道,是美国维亚康姆集团下属资产,这就与2018年南京江北新区签约仪式信息相联通了。尼克频道拥有的IP更是耳熟能详,80后的忍者神龟,90后的海绵宝宝,00的朵拉冒险,10后的汪汪队。而尼克频道也的确热衷于在中国寻找机会,这不是第一个尼克与地产相结合的项目。尼克频道的品牌曾经出现在佛山、香河、重庆和深圳,在不同的地方拥有不同的后缀,每个项目的进度也大相径庭。

佛山的项目叫叫做Nickelodeon Park,位于佛山三水区。早在2017年就获取项目土地,投资者是香港卓越环球,如今项目未能持续下去土地已经法拍。香河的项目同样是Nickelodeon Park,曾经是河北省重点引进项目,投资者是维康金磊,如今项目仍没有实质进展。重庆项目是Nickelodeon Universe,是中国摩的组成部分。而中国摩就是完全模仿明尼苏达的美国mall,而美国mall中的Nickelodeon Universe,疫情前年接待游客接近三千万。不过重庆的Nickelodeon Universe依然在建设中。项目投资方从起初的中恒国信经股权转让变成了佳源房地产。深圳项目是Nickelodeon playtime,就位于深圳华侨城欢乐海岸内,投资者是中国文旅开发公司,目前已经开业。

前面四次尝试的事实告诉引入尼克品牌的中国企业家们一个真理,项目的命运与合作伙伴息息相关。佛山、香河项目没有成熟的地产企业参与,目前早已凉透;重庆项目地产企业参与确保项目存货,但来自嘉兴的地方房企不足以支撑项目顺利开业;深圳项目植根于央企华侨城的欢乐海岸,也成为目前唯一开业的尼克品牌乐园。反观南京G52将要落地的Nickelodeon Real-Topia(悦托邦),以地产项目为载体,合作伙伴是央企大悦城,甚至乐园中译名也与大悦城相呼应,不得不说这个项目的操盘者维康金杖是有备而来。

Real-Topia(悦托邦)这个文旅概念早已出现在杭州、上海等多地的洽谈中,似乎并不是为大悦城量身打造的。但是推动这一概念的维康金杖,却是内容丰富的企业。打开公开的工商注册资料,维康金杖股东里出现了文旅为主业的上市公司三湘印象(4.220, 0.05, 1.20%),符合维康金杖这家公司的主业。其他股东构成相对复杂,最终指向公司的控制人徐洪。这个名字在2016年与另一家上市公司鑫茂科技(000836)产生过联系。当时的报道都是“神秘人”徐洪入主鑫茂科技。管中窥豹,这是一家长于证券市场资本运作的企业。如果梳理结合工商信息中维康金杖高管信息,赫然发现原黄浦区区委书记周伟。那么这个神秘公司的底色基本明晰了,既有证券市场的老江湖,也有激流勇退的老干部,政企合作的规则和市场发展的规律估计样样精熟。也难怪能够整合大悦城这样的相对保守的央企资源。

沿着Real-Topia(悦托邦)品牌思路发散开,如果这样一个充满动漫IP的主题乐园是孩子的梦想。那么用一个项目尝试新的集中商业形态,也许就是大悦城的梦想。无论多成熟,甚至历经沧桑,只要有梦想就还是孩子,孩子就充满希望。

结语

很少有地产行业观察愿意评论央企。一来是相对规范,很难有博人眼球的情节;二来是角色特殊,很少有评论者愿意触及。但是大悦城在人事发生重大变动之后,突然表现出如此巨大的风格转变,其背后隐隐是更大的商业模式上的尝试和布局,让笔者忍不住好奇心。

大悦城不是一个明星房企,央企的身份又决定其信息来源渠道很窄。笔者并不能准确判断南京破局之举是大悦城心血来潮还是确有新的商业布局。后续密切关注悦托邦这三个字的出现,也许这是一个全新商业模式的超级实验。

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Saturday, February 06, 2021

China Leisure Opens First FEC with Nickelodeon Playtime in Shenzhen

The first Nickelodeon-branded location-based entertainment outlet in China opened in December at OCT Happy Harbour in Shenzhen. Called Nickelodeon Playtime, attraction design company JRA has master-planned the development, which will immerse children in the worlds of a number of popular Nickelodeon IPs.

SpongeBob is one of the four Nickelodeon IPs featured in the new attraction  - CREDIT: NICKELODEON/CHINA LEISURE

Nickelodeon Playtime was developed by China Leisure Development Co together with ViacomCBS International Networks (formally Viacom International Media Networks) and experience designer JRA. It is a RMB 30 million project ($4.6m).

The FEC sits inside a 1,000,000sq m (0.38sq mi) shopping complex, which features a large outdoor retail and entertainment section - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

The indoor facility features intellectual property including Paw Patrol, Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT). The latter two have particularly good local recognition according to China Leisure president, Linda Dong.

Spread over two floors, the family entertainment centre offers “many experiences big and small,” Dong told Blooloop. “Many are playground attractions, but we’ve put a story through all of them.”

Interactive IP-led experiences

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles zone sees kids train to be a ninja in the streets and alleyways of New York City - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

One of the signature attractions is a multimedia experience developed by Holovis for the SpongeBob zone. Guests are given fishing nets and asked to catch jellyfish on three walls, together with SpongeBob and Patrick. The game is as repeatable as it is colourful.

In the TMNT zone, kids become ninjas in training and complete a number of challenges. Such as Raphael’s drop slide challenge, Michelangelo’s halfpipe challenge or Splinter’s ninja dojo training. In the Paw Patrol zone, a focal point is the lookout tower and its 4-metre slide. Children can also activate the lights, sirens and other interactive features in Marshall’s fire truck and Chase’s police car.

The Paw Patrol zone focuses on open-ended play, with kids exploring Adventure Bay and going on rescue missions - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

Much of the theming was carried out by China Leisure’s own team. Retail and food & beverage opportunities are also featured.

Whilst the mixed-use OCT Happy Harbour development boasts around 1 million square metres of retail space, Nickelodeon Playtime has a modest 1,500 sq m footprint, with experiences spread over two floors. Capacity, therefore, is limited, and families are encouraged to book in advance for a three-hour time slot.

Retail is included in the attraction, with a Nickelodeon-themed shop selling merchandise based on the featured brands - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

Dong says that there have already been some “very successful, really beautiful premium products” in the local FEC market. “The difference between us and them is we are all about immersive play; really immersing guests into the world of their favourite characters.”

10 new FECs across China

China Leisure is also a partner in the 28,000-square-metre Nickelodeon Universe at the upcoming Mall of China.

However, the scope of the indoor theme park, first announced in 2018, means it is taking longer to develop than Nickelodeon Playtime. Designed by FORREC, it was originally due to open in December 2020. Like the mall, it suffered delays earlier in the year due to the coronavirus. Mall of America/American Dream owner Triple Five is part of the development team, along with the Jiayuan Group.

Dora is the name and exploring is the game for Dora The Explorer. Inside the special themed zone, kids are encouraged to climb and explore the area - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

A family firm, China Leisure plans to develop up to 10 FECs around the country over the next three to five years. Many of these will be allied to shopping centres.

“We will work with top tier IPs to bring their brand and product into the Chinese market,” says Dong. “Given where commerce is heading, I see there being a lot of demand for projects like ours as attraction anchors.”

“JRA was honored to work with China Leisure and Nickelodeon on the design and development of Nickelodeon’s first FEC in China,” said Colin Cronin, Senior Project Director at JRA. “It was a pleasure helping to bring SpongeBob, Dora, Donatello, Marshall, and their friends to life, and we hope the attraction delights visitors from Shenzhen and beyond.

In the Fry Cook Academy, kids play chef, with parents able to order a mealm which is then fulfilled under the watch of the FEC’s operators - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

The company’s next project, in Beijing, will be built in partnership with Hasbro. Construction will start soon, and it could open before the end of 2021. JRA is on board again in a design capacity.

The Nick Café is generally themed and features a meet and greet stage for special appearances from Nickelodeon characters - Credit: Nickelodeon/China Leisure

Note: China’s coronavirus restrictions were largely lifted in late Spring/early Summer 2020. Nickelodeon Playtime was designed in adherence to Chinese local, regional, and national safety guidelines.”

ViacomCBS Networks International, a unit of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAC), is comprised of many of the world’s most iconic consumer brands. Its portfolio includes Network 10, Channel 5, Telefe, Viacom International Studios, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount Network and Pluto TV among others. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, ViacomCBS Networks International provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions for partners on five continents and across more than 180 countries.


Originally published: Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at 03:00.

Additional sources: Planet Attractions, InPark Magazine.

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Thursday, September 24, 2020

China Leisure to Develop Nickelodeon Playtime Attraction in Shenzhen

Update - Official ViacomCBS Press Release:

CHINA LEISURE ANNOUNCES PLANS TO DEVELOP NICKELODEON PLAYTIME
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER IN PARTNERSHIP WITH VIACOMCBS

- To open at Shenzhen OCT Happy Harbor at the end of the year


Beijing, July 21, 2020 – China Leisure Development Co., (CLDC) and ViacomCBS have inked a deal to develop a Nickelodeon-themed Family Entertainment Center (FEC) in the city of Shenzhen, China. Comprising four attraction zones featuring SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Dora the Explorer, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as well as Nickelodeon branded retail and a sit-down play café, the FEC is expected to open in Q4 2020 at Shenzhen OCT Happy Harbor.

Nickelodeon Playtime will immerse guests in the worlds of these popular iconic properties and invite them to play alongside their favourite characters, extending the brand experience beyond screens.

Commenting on the announcement, Linda Dong, President of China Leisure said “We are thrilled to be partnering with Nickelodeon to bring their highly popular brands to life in an FEC format. We see rapid growth in family entertainment spending in China and strong demand from shopping centers for experiential products. Nickelodeon Playtime is part of our strategy to capitalize on this trend.”

Gerald Raines, Senior Vice President, Global Location Based Experiences, ViacomCBS, added: “Connecting with audiences on-the-ground through immersive experiences remains an integral part of Nickelodeon’s global business. We are proud to partner with China Leisure to launch Nickelodeon Playtime, and bring the brand and its iconic characters to families in Shenzhen and the surrounding areas.”

China Leisure Development Co., Ltd. is a Hong Kong company dedicated to developing and managing world-class leisure experiences and projects in China including family entertainment centers, theme parks, water parks and resorts.

About ViacomCBS Networks International

ViacomCBS Networks International, a unit of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAC), is comprised of many of the world’s most iconic consumer brands. Its portfolio includes Network 10, Channel 5, Telefe, Viacom International Studios, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount Network and Pluto TV among others. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, ViacomCBS Networks International provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions for partners on five continents and across more than 180 countries.

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 41st year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location-based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of ViacomCBS Inc. (Nasdaq: VIACA, VIAC).

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Update (9/24) - Latest Nickelodeon Playtime press release:

JRA-Designed Nickelodeon Playtime FEC to Open in China Q4 2020


China Leisure Development Co., (CLDC) and ViacomCBS have inked a deal to develop a Nickelodeon-themed Family Entertainment Center (FEC) in the city of Shenzhen, China. Comprising four attraction zones featuring SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Dora the Explorer, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as well as Nickelodeon branded retail and a sit-down play café, the FEC is expected to open in Q4 2020 at Shenzhen OCT Happy Harbor.


Dora the Explorer play area

Nickelodeon Playtime will immerse guests in the worlds of these popular iconic properties and invite them to play alongside their favorite characters, extending the brand experience beyond screens. JRA provided master planning, writing and content development, attraction design, and graphic design for this whimsical family attraction.


Paw Patrol play area

Commenting on the announcement, Linda Dong, President of China Leisure said “We are thrilled to be partnering with Nickelodeon to bring their highly popular brands to life in an FEC format. We see rapid growth in family entertainment spending in China and strong demand from shopping centers for experiential products. Nickelodeon Playtime is part of our strategy to capitalize on this trend.”

Gerald Raines, Senior Vice President, Global Location Based Experiences, ViacomCBS, added: “Connecting with audiences on-the-ground through immersive experiences remains an integral part of Nickelodeon’s global business. We are proud to partner with China Leisure to launch Nickelodeon Playtime and bring the brand and its iconic characters to families in Shenzhen and the surrounding areas.”

China Leisure Development Co., Ltd. is a Hong Kong company dedicated to developing and managing world-class leisure experiences and projects in China including family entertainment centers, theme parks, water parks and resorts.

ViacomCBS Networks International, a unit of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAC), is comprised of many of the world’s most iconic consumer brands. Its portfolio includes Network 10, Channel 5, Telefe, Viacom International Studios, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount Network and Pluto TV among others. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, ViacomCBS Networks International provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions for partners on five continents and across more than 180 countries.

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Tuesday, April 03, 2018

Rethink Leisure & Entertainment Named as Principal Designers & Master Planners for Major Nickelodeon Theme Park in China

Original Rethink Leisure & Entertainment and Elite Global Group Press Release via InPark Magazine:

Rethink Leisure & Entertainment Named as Principal Designers & Master Planners for Major Nickelodeon Theme Park



Viacom breaks ground on Nickelodeon Cultural Resort
the first Nickelodeon-branded theme park in China

FOSHAN, CHINA – Rethink Leisure & Entertainment, a Los Angeles-based design agency and international subsidiary of Al Ahli Holding Group, has been awarded the design and master planning contract for China-based Elite Global Group Limited’s (EGGL) Nickelodeon theme park, a major part of the Foshan Cultural and Ecological Coastal Park. The contract-signing ceremony in Foshan was attended by representatives of Rethink Leisure & Entertainment and Elite Global Group.

Rethink will provide a full suite of design services to the multi-million dollar project, including master planning, park design, attraction development, and IP selection in coordination with Elite Global Group and Nickelodeon. Rethink will be working closely with its partners to create the most immersive and extensive Nickelodeon experience ever built, featuring such beloved characters as SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dora the Explorer and many more.

“Rethink is ready to bring its extensive themed entertainment experience and practical knowledge to this exciting, world-class development,” said Michael Sinks, Executive Producer, Rethink Leisure & Entertainment. “We’re excited to work with both Nickelodeon’s group of brand experts and the talented team at Elite Global Group to bring some of the world’s most unique characters to life.”

The US$1.85 billion, 250-acre Nickelodeon-themed project is a central feature of the 750-acre, Foshan Cultural and Ecological Coastal Park, a master-planned environment encompassing cultural, tourism, sports and science and technology components. Groundbreaking was held on January 4, 2017 and is anticipated to open between 2020 and 2021. The project is located in Foshan, a city in Southern China of more than seven million people, part of the affluent, greater Pearl River Delta mega metropolitan region. Including the large cities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou, more than 22 million people live in the Pearl River Delta, which is also adjacent to the Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions.

“We are excited to be working with Rethink Leisure & Entertainment,” said Michael Chang, Director, Board of Directors, Elite Global Group. “They have demonstrated a unique combination of creative and technical capability which makes them invaluable partners in the resort design process. The unique designs being developed for this resort project will undoubtedly delight the millions of Chinese guests which will visit the park.”

About Rethink Leisure & Entertainment
Rethink Leisure & Entertainment, a design agency founded in 2013, has rapidly grown into a world-class organization with a seasoned team of themed entertainment professionals. Rethink provides clients large and small with a suite of design services, including concept design, art direction, master planning, graphic design and project management. With offices in both Los Angeles and Orlando, Rethink is currently working on multiple international projects, including the $4.3 billion London Resort, located just 17 minutes outside of Central London. Rethink most recently designed the Lotte Undersea Kingdom Kids Park, now open in Seoul, South Korea. Past and current clients include Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Creative, 20th Century Fox, Lotte, Merlin Entertainment, and Carnival Cruise Line, among others. For more information, visit www.rethinkle.com. Rethink is a subsidiary of Al Ahli Holding Group, a multi-billion dollar global conglomerate headquartered in Dubai, UAE.

About Elite Global Group
Based in Hong Kong and Mainland China, Elite Global Group boasts rich experiences in manufacturing and sales of commodities with US IPR and provision of series of high value-added services. The Group is mainly engaged in the manufacturing of licensed products and perimeter commodities, investment in mega-size development and business involving IPR. In addition to its merits in investment and production, the Group is Viacom Group’s exclusively authorized retailer of Nick brands in Hong Kong and Taiwan regions for expertise and profound experiences in retail operation of stores. It’s also awarded the rights for operation of the Nick brand cultural and tourist zones and hotels in China.

Elite Global Group is the authorized partner of Viacom Group in China. Basing on years of successful cooperation, Elite Global Group has been awarded licenses by contracts, for rights of construction and operation of Nick cultural and tourist zones, and promotion of the setup of a cartoon college in China.

###

More Nick: Viacom Breaks Ground On First Nickelodeon Theme Park In China!
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Wednesday, November 22, 2017

AECOM awarded program management contract from China's Elite Global Group | Nickelodeon Cultural Resort

Original AECOM Press Release via PR Newswire:

AECOM awarded program management contract from China's Elite Global Group


ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 22, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- AECOM, a premier, fully integrated global infrastructure firm, announced today that China-based Elite Global Group Limited (EGGL) has engaged AECOM Asia Company Limited to provide comprehensive, integrated program management services. Contract was signed on the sidelines of the recent IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017 held in Orlando, Florida.


Viacom breaks ground on the first Nickelodeon-branded theme park in China

AECOM will provide its industry-leading, large capital project program management services to EGGL as it seeks to advance development of its US$1.85 billion, 250-acre Nickelodeon-themed project, a central feature for the 750-acre, Foshan Cultural and Ecological Coastal Park, a master-planned environment encompassing cultural, tourism, sports and science and technology components. Groundbreaking was held on January 4, 2017 and is anticipated to open between 2020 and 2021.

"This is the first, large-scale agreement for AECOM to deliver its proprietary life-cycle of integrated program management services for a consequential theme park project in Asia and is a breakthrough moment for our program management consultancy business in the People's Republic of China," said Mr. Chris Yoshii, Vice President, Asia Pacific, AECOM.

The project is located in Foshan, a southern China city of more than seven million people, part of the affluent, greater Pearl River Delta mega metropolitan region. Including the large cities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou, more than 22 million people live in the Pearl River Delta, which is also adjacent to the Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions.

"We are extremely excited that the delivery of our first Nickelodeon theme park will be managed by a world leading company with the global experience and successful track record that AECOM brings," said Mr. Michael Chang, Director, Board of Directors, Elite Global Group. "Millions of Chinese consumers enthusiastically await the opening of the project, which we believe will introduce innovations and advance China's theme park industry."

About AECOM

AECOM (NYSE: ACM) is built to deliver a better world. We design, build, finance and operate infrastructure assets for governments, businesses and organizations in more than 150 countries. As a fully integrated firm, we connect knowledge and experience across our global network of experts to help clients solve their most complex challenges. From high-performance buildings and infrastructure, to resilient communities and environments, to stable and secure nations, our work is transformative, differentiated and vital. A Fortune 500 firm, AECOM had revenue of approximately $18.2 billion during fiscal year 2017. See how we deliver what others can only imagine at aecom.com and @AECOM.

About Elite Global Group

Based in Hong Kong and Mainland China, Elite Global Group boasts rich experiences in manufacturing and sales of commodities with US IPR and provision of series of high value-added services. The Group is mainly engaged in the manufacturing of licensed products and perimeter commodities, investment in mega-size development and business involving IPR. In addition to its merits in investment and production, the Group is Viacom Group's exclusively authorized retailer of Nick brands in Hong Kong and Taiwan regions for expertise and profound experiences in retail operation of stores. It's also awarded the rights for operation of the Nick brand cultural and tourist zones and hotels in China.

Elite Global Group is the authorized partner of Viacom Group in China. Basing on years of successful cooperation, Elite Global Group has been awarded licenses by contracts, for rights of construction and operation of Nick cultural and tourist zones, and promotion of the setup of a cartoon college in China.

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 36th year globally and 17th year in Asia, is one of the most globally recognized and widely distributed multimedia entertainment brands for kids and family. Creating surprising and playful entertainment experiences everywhere it goes, Nickelodeon has a portfolio that includes television programming and production around the world, plus special events, consumer products, digital offerings, recreation, books, feature films and pro-social initiatives. Nickelodeon's brands are seen globally in more than 450 million households in over 100 territories via more than 70 locally programmed channels and syndication. For more information about Nickelodeon in Asia, visit www.nick-asia.com.

SOURCE AECOM

Related Links

http://www.aecom.com

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More Nick: Viacom Breaks Ground On First Nickelodeon Theme Park In China!
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Sunday, October 22, 2017

Entertainment One Announces Global Partnership with Merlin Entertainments to Develop New Peppa Pig Attractions

Original Entertainment One Press Release via EntertainmentOne.com:

Entertainment One Announces Global Partnership with Merlin Entertainments to Develop New Peppa Pig Attractions


Multi-territory Partnership to Create Location-Based Entertainment and Accommodation



LONDON: 17th October 2017 - Entertainment One (eOne) today proudly announces that it has entered into a global partnership with Merlin Entertainments (Merlin), to develop and operate location-based entertainment attractions based on its popular preschool license, Peppa Pig.

The leading visitor attraction operator will roll out new attraction formats and themed accommodation featuring Peppa Pig and all her family and friends. The deal covers all territories excluding the UK and Merlin will have exclusive rights for all location based entertainment formats with the exception of China, which will be licensed to Merlin on a non-exclusive basis.

In collaboration with eOne, Merlin will create fully branded, standalone Peppa Pig attractions in multiple formats as well as the development of dedicated branded areas within existing Merlin’s Resort Theme Parks. Merlin expects to open in-park areas in two Resort Theme Parks in 2018 and it is expected the first standalone attraction will open in 2019.

Nick Varney, Chief Executive Officer of Merlin Entertainments said, “We are extremely excited to be partnering with eOne. Global IP is an important part of our strategic growth and Peppa Pig is an exceptionally strong brand, recognised and loved by families around the world. The roll out of new attractions as part of this deal will further diversify our portfolio – by brand, customer type and geography. Our Merlin Magic Making creative team is already well progressed in working with our partners at eOne to develop these new concepts which will complement our existing brands and extend our reach into the important pre-school market.”

Olivier Dumont, eOne’s President, Family & Brands, said “The partnership with Merlin highlights our commitment to bringing Peppa Pig to a global audience so that families around the world will be able to create unforgettable memories based on real life experiences. Merlin’s commitment is a ringing endorsement for the longevity of the property and these attractions will play a key role in ensuring its future success for generations to come.”

-Ends-

About Entertainment One
Entertainment One Ltd. (LSE:ETO) is a global independent studio that specializes in the development, acquisition, production, financing, distribution and sales of entertainment content. The Company’s diversified expertise spans across film, television and music production and sales, family programming, merchandising and licensing, and digital content. Through its global reach and expansive scale, powered by deep local market knowledge, the Company delivers the best content to the world.

Entertainment One’s robust network includes film and television studio The Mark Gordon Company; content creation venture Amblin Partners with Steven Spielberg, DreamWorks Studios, Participant Media, Reliance Entertainment, Alibaba Pictures and Universal Filmed Entertainment; newly-launched MAKEREADY with Brad Weston; leading feature film production and global sales company Sierra Pictures; unscripted television production company Renegade 83; world-class music labels Dualtone Music Group and Last Gang; and award-winning digital agency Secret Location.

The Company’s rights library is exploited across all media formats and includes more than 100,000 hours of film and television content and approximately 40,000 music tracks.

About Merlin Entertainments plc
Merlin Entertainments plc is a global leader in location based, family entertainment. As Europe's Number 1 and the world's second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 100 attractions, 15 hotels and 6 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable experiences to its more than 60 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its c.29,000 employees (peak season).

Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.

###

The news follows eOne unveiling plans to expand Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park theme park in Hampshire, UK in 2018. The expansion includes two new rides as well as a dedicated baby care center and a new catering outlet. The new additions join the existing seven rides at Peppa Pig World, along with the park’s indoor play area, water splash area and the largest dedicated Peppa Pig gift shop in the world. Peppa Pig World first opened within Paulton’s Park in 2011.

These location-based entertainment expansions come as the Peppa Pig brand continues to be a powerhouse for eOne, with total retail sales of US$1.2 billion in fiscal 2017 (up from US$1.1 billion in 2016) and licensing and merchandising revenue of US$59.3 million.

Fans can watch Peppa Pig everyday on Nick Jr. and Milkshake!

More Nick: Entertainment One Announces 117 Brand-New Episodes Of "Peppa Pig"!

Additional source: Kidscreen.
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Wednesday, January 04, 2017

Viacom Breaks Ground On First Nickelodeon Theme Park In China

Sanshui New Town Management Committee, Hong Kong Elite Global Group and Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) are kicking off construction on the Foshan Cultural and Ecological Coastal Project, which will include Nickelodeon Cultural Resort, China's first Nickelodeon theme park!


The estimated RMB 11.9 billion ($1.71 billion) development project will span approximately 3 million square meters (750 acres), with around a third of the space (250 set acres) dedicated to Nickelodeon-themed attractions. It is anticipated to open in 2020 and attract 6.7 million tourists in the first year. Nickelodeon Cultural Resort will incorporate Foshan’s cultural tourism while leveraging Nickelodeon’s iconic brand power.

Viacom International Media Networks has yet to announce what attractions will be included within the Nickelodeon theme park, however, Ron Johnson, the Executive Vice President (EVP) of Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products (NVCP) for VIMN, remarked: “We are thrilled to be part of this incredible initiative and groundbreaking [ceremony] today. As the first Nickelodeon-themed attraction in China, we will give kids and families in Foshan and across China the opportunity to interact with iconic and beloved characters, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, through this world-class entertainment destination. On-the-ground experiences like this offer kids and families an opportunity to experience and interact with the characters that they love in new, meaningful ways.”

Governmental officials from the Sanshui district of Foshan City stated: “In 2015, Foshan set an aim to build a ‘culture-oriented’ city and deployed an innovative cultural developmental strategy to promote our city value. This cultural and ecological coastal project is a perfect match for our goal to make culture and tourism a strategic industry. We look forward to the completion of the project, which we believe will bring huge benefits to the state’s economy. In the meantime, we will give full support to Viacom International Media Networks and Elite Global Group for the successful implementation of their innovative plans.”

Elite Global Group added: “We are thankful for the support we gained from the government. They have been very welcoming to our project and everything went as planned and scheduled. The groundbreaking ceremony today signifies the beginning of our win-win project for the local economy in Foshan and Guangzhou as well as the tourists in China.”

Viacom's partners in the project are Hong Kong conglomerate Elite Global Group and the Sanshui New Town Management Committee, a government-backed entity charged with developing the Sanshui district of Foshan.

Fuelled by a growing and increasingly entertainment-focused middle class, China's theme park industry is on track to surpass that of the U.S. within the next few years. By 2020, ticket sales at Chinese parks will surge to $12 billion from $4.6 billion in 2015, according to a report released in November by market research firms Euromonitor International and World Travel Market. Theme park revenue in the U.S., meanwhile, is expected to inch upward to $9 billion in 2020 from $8 billion in 2015.

Major international park brands have been hurrying to enter the market, while local real estate giant Dalian Wanda Group plans to roll out 15 mega-resorts across China by 2020.

In September, Universal Studios signed a deal with a Chinese consortium to build a multibillion-dollar theme park in Beijing, to open in 2019. Later this year, Dreamworks Animation and Chinese partners are expected to complete a $2.4 billion entertainment complex in Shanghai, featuring bars, restaurants and performance venues.

Disney's $5.5 billion theme park in Shanghai opened June in June 2016 and the company says it will come close to breaking even by the end of its first full year of operation. Shanghai Disneyland broke ground on a Toy Story-themed expansion in October, just four months after opening.

Viacom last year opened the first Nickelodeon-themed attraction in Asia, Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon in Malaysia.

Sources: TVKids, The Hollywood Reporter; Additional source: Metric Conversion.
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Monday, December 21, 2015

Nickelodeon Strikes Deal To Open First Attraction In China

Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) has struck a deal with two Chinese partners to open a brand-new Nickelodeon-branded attraction in Southern China by 2020!

The partners in the project in Sanshui New Town - which will be Nickelodeon's first branded attraction in China and is estimated to cost $1.85 billion (RMB11.9 billion) — are the Sanshui New Town Management Committee and Elite Global, with a license from Viacom International Media Networks.


The theme park attraction is expected to cost $1.85 billion (RMB11.9 billion) to build and is scheduled to open by 2020. The park is part of a Foshan Cultural and Ecological Coastal Project, which was set out last year as encompassing a culture-oriented city, that fosters inter-industry integration between cultural and six other fields: tourism, sports, science, technology, commerce and traditional industries.

"We are thrilled we will develop our first branded attraction in China, which will open up further opportunities for our recreation business in Asia," said Ron Johnson, executive VP, Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products (NVCP).

"We look forward to working with Elite Global Group and Foshan to create a series of branded attractions that will appeal to kids and families across China, enabling them to connect with some of the most beloved Nickelodeon characters in the world, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles."

The partners said they plan to include in their development a China Cultural Creativity Base "committed to incorporating Chinese culture, stories and values into world-level works," a China Cultural Product & Derivative Exchange and energy-efficient buildings.

Nickelodeon branded attractions and parks around the world include Nickelodeon Land at Pleasure Beach Blackpool (U.K.), Nickelodeon Universe in Minneapolis' Mall of America, Nickelodeon Land at SeaWorld on Australia's Gold Coast, Nickelodeon Beach at Wet 'n Wild Sydney (Australia), Nickland at Movie Park Germany, Nickelodeon Land at Parque de Atracciones Madrid (Spain) and Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon to open at Sunway Lagoon in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). Nickelodeon also has a branded hotel, Nickelodeon Suites Resort, in Orlando, Florida, and plans to open Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, Nickelodeon's first-ever international hotel property, in May 2016.

Sources: Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.
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Friday, December 18, 2015

Gilbane's "SpongeBob SubPants Adventure" Project At Moody Gardens Wins Thea Award From The Themed Entertainment Association

Original Moody Gardens Press Release via PR Newswire:

Gilbane Moody Gardens Project Wins Thea Award from the Themed Entertainment Association

One-of-a-kind attraction for Moody Gardens earns top TEA Thea award

HOUSTON, Dec. 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Gilbane Building Company, a global leader in construction services, announced the Moody Gardens SpongeBob SubPants Adventure attraction was honored with award by the Themed Entertainment Association. The prestigious TEA Thea Award is considered one of the attractions industry's greatest honors. TEA lauds the visionary project owners and the team that helped created something never done before.


Moody Gardens SpongeBob SubPants Adventure attraction in Galveston, TX

The SpongeBob SubPants Adventure attraction at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas has numerous elements including stereoscopic 3D film, 4D in-theater effects, real-time animation and multiple story paths that are all used to evoke the world of Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants to quirky and comical effect, all in perfect sync with the characters and sensibility of the franchise. Gilbane provided pre-construction and construction management services for Moody Gardens.


Gilbane Logo

"We are excited for this team recognition," said Dan Gilbane, Sr. Vice President Gilbane Building Company, "Moody Gardens has been a great partner for Gilbane across three decades, and this award is a reflection not only of this successful partnership, but also the efforts of the entire team."

About Gilbane Building Company
Gilbane provides a full slate of construction and facilities-related services – from pre-construction planning and integrated consulting capabilities to comprehensive construction management, close-out and facility management services – for clients across various markets. Founded in 1873 and still a privately held, family-owned company, Gilbane has more than 50 office locations around the world. For more information, visit www.gilbaneco.com.

[...]

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151217/297049
Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150120/170349LOGO

SOURCE Gilbane Building Company

RELATED LINKS
http://www.gilbaneco.com

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Don't forget to visit Moody Gardens this winter to see their brand-New ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants exhibit in partnership with Nickelodeon!
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Friday, November 27, 2015

Moody Gardens Receives International Recognition With A THEA Award For Its SpongeBob SubPants Adventure Attraction

Fantastic news, congratulations Moody Gardens, Super 78 and Nickelodeon!

Original Moody Gardens Press Release via PR Newswire:

Moody Gardens Receives International Recognition With A THEA Award For Its SpongeBob SubPants Adventure Attraction


GALVESTON, Texas, Nov. 27, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Moody Gardens, a world class attraction located in Galveston, TX has been selected to receive the 2016 THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement for its SpongeBob SubPants Adventure attraction. The announcement was made last week at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Expo (IAAPA).

The SpongeBob SubPants Adventure is a one-of-a-kind interactive experience that allows guests to go on a submarine voyage to explore the world of Bikini Bottom with the help of their captain, Patrick Star. Visitors are able to choose their path through the wild and silly deep-sea adventure and have real-time conversations with Patrick. The attraction takes visitors from digital to real time through exciting 4D sensory elements which brings the adventure to life through scents, bubbles and bouncing beach balls.


Children and parents wearing 3D glasses enjoy a wild and silly submarine voyage as they're immersed in special effects during the SpongeBob SubPants Adventure opening Memorial Day Weekend at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas.

Moody Gardens partnered with Nickelodeon, Super 78 and SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment to create this innovative attraction that opened in May. Harnessing the power of modern computer technology and classic artistic techniques, a group of designers, engineers, fabricators responsible for many of the world's leading theme park attractions collaborated to create the SpongeBob SubPants Adventure.

Super 78, an attraction design and production company based in Los Angeles, was also recognized with a THEA Award in the Technology Breakthrough category for the creation of their groundbreaking Gepettoo™ Animation Control System. This is a proprietary digital puppetry that delivers feature film 3D animation in real time used in the SpongeBob SubPants Adventure attraction. This Animation Control System allows a performer behind the scenes to control all aspects of the full-sensory experience on screen in front of audiences. The performer's voice becomes an on-screen character, and he has an unlimited palette of animation options which brings the character to life. The performer also runs the lights, sounds, bubbles, and scents with the push of a button.


Children and parents view a brass dive helmet and crab trap near the Bikini Bottom mural before entering the new Nickelodeon SpongeBob SubPants Adventure. It [opened] Memorial Day Weekend at the Discovery Pyramid at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas.

"We consistently strive to offer new and immersive experiences the whole family can enjoy together," said John Zendt, Moody Gardens President and CEO. "This was a highly innovative and creative team that created an exceptional attraction and we are honored to be receiving this THEA award."


Visitors will enjoy a new one-of-a-kind, immersive and interactive experience as SpongeBob SubPants Adventure opens to kick off the summer vacation season at Moody Gardens in Galveston, TX

The Thea Awards were created by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) in 1994 to help realize a key mission of the association: bringing recognition to achievement, talent and personal excellence within the themed entertainment industry. TEA's Thea Awards have become internationally recognized as a symbol of excellence. The award will be presented to Moody Gardens at the 22nd Annual THEA Awards Gala scheduled for April 2 in Anaheim, CA.


A mother and daughter view colorful coral in the Neptunes Kingdom aquariums in the Pre Show I area before entering the SpongeBob SubPants Adventure theater. The new attraction [opened] Memorial Day weekend at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas.

This permanent attraction takes excitement to new depths in a non-stop whirlwind of surprises with fun for the whole family to enjoy only at Moody Gardens. Admission is $18.95 for adults and $16.95 for seniors and children. It is also included in a Moody Gardens Value Pass.

For more information, call (800) 582-4673 or visit www.moodygardens.org. You can also follow Moody Gardens on Twitter and Facebook.

Moody Gardens® is a public, non-profit, educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150501/213196

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150501/213198

SOURCE Moody Gardens

RELATED LINKS
http://www.moodygardens.org

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Additionally, Original Super 78 Press Release via PRWeb:

Creative Entertainment Studio SUPER 78 Honored By Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) With 2016 THEA Award For Outstanding Achievement: Technology Breakthrough

Geppetto Animation Control System by Super 78

ORLANDO, FLORIDA (PRWEB) NOVEMBER 18, 2015

Los Angeles based Super 78 received the 2016 Thea award for Outstanding Achievement: Technology Breakthrough for their creation of Geppetto ACS™, a proprietary digital puppetry that delivers feature film quality 3D animation in real time; it was announced today by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA.) Additionally, Moody Gardens' SpongeBob Subpants Adventure, created and designed by Super 78 (using the Geppetto technology), was honored with the 2016 Thea award For Outstanding Achievement: Attraction.



Spongebob Subpants Adventure at Moody Gardens, created and designed by Super 78, receives the 2016 THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement: Attraction

Super 78's President and Creative Director Brent Young and CEO and Executive Producer Dina Benadon, jointly stated, "We are both thrilled and honored, along with our amazing team, to be recognized by TEA for our Geppetto ACS™ technology. We are also privileged to have collaborated with the talented folks at Moody Gardens and Nickelodeon on the SpongeBob Subpants Adventure and we share in their excitement and congratulate them on their outstanding achievement."


"Our objective is always to provide that fun, educational experience that is so important to parents and kids, and the SpongeBob SubPants Adventure attraction will achieve this in a new and exciting way," said Moody Gardens President and CEO John Zendt.

The innovative technology behind Geppetto ACS™ can supercharge entertainment experiences --whether it's at a theme park, movie theater, concert or even a televised awards show -- bringing a new level of immersiveness to the audience. The opportunities are infinite. And the experience is in real time! To learn more about Geppetto ACS™ go to: Geppetto Informtation Sheet


Through the Geppetto ACS™ groundbreaking technology, The Moody Gardens' SpongeBob Subpants Adventure was created and designed by the artists and technicians at Super78 in conjunction with Nickelodeon. The immersive and one-of-a-kind experience brings to life the internationally beloved characters in interactive exhibits, real sea-life aquariums and state-of-the-art 3D digital puppetry. Audiences can actually control the submarine while having a one-on-one conversation with one of the main characters. No two shows are ever the same.

The SpongeBob Subpants Adventure marks Super 78's third collaboration with SimEx-Iwerks! And Nickelodeon joining Dora & Diego's 4D Adventure: Catch That Robot Butterfly and SpongeBob Square Pants 4D: The Great Jelly Race.



Super 78's digital puppetry technology behind Moody Gardens' SpongeBob SubPants Adventure.

About Super 78
Super 78 is an award-winning creative entertainment production studio and an industry leader in innovation and design. Known for its cutting edge technology and great storytelling, the award-winning artists and technicians deliver entertaining and educational experiences to audiences of all ages, across all platforms. Founded in 1997, the company extends well-known brands and intellectual properties into special venues and the experiential marketplace. With offices in Los Angeles and partners worldwide, Super 78 continues to expand by creating, producing and owning live action, animated and graphic content for the global market. Super 78 has earned recognition and numerous accolades including Emmy, THEA, Visual Effects Society, Telly and Create Awards and nominations. To learn more about Super 78 go to: Super78.com

About the Thea Awards
The Thea Awards were created by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) to help realize a key mission of the association: bringing recognition to achievement, talent and personal excellence within the themed entertainment industry. From a modest beginning in 1994, the Thea Awards have become internationally recognized as a symbol of excellence. The public is welcome to attend the black-tie 22nd Annual Thea Awards Gala, which will be held April 2, 2016 at the Disneyland Hotel, Disneyland Resort, Anaheim California USA. Tickets go on sale in early 2016 at http://www.teaconnect.org. The name of the award is a play on three words: the first is "Thea," the Greek goddess from whom all light emanates. Thea was the mother of Helios (the sun), Eos (the dawn), and Selene (the moon). The second key word is "Theater," a word derived from the goddess Thea. The third word, is TEA, for the Association.

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Don't forget to visit Moody Gardens this winter to see their brand-New ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants exhibit in partnership with Nickelodeon!
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Wednesday, September 09, 2015

Moody Gardens and Nickelodeon Reveal First Glimpse of Brand-New "ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants"

SpongeBob is throwing the best Christmas party ever and YOU'RE INVITED!

Original Moody Gardens Press Release via PR Newswire:

Moody Gardens and Nickelodeon Reveal First Glimpse of Brand-New ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants

A SpongeBob Christmas Party is the brand new theme revealed for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants for visitors to enjoy as this extremely popular attraction opens at Moody Gardens in Galveston, TX on November 14.

Moody Garden announced the theme for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants will be a SpongeBob Christmas Party when it opens November 14

A SpongeBob Christmas Party is the brand new theme revealed for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants for visitors to enjoy as this extremely popular attraction opens at Moody Gardens in Galveston, TX on November 14.


GALVESTON, Texas, Sept. 9, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Guests can look forward to a brand-new ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants this holiday season beginning November 14, as SpongeBob takes them on an icy adventure with new surprises around every corner and even more ice than before. A first glimpse of the iconic destinations and new characters that will be featured throughout the new attraction this year was released today, offering a special look into SpongeBob's Christmas Party adventure.


A SpongeBob Christmas Party is the brand new theme revealed for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants for visitors to enjoy as this extremely popular attraction opens at Moody Gardens in Galveston, TX on November 14. (PRNewsFoto/Moody Gardens)

This brand-new frosted wonderland will give guests an opportunity to experience Bikini Bottom's landmarks like never before -- kids and families can walk through a full-size Krusty Krab made entirely of ice; explore an all-ice Flying Dutchman pirate ship; dive into the eerie depths of Rock Bottom, and stroll on Conch Street, home to SpongeBob, Patrick, and Squidward. Guests will even be able to belly up to the bar of the Salty Spitoon watering hole from the beloved TV series. And last year's guest-favorite 100-foot ice slides will be back this year with an all-new sled race!

"This year is a whole new level of artistry and fun. It's SpongeBob's Christmas Party and this brand new theme will allow guests to explore places in Bikini Bottom that they have never experienced before," said John Zendt, Moody Gardens President and CEO, who added that the addition of new color techniques, more sculptures and scenes continue to push new boundaries of creativity for an even better guest experience. "The holiday season is a wonderful time for families and this is the ideal venue for creating some very special memories."


Moody Garden announced the theme for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants will be a SpongeBob Christmas Party when it opens November 14 (PRNewsFoto/Moody Gardens)

Last year saw record crowds with over 100,000 guests visiting ICE LAND in its first year. With the help of the continued partnerships with Nickelodeon and the VYA Ice Carving Team from Harbin, China, ICE LAND will feature over 2 million pounds of ice this year and even more sculptures. Chilled and held at a continuous temperature of nine degrees, guests can witness these towering works of art within a 28,000 sq. ft. insulated tent structure located on the property.

As the only holiday ice exhibition on the Gulf Coast, this holiday treat for the whole family will be open through January 10 as Galveston makes its holiday transition into a Winter Wonder Island. Admission to the exhibit is $26.95 for adults, $21.95 for seniors and $15.95 for children. A Value Days discount of $5.00 is available Sunday through Thursday November 15 – December 17, excluding Thanksgiving Day. Other holiday attractions include Festival of Lights, holiday films, ice skating, Arctic Ice Slide, holiday dinner and shows, a gift market and the newly renovated four-diamond hotel. For more information, please click here.

For more information, please call 800-582-4673 or visit moodygardens.org.

Moody Gardens® is a public, non-profit, educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150908/264438
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150701/227648

SOURCE Moody Gardens

RELATED LINKS
http://www.moodygardens.org

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Thursday, July 02, 2015

Brand New ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures With SpongeBob SquarePants To Debut At Moody Gardens This Holiday Season

Official Moody Gardens Press Release via PR Newswire:

Brand New ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures With SpongeBob SquarePants To Debut At Moody Gardens This Holiday Season


The highly anticipated ICE LAND Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants opened Saturday at Moody Gardens, Galveston, Texas with a Ceremonial First Slide by John Zendt, Moody Gardens President and CEO; Gerald Raines, Senior Vice President of Recreation and Business Development for Nickelodeon and Galveston City Councilwoman Carolyn Sunseri.

Moody Garden announced the theme for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants will be a SpongeBob Christmas Party when it opens November 14

GALVESTON, Texas, July 1, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- SpongeBob SquarePants is throwing a Christmas Party and visitors will be invited to experience all of the icy surprises as Moody Gardens introduces this brand new theme for ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants on November 14. There will be even more to delight guests throughout this festive season during the attraction's second year.


Moody Garden announced the theme for the 2015 ICE LAND: Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants will be a SpongeBob Christmas Party when it opens November 14 (PRNewsFoto/Moody Gardens)

With the help of the continued partnerships with Nickelodeon and the VYA Ice Carving Team from Harbin, China, ICE LAND will feature over 2 million pounds of ice this year and even more sculptures than before. Being the only holiday ice exhibition on the Gulf Coast, this vast and amazing display of magnificent ice creations added a frosty new addition to the Festival of Lights and other holiday attractions last year with over 1.8 million pounds of SpongeBob SquarePants-themed ice sculptures.


The new ICE LAND Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants is one of many holiday attractions that Moody Gardens offers for visitors looking for a fun family getaway this holiday getaway to Galveston Island in Texas. Inspired by the Snow & Ice Festival in Harbin, China; guests will enjoy over 50 towering ice sculptures as the ideal complement to the popular Festival of Lights, holiday 3D and 4D films, Arctic Ice Slide, Ice skating, hotel, spa and more. (PRNewsFoto/Moody Gardens)

"We are very excited to bring back ICE LAND for our guests to enjoy for the second year," said John Zendt, Moody Gardens President and CEO, who added guests will be captivated with the new SpongeBob storyline as they travel through the tent. "We had the highest holiday season attendance in 2014 with a 47% increase from 2013 due to the introduction of this popular attraction. We think guests will continue to enjoy experiencing all the holiday magic at Moody Gardens in 2015."


The highly anticipated ICE LAND Ice Sculptures with SpongeBob SquarePants opened Saturday [15th November 2014] at Moody Gardens, Galveston, Texas with a Ceremonial First Slide by John Zendt, Moody Gardens President and CEO; Gerald Raines, Senior Vice President of Recreation and Business Development for Nickelodeon and Galveston City Councilwoman Carolyn Sunseri. (PRNewsFoto/Moody Gardens)

SpongeBob SquarePants will take guests on a special holiday adventure through Bikini Bottom as they encounter some of his favorite frosty pals along the way. Chilled and held at a temperature of nine degrees, guests can witness these works of art within a 28,000 sq. ft. insulated tent structure located on the property. This holiday treat for the whole family will be open through January 10 as Galveston makes its holiday transition into a Winter Wonder Island.

For more information, please call 800-582-4673 or visit moodygardens.org.

Moody Gardens® is a public, non-profit, educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150701/227648
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141124/160623
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141116/158860

SOURCE Moody Gardens

RELATED LINKS
http://www.moodygardens.org

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