Based in London, Vargo will lead global creative development and production and oversee entertainment programmes for Nick’s stage shows, theme parks, resorts and attractions in the Riviera Maya, US, UK and Spain.
Attractions under Vargo’s supervision will include the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, set to open in Mexico in 2019; the Nickelodeon Universe indoor theme park at the Mall of America in the US; the Nickelodeon Land at Parque de Atracciones theme park in Spain; and the Nickelodeon Land at Pleasure Beach theme park in Blackpool, UK. The production of all major Nickelodeon ticketed and select non-ticketed stage shows will also be part of Vargo’s remit in the position.
Prior taking on this new role, Vargo worked with Nickelodeon to produce live global tours for Dora the Explorer, The Backyardigans and PAW Patrol. Most recently, she served as the executive producer of the networks Tony-award winning SpongeBob SquarePants Broadway musical, and previously held a similar role for the Broadway and US tour of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and has previously worked as a company manager for Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry Jam.
SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical
Vargo will also continue her work on the SpongeBob SquarePants musical as it prepares to tour the US from Q3 2019 in her new role.
The hire is another push forward for Nickelodeon as it bolsters its exec team for live and location-based brand extensions. The company just recently upped Ron Hines to Senior Vice President (SVP) of creative development and global experience design, with a remit to develop, produce and implement Nickelodeon-licensed theme parks, water parks, resorts, cruises, live entertainment productions, exhibits and corporate events.
Sources: Kidscreen, Leisure Opportunities.
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon Recreation News and Highlights!
