In the wake of the pandemic, the entertainment industry is shifting towards experiences that break free from physical boundaries. Hybrid events incorporating live-streaming have become the norm across diverse sectors, from eSports and festivals to museums and theme parks, fostering an Inclusive, Diverse, Equitable, and Accessible (IDEA) environment. This evolution towards a hybrid model is exemplified by institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., which now offer virtual tours of their galleries. Six Flags Magic Mountain in California and Universal Studios in Florida have live-streamed adrenaline-pumping rides, while the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 and the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 successfully captivated millions using virtual formats due to lockdowns. The transition to hybrid experiences is not limited to entertainment alone; it has become the new normal across work, education, and various facets of daily life. But navigating this new landscape can pose challenges for businesses aiming to make the most of digital channels and ensure profitability. The Glass-to-Glass (G2G) approach is important to this transformative journey. What is G2G? Glass-to-glass (G2G) production involves capturing and distributing footage to various display endpoints or personal devices on or off the event site, typically with equipment designed by a common manufacturer for seamless compatibility and interoperability. “True” G2G, where footage is shot and displayed on-site, finds application in studios, eSports venues, churches, concert halls, and sporting arenas. The use of cameras, projectors, and mesh screens to broadcast holograms points to a future that is more inclusive and accessible, giving remote viewers a deeper sense of the atmosphere with richer and more realistic visuals. In fact, the use cases for G2G solutions are practically limitless, especially in the realm of gamified experiences, live events, Edutainment, and Artainment. Exploring the Benefits G2G solutions offer direct and indirect benefits to operators across events, attractions, museums, and theme parks, contributing to improved ROI, profitability, efficiency, marketing, and promotional value. The advantages are diverse:
What are the Challenges? However, transitioning to G2G is not without its challenges. Integrating mixed technologies, ensuring compatibility between devices, and addressing issues related to production workflow and labor are among the hurdles faced. There can be issues with video conversion, AVoIP transmission standards, and system reliability. Legacy lamp-based projectors can also pose maintenance challenges. These hurdles have created a demand for holistic and sustainable IP-based G2G solutions that streamline workflows and minimize operating costs. Enterprises contemplating the G2G leap are advised to seek a tech partner who can provide comprehensive services, from design and consultation to installation and ongoing support. Panasonic Connect has positioned itself as a leader in this space, leveraging its expertise to offer G2G solutions that integrate each aspect of the chain. The demand for a cohesive IP-based system comprising compatible cameras, switchers, and projectors that are built, supplied, and installed by a single tech partner is on the rise. This approach aims to reduce labor, installation, and operating costs, ensuring a seamless and efficient production process. Finding the Tools to Build Success Embarking on a G2G journey involves more than just placing a camera and streaming the resulting footage. Panasonic Connect’s G2G solutions stand out for their high customizability, with devices meticulously designed to work in harmony. From PTZ cameras to the all-in-one IT/IP Platform KAIROS and laser projection options, Panasonic Connect provides a comprehensive suite of tools that simplify the production of hybrid experiences. In Part 2 of this series on glass-to-glass solutions, I’ll highlight technologies that are making hybrid production more accessible to enterprises of all sizes. I’ll also explore some of the trends that have emerged as a result.
Until then, to learn more about G2G technology and how we can maximize your capital investment in hybrid experiences, please drop me a line at [email protected]. Chad Kunimoto is the Global Business Development Manager for Themed Entertainment and Immersive Experiences at Panasonic Connect.
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Happy 2024! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is enjoying the start of this new year. Not only did I enjoy time off with family in the mountains, I was also able to take a breath and reflect on all that TEA accomplished in 2023. Reading Lindsey’s recap of last year reminded me how much we’ve done together. I’m so grateful for this community of passionate themed entertainment professionals that work hard to make our industry better every day. With the continued economic impact of increased costs to do business, hire and retain qualified workforce, and to sustain the expansion of TEA with the delivery of new and existing member value to you, the TEA Board of Directors has approved a modest TEA membership dues increase of approximately 12%. The decision to adjust dues is not one taken lightly, and I want to assure you that it is driven by a commitment to enhancing the value you receive as a member. The dues increase is effective March 2024 for renewals and immediate for New Members. As we look ahead to the future, it is essential for us to ensure the fiscal health of our association. The adjustment in dues will enable us to maintain and further elevate the quality of services and benefits provided to you, ensuring that TEA remains at the forefront of industry support and innovation. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to TEA. Together, we will continue to provide a safe, diverse place for members to enjoy unmatched professional growth and education, and to form new friendships and partnerships. If you have any questions, or if there are ways we can better serve you, please email [email protected]. Wishing you a prosperous and fulfilling year ahead. Sincerely, Melissa Oviedo
International Board President, Themed Entertainment Association As we approach the end of 2023, I am filled with gratitude and excitement as I reflect on the incredible journey we've taken together this year. 2023 has been marked by membership growth, innovation, and collaboration, and I am thrilled to share some of our key achievements with you. Record-Breaking Membership Year The TEA community has grown significantly this year, welcoming:
Member Connections & Signature Events 2023 was also a big year regarding member communications and our world-class events. We took member communication to the next level with the weekly TEA Tell newsletter, providing a central space to share all of TEA’s important news and events. Additionally, the inaugural Global Partner Showcase brought together industry leaders to demonstrate their innovative contributions to the industry. In response to member feedback, we proudly introduced two new events—Leadership Forum and INSPIRE, offering fresh perspectives and networking opportunities ahead of the prestigious 29th Annual Thea Awards Gala. Notably, our record-breaking International Mixer at Discovery Cove became a historic moment as we unveiled the impressive lineup of the 30th Annual Thea Award Recipients, setting the stage for a year of celebration. TEA Masters Shared Their Knowledge The TEA Masters shared their expertise globally throughout the year. From speaking at universities and participating in webinars to inducting our first TEA Master in Australia, they showcased the strength of our international network. A few highlights include:
Division Highlights Our four global Divisions were busy this year and hosted 60+ events. These events bring together the creators of immersive destinations and experiences to share knowledge, collaborate, spark new ideas, celebrate innovation, and cultivate a diverse global membership. They spanned across diverse locations, from the Philippines to Saudi Arabia, Austria to the United States, strengthening our global presence and fostering a truly international community. Take a look at everything that was offered! Asia Pacific Division
TEA Travels This year, members of the International Board Executive Committee traveled to the Asia Pacific Division and Europe & Middle East Division. You can find an entire recap of the trip written by International Board President, Melissa Oviedo, and International Board Secretary, Evi Sari. The goals for this trip were determined by TEA’s core values, and the delegation aimed to put TEA back into spaces where our members live, work, and play on a global scale. This journey served as a great reminder as to why TEA was created. We exist to foster collaboration, to create, and to innovate. Highlights include: New Structure for a New Future
TEA owes a big portion of its success in 2023 and over the last 2.5 years to our staffing partners at IMN solutions for providing TEA with a highly professional and committed staff team. While there have been many TEAm members who have supported us over the years, I would like to give a special shout out to Laura Singler, Allison Winter, Becky Nadora, Clara Allen, and Kristen Kimbrel, for their contributions to the TEA/IMN team over the last year. Over the next six months, TEA is going to be embarking on a phased transition of these positions from an outsourced model to an insourced model, adding 4-5 new positions to the full-time staff by June 2024. While this is a huge undertaking for TEA, we are excited at the possibilities and potential this unlocks for TEA to build longevity and deep institutional and industry knowledge that will be with the organization for years to come. In addition to the reinforcements being made to our staffing infrastructure, we are gearing up for another recording-breaking year with plans to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Thea Awards in full Hollywood glam in March, expand our partnerships with aligned industries and associations, continue to grow membership in new verticals, and do so all while delivering our first balanced budget in the last four years. In early January, TEA will be sharing more information about our plans for the new year and various ways we plan to sustain the expansion and delivery of new existing member value to you- our valued members. Thank You for Your Support For all of this, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to TEA’s International Board President, Melissa Oviedo, the Executive Committee, the International Board, the leadership from TEA’s four Divisional Boards, all of our committee and task force volunteers, and, of course, our Global Partners who provide critical financial support. As we bid farewell to 2023, let us carry the spirit of TEA’s core values into the coming year: Connection, Creativity, Inclusivity, Thought Leadership, Innovation, and Celebrating Excellence. There is tremendous momentum propelling us into 2024. Together, we will be a catalyst for enhancing lives through the creation of tomorrow’s compelling places and experiences. Thank you for your continued support, and here's to an even more exciting and prosperous 2024! Events like World Expos showcase a diverse range of media-based attractions, offering a fascinating comparison of spatial design approaches. With each installation utilizing similar equipment to tell a similar kind of story, the differences in planning and execution become even more apparent. The most successful designs blend content with the space, augmenting immersive video with interactive or sensory elements to deliver a captivating experience. Achieving such cohesive design hinges on co-creation. This involves collaborating with the studio, tech partner, and installer to ensure that every aspect of the attraction, from the spatial layout to the multimedia elements, works in harmony. However, even with meticulous planning, gaps between the initial vision and the finished product can emerge, potentially impacting the final experience. This is where facilities such as Panasonic Connect’s XR Lab can help. Situated in Tokyo's Shinonome district, XR Lab is a dedicated co-creation space where new ideas for immersive storytelling are brought to life. The process begins by understanding the client’s requirements. From there, a team of experts collaborates to develop and test solutions until the final vision is achieved. Uniting Stakeholders in the Creative Process But what exactly is XR Lab? Takuya Haruta, Chief of System Architecture (Immersive UX), emphasizes that it's more than just a space to simulate concepts and solve problems before construction. “It's a place where customers can feel the products for real and learn about them in ways that don’t show up in the specs,” he says. “As they are visiting the space, clients often come up with ideas about ways to create content and utilize the products. With visual content, there’s a lot you can’t really understand until you see the final product.” But hardware isn’t the sole focus at XR Lab. Instead, the emphasis lies on co-creating spatial designs that enhance engagement by merging digital and analog elements. Yasuaki Sakanishi, Head of System Architecture, explains, “First, we think about what the space will look like together with the customer. We then figure out how to realize that vision with our products and technologies. But we rarely discuss hardware; it’s mostly discussions about the spatial design.” Masami Osada, Chief of System Architecture (Personalized UX), echoes this idea. “It’s necessary to move beyond simply projecting images; we need to provide features that enable new experiences for guests. I think themed entertainment relates especially well to the value of these new types of experiences.” However, it’s important to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving landscape. “As a technology innovator, we are constantly testing technology with an eye three to five years in the future,” Haruta says. “There are many things that we don’t release publicly but are able to show to partners with whom we have a special relationship, which is a unique value we can provide.” Investing in the future is vital. Collaborations between engineers and artists at XR Lab and the Panasonic Center in Tokyo not only shape the development of visual technology but also foster creativity. Artists gain insights into the science of display technology, while engineers witness content development under diverse conditions. This collaborative spirit extends to supporting showcases like “Endless Imaginary” at the Panasonic Center in Tokyo, where XR Lab provides technical expertise to nurture tomorrow's talent. Spatial Design Trends Daizaburo Matsuki, Senior Engineer of System Architecture (Immersive UX), highlights the benefits for engineers: “As an engineer, it has been helpful to learn about presentation and content creation, learning from customers about new ways of presenting content.” Matsuki emphasizes the excitement of collaborating with clients to achieve their vision. “It’s exciting to collaborate with customers and to determine the best setup to achieve their vision. We are in a position to receive direct feedback about our products and solutions from customers, and we are able to apply that feedback quickly.” XR Lab's collaborative approach is pursuing some impressive spatial design ideas. Let’s take a quick look at some highlights now. Holographic Storytelling Adds a New Dimension Holographic displays offer a mesmerizing and interactive way to engage visitors. They create the illusion of three-dimensional objects floating mid-air, captivating audiences and inviting interaction. XR Lab is investing in the development of holographic technology, utilizing flexible, space-saving mesh screens to break free from the limitations of traditional Pepper’s Ghost holograms. These screens allow holograms to move beyond the confines of a backdrop, floating freely above and around the audience, even in brightly lit environments. XR Lab’s partnerships with leading screen manufacturers enable the development of customized holographic solutions tailored to specific needs. Black Screens for Improved Contrast In environments with high levels of ambient light, traditional white screens can suffer from color washout and reduced contrast, hindering the viewing experience. To counter this, XR Lab experiments with high-brightness projection on black screen materials. These specially designed screens absorb ambient light, resulting in deeper blacks and richer colors, even in brightly lit spaces. This allows content to be displayed with stunning clarity, ensuring visitors see every detail as intended. XR Lab collaborates closely with screen manufacturers to tailor black screens according to specific requirements. A World Unbound: Spherical Mapping Spherical mapping has long been a popular technique for creating immersive experiences. However, traditional methods often require multiple projectors, leading to complex installations and limitations in space utilization. XR Lab has demonstrated a way around the problem using Panasonic’s wide-coverage fisheye lenses. These lenses allow for high-quality spherical mapping using two projectors instead of four, simplifying installation and reducing the initial investment and running costs. This opens up new possibilities for creating immersive experiences in smaller spaces or on unique surfaces. Furthermore, XR Lab’s partnerships with screen manufacturers enable the creation of customized spherical screens tailored to specific needs. Immersive Storytelling Beyond the Screen
Projection mapping has become a staple tool for creating immersive experiences. However, XR Lab takes it a step further by integrating content production with spatial design from the outset. This holistic approach ensures a seamless and cohesive experience that resonates deeply with audiences. Looking ahead, XR Lab is continuously exploring the possibilities of immersive technology. The focus on co-creation, collaboration, and innovation ensures that clients remain at the forefront of this exciting field. If you’d like to explore XR Lab and Panasonic Connect’s co-creative services in greater depth, feel welcome to contact me at [email protected]. Chad Kunimoto is the Global Business Development Manager for Themed Entertainment and Immersive Experiences at Panasonic Connect by Melissa Oviedo, TEA International Board President
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading the posts about the International Board Executive Committee’s trip to the Asia Pacific Division and Europe & Middle East Division. Previously, I’ve discussed the trip’s goals, our discussion at the U.S. Consulate and the Department of Commerce, and our visits to Hong Kong Disneyland, Universal Studios Beijing, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. We also had a post by TEA International Board Secretary, Evi Sari, about our time with Chimelong! Like I stated in my first post, the goals for this trip were determined by TEA’s core values – Connection, Creativity, Inclusivity, Thought Leadership, Innovation, and Celebrating Excellence. The primary focus was to reaffirm TEA’s commitment to the Asia Pacific Division and its partners. The essence of these values permeated every interaction, every revelation, and every collaboration we encountered. In a post-pandemic world, the delegation aimed to showcase the industry's resilience and innovation during challenging times. This trip was not just about witnessing the developments in these vibrant regions. It was an affirmation of the collaborative spirit that defines our industry. Our delegation aimed to put TEA back into spaces where our members live, work, and play, but on a global scale. The journey was a testament to the expansive reach of our industry and the impact it has on diverse communities worldwide. Our trip was also a celebration alongside the achievements and resilience displayed by our members in China and Hong Kong. Despite the hardship they faced throughout the pandemic and beyond, the spirit of creation and innovation persisted. The success of TEA and the success of the developments in China are intertwined—a result of collaboration that extends beyond borders. Our delegation showcased that no singular entity, idea, or effort can create greatness. It takes a collaboration of people, minds, cultures, and experiences to build something truly extraordinary. This journey served as a great reminder as to why TEA was created. We exist to foster collaboration, to create, and to innovate. The journey through China and Hong Kong and the connections we made was an embodiment of this purpose. Thank you to our incredible members who made this trip happen: Chimelong, Walt Disney Imagineering, and Universal Destinations & Experiences. The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) announced the results of its annual elections for International Board and Divisional Boards at the Annual Member meeting on 16 November in Orlando, Florida, USA.
We welcomed the new leaders to their roles and thanked the outgoing Board members who have finished their terms. Learn about the new leaders of TEA below. International Board of Directors – Elected to 3 year terms as Board Directors:
Asia Pacific Division – Elected to 3 year terms as Board Directors:
Eastern North America Division - Elected to 3 year terms as Board Directors:
Europe and Middle East Division – Elected to 3 year terms as Board Directors:
Europe and Middle East Division Individual Member Representatives – Elected to 2 year term:
Western North America Division – Elected to 3 year terms as Board Directors:
THANK YOU To outgoing 2023 Board Members of the Themed Entertainment Association for their dedication and service: Outgoing International Board Members:
Outgoing Asia Pacific Division Board Members:
Outgoing Eastern North America Division Board Members:
Outgoing Europe & Middle East Division Board Members:
Outgoing Europe & Middle East Division – Individual Member Representatives:
Outgoing Western North America Division Board Members:
Outgoing Western North America Division – Individual Member Representatives:
From an indoor marine park in Abu Dhabi to a spaceship park in China to extended reality in France, these international awards recognize achievement, talent and personal excellence from those who bring incredible experiences to life for people around the world.
TEA proudly announces this year’s award-winning Thea recipients, honoring teams and individuals who contribute in a brilliant way toward creating unique guest experiences around the globe. These magic makers will be celebrated at a special gala on 16 March 2024 at the Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, California. Their accomplishments coincide with the 30th Anniversary of the Thea Awards Program and Gala. “Celebrating excellence is core to the TEA mission”, said Melissa Oviedo, TEA International Board President. “These remarkable individuals have demonstrated unparalleled creativity, innovation, and commitment to delivering extraordinary guest experiences on a truly global scale. Their work has not only entertained and inspired millions but also continues to shape the future of our industry.” Here are the honorees: The Buzz Price Thea Award Recognizing a lifetime of distinguished achievements
Recognizing individuals for making real and positive impact in the creation of compelling places & in the expansion of collective thinking
Celebrating a beloved guest experience which has stood the test of time
“Each year, hundreds of exciting and unique submissions from across the globe are received and reviewed by the Thea Awards Judging Committee to arrive at this final list of honorees,” said Judging Chairman Andy Westfall. “This year’s major submission trend included a heavy emphasis on consumer and hospitality-based experiences which personalized guest engagement in new, impactful, and meaningful ways.” TEA also congratulates the outstanding contributions of two very special volunteers who have demonstrated enormous support to propel the industry. Please join us in applauding David Green and Lisa Passamonte Green for receiving the 2024 Peter Chernack Distinguished Service Award. For decades this power couple have supported TEA through not only their own time and talent, but that of their company Visual Terrain, in the form of direct financial and in-kind support. Register for TEA INSPIRE and the 30th Annual Thea Awards Gala to learn from these amazing recipients and to celebrate them. by Melissa Oviedo, TEA International Board President
I hope you enjoyed last week’s post by TEA International Board Secretary, Evi Sari, about our time with Chimelong! Previously, I’ve discussed the trip’s goals, our discussion at the U.S. Consulate and the Department of Commerce, and our visits to Hong Kong Disneyland and Universal Studios Beijing. Now I’m thrilled to share highlights from the final part of our journey, an experience at the brand-new indoor marine theme park, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Immersive Storytelling The overall storytelling of the space is impressive – the center “hub” space provides a 360 degree immersive media and audio visual to tell the story of the animals being represented from various regions around the world. The media, lighting design, and integration help create this immersive experience. The attention to detail in the integration of media and lighting design creates an environment that elevates the storytelling to unprecedented heights. Animal Care and Conservation The emphasis on animal care and conservation was impressive. Exhibits are designed to bring guests closer to the animals, fostering a connection that goes beyond mere observation. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi's commitment to preserving the natural habitats of these majestic creatures is not just a message; it's a mission embodied in every interaction and every exhibit. The innovative design of the park's two theaters seamlessly integrates the traditional theater aesthetic into the environmental surroundings. This creative approach enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to witness incredible performances in an environment that feels harmoniously connected to the animals' natural habitats. Guest-Forward Animal Care and Research Facilities SeaWorld Abu Dhabi breaks new ground by bringing animal care and research facilities to the forefront of the guest experience. The commitment to transparency and education is evident as guests witness firsthand the dedication and expertise behind the scenes. Telling the stories of the animals becomes a critical aspect of the park's mission, forging a deeper connection between visitors and the incredible work of SeaWorld. Grand-Scale Reveal Moments The park boasts grand-scale reveal moments that unfold through expansive acrylic windows, offering breathtaking views of the habitats. Innovative use of LED screens within the tanks adds depth and creativity, providing guests with unique perspectives and an immersive understanding of the marine world. Top-of-the-Line Attractions: Manta Coaster and Hypersphere 360 SeaWorld Abu Dhabi's commitment to providing world-class attractions is epitomized by the Manta coaster and the Hypersphere 360. The Hypersphere, a first-of-its-kind attraction, combines exhilarating thrills with a captivating media show, setting a new standard for immersive experiences. Gamification for Environmental Stewardship: SEA Guardian Games The park engages visitors on a broader scale with the SEA Guardian Games—a park-wide gamification experience. Kiosks strategically placed around the park allow guests to earn points, unlock status levels, and discover interactive moments, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship and active participation in conservation efforts. Intimacy in Scale: A Gorgeous, Approachable Haven While the scale of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is undeniably impressive, what truly sets it apart is its ability to maintain an intimate and approachable atmosphere. Surprises and moments of awe unfold seamlessly, creating a haven where guests feel connected to the wonders of the ocean without losing the sense of intimacy. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of our planet's incredible inhabitants. The park is not just a destination; it is a sanctuary where the magic of the natural world unfolds, leaving an everlasting imprint on those fortunate enough to experience its wonders. Thank you to our incredible Global Partners located in China and Hong Kong as well as Miral Experiences. This trip would not have been possible without them. Industry Leader Poised to Further Business Development and International Growth
TEA is pleased to announce the appointment of Chloe Hausfeld as Global Director of Strategic Partnerships. The newly established position is responsible for the generation and growth of non-dues revenue stream and plays a critical role in helping TEA reach its strategic, operational and financial goals. As a member of the executive leadership team reporting to TEA’s Executive Director, Hausfeld will lead the effort to identify and prioritize key partnerships and industry alignments. “We are thrilled Chloe, a legacy TEA member, has accepted this position where she will build upon existing partnerships and identify new strategic relationships for TEA and its members. She understands TEA’s unique value proposition and will be the best person to tell our story to the rest of the world as a global representative for our organization,” says Lindsey Nelson, Executive Director of TEA. “The formation of our new Industry Relations Division, of which Chloe will lead, represents the first in a series of actions TEA plans to take in the coming months to better prepare the organization to capitalize on opportunities for the future.” Hausfeld brings extensive experience to her new role. With a long tenure in the entertainment and attractions industry, many remember her serving JRA as Vice President, where she traveled around the world connecting with current and future clients. She greatly enjoyed her most recent position with Baynum, where she cultivated key client and vendor relationships for Amusement Solutions. Hausfeld is credited with helping direct growth efforts as one of the industry’s top service providers. “I valued my time with Baynum and the support I have received from President Walt Bowser and his staff,” Hausfeld said. “This transition will allow me the opportunity to serve an industry and all of their vendors and partners I have admired for so many years. I am eager to join the amazingly creative team at TEA and look forward to providing guidance to further revenue goals, and to brokering partnerships that will take TEA to the next level.” Hausfeld is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati. She is a proud supporter of the IAAPA’s Give Kids the World Committee and is rotating off IAAPA’s Board of Directors this month as well as their Global Manufacturers and Suppliers Committee. She is the 2017 recipient of IAAPA’s Young Professional of the Year Award. Hausfeld lives in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband Eric and their sons Fletcher (4) and Jasper (1). Hausfeld will join TEA at IAAPA Expo Orlando next week in her new role and is looking forward to helping the organization officially launch its campaign to announce awardees and prepare for the 30th Anniversary celebration for the Thea Awards to be held 16 March 2024 at the Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, California. Want to say hello to Chloe in Orlando? Make sure you’re registered for the TEA Annual Member Meeting on 16 November starting at 8:00am ET! by Evi Sari, TEA International Board Secretary
I had the privilege of participating in a delegation that visited various projects undertaken by our members in China and Hong Kong earlier this year. TEA International Board President, Melissa Oviedo, has provided a comprehensive overview of the trip’s objectives, our discussions at the U.S. Consulate and the Department of Commerce, as well as visits to Hong Kong Disneyland and Universal Studios Beijing. One notable aspect of the trip was our time spent with the Chimelong team, where we had the opportunity to tour Chimelong Ocean Kingdom and the brand new Chimelong Spaceship Park. Rather than focusing on the scale and experience of the projects, I would like to share specific highlights that stood out during our visit. The Chimelong Corporate Gallery The Chimelong Corporate Gallery showcased a visual retrospective spanning more than three decades, illustrating the evolution of the company from humble beginnings. The collection of photos depicted personal journeys that shape the establishment of Chimelong parks, underscoring Mr. Su’s unwavering dedication, strong family values and the friendships forged with creators, designers, vendors, and fellow operators worldwide. The emergence of Chimelong from its inception to becoming a world-class theme park for Chinese families was noteworthy. Mr. Su's strategic decision to incorporate international best practices into a nascent industry in China more than thirty years ago demonstrated his visionary approach and positioned Chimelong as a global Asian leader. Leadership Lesson from Mr. Su Our interaction with Mr. Su provided valuable insights into the incredible growth of China’s theme park industry and, notably, his unique leadership style. In a highly competitive landscape, Mr. Su stands out for his humility and groundedness. Despite achieving more milestones that what others hope to achieve in a lifetime, he maintains a perpetual student mentality—open to feedback and eager to learn from industry peers. Important Conservation Efforts Chimelong is making a conscious effort to promote public learning in China about wildlife conservation and habitats through educational experiences. At their Safari Park, we saw firsthand the connections many school group visitors could make with wildlife. The experiences Chimelong created in this park have the potential to help visitors learn about the conservation of wildlife and habitats, driving increased awareness of the threats posed by increased urbanization in China. This park provides a way for generations of Chinese children and families to experience and observe wild animals in a way that is traditionally inaccessible or unaffordable. Chimelong is also working on promoting cross-cultural understanding of zoos and animal welfare. With a team of local and international experts, they have built incredible in-house expertise in conservation and zoological husbandry practices with cultural knowledge for the diverse audiences in China and Asia. Helping the Next Generation of Creators Chimelong’s journey to establish itself as a global leader reflects the commitment and ingenuity of its team. Of note, was their commitment to nurturing future talent, exemplified by the announcement of building an academy in Zhuhai. This forward-thinking initiative addresses a universal challenge in our industry—the lack of clear career pathways. Chimelong's provision of active learning experiences beyond textbooks contributes to attracting, training, and retaining tomorrow's talent, particularly in Asia. Our time with Chimelong underscored the transformative power of visionary leadership, humility, and a commitment to individual and industry-wide growth. Chimelong's trajectory from a small organization to global prominence serves as an inspiring example for aspiring leaders. It illustrates the immense power of creating dialogue and partnerships, bringing people and the industry professionals together from around the world, appreciation for cultural differences, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Thank you to our incredible Global Partner, Chimelong, and all those who helped make this trip possible. |