33rd Annual Thea Awards Judging Cycle
Buzz Price Thea Award Nominations Open Soon
Recognizing a Lifetime of Distinguished Achievement
The Buzz Price Thea Award is presented once each award cycle to honor an individual for lifetime achievement or outstanding contributions to the compelling places and experiences industry.
About the Award
This recognition honors individuals whose contributions exemplify the highest standards of excellence, creativity, innovation, and leadership across the themed entertainment industry.
Lifetime Achievement
Honors a distinguished career of meaningful impact, leadership, and creative contribution to the industry.
Outstanding Contribution
Recognizes significant contribution(s) to the compelling places and experiences industry.
Who Is Eligible?
Nominees should demonstrate excellence, leadership, industry respect, and ongoing commitment to the future of themed entertainment.
Excellence in Craft
Demonstrated contributions to compelling places and experiences, exemplifying creativity and innovation.
Public Leader
An outstanding spokesperson and role model for excellence in the industry.
Active in the Industry
Must be alive and preferably still active. Retired individuals may be considered if they remain involved.
Industry Recognition
Widely respected and admired throughout the themed entertainment industry.
Thea Awards Participation
Must be willing and able to participate in the Thea Awards Ceremony.
Committee Membership
Past recipients become lifelong members of the Thea Awards Judging Committee.
No Conflicts of Interest
- Current Thea Awards Judging Committee members and TEA International Board voting members are not eligible.
- Candidates may not be present when their nomination is discussed or voted on.
Who Should Not Be Nominated?
- Owners, financiers, managers, and operators are typically recognized by the IAAPA Hall of Fame.
- The focus of this award is on creators and producers, including writers, artists, architects, technicians, engineers, designers, and others who invent and create compelling experiences.
Eligibility of Past Awardees
Recipients of other individual awards, including Masters of Their Craft, TEA Peter Chernack Distinguished Service Award, and Thea Catalyst Award, remain eligible for this award.
About Lifetime Thea Committee Membership
- All living recipients of this award receive lifetime committee membership.
- Members may serve as Committee members, Vice Chair, or Chair, even if serving on the TEA International Board.
Judge Emeritus status is available for retired members, who can return to active judging at any time.
Recent & Previous Recipients
2026 Recipient:
Dale Mason, VP & Executive Art Director (Retired), Universal Destinations and Experiences