You probably need no crystal ball to know that Universal Orlando has acquired the rights to the great entertainment franchise of the young century, Harry Potter and his wizarding world. In fact, the new area of Islands of Adventure that will pay homage to the boy wizard is being dubbed “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” It will occupy, they say, most of Lost Continent from Mythos on, as well as some nearby acreage. The project has the blessings of author J. K. Rowling, and with Oscar-winning scenic designer Stuart Craig on board the look should be faithful to the films. The new attractions are expected to debut in early 2010, though no opening date has been set. If recent rumors about the project being ahead of schedule prove true, then at least parts of the new land may be open by Christmas 2009, which would be a splendid holiday gift for a lot of boys and girls.
Details about the project are still under wraps at press time, but some information has leaked out though patent filings and construction permits, and Internet speculation is running rampant. It has been confirmed that the centerpiece of the expansion will be a massive recreation of Hogwarts Castle, currently under construction on previously unused land behind Jurassic Park. There, guests will be able to explore familiar locations in and around the famous wizardry school. The village of Hogsmeade will take over the former Merlinwood area, offering shopping and dining venues such as the Three Broomsticks where you may “enjoy authentic food and drink from the World of Harry Potter.” Butterbeer, anyone?
The headliner attraction is expected to be a state-of-the art thrill ride using “RoboCoaster” technology, which places a bench of riders on the end of a dynamically-moving robotic arm and sends them careening through a dark-ride environment. Other information hints at an interactive role-playing experience similar to the MagiQuest attractions found at Myrtle Beach and in Great Wolf Lodge hotels. Players use high-tech customizable “magic wands” to “cast spells” in order to prevail in computer-aided fantasy quests. In addition to the new attractions, the Dueling Dragons and Flying Unicorn roller coasters will be retained in re-themed forms. Flying Unicorn has already closed and Dueling Dragons may be closed for renovations, too, by the time you visit.
Mythos and Poseidon’s Fury are expected to remain intact as a new, smaller Lost Continent, but the fate of the Sinbad stunt show (and surrounding area) is currently uncertain.
For news and rumors as Potter’s world takes shape, check out www.the otherorlando.com/blog; www.mugglenet.com; and www.screamscape.com.
Back
to Chapter Contents
Didn't find what you were looking for? Try a Google search.
|
