Kirmes & Park Revue EAS Extra Issue

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& Revue

European Star Award 2014

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Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero, Coca-Cola light, das rote Rundlogo, die Konturflasche und die dynamische Welle sind eingetragene Schutzmarken der The Coca-Cola Company.

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014 &

Revue This year, all parks and manufacturers which have

ISSN 1436-6525 appears 12 x per year ■ Gemi Verlags GmbH

attained places 1, 2, and 3 are receiving exclusively manufactured sculptures hand-made from Bohemian crystal

Pfaffenhofener Straße 3 85293 Reichertshausen Tel.: +49 (0) 84 41/40 22-0 Fax: +49 (0) 84 41/718 46 info@gemiverlag.de g g www.kirmesparkrevue.de ■ Managing Directors Gerd Reddersen Rudolf Neumeier ■ Editoral Manager EAS-Special Frank Lanfer frank.lanfer@gemiverlag.de ■ International Representative Translation, Advertisements Agi Reddersen Phone: +49 (0 ) 84 41/8 10 57 Facsimile: +49 (0 ) 84 41/8 61 05 www.ag-advertising.de Kirmes.A@t-online.de ■ Representative USA Shari Viox ■ Representative Great Britain

INTRODUCTION very warm welcome to the twelfth Euro Attractions Show, which, following the event in 2009 has returned

A

once again to Amsterdam – and with that has achieved a record participation that surpasses previous years:

with over 400 exhibitors from around the globe, the exhibition impressively continues its recent success story!

Michele Emmett ■ Proof Reader

And we are also proud that as Europe's leading trade magazine we have also contributed a little and now for

Marcus Gaines ■ Editorial Assistant

the European theme park industry.

Heike Genz ■ Production

the third time are presenting the independent European Star Award – an award that is dedicated explicitly to

This award has been created with the assistance of an international team of experts voting in eleven categories, acknowledging the efforts within the European theme park branch, and bringing attention to entrepreneurial

Westner Medien GmbH ■ Printing

courage and exceptional innovations.

Kössinger AG Schierling ■ Advertisements

Our precise and honest voting method has already proved successful: Choices could be made from all theme

GEMI Verlags GmbH ■ Sales and Marketing Gerd Reddersen ■ Subscriptions DataM-Services GmbH Postfach 91 61 97091 Würzburg phone: +49 (0) 931/4170-178 (Mo-Tu 8-17, Fr 8-15) Facsimile +49 (0) 931/4170-179 services-abo@verlagsunion.de ■ Photo Credits We like to say thank you to all parks and our authors ■ Free Special Edition Online Download this edition for free on: www.kirmesparkrevue.com/eas Please visit our website: www.kirmesparkrevue.de Follow us on facebook: facebook.com/kirmesparkrevue All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be duplicated or published without written permission from the publisher. This prohibition also pertains to the commercial duplication by copying, input into an electronic database, and duplication onto a CD-ROM.

parks throughout Europe, including Russia and Turkey, with the minimum criteria of at least one (ride) attraction at the park. In each category, members of the trade jury were able to award their three personal favourites 3, 2 or 1 star(s) for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place. All we had to do then was add up the stars – and the winner was the park or the attraction with the most points.

And it was only after this – and this fact must be clearly emphasised – that we followed through with targeted advertising enquiries. Our independence was and remains of supreme priority! Nevertheless our thanks must naturally be given to all jury members, sponsors, and advertising clients, who with their engagement secure the continued existence of this independent award.

This year’s extended trade jury is intended to keep the European Star Award young and exciting – as a result there were several surprising changes in the top positions in comparison to last year’s awards. We would like to retain this dynamic for future awards as well and therefore we will have a slightly changed jury every year. If you would like to participate in the vote next year, if you are impartial and objective, and if you have a wide knowledge of the European theme park scene, please contact us.

As already well known, next year the Euro Attractions Show will take place in Göteborg (6th to 8th October, 2015).

And we are very pleased to announce that the European Star Awards 2015 event will take place in a theme park for the very first time – namely the very beautiful Liseberg!

Our heartfelt congratulations to all theme parks and water parks that have been chosen to be among the Top 10, and recognised as the best of the best in Europe.

Certified active member of the

We wish you all an exciting and inspiring time in Amsterdam Frank Lanfer

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THE EXPERT-JURY OF THE EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014 Michael Badelt (Germany)

the magazine pertaining to amusement parks in Rus-

In his early childhood Michael Badelt developed a very

the near future, the concept of parks will dramatically

strong enthusiasm for fairgrounds and theme parks,

change, and standard entertainment will be replaced

way over the usual degree. And so there were ride con-

by robots that match the slogan “Hands-on, Minds-on”

structions made of cardboard, long before there were

to allow the visitor to set speed and extreme level, as

thematically fitting plastic bricks available from a firm

well as by 3D printing technology and augmented

in the Black Forest. Coasters and Ghost Rides as well

reality. Nowadays parks are competing for visitors

as themed rides were already creating elation in those

involving them in the game and improving the quality

times, continuing right up to this day. And so it's not

of guest experience by combining immersive experi-

too surprising that the hobby developed into a profes-

ences and special effects with high level of interaction

sia (www.newparkculture.ru/en). She believes that in

Michael Badelt Natalia Bakhlina

sion around the millennium. These days Michael

and engagement. Since the new generation of theme

Badelt operates the specialist firm for the amusement

park visitors have been raised with a mobile device in

industry (www.intya.net), t which primarily concentrates

their hand, content creation and interactivity is not a

on video and projection effects, show control systems,

possible alternative, but a lifestyle. Anastasia hopes

as well as the planning and operation of Haunted

that those companies that cause the greatest number

Houses and Walkthrough attractions. But despite all

of positive emotions of guests, who immediately want

his professionalism, Michael has not lost his enjoyment

to share it on Facebook, will become winners.

of the world of theme parks: "Being able to be surprised by a new attraction, is something a little like Christmas

Victor Cavaller (Spain)

isn't it?"

He is the Managing Director of Garmisch Consulting

Natalia Bakhlina (Great Britain)

Group (www.garmischconsulting.com), the new Enter-

She has 10 years of consulting experience in real

to leading GCG, he was part of O-partners and of

estate economics with emphasis on entertainment

Thinkwell Europe, serving as Show Producer for the

tainment Design firm based in the German Alps. Prior

Anastasia Buzhor

Victor Cavaller

destinations and complex mixed-use developments

2007 “Furius Baco” coaster at PortAventura, as Pro-

including both urban and resort schemes. Natalia be-

ducer for the 2006 “Batman Begins & Police Academy

gan her career as an analyst at Knight Frank in

Stunt Shows” at Parque Warner Madrid, as well as be-

Moscow, where she led the office real estate market

ing Project Manager for “Ice Age Adventure!” at Movie

analytics. She moved to the UK in 2006, where she

Park Germany, and Ski Dubai’s Snow Park (the first in-

joined Economics Research Associates (ERA) and has

door cold play area of its kind in the world) at the Mall

since worked across Europe, Middle East, and Asia.

of Emirates in Dubai. Victor was also a part of the team

Over the years she has completed a wide range of

responsible for the award-winning “FiestAventura

leisure and attraction assignments including feasibility

Nighttime Spectacular”, the “Templo del Fuego” at-

studies, reviews of operational performance, econom-

traction, as well as the “Sea Odyssey” simulator at Port-

ic impact analyses, and due diligence for a number of

Aventura. Victor Cavaller has a degree in Audio/Visual

large-scale attractions and attraction groups. In 2014,

Communication from the University Autonoma de

Natalia became a Partner at Leisure Development

Barcelona, and has produced many Spanish feature

Partners (LDP), a leading consulting practice focused

films, documentaries, and commercials for television.

on leisure and entertainment real estate. LDP excels at

His credits in Spain include the feature films “Cravan

market and economic testing for both new projects

vs. Cravan”, “La leyenda del tiempo” and “La maleta

and existing operations, providing services to the de-

mexicana”.

velopment, investment and operations communities (www.leisuredevelopment.co.uk)

Matteo Crepaldi (Italy)

Anastasia Buzhor (Ukraine)

After obtaining a Master of Science degree in Space

She is the independent expert of the New Park Culture

dream of starting a career in the amusement industry

magazine. Due to the specifics of her job, Anastasia

became a reality. Since 2010 he has been writing for

has visited many expos of the entertainment industry

the Kirmes & Park Revue about Swiss and Italian parks,

and has communicated directly with manufacturers of

first working for a short period of time as a Design En-

attractions for the largest parks in the world. She

gineer for abc engineering, and since May 2014 he is

actively monitors trends in the CIS market and tells

employed by Intamin as Development Engineer and

business audience about them in New Park Culture –

Technical Editor. Because of this he was excluded from

Engineering, Matteo moved to Switzerland where his

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Matteo Crepaldi

Seite 5

Rik Engelen

voting in the coaster categories of the European Star

Dr. Michael H. Faber

Dr. Felix Fritz (Germany)

Dr. Felix Fritz Marcus Gaines

Awards. Matteo still enjoys travelling around the world to experience firsthand the weightlessness of outer

He has been fascinated by theme parks ever since his

space on earth as well.

father took him to Europa-Park as a child, and some

Rik Engelen (Belgium)

“roller coaster dynamics” during his time as a doctor-

time later by roller coasters. As a result, he worked on ate candidate after attaining his degree in mechanical Rik was born in 1975 and lives in Belgium (Flanders).

engineering. During this time he established contact

He has a law degree and works at the Belgian insur-

to TÜV SÜD in Munich (www.tuev-sued.de). He does

ance company Ethias. The 38-year-old has always had

reviews of technical documentation and on-site ac-

a childhood fascination for everything theme park re-

ceptance tests of rides worldwide for this company

lated – particularly coasters and water rides. He grew

nowadays. Although he knows the business behind

up with his hometown park Bobbejaanland. Once he

the magic, he still likes to visit parks and loves to take

began working and had his own car, he started to visit

some airtime on a roller coaster.

other European parks. Since his other interest is photography, it is a good combination for also writing for

Marcus Gaines (Great Britain)

Bart Gees

Kirmes & Park Revue, and other magazines. For example, somewhere around 2001 he started cooper-

He grew up as a theme park and funfair fan. All family

ating with www.rcdb.com. For a few years now, he has

holidays as a child involved visiting at least one theme

been handling the site’s photo management. His wife

park somewhere in the world. In the meantime Marcus

is also as passionate about roller coasters as he is, so

has visited over 260 different theme parks, in 19 diff-

they always travel together to fill out the blank spots on

erent countries, riding 1,200 different roller coasters.

their theme park map.

Marcus typically spends 30 days a year in a theme park somewhere in the world. As the father of 2 young

Dr. Michael H. Faber (Germany)

boys Marcus now looks at theme parks differently, paying as much interest in the family rides as thrilling roller

As a child he was enthralled by motorbikes and fire

coasters. Graduating from university in 1999 with an

engines on kiddie carousels. During his studies his in-

honours degree in Media Production and Technology,

terests were in work-related mobile population groups,

his first job was show technician for the Disney Cruise

and he immersed himself in the world of the showman

Line. These days he works for one of Britain’s largest

as a young man, wanting to travel with them. The cul-

broadcasting companies, and he is often called upon

tural academic from Bonn, graduating with his disser-

to use his knowledge of the amusement industry to

tation about showmen, is considered to be cofounder

work on documentaries and news features involving

of a folkloristic socio-historic showman and fairground

theme parks and roller coasters. Many of his videos

research. In 1995, as Deputy Director of the Landes-

from around the world can be seen at www.coaster-

museum für Volkskunde, Freilichtmuseum Kommern

touring.com

Dr. H. Jürgen Kagelmann

(www.kommern.lvr.de; State Museum of Folklore), Dr. Faber laid the foundation of the nationwide represen-

Bart Gees (Belgium)

tative format for historic funfairs, with the still existing “Jahrmarktes anno dazumal”. Faber supports the Ger-

After several marketing and sales roles for AB-InBev

man Showman Association with his petition for the

and Coca-Cola Enterprises, he joined The Coca-Cola

recognition of the German Volksfests as immaterial cul-

Company in 2012 as International Manager for Travel

tural asset in the UNESCO-World Heritage listing.

and Leisure. In his role, he is responsible for inter-

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national customers in the lodging and leisure parks

integrator to conduct the business development of the

channel in Europe. As Coca-Cola operates with a fran-

company in Europe. Furthermore, he also manages

chising system with local bottlers, Bart is supporting

OOPARC, an online theme park guide for French-

the local teams in developing best-in-class execution

speaking visitors (www.ooparc.com)

in this exciting Leisure Parks channel. With his global network he has a view to the new innovations and de-

Frédéric Pastuszak (France)

velopments around the world, and shares best practices between the different countries. For Coca-Cola,

His passion for our industry began during his youth

leisure parks are not only a sales opportunity, but also

with regular visits to funfairs. But after his first visit to

a channel to build brands by offering unique experi-

Europa-Park in 1989, he found his vocation: planning

ences to the visitors. Bart is from Belgium, married, has

and designing theme parks, rides, and attractions.

two sons and is cycling and music.

Since he graduated as an architect in 2004, he spent most of his career abroad. In Dubai, he worked on the

Mario O. Mamon

Dr. H. Jürgen Kagelmann (Germany)

François Mayné

The qualified psychologist and tourism researcher is

worked as Master Planer and Theming Consultant on

lecturer on the subjects of health and wellness tourism

many projects for theme parks, water parks, zoos and

at the Bremen University, tourism psychology and so-

aquariums all over Europe, the Middle East, and even

ciology at the Duale University Ravensburg, and was

in China. In the USA, he spent two years working with

design of themed shopping malls, before joining Atelier Artistique du Béton (AAB) in Paris, where he

appointed Professor for Tourism and Recreation in

PGAV Destinations on many international attractions,

Chur/Graubünden in 2009, and has been generally op-

amongst others, for SeaWorld and the Busch Gardens

erative in tourism science since 1987. He is cofounder

parks. Back in Europe in 2009, he became Master

of the "Deutschen Gesellschaft für Tourismus", the pub-

Planner and Project Architect at Europa-Park and cre-

lisher of the standard work "Tourismuspsychologie und

ated, amongst others, the wooden roller coaster

-soziologie", is author and publisher of over 30 books

"Wodan" and the newly opened indoor attraction

and studies, and is also occupied as a travel journal-

“Arthur - In the Minimoys Kingdom”. Frédéric works

ist (focal points: theme parks, experience worlds,

now as a creative consultant on various projects in the

health and wellness tourism, applied vacation psy-

Middle East.

chology), and publisher of trade literature in the areas of tourism and recreation (www.profilverlag.de)

Wolfgang Payer (Austria)

Mario O. Mamon (Malaysia)

The electrical engineer with ten years professional

Frédéric Pastuszak experience in field service as engineer for EDV-equipHe is the Chairman and President of Enchanted King-

ment has been responsible for controlling and cost

dom, the Philippines’ first and only world-class theme

accounting at the Vienna airport for many years. His

park. For almost twenty years, Enchanted Kingdom

first contact to theme parks was in 1989 when he vis-

(www.enchantedkingdom.ph) has been at the fore-

ited Disney World with his two daughters. Since then

front of the amusement and attractions industry in the

his interest in theme parks and in particular coasters

Philippines and is expected to continue to do so in the

has continually increased. He is a member of various

coming years as it prepares to transform from a stand-

fan clubs and is a master of photography (his work can

alone theme park into a weekend destination resort.

be found at www.wolfgangpayer.com).

The park is divided into seven meticulously themed zones that transport the park visitor into a certain place

Jochen Peschel (Germany)

and time in history, accentuated by the various rides, attractions and entertainment offerings in each of the Wolfgang Payer

The patent attorney in a Munich law office is occupied

zones. In his function as Acting IAAPA-President, he

in the area of Intellectual Property and other topics, as

has visited and familiarised himself with many Euro-

well as questions concerning commercial legal pro-

pean theme parks.

tection in the amusement branch. As a student he was able to take a look behind the scenes of the Pützchens

François Mayné (France)

Markt, with his interest in fairgrounds and theme parks

Born in Brussels, he has had a passion for the theme

studies in Aachen. Since then he is responsible for the

park industry since he was a child. After graduating in

contents of www.coastersandmore.de, the online

being awakened during his electrical engineering

8

marketing, he moved to France to work at Disneyland

magazine A career as engineer at a ride manufactur-

Paris. In early 2010, he decided to develop his own

er never came into question, and instead he concen-

business and became the editor of NewsParcs, an

trated on being a part-time specialist-journalist in the

online trade publication dedicated to theme park

area of technical aspects of roller coasters and other

industry professionals. He recently joined a French A/V

amusement rides.

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Marek Pisarski

Stefan Rothaug

Marek Pisarski (Poland)

Dr. Igor Rodionov (Russia)

He is a consultant in the sector of tourism, recreation

He is a graduate of the Moscow State University of Cul-

and educational entertainment, and is owner of PAIT

ture and Arts, and at present he is the Vice President

Consulting (Polish Leisure and Amusement Consult-

of the Russian Association of Amusement Parks and

ing). He is the author of several projects in the leisure

Attractions RAAPA, as well as being Chief Editor of the

industry and in the sector of science and discovery

Russian industry specialized magazine Attractions

centres in Poland (www.atrakcje-marekpisarski.pl). He

and Entertainments. The 29-year-old is a founder of a

also does consultancies for different government in-

training centre for specialists of amusement parks and

stitutions. He organizes and arranges designs for diff-

family entertainment centres. At this time, over 750

erent themed and interactive exhibitions and attrac-

specialists from different companies in the amusement

tions. He is Editor-in-chief of the online magazine for

industry have been trained and certified at the centre.

the leisure industry “Atrakcje” (www.magazynatrakc-

Since 2010 Igor has been acting as a Director of

je.pl). And last but not least he is Chairman of the

RAAPA Expo (www.raapa.ru). In 2011, Igor wrote and

Association for Polish Touristic Attractions called

defended his thesis on the topic “Development of cog-

“Festiwal Polska”. His interests and passions are Imag-

nitive activity of children and teenagers in the parks of

ineering and searching for ideas for new themed

culture and leisure”. He was awarded a scientific de-

attraction realizations, as well as informal learning, the

gree of PhD in Pedagogic. Igor has published a great

interactive form of education.

number of articles and publications for Russian and

Dr. Igor Rodionov Dennis Speigel with Garfield

Marc Spies

foreign industry specialized magazines, and he acts

Stefan Rothaug (Taiwan)

as a speaker at many conferences and forums. He regularly takes part in the international trade shows of the

Born in Marburg, Germany, his first contact with theme

amusement industry. He has attended many Russian

parks came about in his early childhood at the

and foreign amusement parks and leisure complexes.

Panoramapark and Safaripark Stukenbrock. His first

Igor lectures at the Moscow State University of Culture

coasters were the "Münchnerbahn" at Traumlandpark

and Arts on “Attractions and technical support of the

and the "Big Loop" at Heide-Park. During his studies

leisure industry”.

of economic sciences he was employed in the marketing divisions of Fort Fun Abenteuerland, Panorama-

Dennis L. Speigel (USA)

park, and Phantasialand from time to time. After he fell in love with the Asian continent through countless trips

He is the President of International Theme Park Ser-

to Japan and Korea, he moved to Tokyo in 2006 and

vices, Inc. (ITPS), a leading, independent full-service

later to Taiwan, from where he observes the Asian park

management/consulting firm in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

scene to this day. With the development of the park

(www.interthemepark.com). Dennis is an internation-

scene, Stefan's focus has changed: whilst in the early

ally recognized leader and expert in the theme park

years he was mainly travelling in Japan, the first and

and leisure industry with over 50 years’ experience. He

foremost in his calendar in the meantime is Chinese

began in 1960 as a ticket taker and seasonal employ-

parks, thus travelling through Southeast Asia more and

ee at Coney Island Amusement Park (Cincinnati,

more. The 33 year-old enjoys connecting his enthusi-

Ohio), and worked his way up to manage Kings Island

asm for Asia, theme parks, and travelling, with his

(Ohio), Kings Dominion (Virginia), and then became

journalistic activities. There is nothing more enjoyable

Vice President of International Operations for the Taft

for him than to return to Tokyo from time to time, and to

Broadcasting Company’s Leisure Division. He is also

take a walk through his favourite park DisneySea.

a Past President of IAAPA (International Association of

Dr. Werner Stengel

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Seite 8

Amusement Parks & Attractions). In 2010 he received

Islands in Germany. He is currently working in Florida

the Life Time Achievement Award for his service to the

on one of the world’s first extreme sports theme park

theme park industry. Quoted daily, he regularly ap-

and resort developments. With his broad knowledge

pears in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los

and know-how in project management and develop-

Angeles Times, USA Today, and news publications

ment, technical and operational facility management,

around the world. His company has worked on over

budgeting, control and management, he sees oppor-

500 projects in more than 50 countries.

tunities and looks outside the box for unique and successful solutions to keep the project within budget and

Marc Spies (Germany)

on schedule. He is a team positive builder who believes that a rising tide lifts all ships; he knows that no

Francis Stokkel

Following his course of studies in social work, he is

one achieves success alone. As an analytical driver he

mainly occupied in stationary youth welfare, and is also

has a passion for working with collaborative cross-

occupied in adult education consultancy as well as

functional teams. He has also deep knowledge in all

being a freelancer for media companies. He has been

kind of rides and ride constructions.

interested in fairs, parks, and water parks since his Dr. Sacha Szabo

early childhood, and with increasing age and mobility

Dr. Sacha Szabo (Germany)

often travels inland and abroad to test novelties and to experience the classics. He is indispensible in the area

Born in Freiburg, he was already fascinated by Europa-

of water parks and water slides for the Kirmes & Park

Park from his earliest childhood. During his studies of

Revue.

sociology, German philology and philosophy, he also undertook an academic view of recreational worlds

Dr. Werner Stengel (Germany)

such as theme parks, cinemas, and computer games.

This led to the promotion of amusement attractions

Prof. Dr. Torsten Widmann

There’s hardly another person who has characterised

(“Rausch und Rummel”), from which many indepen-

the amusement branch as strongly as Dr. Stengel, who

dent publications have resulted. He currently works as

these days is 78 years old. He began his work in the

an entertainment scientist and trend analyst at the In-

amusement industry in 1963, working together with

stitut für Theoriekultur Freiburg and analyses everyday

Anton Schwarzkopf on the first German steel coaster.

phenomena (www.sacha-szabo.de). Naturally he de-

With him and later with other manufacturers too, he rev-

lights in testing new attractions, but Sacha Szabo is

olutionized the amusement branch repeatedly. For ex-

just as enthusiastic about putting his nose into the lat-

ample in 1976, thanks to his ingenuity, the first modern

est research. All in the name of the science of pleasure

coaster in the world with vertical loops was realised.

– or perhaps a pleasurable form of science?

Since 1974, he has been a working member of the German standard committee for DIN 4112, now the EN

Prof. Dr. Torsten Widmann (Germany)

13813. In 2004, he stepped back from active office

Andrej Woiczik

work, with his son-in-law Andreas Wild, and colleague

The 43-year-old studied tourism geography, business

Harald Wanner taking over office leadership. In 2005,

administration and economics at the University of Trier.

the Faculty of Science at the Göteborg University

Since 2007 he is Professor for Tourism and Leisure

awarded an honorary doctorate to him, in recognition

Management, initially at the Cologne Business School,

of his enormous creativity in connecting physics and

and from 2009 he is Director of the Bachelor course of

design with the experience of the human body on roller

studies “Management of Leisure and Recreation Fa-

coasters and other rides. And in 2009, Dr. Stengel was

cilities” at the Cooperative State University of Baden-

awarded the Cross of Merit of the Federal Republic of

Württemberg, Ravensburg (more information on:

Germany. And last but not least, in 2013 he was be-

www.dhbw-ravensburg.de). The study path has since

stowed with the first European Star Award’s “Lifetime

developed into a proven cooperative education mod-

Award” for outstanding achievements in the amuse-

el, joined together with numerous training partners for

ment industry. Over the past decades the Stengel

junior managers for the amusement industry. A prac-

GmbH has developed the design of 650 coasters plus

tical training in partner operation evolved within the

another 600 other ride attractions worldwide.

frames of the dual study, the theoretical training at Campus Ravensburg. New partner operations are very

Francis Stokkel (USA)

welcome.

The native-born Dutch Engineer began his career in

Andrej Woiczik (Germany)

the industry with Warner Bros. Theme Park in Germany,

10

and now has almost 20 years of experience in the

Visiting theme parks all over the world has been the

leisure industry. He was involved in numerous theme

hobby of the businessman in ground and residential

park projects such as Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi,

trade, since his early childhood. His first visit to a theme

Warner Bros. Europe, Six Flags Holland and Tropical

park was in August 1976 to Legoland Sierksdorf (these

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Seite 9

Melanie Yankers-Lauterbach days Hansa Park). Since that time he has visited over

Frank Lanfer

Agi Reddersen

Frank Lanfer (Kirmes & Park Revue)

Karl Ruisinger

80 different theme parks around the globe. In his free time he gathers together his experiences, adventures

He studied architecture and urban planning at the

and impressions and posts them on the internet theme

Technical University Braunschweig, and received his

park portal Parkscout and on www.freizeitpark-welt.de

engineering degree in 2004. In 2001 he also began his

in written form, as independent editor, presenting

main occupation as Editorial Manager for the Kirmes

theme parks from around the world. The travel enthus-

& Park Revue. But part-time he is still occupied with

iast from Berlin is also a passionate runner and has tak-

theme park design and stage design, e.g. for German

en part in German and European marathon champion-

musician Peter Maffay.

ships of over 10 kilometres.

Agi Reddersen (Kirmes & Park Revue) Melanie Yankers-Lauterbach (Germany) She moved to Germany to marry, leaving her employShe received a diploma in journalism and has worked

ment as nationwide Litigation Manageress of a large

in the meantime for over 12 years for the popular week-

international banking conglomerate in Australia, over-

ly knowledge magazine "Abenteuer Leben", shown by

seeing and managing the relevant departments in all

the German television station called “Kabel 1”

aspects. She speaks three languages fluently, and is

(www.kabeleins.de/tv/abenteuer-leben). As editor she

International Representative for Gemi Verlag for all

produces own films, is additionally also deputy chief

magazines produced by the firm. Together with her

editor, plans and organises shows, and supervises her

personnel from her own company (www.ag-advertis-

colleague's films. In her reports for “Abenteuer Leben”,

ing.net), she translates the English version of the

she has often covered various aspects of theme parks

Kirmes & Park Revue each month. She also travels

and ride attractions. For example, she has accompan-

extensively around the world for the company, and

ied showmen from fairground to fairground, has doc-

never misses an opportunity to visit a theme park

umented the build-up of attractions at theme parks, or

wherever she may be.

Ralf Schmitt

reported about the opening of water parks. Thus she has become a top insider of the leisure industry virtu-

Karl Ruisinger (Kirmes & Park Revue)

ally in passing, as part of her job. Especially exciting for her are insights behind the scenes of the industry,

He studied German Philology and journalism at the

which one does not have as a normal park visitor.

Munich University. He has been Chief Editor at Gemi

OUR ADS

Verlags GmbH since 1988. His editorial responsibility

Stefan Zwanzger (UAE)

is not only focused on the Kirmes & Park Revue, but also for all other magazines of the publishing house.

t is important to point out

I

the independance of the

Stefan founded the online marketing portal affiliate.de

Karl by the way was the founder of the Kirmes & Park

voting. Targeted advertis-

after he left school and earned a small fortune. He was

Revue in 1986.

ing sales began only after

also active in film production prior to emigrating from Germany in 2005. Since 2007, he doesn't do anything

the count of votes. We

Ralf Schmitt (Kirmes & Park Revue)

else but travel around the world, visiting, picturing and

want to thank all advertisement clients as well as our

trying to understand theme and water parks from every

He studied Management in his hometown Kaiser-

sponsors for their support,

angle, whether operating, under construction or aban-

slautern, and later he moved south and has worked as

helping us to keep this in-

doned. His experiences, reviews, construction up-

Editorial Manager for the "Kirmes" section of the mag-

dependant award alive.

dates and photography - including exclusive aerials –

azine since 1989. He travels around Europe due to his

Thank you!

can be found on: www.thethemeparkguy.com

occupation.

■

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST THEME PARKS

EUROPA-PARK

uropa-Park was again very

E

which naturally leads to an increase in visitors annual-

convincing and elected as

ly. No other park has the good fortune of its operating

Europe’s Best Theme Park in the

family being simultaneously a manufacturer of attrac-

third European Star Award. The

tive rides. And so Europa-Park is not only a tourist and

family-operated park’s outstand-

popular recreation destination, but at the same time is

ing position is secured by its in-

a showcase for Mack Rides. This year’s new develop-

novations and large investments.

ment “Arthur und die Minimoys”, which reached sec-

Almost every season sees the

ond place in the category “Europe’s Best New Rides”

opening of a large attraction,

should also be viewed from this aspect.

Q

uite rightly, the Spanish theme park

family friendly and breathtaking attractions make Port-

PortAventura has been voted 2nd

Aventura a unique experience that is attractive to both

place once again this year. Located in the

families and young people. Additionally there are very

■

PORT AVENTURA

immediate vicinity of the Mediterranean

few parks in Europe that have made such large

in sunny Spain, the park has a great

investments as the theme park resort located near

holiday atmosphere often remaining

Barcelona, presenting an unparalleled large attraction

open until midnight, and the mixture of

almost every year.

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DISNEYLAND PARK PARIS

he French Disneyland counts

two Looping Coasters) than any other Disneyland Park

without any doubt amongst the

in the world by far. So it’s not without good reason that

T

best of the best. Added to that, this

the Disneyland Park Paris has been voted to be in the

European

top positions again, as it not only offers enough variety

Disneyland

contains

more thrill attractions (among them

for children, but also for teenagers and adults.

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EFTELING

A

t over 60 years of age the theme park resort in the

adults alike. The 200 hectare sized area also contains

Netherlands stands for fairytales, fun, and enter-

the extensive holiday village “Bosrijk” in the style of a

tainment. It is a huge fairytale land for children, as well

small village. Particular value is also attached to high

as being a large theme park for young adults and

quality shows such as “Raveleijn” and “Aquanura”.

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TIVOLI GARDENS

T

he oldest, still existing

park dedicated to both tradition as well as thrill-

amusement park already

seekers, but is also “Copenhagen’s parlour”, with

opened in 1843, and is still

restaurants and concerts inviting guest to visit every

located in the heart of the

evening. Being open until midnight, the park offers all

capital city of Denmark. It is

night owls attractive rides, very often a party atmos-

not only an attractive theme

phere, and a fantastic sea of lights.

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST FAMILY PARKS

DISNEYLAND PARK PARIS

onym for a theme park. There’s not a second park that brings such a sparkle into children’s eyes as far as fantasy, adventure, and experience goes. The Resort with its two parks, huge hotels and varied entertainment possibilities each evening, is an individual holiday destination, and in particular a universe for children. he largest resort in Europa by surface area and

There’s no other park that contains such strong trade-

visitor numbers is Disneyland and stands as a syn-

marks as Mickey Mouse, Cars & Co as Disneyland. ■

he earlier fairytale park has developed into a high

T

tales here often experience an interactive renaissance

value theme park over the past decades with many

that not only fascinates children. Connected up with

breathtaking ride attractions, which mostly do not exist

the park owned hotels and the huge overnight ac-

anywhere else. However the classic fairytale has never

commodation resort, Efteling offers the perfect condi-

been lost sight of, in fact quite the opposite. The fairy-

tions for the multi-day visitor.

T EFTELING

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HANSA-PARK

he Hansa-Park is located directly on the Baltic Sea

T

park offers young thrill seekers enough large attrac-

coast. This fact alone makes it something special.

tions, for example the coaster “Fluch von Novgorod”,

However optically the park also has unique character-

as well family experiences. The beautifully growing na-

istics: the theme areas are dedicated to the history of

ture and the breathtaking view of the Sea make Hansa-

the Hanse. Enriched with interesting attractions, the

Park a real pearl in the theme park landscape.

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LEGOLAND DEUTSCHLAND

he German Legoland is a suc-

on the park where there is not only the obligatory Mini-

T

cess model, which over the

land made of hundreds of thousands of Lego bricks,

past years in particular was con-

but also a number of unique attractions for Lego,

tinually extended in the direction of

among them for example the “Flying Ninjago” from

a multi-day resort. In the mean-

Gerstlauer. The secret of the success of all Legoland

while there are almost 1,000 beds

parks worldwide however is the intergenerational fas-

– more than in any other Legoland

cination for the small colourful plastic bricks that are

worldwide. The focus naturally is

loved by both children and their parents alike.

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PLOPSALAND DE PANNE

he

T

Belgian

Meli-

an company Studio 100, the very popular honeybee

Park, operated by

Maya found a permanent and “real” home here a few

honey producer Flori-

years later. Additionally the Plopsa Group extended its

zoone between 1936

home-park consistently, in order to present other well

and 1999, already had

known comic characters such as the little Viking

a bee-theme in those

Wickie. In addition to over 30 ride attractions, the first

days. However with the

class theming that is attuned to popular European kid-

takeover by the Belgi-

die series can really be considered as remarkable. ■

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST WATER PARKS

SIAM PARK t is one of the most popular

I

tourist attractions on Canary

Island’s Tenerife – not only due to its large number of slide varieties, but also because the water park that opened in 2008 has an unusual Thai theming, as the name suggests.

Added to that, all the slides are so well integrated into the craggy terrain, so that there was no need for any of the often obligatory steel slide towers. Whilst a number of

and a wave pool with the highest artificial breakers.

the slides travel through pools occupied by sea

And last but not least, due to exemplary water man-

dwellers – such as through a shark pool – the 18.5 hec-

agement, it is the first company in Europe that carries

tare sized Siam Park also has the longest Lazy River

the prestigious title “Green Water Park”.

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COSTA CARIBE

he half Caribbean half Sesame Street designed

T

Spanish

water park at the PortAventura Resort was opened

There

in 2002, and in 2013 was generously extended to twice

only the 31 me-

the size. Now available are 16 water slides from Pro-

tres

Slide, a large wave pool, a children’s bathing area that

water slide in Europe, but also many set pieces from

is

sun. not

highest

is just as large, and a huge relaxation lagoon area.

Sesame Street, which has existed in the neighbouring

Costa Caribe also promises all thrill-seekers as well as

theme park since 2011. Four park-owned theme hotels

all children many refreshing moments under the

round off the portfolio perfectly.

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TROPICAL ISLANDS

A

top class subtro-

ing two swimming bays, a slide tower, a kiddie play-

pical experience

ground, a number of restaurants and bars, and a huge

world now exists on

nude sauna world. Overnight accommodation is avail-

an area where once

able in the countless suites, in simple tents, or simply

a huge airship was to be built. Tropical Islands has in

on the loungers on the sandy beach. There is around-

the meantime spread in the largest unsupported hall

the-clock pool operation under the more than 100 me-

in the world, with a tropical bathing paradise contain-

tres high dome – found nowhere else in the world. ■

AQUA FANTASY

Izmir, and offers a gently sloping

sandy

beach

with bars, a number of (indoor)

pools,

and

2,500 beds. The heart of the large and most successful all-inclusive-resort in the county is the water park opened in 2000, which in those days had been constructed by the Texan firm NBGS. In the meanwhile the most modern slide

attractions

from

ost probably the most beautiful holiday resort in

Turkish manufacturer Polin dominate, and are almost

Turkey is situated directly on Mediterranean near

a type of showcase at the park.

M

GALAXY THERME ERDING

■

complex in Europe, located not far from the Munich airport. In addition to

the

bathing

area for families and the large sauna world for adults only, the Galaxy is one of the main components. The roof of this indoorslide world can be he Slide Galaxy

T

opened, however even the outside area for summer

is part of the lar-

operation has been strongly extended this year with a

gest thermal bath

large slide complex from Wiegand-Maelzer.

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST NEW RIDES 2014

HELIX

urope’s most var-

launch sections, a track difference of 51 metres, and

ied coaster open-

a track length of an unbelievable 1,300 metres. Ad-

ed this year at the

ditionally the ride experience from Mack Rides plays

Swedish theme park

through without any pause for breath on a green hill in

Liseberg. “Helix” not

the middle of Göteborg, and there’s nowhere in the

E

only has seven com-

park that the track course is completely visible. This

pletely different inver-

leads to many surprising moments – for both the

sions, but also two

passengers as well as park visitors.

■

ARTHUR

he longest part of the 505

with permanent current collector with hanging cars

metres

of

that can even rotate horizontally. Simultaneously the

“Arthur” runs under the 16 metres

construction is a type of Darkride with skillful theming

high dome of “Arthur – Im König-

and a brilliant onboard-sound system with a perfectly

reich der Minimoys”. It’s the

coordinated movement sequence. Children can par-

world’s first Inverted Powered

take in the four-minute coaster experience already

Coaster, in other words a coaster

from a height of 100 centimetres.

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track

course

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SKY SCREAM

his coaster is not for the faint-

T

hearted, because what Premier

Rides has realized here is a construction for genuine white-knuckle-fans. The 12-seat train is catapulted into the skies by way of a strong LIM drive, after which at the highest point of almost 46 metres a Heartline-Loop is experienced as well! The 263 metres long and 99 kilometres

per

hour

Vertical

Coaster “Sky Scream” extends the ride portfolio of the park in the Palatinate brilliantly.

CHIAPAS

■

hantasialand has built a “state of

P

the art” ride in every respect with its

new water attraction “Chiapas”. Almost all components are prototypes and innovations from Intamin, for example the switch-system that brings the boats from one water canal to the other at lightning speed. Additionally the new construction has been themed in detail fittingly to the Mexican theme area where it has been wonderfully integrated – as is usual for Phantasialand.

■

NEFESKESEN

he first large Turkish coaster is

even more exciting because the attractive “Top Hat”

simultaneously

breathtaking

element has been erected over a cliff of an earlier

and top class construction. The

quarry. This unique location goes for all of Vialand

Launch Coaster from Intamin cata-

Park, opened last year: the first modern theme park in

pults its ride guests 45 metres into the

Turkey that to be located on an Istanbul hill. With its

skies directly after the kick-start. The

new 660 metres long and 110 kilometres per hour

immediately following vertical drop is

coaster, it can already be seen from far away.

T

a

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST STEEL COASTERS

SHAMBHALA

he coaster from B&M that opened in 2012, has a track

T

difference of 78 metres and is not only the highest in Europe

but continues to be the best. In actual fact it’s not only the height that speaks for “Shambhala”, but also the consistently stringed together parabola formed hills, which paired with the usual B&M smooth course characteristics, also offers breathtaking airtime.

The 1,564 metres long airtime orgy is only interrupted by an overbanked turnaround in the form of a standing eight, and the nonetheless breathtaking view of the Mediterranean nearby.

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EXPEDITION GEFORCE

oted right to the top again this

V

GeForce” is Holiday Park. In addition to its smooth ride

year is the coaster that already

characteristics thanks to the perfectly worked bends

opened in 2001 from Intamin. The

and a varied layout with parabola hills, airtime hills, and

location of the 52 metres high and

steep curves, the first drop offers an 80° steep descent

over 1,200 metres long “Expedition

with simultaneous 90° rotation of the track axis.

thrills the European Star Award

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ORKANEN

here has been quite a row of the so-called Family

T

to be one of the best steel coasters in Europe this year.

Suspended Coasters realized by Vekoma. How-

It offers a number of airtime sequences at a continuous

ever the customised example at Denmark’s Fårup

high pace, several “near misses”, a spectacular

Sommerland really is something despite its manage-

underwater tunnel, and a track course leading mostly

able track length of 453 metres, and it was considered

over the water surface.

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OZIRIS

T

he spectacular Inverted Coaster “Oz-

course and an underwater tunnel, but the complete

Iris” at Parc Astérix has justifiably been

tracks are – as is usual for B&M – is perfectly con-

voted to a top position once again. The con-

structed. The result is 35 metres of height and 1,030

struction not only has a very attractive track

metres of lengthy first class riding pleasure.

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BLUE FIRE

he first Looping Coaster of their own production

T

was erected by the Mack family in 2009 in its own

theme park – and with that set new standards that are of interest to many parks. The result is that there are now a number of constructions of this type, some even as a 1:1 copy. The 1,056 metre long and 38 metre high “blue fire” at Europa-Park offers an intensive experience, and simultaneously very high ride comfort.

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST WOODEN COASTERS

COLOSSOS

ince the beginning of our

well in the lead again. Europe’s highest wooden coas-

S

awards, “Colossos” and

ter captivates with perfectly designed parabola formed

“Balder” have been in a neck-

hills resulting in maximum airtime. “Colossos” was

and-neck

year

opened in 2001 and its 52 metre high and 1,344 metre

Heide-Park’s gigantic coaster is

long ride offers accelerations from +4.5 g to -1.5 g. ■

he special charac-

according to calculations per CNC-milling, and with

teristics of both

that make possible an unusually and relatively smooth

race.

This

BALDER

T

coasters “Balder” and

ride experience for wooden coasters. The 1,070

“Colossos” is the fact

metres long wooden coaster at Sweden’s Liseberg has

that

been erected on relatively compact grounds, however

the

wooden

tracks of both con-

without it being deprived of abundant airtime

structions were pre-

moments. There are even many “near misses” whilst

fabricated

travelling through its own wooden structure.

exactly

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SUBSCRIPTION-ORDER I order the next 12 editions of the KIRMES & PARK Revue in english from issue Nr. at a subscription price of 102,– € incl. 7 % MWSt. and postage (Germany) I order the next 6 editions of the KIRMES & PARK Revue in english from issue Nr. at a subscription price of 57,– € incl. 7 % MWSt. and postage (Germany) I order the next 12 editions of the KIRMES & PARK Revue in english from issue Nr.

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TWISTER

T

he fact that wooden coasters don't

in Sweden. Airtime, lateral forces, crazy curves and

always have to be big in order to

near-misses, as well as exciting turns make this Hybrid

offer fun is proved impressively by the

Coaster (wooden tracks on steel supports) from The

2011 opened "Twister" at Gröna Lund

Gravity Group absolutely unique.

JORIS EN DE DRAAK

■

his wooden coaster is both a

T

very stately and rare construc-

tion, as in comparison to the USA there are very few Racing Coasters in Europe. One of these rare examples is at the same time a large-scale structure, as both courses of “Joris en de Draak” from Great Coasters are 720 metres long and 22 metres high. Additionally the tracks don’t always run parallel to one another, so that in this respect one could even talk of a Duelling

Coaster.

Since

the

opening in 2011, the ride offers a whole lot of fun at Efteling in the Netherlands.

■

MAMMUT

he fact that theme parks with well under one million

T

visitors can annually can erect and operate a very con-

vincing wooden coaster has been proved by the very likeable Erlebnispark Tripsdrill. The 860 metres long and 30 metres high “Mammut” from Cordes Coasters has been spoiling park guests since 2008 with distinctive drops, sharp curves and great airtime sections. Additionally there are also the sophisticated theming and a surprising Darkride sequence. ■

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST WATER RIDES

DIVERTICAL very unusual interpretation of a

A

Water Coaster is located at

Italy’s Mirabilandia. This successful combination of coaster and water attraction by the name of “DiVertical” from Intamin begins with a 55 metres high vertical lift. This is followed by a deep drop and a short dip into the cool wet, before the speedy coaster sequence is reached. As a finale there is more water, this time however considerably more refreshing. The total length of this attraction is 800 metres (550 metres of the length are coaster tracks).

■

POSEIDON

he attraction at Europa-Park is also a so-called

T

Each is followed by a coaster sequence with a sub-

Water Coaster as it links together real roller coaster

sequent water sequence. The final drop has a built in

elements with the advantages of a refreshing water

intensive airtime hill. Additionally, the water coaster

attraction. Two lifts have been built into the 836 metres

has been successfully integrated into the Greek

long and 23 metres high “Poseidon” from Mack Rides.

theme area and is also an optical pleasure.

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RIVER QUEST

T

he perhaps highest, but definitely

ber of levels. The 20 m high vertical lift is followed by a

most unusual Rapid Ride world-

number of drops – the largest is 11 m deep! A whirlpool,

wide can be experienced at Phantasia-

and even a freefall sequence – an enormous torrent of

land. Due to little space available, the

water rips the round boats downwards – make "River-

340 m long course is located on a num-

Quest" from Hafema an innovative and unique Rafting. ■

VALHALLA

he indoor water ride at

T

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

has a length of 610 metres, and a height difference of 18 metres. However it’s the incomparable overall concept (Design from Sarner; effects from Technifex), that makes the “Valhalla” from Intamin something very special: the elaborate design, the grandiose effects, the variations in temperature of – 20° to + 40° Celsius, and – typical England – the unbelievable degree of wetness, are the outstanding characteristics.

■

PINGUINE! ABENTEUER

ith the new 2013 opened Sea

gral theme park experience. And the main attraction

Life Abenteuer Park, the Mer-

at the first park of this type is the water attraction “Pin-

W lin

has

guine! Abenteuer Antarktis” from abc rides. Built into

brought another attractive product

Entertainments

Group

the 250 metres long course there are a 14 metres high

into its portfolio: the extension of the

drop and a ride through a penguin habitat – a very rare

popular SeaLife aquarium to an inte-

combination in Europe.

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST DARK RIDES

TWILIGHT TOWER OF TERROR

he Freefall attraction at Disney Studios Park Paris has been chosen as

T

the best Darkride in Europe for the third time. Themed Freefall Towers

are extremely rare – especially when they as high as this one. The enormous amount of ride fun with multiple falls is not for the faint-hearted, but in this case everything simply fits correctly – even the waiting area is part of the experience. The excellent overall design, the fantastic inside architecture and the perfectly coordinated sequences make the 55.8 metre high “Tower of Terror” with a lift system from Otis into a unique attraction.

■

RAVING RABBIDS

n unusual update of an already existing

A

attraction celebrated its reopening this

year: based on the video game “The Raving Rabbids” from the French firm Ubisoft. JoraVision developed a completely new, completely wild and crazy experience with five scenes, three-dimensional full HD-technology, special effects and animatronics. ■

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VAN HELSING’S FACTORY

t’s very seldom that an indoor coaster is convincing from beginning to

I

end. However the situation is quite different in the case of “Van Helsing’s

Factory” from Gerstlauer: starting with the queuing area over the station, the ride itself right up to the exit, Movie Park Germany has managed to create a consistent overall total experience, even though the attraction itself is merely 400 metres long and has a maximum height of 7.7 metres ■

with two lifts.

DROOMVLUCHT

he indoor fairytale attraction that scheduled to

T

open in 1992 (the year when Disneyland Paris

started) was ready in 1993. The ride is enjoyed in open suspended gondolas that carry passengers through five different scenes. The 425 metre long ride taking six minutes was realised under the direction of Efteling. Playing an essential role was also the Trans Lift firm which built the transport system with hanging and rotating gondolas. The highlight is the coasterstyle spiral, which conquers a height difference of 13 metres. The attraction was completely worked over for the 2013 season.

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KNIGHTS RIDES TOWER

ast

L

year

there

was

a

world

the 10-seat “Knights Ride” gondola stops on various

première at the Austrian Fantasiana

levels where animatronics and video projectors pre-

Erlebnispark Strasswalchen. For the

sent mystic elements. The freefall also has two inbuilt

first time a number of effects were

features, which are generally known from 3D-cinemas

combined with each other in the in-

– achieved by way of strips of rubber around the foot

door Freefall Tower from abc rides,

area, riding guests have the experience of spiders

which opened in 2013: before the fall

climbing up their legs, as well as the feeling that a thorn

takes place from a 16 metres height,

is “boring” into their backs.

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST FAMILY RIDES

ANGKOR

urope’s longest battle boat ride from Mack Rides opened this year:

E

“Angkor: Adventure in the Lost Kingdom”. The 323 metres long water

canal winds and meanders through the imposing and artificial temple landscape of Cambodia. It takes a whole ten minutes for to enjoy the very wet adventure at the Spanish PortAventura Resort that is operated without any age restrictions whatsoever – in other words a real family ride.

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DIE SCHLANGE VON MIDGARD

his attraction is the perfect “beginner”

T

coaster for future coaster fans for whom

Hansa-Park naturally also offers a lot of variety right next door. However the nine metre high and

fore the ride proceeds into the outdoor area offering a

200 metre long “Schlange von Midgard” is convincing

number of thoroughly speedy drops and curves over a

with a lively layout, good ride characteristics and great

water surface. All park guests with a minimum height

theming. There is even an indoor sequence with lift be-

of one metre may partake of the ride.

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DE GROTE GOLF

ickie the Viking has moved into Plopsaland De Panne and at the same

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time also brought along a complete Viking village together with two

attractions. “De Grote Golf” is a 40-seat “Disk’O Coaster” from Zamperla that has been thematically embedded into a rock massif and at the same time marks the entrance to the new “Wickie Land”. The waiting area of the 92.5 metres long and up to 15.5 metres high comfortably running ride has also been successfully designed.

MAMMUT TREE

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It is the nightmare of every

I

skier: the crash of a ski lift

gondola. This however is exactly what visitors can be experienced at the Switzerland’s Connyland as though it were real. And if there would have been a category

“Family-friendliest

Thrill Rides”, the new ride construction called “Mammut Tree” from Swiss Rides would have won hands down, as the attraction is the perfect combination of cable railway and breathtaking special effects.

crash in complete darkness, before returning again to

The 16-seat gondola is brought to a controlled

the lower station – a really innovative ride concept. ■

ALLIGATOR ISLAND

he theme park OK Corral in the south of France

two persons each, designed as alligators, but at the

opened a “Jet Ski” attraction this season from

edge of the major ride lurks a fine specimen of the

Zierer, which is most probably the most beautifully

species that appears to be only waiting for one of the

themed of its type. Not only are there nine gondolas for

other passenger to be thrown off.

T

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No.1 Family Ride in France

www.okcorral.fr

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EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

EUROPE’S BEST ATTRACTIONS

VERTIGO

he“Vertigo”, which opened at Denmark’s Tivoli in 2009, is one

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of the most unusual rides ever. The ride that at first glance

appears to be one of the current and popular “Propeller” major rides produced by various manufacturers actually turns out to be at second glance an innovative attraction, on which ride guests can influence the ride sequence with two joysticks. In the case of the 37 metres high “Flying Fury” (Technical Park term), one of four passengers per gondola determines just how intensively the flight manoeuvre should be experienced – at up to an impressive 100 kilometres per hour and with g-forces of up to 5.2 g.

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TALOCAN

he “Top Spin” is one of the biggest sales hits for manufacturer Huss Park

T

Attractions, located in Bremen. The 18 metre high suspended-version can

be met up with at all the parks in the world, but it’s particularly the 2007 erected “Suspended Top Spin” at Phantasialand that imparts a great and exciting ride feeling due to its intensive theming for all the senses: water and fire effects, and a setting that half encloses the ride is simply impressive.

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FLYING NINJAGO

he ride experience of

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the “SkyFly” attraction

from Gerstlauer is simply innovative. The wind current is quite enough to be used cleverly by passengers to cause a number of inversions with a huge sail – as many as one wants. Every passenger can decide just how thrillheavy the ride experience should be. The first attraction from this construction series is located at Legoland Deutschland.

SLEDGE HAMMER

■

t was one of the world’s first

I

and Europe’s first “Giant

Frisbee” from Huss Park Attractions, when it went into operation in the 2004 season at Belgian’s Bobbejaanland.

And with an outward swing to the side of 120° – in the case of a normal “Frisbee” it was generally 90° – a maximum flight height of 42 metres and a speed of up to 110 kilometres per hour, the ride experience was at that time still novel. A ride on such an attraction remains spectacular even these days.

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SYNKOPE

he manufacturer Mondial also offers such a large

T

swing construction with a rotating gondola. “Syn-

Kope” has been whirling passengers into the lofty heights at the Spanish theme park Terra Mitíca since 2004. This attraction has a ride height of 35 metres and reaches speeds of up to 90 kilometres per hour.

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s gratulate KMG con alley for their #9 er V award Lightwat raction’ t t A t s e B ‘Europe’s ’s Claw’ le g a ‘E e for th

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EUROPE’S BEST WATER SLIDES

EUROPEAN STAR AWARD 2014

KINNAREE

E

urope’s best water park also contains

winder (or rather the function of a steep curve as on a

Europe’s best water slide, as this year the

coaster), and a number of tunnel sequences on a 200

novelty “Kinnaree” stands right at the top for

metre length. Large four-passenger rafts provide for an

the first time. Manufacturer of this combination

adequate capacity and disorientating spins on its own

slide from the year 2012 is the Canadian com-

axis. Despite its respectable size it could be perfectly

pany ProSlide. This attraction that combines

integrated into the sloping terrain, as with all other

various slide types offers a funnel slide, a side-

constructions at Siam Park.

LE KING COBRA

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stantial second place.

The construction that was erected in 2012 at the French Aqualand Fréjus Park was the very first of quite a number of structurally identical examples produced. It initially offers water park visitors a type of figure8-sequence that is partly roofed over before it flows into an eight metre deep and surprising he colourful and up until now un-

T

airtime drop. A sidewinder element awaits the pass-

rivalled “King Cobra” water slide

engers, which is recreated as a snake head that sprays

from Polin attained first place twice,

water onto bathing guests. It features two side by side,

but was narrowly beaten this year.

mirrored, courses that unexpectedly bring guests

However it still reached a sub-

together in the final sidewinder element.

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ppowered byy

MEDIEN GMBH

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FAMILY RATTLER

and curvy sequence is the symbol of the “Family Rattler” from Canadian manufacturer WhiteWater. The four-person round “Mega Tubes” in which riders rise in a Halfpipe style on both sides a number of times, have a diameter of up to five metres. A 134 metres high attraction has been erected on the Black Sea Coast in he combination of “Mega Tubes” in three different

the Georgian city of Anaklia, and is part of the water

lengths, each of which is connected with an open

park called Aqua-Lazika.

T HIGH FLY

■

opened in 2007 at Therme Erding: the “High Fly” from Wiegand-Maelzer.

Viewed from the side it appears similar to a ski jump, however in this case there is no use of skis, but lying down in a bathing costume. The start height is a considerable 12 metres, and the total length is 32 metres. Due to the free flight there are strong restrictions: only bathing guests from 15 years of very unusual Bodyslide went into op-

age and with a weight of between 50 and 85 kilos are

eration at the Galaxy slide world that

allowed to measure their flight.

A

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SUPER COMBO

F

our slides in the

out a new and unique experience. And the 21 metres

first five placing

high “Super Combo” from Polin at the Turkish water

make it very clear

park Aqua Fantasy is no exception. It unites four ele-

what is the current

ments that have never existed in this combination be-

trend: the combina-

fore: a pipe slide, a bowl-sequence, an uphill-slide and

tion of various slide

a new type of sphere. These completely varied ele-

styles to bring ab-

ments are experienced in two-seat rubber tubes.

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Seite 2

SPECIAL Mass action: Port Aventura involved their community of fans in breaking a world record – the largest photo mosaic with 183,713 photos in just three months

The social network becomes more and more popular and important,

also

in

respect

of

marketing strategies and publicity measures. What earlier was known as "word of mouth recommendation" has long since been overtaken by the internet and online services such as Facebook, Twitter & Co. Therefore it's all the more important

Parks and Social Media

that this social trend is researched more precisely regarding the

W

Discussion Volume (Total)

one of the first studies world-

convey how relevant social media is for this branch.

We were able to identify 22,652 mentions in the

wide regarding this branch. In-

Additionally we hope that it may well inspire you to

period between 01.05 and 13.08.2014. During the

itially the larger German theme

further ideas and suggestions, for further analysis.

season it could be observed that the discussion

parks have been taken into con-

We have been observing the discussion volume on

volume increased considerably during the summer.

sideration, but without a doubt

the web with our tool "Radarly" since the middle of

The largest volume was generated by the following

findings and results will extend

April 2014, in respect of the following theme parks:

social media channels: Twitter (11.2K), Facebook

to other countries in Europe as

Europa-Park, Phantasialand, Tripsdrill, Movie Park

(3.8K) and Foren (863). Media sites (e.g. Spiegel

well. Yannick Rieder, Digital Re-

Germany, Heide-Park, Legoland Deutschland,

Online) generated 1.5K and other websites (5.1K),

search Manager at Linkfluence,

Hansa-Park, Belantis, and Holiday Park.

also playing an important role.

amusement industry. The Linkfluence Institute has compiled

introduces the study.

e wish to introduce the first results of our theme park monitoring. These results will

Our tool gathers information in addition to mention-

Considerably fewer contributions were observed

ing websites (for example Blogs), about social net-

on Blogs (81) and YouTube (66). As these types of

works such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and In-

entries are of a bigger effort and mostly of a higher

Text:

Yannick Rieder

stagram also. Additionally we measure the perfor-

content quality, the volume should be classified as

Photos:

Linkfluence,

mances of the Twitter and Facebook channels of

notable.

PortAventura Resort

the various theme parks, as well as their relative

The large number of Twitter entries is due to two

websites.

reasons: firstly the younger target group (< 20 years of age) is very active (35% is active). Secondly the low privacy settings allow for a better observation

Park mentions: 23,520 /

of the channel.

Mentions have been counted here; the numbers diverge from

Total Volumes

the total value as a number of theme parks were referred to in

As already apparent during the process, the

one posting

volume in general is of a very high standard. Even without discussions in the social web fuelled by advertising promotions and other actions, smaller parks also reached over 500 mentions in the course of time. Europa-Park has the most mentions by far, which can be led back to a very strong media presence (due to events such as the Miss WM voting).

Heide-Park and Phantasialand each drop by 3,600 mentions, which on an average means 34 posts a

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SPECIAL

Peak (1) refers to 28.05.2014; On that day two employees were injured during work on the coaster "Arthur"; Peak (2) on the 30.05.2014 leads back to the Miss WM voting, which took place at EuropaPark, and about which many

day. Movie Park and Legoland with 2,114 and 1,347

Performance of the Social Media Profile

mentions respectively, are slightly behind. Holiday-

media sites (yellow) reported; through shares, the number of

Park, Hansa-Park, Belantis and Tripsdrill have ap-

In the following section we have analysed the profile

mentions increased on Twitter

proximately 2,500 postings. When one compares

of a number of theme parks by comparison: the

and Facebook also on that day

these rankings with the visitor numbers, there is a

data relates to the month of June, and each of the

similar picture (cf. Global Attraction Attendance

changes relate to the previous month. The en-

Report 2013, own data).

gagement-rate is calculated by the number of the interactions (Favs, Likes, Shares, and Re-Tweets)

Media Channels

divided by the number of followers/fans. This is an established indicator suitable for the measuring of

During channel comparison one can clearly recog-

activities on certain channels.

nize the relevance of Twitter, with the larger theme parks in particular having the bigger share of Twitter

Twitter

mentions. Europa-Park in comparison has a lower proportion, but this is compensated for by the very

In the case of mentions only explicit references to

high number of Facebook mentions. Media and

the channels are intended (in the case of Twitter the

similar websites enjoy on average one-third of the

linking with a @ sign). Europa-Park has by far the

mentions. Infrequently contributions could be

most fans, but it can be seen however that only a

identified in forums and blogs. In addition to already

low proportion of its followers move to interaction,

referred-to reasons, very often the motive of the vis-

such as the case of Heide-Park. This phenomenon

itor to make a posting is to inform friends what they

is shown often in channels with many followers, as

are currently doing, for which fast-paced mediums

there are frequently "fake fans" among them.

such as Twitter and Facebook are more ideal.

Despite the high potential, the examined theme

Number of mentions according to media channels

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SPECIAL

Performance of the social media profile: Twitter

Performance of the social media profile: Facebook

Performance of the park websites

parks play scant attention to the Twitter channel,

Performance of the Websites

and post little of their own subject matter. Three of the five theme parks posted under 10 articles in the

The page ranking is a key performance indicator

past 3 months. Additionally, the channels are most-

introduced by Google that can accept the values of

ly treated as "poor relations" and mostly and often

1-10. As comparison: t-online.de has a page rank

consist of only copies of Facebook communica-

of 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; mentions refer to the references/linking of

tions (for example @legoland_DE or @holiday-

websites in the complete data record. The website

ParkHP). Belantis has even waived the Twitter

of the parks shows a similar picture. The number of

profile completely.

mentions depends strongly on the PR-activity altogether, and the news on each of the relevant

Facebook

sites. Europa-Park and Legoland are very active in

Facebook is substantially more established in the

page ranking of Legoland could well be that the

theme park branch. Each park has its own page

park guests are younger, and that the website is an

and fills it more or less regularly with contents. In

important information channel for the parents.

this area. An additional reason for the very good

the following diagram the number of postings has been shown as a comparison. For example EuropaImpressions and themes:

Park shows that theme parks are self-propelling,

Pictures from the entrance and

and even without activation measures, can gener-

Family videos are popular

ate high engagement rates. The outstandingly high number of commentaries on the Phantasialand postings can be led back to a competition, whereby free tickets were raffled among the commenting users.

The fan numbers and the engagement rates of theme park profiles are comparable to large international brands: IKEA Germany (680,637 Fans; ERate: 0.21), Burger King Germany (674,100 Fans; E-Rate: 0.06), DB Bahn (332,400 Fans; E-Rate: 0.19). In comparison to the German fan pages such as "Places / Event-Locations", in Germany, the rankings of Phantasialand, Europa-Park, Heide-Park are under the Top-10, and Movie Park is in 13th place (cf. Socialbakers 2014).

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SPECIAL Impressions and themes: Selfies and Onridepictures via Twitter

Impressions and User Themes

Summary

The contents that are disseminated are mostly very

The theme park discussions volume is of a very

visual. Subsequently we have closely examined a

high standard, when compared to other branches.

number of themes and situations that can be fre-

Contributions from visitors predominate in volume.

quently identified. The way to the theme park is cap-

It's the younger visitors in particular who use Twitter

tured; the entrance to the park is one of the most

and other channels in order to give account of their

popular motives. And the attractions are photo-

experiences and fun. The articles are predomi-

graphed from outside and from the cars â&#x20AC;&#x201C; similar to

nantly positive and non critical. Communication

a trophy. A Selfie is a must for most visitors in a ride

media that are visual and fast-paced such as

construction or during a break, and they are a wide-

Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are mostly used.

ly spread phenomena particularly among the

Unused potential: despite less activity by theme

younger generation. Definition of a Selfie is a photo

parks on the various channels, the follower/fan

taken with a digital camera, showing mostly the

numbers are on the same level as large interna-

photographer together with others in a special lo-

tional brands such as Burger King, Adidas and

cation or in a particular situation. It is a snapshot

others. The users integrate with the profiles without

taken with the idea of making it public in social

invitation and even place postings (for example

networks (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter). Very

with @ at Twitter).

often social networks offer additional functions

Due to the positive tonality, social media is perfect

such as filters or the possibility of integrating tags.

for bringing increased attention with low triggers.

We also discovered another phenomenon: young

That means that a positive posting for a theme park

families posting elaborately arranged compilations

is classic word-of-mouth propaganda, and there-

Linkfluence is a specialist

of their theme park visit.

fore is of particular value.

in the area of Social Media

MORE ABOUT

A general media presence

Intelligence,

leads in the case of Europa-

founded in 2006. The com-

Park to a considerably in-

pany has offices in France

creased presence in the

and Germany; and com-

web, mainly driven by media

prises of around 70 exper-

sites. Negative catch lines

ienced social media ex-

can be noticed in the dis-

perts, web analysts, mar-

cussion volumes, which can

ket researchers, and IT-

and

was

spread. Another interesting

specialists. The data from

phenomenon could be dis-

this study was made pos-

covered on YouTube: young

sible with the assistance of

families making their visit to

the Linkfluence developed

a theme park public with

social media monitoring

elaborately arranged com-

tool "Radarly". The com-

pilations. Overall it is shown

plete study may be down-

that a visit to a park is of huge

loaded at no charge from:

emotional value for the vis-

www.linkfluence.com/de/

itor, similar to a concert visit

beispiele

or a classic holiday.

â&#x2013;

â&#x2013;

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56_62_History_E

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Seite 2

HISTORY The "Berg und Talbahn" (1913) at the Lunapark in Harnburg-Altona; the park was taken over by Hugo Haase in 1922

Approaching a fairground or a theme park, one of the first things visitors see is a huge steel construction, already visible from afar, soaring into the sky, and from it come hysterical screams accompanied by a low, rattling, rumbling sound. It truly is a “scream machine”, known as “roller coaster”, which really

Roller Coaster History from

is a “thrill ride”.

T

he history of this attraction goes back to Saint

During the Napoleonic Wars, French soldiers saw

Petersburg in the 17th century, when in winter-

these unfamiliar constructions and took them home

Text:

Dr. Sacha Szabo

time the local population built huge wooden scaf-

to France, where the first constructions erected

Photos:

Archiv Szabo, Archiv Lanfer

folding with a sloping ramps. Water was poured

were named “Montagnes Russes” (translation:

over the slopes and it would freeze, and the Saint

“Russian Mountains”) after their origin.

Petersburg residents would slide down over them.

A particularly beautiful construction was the “Prom-

True to the motto “faster, higher, larger”, familiar

enade Aerienne”, with the attraction being inte-

right up to our current day, these constructions

grated into the architecture of the building and al-

started to grow increasingly taller even way back

ready featured the first curves. This example shows

then. Some were up to 21 metres tall, and from this

that coasters are an architectural ride experience,

Two European coaster constructions in Paris in the 18th century

perilous height, thrill seekers sped down the icy

and that architecture can be experienced as an

slope.

immediate body sensation; something that cannot be felt elsewhere, with the exception perhaps of lifts and escalators, which are also fixtures in fairground attractions.

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a Scientific Perspective This is only one lineage of the modern roller coaster

later, this construction was used for transporting

however. Another comes from North America,

coal in the mornings only, and carried passengers

where the “Mauch Chunk Switchback Railway” is

from throughout the entire region in the afternoons.

the forefather. In Pennsylvania, gravity was used to

All roller coasters, from the first stationary wooden

transport coal to the valley from a coal mine. Coal

coaster right up to the modern Looping, Launch

was loaded at the top of the hill and the little wag-

and Hyper coasters, derived from these two an-

The "Hochschaubahn" at the Vienna Prater (built 1909)

ons simply rolled down. Wagons in the valley were

cestors.

towed back up the hill again by donkeys. Upon

What can be seen in both these lineages, from

reaching the top of the hill, the donkeys were

Russia and the USA, is actually quite typical of

placed without further ado into some of the wagons

every amusement attraction. They are technical

and sent back down the hill. On perceiving that the

installations created to provide fun. Originally, many

donkeys actually enjoyed the downhill ride, the

attractions like these are technical installations that

workers – never at a loss for ideas – thought that

have been removed from their industrial production

might be fun for them as well, and so also sat in the

context to produce non-industrious, intangible,

coaster: the "Mauch Chunk

wagons and rode down the hill! Already a few years

plain good thrills.

Railway" (left) and the

The North American predecessor of the modern

"Switchback" at Coney Island

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In central Europe it was the transportable coasters from 1909 that caused a furore: the pioneer and carousel king Hugo Haase travelled with a number of structurally identical constructions to the American models simultaneously; one notes the "8" on the tower peak as his trademark

Roller Coasters with elaborate theming very soon

There are two types of thrilled feelings aroused by

of negative g-forces. The train travels up a hill, and

made their appearances in

a roller coaster; firstly a bodily or physical thrill, and

the moment it crests over the top of the hill and

theme parks, often named as

secondly a psychological one. Physical thrill is

drops down, the passengers are briefly catapulted

"Gebirgs-Szeneriebahnen";

stimulated by directly addressing the body. The

upwards. They seem to float out of their seats, ex-

here earlier examples from 1913:

basic element of a roller coaster is the up and down

periencing negative g-forces, or weightlessness;

the Luna-Park am Halensee

movement. This comprises two essential construc-

â&#x20AC;&#x153;airtimeâ&#x20AC;? as this effect is called in official, 'roller

(Berlin) and the Lunapark in

tion elements, one of them creating the experience

coaster language'.

Leipzig-Wahren (right)

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Seite 5

the body to its limits and thus

Heinrich Mack from

creating a profound physical

Waldkirch was very soon

experience for passengers

strongly involved in the

at the same time. This en-

construction of transportable

hancement of the body's

track attractions (all of wood):

normal experience is one of

the Bob Sleigh coaster (1952

the reasons why roller coast-

upper left), the Monorail coaster

ers have boomed during the

(1955 up left) and the “Turm-

last few years.

bahn” with a spiral lift (1921, left)

In addition, a roller coaster ride also appeals to the psyche. Already during the runup to a coaster ride, the excitement builds up. Even By contrast, positive g-forces are experiences

days in advance, excitement grows and grows, and

when the train travels through a valley, travels up

increasingly so with every step prospective pas-

again or into a loop. At this very point of the ride

sengers take as they approach the construction on

of the 20th century were also the

passengers are subjected to a the multiplying of

the 'big day'. Eventually they find themselves stand-

multi-month appearances of

their body weight. This lasts only for some seconds

ing in the queue – another important element for the

exhibitions for which very often

however, before airtime occurs once again. As a re-

roller coaster experience, as on the one hand they

a complete theme park was

sult a coaster ride is a kind of choreography, taking

hear the screams, which increase excitement yet

erected; here the British Empire

Popular at the beginning

Exhibition in Wembley in 1924

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Seite 6

The oldest still operating

again, and on the other hand, they see the safely

arm-waving with delight – both types of riders have

coaster in Europe is the "Rut-

disembarking passengers, which inspires confi-

the same ride experience, and are focused on

schebanen" at Tivoli – a classic

dence that the infernal ride will end well! Of course,

thrills. Psychologists distinguish between 'ocno-

Gebirgs-Szeneriebahn from the

a ride on a roller coaster is also a test of courage,

phils', that is to say 'lovers of thrills' and philobats,

year 1914

yet it is much more than just that. Those who have

or those erring towards hesitation, if one will. Ac-

taken a ride on a roller coaster know the two ideal

cording to Michael Balint, both types follow differ-

types of riders; those holding tight and closing their

ent strategies to reach the same goal; namely to be

eyes and those, more often than not sitting directly

at 'one with the world'. For him, as an advocate of

next to them, shooting their arms up in delight.

Sigmund Freud’s theses, the world is represented

The "Big Dipper" has been enjoyed by all visitors at Black-

by the mother’s breast. It is characteristic of lovers

pool Pleasure Beach since 1923

of thrills that when breast-fed they spat out their mother’s breast and went back to it again in order to make sure of 'being one with it' through this primary interaction. Lovers of hesitation, on the other hand, clung to the breast and did not want to let it go, in order not to give up this pleasant bonding experience.

This psychological typology can easily be applied also to other everyday phenomena, such as horror films. Some people cannot watch and keep their eyes closed, while others expose themselves to these impressions seemingly full of self-confidence. These films are often called thrillers or psychological thrillers, featuring the term Balint uses for this phenomenon, namely thrill. Thus the The "Hullámvasút" has

As different as these manifestations are – the intro-

term “thrill rides” is highly appropriate for a roller

been operated since 1926 at Bu-

verted holding fast, the extroverted screaming and

coaster.

dapest Zoo (earlier Vidámpark)

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But why is it attractive to expose oneself to thrill or

experience a state beyond daily life; it

fear? Human beings are one of the few creatures

is a train journey to Paradise. This way,

with a reflective self-awareness, which has the

roller coasters have an important func-

advantage that they can form an opinion of them-

tion; they expose humans to an im-

selves and their environment. The price for this abil-

mediacy they rarely experience in

ity is the awareness of their own vulnerability and

daily life, but which is necessary to ex-

mortality. These are two elementary anthropologi-

perience reality in an unreserved way.

cal anxieties, mythologically adapted as the bibli-

For the duration of a roller coaster ride,

cal 'expulsion from Paradise'. Human beings learn

humans are natural beings. Thus the

that they are mortal. However, death is an experi-

roller coaster is a good example for a

ence that cannot be grasped cognitively as nobody

special feature of human culture,

can imagine their own death. This thought is so

which on the one hand is based on re-

painful that human beings try to avoid it. These anx-

moving human beings from their naturalness, thus

The first attempts to

ieties are joined by everyday worries. Will every-

creating culture. At the same time however, human

turn passengers upside down

thing work out with my job? Will there be problems

beings have to experience their naturalness to feel

were already taking place since

in my relationship? What about money? Anxieties

themselves as vital beings. In this way, culture pro-

the middle of the 19th century

can have physical effects that can cause further

vides gates to a world beyond daily life; it creates

(see poster from London);

worries.

wormholes to the extraordinary.

looping constructions called

The special feature of the unique medium, roller

This feat makes the roller coaster a cult object of

"Flip Flap Coaster" were being

coaster, is its ability to make one forget all these

popular culture, where this function is used as a

erected from 1900 in the USA

worries by providing a thrill. At the point of maxi-

symbol, from pulp fiction series, such as John Sin-

(photo above in Atlantic City,

mum thrill, all existential worries are forgotten. This

clair with the meaningful title “Rollercoaster into the

photo under in Brooklyn)

experience is combined with a substantial en-

Afterlife”, biographies such as “Das Leben ist eine

hancement of bodily experience, providing for a

Achterbahn” (“Life is a Rollercoaster”) by Martin

short-term unity of body and mind. Passengers

Semmelrogge, or guide books on raising children

The double coaster by the name of "Loop-the-Loop" was erected on Coney Island in 1901, and already had elliptical steel loops

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with the title “Rollercoaster to the First Milk Tooth” to

However, the metaphor of the roller coaster for

cards from showman and park

serious scientific literature, such as the guide book

human life is far more than mere symbolism, as the

owner Hugo Haase

on depressions called “Roller Coaster of Sensa-

coaster ride itself makes passengers experience

tions”. Naturally, there are a high number of adver-

human life sensually. This is wonderful to see in

tising photos featuring roller coasters in the back-

modern Launch Coasters, where the train is

ground and, of course, roller coasters also appear

launched from the dark station by a linear drive, and

in essential films scenes; for example most notably

travels on through different inversion elements after

in the film “Rollercoaster” with George Segal and

the first hill. Symbolically interpreted, this means

Richard Widmark. This pop cultural inclusion is

that human beings are launched from the uterus

rounded off by pop music ranging from character-

into life, the first hill is childhood, the first drop

istically German Schlager, as well as pop and rock

puberty, from where the turbulent journey goes on

music (for example by Rosenstolz or Die toten

to first love, school-leaving, family, divorce, unem-

Hosen) to internationally successful songs, not to

ployment, new job, up to a smooth braking into

forget the probably best known title “Life is a Roller

retirement. However, many roller coaster rides end

Coaster” by Ronan Keating.

just as abruptly as real life.

Roller coaster post

PUBLICATIONS he following publications

T

that were also used as

sources for the speech and the text are recommended for further information about the history of roller coasters: ■

“Volksbelustigungen”

by

Florian Dering (Delphi Verlag, Nördlingen, 1986) ■ “100 Jahre Achterbahn” by Frank Lanfer (Gemi Verlag, Reichertshausen, 1998) ■ “Rausch und Rummel” by Sacha

Szabo

(Transcript,

Bielefeld, 2007) ■ “Kultur des Vergnügens” by Sacha

Szabo

Bielefeld, 2009)

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(Transcript,

■

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