Live entertainment productions, both big and small, are a staple in just about every entertainment venue. Our industry has such a wide range of facilities, from large corporate chains to single-location go-kart tracks or family entertainment centers. Given the variety of capabilities, locations, and visitor demographics, parks can demand an entirely different range of live entertainment or performance acts. Keeping that in mind, it still comes down to the added value of live entertainment that can either provide your guests a positive lasting experience or dissuade them from returning. This is not to say you need to double your current plans for entertainment, but rather you should not overlook the importance of entertaining your guest in every possibly way.

When thrill rides, activities, and park exploration get tiring, there is nothing as important as a little rest and relaxation. When that time comes, you should give your guests a captivating environment that can include a formal stage-presented show or even roaming performers who sing, do magic, or dance—whatever meets the needs of your venue and its budget.

This issue of Funworld examines entertainment a bit differently—the objective is to point out the variety that you can offer your guests. Our lead feature focuses on the Cirque du Soleil production company and performers, which have been so successful over the past two decades offering dozens of shows, each one more fantastic than the next. The shows transcend all language and culture boundaries, and they appeal to a very broad audience. We also have a wonderful story on ice shows both in the United States and abroad, describing in detail what goes into developing a spectacle on ice. I hope you find this issue pleasing and informative, and, of course, entertaining.

Best Wishes,

John P. C. Collins
Chairman of the Board