NEW FILM ADVENTURE FABULA OPENS AT EFTELING

BY GABRIELLE

A new attraction has opened in Eftling, Holland’s fairy tale theme park – a film adventure known as Fabula.

In what was a 3.5-million-euro investment, the Fabula experience combines a 3D film that is shown within a 4D theatre and features 4D special effects, including wind, smell and water.

The story follows a grumpy young bear who is taken on a journey discovering different habitats around the world, meeting some colourful characters on the way that teach him the meaning of life.

The attraction comprises of both a main show and a pre-show. Visitors can wine, dine and relax in a new themed restaurant. The theme of the restaurant and adjoining play area where youngsters can be entertained, is the savanna, ocean and jungle.

The new film has been created by Aardman, the award-winning studio, known for creating much-loved British shows including Shaun the Sheep and Wallace & Gromit.

The official opening of Fabula took place on December 7, 2019 at the Eftling theme park.

Fons Jurgens, CEO at Efteling, spoke about the park’s latest attraction: “We are delighted with our newest attraction, which has been completed in just six weeks.  Working with Aardman on the production of Fabula has allowed us to combine the latest in film and animation technology with a new hospitality concept, meaning that the attraction is completely in tune with this time.

“From today, Efteling visitors can enjoy this indoor attraction 365 days of the year,” said Jurgens.

AARDMAN ANNOUNCES NEW CONCEPT FOR THEME PARKS

BY GABRIELLE

Aardman, the multi award-winning animation studio and storyteller, has announced a new concept for the theme park industry. The concept will be delivered in partnership with P&P Projects, the Netherlands-based attraction design and turnkey solution specialists.

The project is inspired by the fishermen of the Li River, ‘A Fish Tale,’ and tells a humorous and dramatic coming-of-age adventure of a determined young fisher-boy, and his playful cormorant sidekick.

As the two characters try and catch their first ever fish together, their inexperience and naivety prevail, with potentially calamitous consequences. However, through persistence and determination, the couple manage to land the catch of their dreams.

This heart-warming family tale is directed by Aardman’s Darren Dubicki. Developed by P&P Projects, ‘A Fish Tale’ is designed to be incorporated into amusement parks, to potentially be used on dark rides or for 4D cinema experiences.

Ngaio Harding-Hill, head of attractions and live experiences at Aardman, comments: “Aardman is delighted to be developing so many exciting projects for global theme parks and attractions and to be working with some of the most renowned partners and experts in the industry.”

‘A Fish Tale’ is being showcased at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando, where visitors will have the chance to talk to Ngaio Harding-Hill to discuss Aardman’s projects.

SEAN CLARKE APPOINTED AS AARDMAN’S NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

BY GABRIELLE

Aardman Animations, the animation studio based in Bristol, has announced Sean Clarke will step into David Sproxton’s shoes as the company’s new managing director.

Clarke has been with Aardman for more than 20 years, working as head of the International Rights and Marketing department for more than ten years.

David Sproxton, who has been MD for Aardman Animations for 43 years commented o the new appointment:

“We were determined to find the best possible candidate for the role, which is critical for securing the studio’s future especially in its Employee Owned incarnation. I am delighted that Sean cut through a very strong competition to take my place.

“He has a deep understanding of the creative culture at Aardman – which will ensure continuity – in addition to a very strong, clear and exciting strategy to take the company forward, so it will certainly not be resting on its laurels.

“There are wonderful projects on the slate with new creative talent behind them and the future looks very bright. I am more than confident that with Sean leading the Executive Board the company will thrive,” Sproxton added.

Peter Lord, Aardman’s co-founder and creative director, shared his enthusiasm towards the new appointment.

“I’m absolutely delighted that Sean Clarke is going to continue his wonderful work at Aardman, following in the footsteps of Dave Sproxton, my long-term partner and co-founder. In a rich world of new opportunities, Sean takes the helm of a dynamic, creatively-led company in a very strong position,” said Lord.

DEAL SIGNED TO BRING SHAUN THE SHEEP TO UK FARM ATTRACTION

BY GABRIELLE

The Bristol-based interactive entertainment and attractions studio Aardman has signed a long-term deal with Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm to bring Shaun the Sheep to his first farm attraction in the UK on a permanent basis.

The family farm experience opened in Lancashire farm in June 2019. The whole farm stretches for six acres, two of which are now devoted to the award-winning world of Shaun the Sheep and his much-loved friends.

The Lancashire site is the only farm experience in Britain to have Shaun the Sheep in permanent residence.

The area features daily shows with Shaun the Sheep and his pal Bitzer, where visitors can enjoy ‘meet and greet’ sessions with photo opportunities.

Young guests at Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm can enjoy taking part in a number of themed Shaun the Sheep activities, including a navigation game known as Moley Moley, Bitzer’s Kinetic Club House, the reaction game Hog Splash, and Mossy Bottom Crafts, where youngsters can practice their creative skills.

Mark Edwards, who has managed Farmer Ted’s for more than 16 years, shared his excitement of having Shaun the Sheep as a permanent resident.

“I’ve been a long-term fan of Shaun the Sheep and Aardman, so we are excited to welcome Shaun and his flock to Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm. It really is an excellent opportunity to help maintain and boost tourism within the North West of England,” said Edwards.

Ngaio Harding-Hill, head of attractions and live experiences at Aardman is equally as thrilling, stating:

“We’re delighted to be launching Shaun the Sheep’s first UK farm attraction experience at Farmer Ted’s.  The Adventure Farm is the perfect home for Shaun, Bitzer and the Flock and we’ve worked closely with the Farmer Ted’s team to ensure the visitor experience captures all the fun, humour and creativity fans love.”