CKX and its subsidiary 19 Ent. have unveiled a new attraction, based on its hit television program AMERICAN IDOL, at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
"The American Idol Experience" will capture the energy and excitement of the TV series and global phenomenon, with guests at Disney's Hollywood Studios auditioning to take the spotlight onstage, while fellow guests cheer them on from the audience and vote for their favorite singer.
The attraction, which has its grand opening Feb. 14, 2009, was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in conjunction with FremantleMedia Enterprises and 19 Entertainment. It is based on American Idol -- produced by 19 Entertainment and FremantleMedia North America -- and is designed to immerse park guests in the authentic feel of a live television production.
Winners of the daily competition will receive a "The American Idol Experience" Dream Ticket, which allows an eligible holder to schedule a front-of-the-line audition at a future regional audition for the American Idol television show.
19 Ent., a division of CKX, is one of the most successful entertainment organizations in the world having created and produced hit television properties including AMERICAN IDOL and SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, and with its relationships and partnerships with some of the biggest names in sports, music and fashion, including David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Chris Daughtry, Roland Mouret and the recently added tennis superstar, Andy Murray.
Disney's Hollywood Studios is a showbiz-inspired theme park that immerses guests in the glamour of show business with thrilling attractions, Broadway-style shows, world-class atmosphere entertainment and interactive film, music, television and radio production facilities.
Also new at WDW, Raytheon Company has opened of The Family Technology Center at the Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort. Shades of Green is a U.S. Armed Forces Recreation Center used exclusively by active and retired military personnel and their families and Department of Defense civilians.
The Family Technology Center, donated by Raytheon, will serve as guests' "home away from home" game room. The Center, equipped with plush couches, plasma televisions, personal computers, Nintendo Wii and Microsoft Xbox systems, offers guests an on-site extension of their entertainment experience where they can relax, connect and enjoy each other.
Raytheon also recently announced plans to unveil an interactive, math-based experience called "The Sum of All Thrills" in the INNOVENTIONS pavilion at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The exhibit, set to open fall 2009, will engage children through a fun, interactive and educational experience that helps instill a lifelong passion for math, science and technology.
