Entertainment Designer: Drones are one of the hottest topics in technology today. From their potential to deliver orders for Amazon to the question of whether they’re really a fun “toy” for kids, there’s a lot of heated debate about the role of drones in the years ahead. At the same time, the drone industry is experiencing a bit of an arms race mentality to find new and creative ways to use them. The ability to have flying robot-like devices is opening up significant potential in the theme park world. Puy de Fou, a French historical theme park, is taking the lead on making that happen.
2 comments:
I really, truly do appreciate all that drones can contribute to theatrical experiences and theme park performances. The added dimensionality is unique and provides just that much more space to play with. However, there are several aspects that must be comprehensively and absolutely addressed. The drones are programmable, and as such are hackable. The new dimension that could so enhance a show could also be very appealing to those who simply wish to prove that they can capture the drone system, or those who have malignant intent. Mid air malfunctions are also a concern, as a substantial amount of control is lost with aerial elements. Furthermore, theatrical use of the drones would likely have them flying in various formations, which increases the scope of a mid-air mishap due to the domino effect.
Ultimately, however, while there are problematic elements to theatrical drones, I believe what they could add to shows is well worth the time spent addressing these issues.
I love the concept of Puy du Fou. It is a mix between my love of themed entertainment and history. Although it is less of a theme park and more of themed collection of shows and pavilions the way they showcase history is unique and entertaining. I've heard many time that drones in themed entertainment is what my generation of themed entertainment designers will pioneer. bringing visitor experience into the air is both interesting and challenging as technology keeps coming out. I love the fact that we will be able to incorporate these in firework shows, night time spectacles, and even to add magic to someones visit. If we could someday put moving lights, haze machines or lasers on these drones the sky would be the limit for making an experience truly take flight.
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