“The Hunger Games” fans, rejoice! Lionsgate recently announced that a Hunger Games-inspired attraction will be launched in a Hollywood-themed park in Dubai soon.
Lionsgate has long considered to develop a theme park based on “The Hunger Games” franchise after it became a pop culture phenomenon. After much considerations and discussions, the studio announced on 30th March (Monday) that they have partnered with Dubai Parks and Resorts to launch a Lionsgate zone in an upcoming theme park called “Motiongate Dubai”.
It came as no surprise that Lionsgate would want to develop an attraction based on the franchise as the company’s CEO Jon Feltheimer said in a press release that the successful franchise helped “drive location-based entertainment opportunities around the world”.
He added:
We’re proud to partner with the team at Dubai Parks and Resorts to create a thrilling total entertainment experience designed to attract millions of new fans and continue the global expansion of our brands.
According to comicbook.com, the up-and-coming theme park intends to create a cinematic experience by featuring 27 different latest in-technology rides and attractions in its 4 million square feet space.
Dubai Parks and Resorts CEO Raed Al Nuaimi said, “We are thrilled to be working with a Hollywood studio whose creative resources, spirit of innovation and vision of the entertainment experience are so closely aligned with our own.”
Through the press release, Lionsgate Executive Vice President of Global Franchise Management and Strategic Partnerships Kerry Phelan and Senior Vice President of Branded Attractions Jenefer Brown also expressed their excitement about the launch.
They said:
Motiongate Dubai is poised to become one of the most exciting new entertainment destinations in the world, and we’re thrilled that many of our biggest franchises will be an integral part of it.
The Lionsgate section of Motiongate Dubai is an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to extend the longevity, broaden the global fan base and enrich the vitality of our most exciting entertainment properties.
The details about the Liongate zone are sparse at the moment, but it will include state-of-the-art theme park attractions and retail outlets based on “The Hunger Games” franchise.
“The Hunger Games” franchise won’t be the only film franchise to be included in the Lionsgate zone as the studio is eyeing to develop a live stage show based on the “Step Up” franchise as well.
According to the press release, Raed Al Nuaimi said:
Lionsgate’s Hunger Games, Step Up, and other signature properties are the perfect centerpiece for one of the most visionary new theme parks in the world. Through this partnership we are offering even more for the whole family to enjoy on their visit and are confident that motiongate Dubai will set a global benchmark as the ultimate movie themed destination.
The park is a expected to attract 3 million visitors a year when it opens in October 2016.
Dubai Parks and Resorts is also currently developing LEGOLAND Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai. LEGOLAND Dubai will be the first LEGOLAND theme park in the Middle East while Bollywood Parks Dubai will be the first-of-its-kind Bollywood-themed park. All the parks will be connected via Riverland, a retail, dining and entertainment walkway .”Lapita”, a Polynesian-themed resort catering to families, is also under development.
What do you think the studio should include in “The Hunger Games” zone? Will you volunteer as tribute? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.
(Source: comicbook.com, THR / Featured image)