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Scotsman
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
9 things you want to see at the new Universal Studios Bedford
What do you want to see when Universal Studios Bedford opens in 2031? Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Speculation continues over what attractions Universal Studios Bedford will offer when it opens. But it's not just rides that people want to see - some would like some courtesy from other revellers at the site. Here's nine things that fans hope to see when the theme park finally opens. As planning continues ahead of the new Universal Studios Bedford continues, the wish list for many looking forward to the theme park's opening in 2031 continues to grow. While we've taken a look at what we thinking could be some of the attractions when the site finally opens it's gates in the near future, many of those who have visited the other sites in Orlando, Japan or Beijing have all made their suggestions what they would like to see at the park, from new rides that have opened based on new franchise properties through to timeless favourites. But what do you want to see at the park? Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad We asked readers on social media what they would like to see at the new Universal Studios Bedford, and while some opted purely for rides, others made mention of the environment and systems they would like to see once the theme park opens. What do fans want to see at the new Universal Studios Bedford? From wet and wild rides to shorter queues to hop on some of the biggest thrills and spills coming to Bedford. Here's nine requests from yourselves what you'd like to see at the new Universal Studios in the UK. | UniversalJurassic World: The Ride Imagine stepping into the lush, prehistoric world of Isla Nublar, only to find chaos unleashed! Fans are clamouring for a signature Jurassic Park water ride, reminiscent of the iconic River Adventure. Picture a thrilling boat journey through a dinosaur-filled landscape, culminating in a heart-pounding escape from a colossal T-Rex and a massive splashdown. Or perhaps the UK will get a version of the highly advanced Jurassic World Adventure from Beijing, with cutting-edge animatronics and immersive motion technology, plunging guests deep into the world of raptors and the Indominus Rex. Whichever it is, a dinosaur encounter is at the top of many wish lists! Back To The Future: The Ride Great Scott! Despite its closure at other Universal parks, the desire for Back To The Future: The Ride remains incredibly strong. Fans are hoping for a reimagined, perhaps even more epic, version of the beloved simulator, taking them on a time-travelling adventure through Hill Valley. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Imagine a cutting-edge, high-speed launched roller coaster that could truly make you feel like you're hitting 88 miles per hour in a DeLorean, weaving through iconic scenes from the films. A ride that brings Marty and Doc Brown's antics to life in a fresh, thrilling way would be a dream come true for sci-fi enthusiasts. Jaws Visitors crowd around a hanging shark display near the ride, themed after the Steven Spielberg motion picture "Jaws," at Universal Studios during a pre-opening preview of the park March 29, 2001 in Osaka, Japan. | Koichi Kamoshida/Liaison "We're gonna need a bigger boat!" The classic Jaws ride holds a special place in the hearts of Universal fans, and many are hoping to see it make a splash at Bedford. Picture a tranquil boat tour that quickly turns terrifying as the infamous great white shark attacks. With dramatic explosions, close calls, and plenty of splashes, a Jaws attraction would bring a beloved piece of cinematic history and thrilling suspense to the UK park, offering that perfect blend of classic movie magic and adrenaline. Halloween Horror Nights For those who love a fright, Halloween Horror Nights is the ultimate scream-inducing event. Fans are eagerly anticipating that Universal Studios Bedford will bring this globally renowned scare-fest to the UK. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Intricately themed haunted houses based on horror films and original terrifying concepts, scare zones filled with menacing creatures, and live entertainment that will send shivers down your spine. It's the perfect way for Universal to transform into a darker, more terrifying realm after dusk, attracting a huge audience of horror enthusiasts. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey While the presence of Harry Potter at Universal Bedford has been a subject of much discussion due to existing UK rights, fans are still holding out hope for the magical experience of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. This ground-breaking dark ride inside Hogwarts Castle combines thrilling motion with stunning projection and practical effects, making you feel like you're soaring through the Quidditch pitch, encountering Dementors, and navigating the Forbidden Forest - but it is more than a long shot, with Harry Potter attractions are not expected to be included, according to a report from the BBC . Lord of the Rings Though there has been no official word on a Lord of the Rings area, many are speculating that it could be an addition to the Epic Universe in the near future. | Getty Images Whispers of a Lord of the Rings presence at Universal Bedford have set the internet alight! Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad While purely speculative at this stage, the idea of an immersive Middle-earth land fills fans with immense excitement. Imagine strolling through the Shire, venturing into the depths of Mordor, or encountering iconic characters and creatures from J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved saga. Whether it's a ground-breaking dark ride through ancient ruins or a thrilling outdoor adventure, a Lord of the Rings area would offer an unparalleled fantasy experience unique to Universal Bedford. Water Rides - such as Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges Is it a tradition to get absolutely soaked at a theme park? Many of you who responded think yes - yes it is. Thankfully, Universal is famous for its exhilarating water rides, and fans are hoping Universal Bedford will follow suit with attractions like Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges. Some fans hope that they'll be navigating a circular raft through treacherous rapids, dodging waterfalls, and enduring chaotic encounters that guarantee a thorough drenching. These types of rides offer refreshing thrills, perfect for a summer's day, and a guaranteed laugh as you emerge soaking wet! Short queue times One of the biggest wishes from potential visitors for Universal Studios Bedford is an efficient and enjoyable experience, and that starts with short queue times. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Fans are hoping Universal implements innovative queue management systems, efficient ride operations, and perhaps even a robust virtual queue or Express Pass system that genuinely reduces wait times. The dream is to spend less time in lines and more time immersed in the magic and thrills of the park! Respectful attendees - and no graffiti While many have cited rides they want to see at the new theme park, others opted for more sociable elements including patient attendees and no graffiti. |Beyond the attractions themselves, a key desire for the Universal Studios Bedford experience is a welcoming and well-maintained environment. Fans are hoping for a park where all attendees are respectful of fellow guests and the property itself. This extends to the visual appeal, with a strong emphasis on no graffiti or vandalism. The vision is for a pristine, immersive environment where the focus remains on the incredible theming and attractions, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the magic without distractions. A well-maintained park fosters a sense of pride and ensures a fantastic experience for all who visit - and let's be honest, it's a lot of money for an investment just to see go into ruins early on in it's lifespan. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad What would you like to see at Universal Studios Bedford - either in terms of rides or just generally the environment of the new attraction? Share your thoughts and hopes by leaving a comment down below.
Daily Record
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Give your kids an immersive dino experience as Jurassic Earth comes to Scotland
The show stars a giant T-Rex, triceratops, brontosaurus, and other lifelike dinosaurs like spinosaurs, velociraptors, and baby dinos As Glasgow continues to embrace dinosaur fever this summer, a prehistoric spectacle is gearing up to storm into Braehead Arena for the September weekend, promising a jaw-dropping experience for families. The hit show Jurassic Earth is set to take over the arena on Friday, September 27, bringing lifelike animatronic dinosaurs to the stage for a thrilling 75-minute interactive adventure, Glasgow Live reports. Two performances will take place on the day, at 12 noon and 3pm, with tickets now available through the Braehead Arena website. Featuring an extraordinary cast of creatures, the show includes a 22-foot-long, 14-foot-tall walking Tyrannosaurus Rex, reportedly the largest in the world, alongside an 18-foot triceratops, a towering 26-foot brontosaurus, and a range of other species. Dinosaur fans can also expect to meet characters like Spencer and Stevo the spinosaurs, Rocky and Richie the velociraptors, Dash the carnotaurus, Tank the triceratops and a host of baby dinosaurs. The show promises up-close encounters, audience participation, songs, dances and even dinosaur ranger training for the younger crowd. Russ Smith, CEO of Braehead Arena, said the upcoming event is a perfect fit for the venue's future vision. 'We have big plans here at Braehead Arena so what better way to kick them off than with the biggest show of all – literally,' he said. 'These dinosaurs are incredible, I saw the show with my kids and they loved it so it was something I definitely wanted to bring to the arena. 'Apparently space is sometimes an issue for the larger dinos so this is the perfect venue – we certainly don't have any concerns on that front so let's go BIG. 'We want to be everything to everyone here at Braehead Arena, so this amazing modern marvel of a show is perfect for us… you'll have a roaring good time.' At the centre of the action is Ranger Danger, the audience's guide through the experience. Children will take part in a special training session to prepare them in case of an unexpected dinosaur escape, all part of the immersive fun. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. The show has toured successfully across the UK, selling out venues with its high-energy performances that aim to educate and entertain. It's been billed as the 'original dinosaur show' and is recommended for families with children of all ages, and even parents looking to get in on the action. Organisers say the event offers a great way to 'keep the kids occupied and burn off a LOT of energy to make the September bank holiday fun for parents too'. Jurassic Earth adds to the wave of dinosaur-themed events sweeping Glasgow this summer, following on from the popular Lost Kingdom trail and exhibitions throughout the city.
Glasgow Times
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Dinosaur show coming to Braehead Arena this September
The immersive show Jurassic Earth is coming to Braehead Arena on September 27. It will feature lifelike animatronic dinosaurs, including a 22-foot-long and 14-foot-tall T-Rex, an 18-foot triceratops, and a 26-foot brontosaurus. The show includes a number of dinosaur characters like Spencer and Stevo the spinosauruses, Rocky and Richie the velociraptors, Dash the carnotaurus, Tank the triceratops, and the star of the show, Zeus the T-Rex. (Image: Supplied) Read more: More: I visited the new dinosaur attraction near Glasgow - my verdict Russ Smith, chief of Braehead Arena, said: "We have big plans here at Braehead Arena, so what better way to kick them off than with the biggest show of all – literally. "These dinosaurs are incredible. "I saw the show with my kids, and they loved it, so it was something I definitely wanted to bring to the arena. "Apparently, space is sometimes an issue for the larger dinos, so this is the perfect venue – we certainly don't have any concerns on that front, so let's go big. "We want to be everything to everyone here at Braehead Arena, so this amazing modern marvel of a show is perfect for us. "You'll have a roaring good time." The interactive show will see youngsters get up close with the massive creatures and learn to be a dinosaur ranger. (Image: Supplied) Read more: Glasgow student housing co-operative secures first property following £300k loan Ranger Danger will be the guide for the experience, and the children will have their own special ranger training in case of an escape situation. The 75-minute interactive experience will bring audience participation, songs, dances, stomping, and the chance to meet a dinosaur. There will be two performances, one at noon and another at 3pm. Dinosaur fans are advised to visit the Braehead Arena website to get tickets as soon as possible, as the show is expected to sell out.
Los Angeles Times
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Rich with visual effects, ‘King Kong' stomps into Fullerton
From sailing on a ship to Skull Island to a fight between King Kong and a T-Rex, Maverick Theater's 'King Kong' is in its sixth year of bringing live audiences a bit of movie magic. Using live-video capture, rear-screen projection, a green screen and miniature sets, the tech-heavy production opened July 11 and runs until Aug. 10 at the Fullerton-based community theater. 'It's all filmmaking and theater tricks,' said Brian Newell, theater founder and the show's writer and director. 'I fell in love with special effects when I first saw 'King Kong' on TV when I was 5. I collected any magazine or book I could read to learn how the effects were done.' Guests enjoying the production might not realize the challenges of presenting a show with live visual effects, where some actors perform backstage in front of a green screen, or a projected backdrop with a miniature set. There are pre-recorded scenes, but most are done live. And then there's the 16-foot long Kong arm. 'The basic concept I came up with to pull off the giant scale of Kong was to project his image on a large rear screen that nearly fills the stage,' Newell said. 'Actors could then interact with Kong, and he would appear larger than life. 'Also, shooting my Kong actor on miniature sets gives the audience a forced perspective that Kong is a giant in our world. The only large-scale Kong element in the show is his hand and arm. The arm I built is about 16 feet long with articulating fingers to grab the actors. To add an actor in some of the Kong scenes, I set up a green screen to capture their performance and then mix their video feed into the live Kong video feed, blending the two together on the stage's rear screen.' The Kong hand and arm is a welded metal frame on casters that can roll on and off stage. The hand is made up of hinges, pulleys and aircraft cable controlled by an operator backstage. The technology has been used before, just not in this way, Newell said. 'All arena concerts have a live camera feed on a giant screen for audiences to see the musicians. The difference is with 'Kong,' the audience never sees what we are shooting backstage,' he said. 'Some theater productions have used live footage but probably not the way I do. I think our show could be a one-of-a-kind.' But there are always challenges. 'Opening night, the backstage crew couldn't transfer the camera to a tripod in time for the scene on the Empire State Building,' Newell said of their first performance in 2019. 'So for the entire scene, they had to hold the camera as still as they could to get the shot. Of course that's really impossible, so it looked like Manhattan was having a small earthquake. That's frustrating because we all want perfection, but it was also very funny, which is probably why the camera was shaking.' Alex Wesevich, of Fullerton, has been helping manage backstage for the production since its first year. 'I work on the cabaret side of the theater,' Wesevich said. 'My job, along with quick changes and the usual set movements, is to cue the actors using the green screen — who can't see what or who they're interacting with — and let them know what's happening and when to move. 'I also coordinate to help cue the Kong actor on the other side of the building since he can't see the actors either. Working with green screens means sometimes our actors are interacting completely blind. It takes a lot of trust. It's such an interesting and unique blend of technology and live theater. Of course cameras and projections are used in other shows, but it's rare to see people working with live projections, much less compositing several green screens while doing it.' Wesevich said the technical aspects of the show can be very difficult. 'We've got it down pat after so many years, but oh boy, Kong's very first tech week was still the worst tech week I've ever had, before or since,' Wesevich said. 'But even now, I mean, what hasn't gone wrong? Sometimes the screens all go off and the actors have to continue on anyway in total darkness. Sometimes the green screen curtain falls down seconds before we need to use it. One memorable time, the stage-right curtain leg ripped in half horizontally on the Kong arm side and had to be held up with safety pins. It's never dull.' Alex Conway, of Long Beach, who is a scenic artist by trade, initially helped Newell with the miniatures and Kong suit, and continues to assist on each production. 'The challenge of building mechanical props for a show like this is you can't just buy it off the shelf. Everything needs to be designed and fabricated from scratch,' he said. 'From paper to model to mockups, there are quite a few steps to make sure things will look and work great. Just like creating all of the props and sets for this production, the staging is also very complex. With the miniatures, projections, large-scale props and sets, it's really not like anything you have seen on stage.' 'King Kong' runs through Aug. 10 at the Maverick Theater, 110 E. Walnut Ave., Fullerton. Tickets range from $17.50 to $33 and can be purchased online at
Scotsman
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
I visited Glasgow's Lost Kingdom dinosaur walk - and was surprised by how much I learned
The Lost Kingdom is a great day out for all the family finds Rosalind Erskine. Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... It's typical Scottish summer school holiday weather we myself, my sister and my nephews (eight and five) ventured out to the Lost Kingdom. Located at the Cuningar Woodland Loop in walk in Rutherglen once again, this travelling troupe of animatronic dinosaurs are back in Glasgow and ready to thrill kids and bog kids alike. The trail features over 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, spanning the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods and the website advises that the walk might take about two hours - not ideal in the driving rain and wind but this is Scotland. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad On arrival to the walk we are greeted with the rockstar of dinosaurs , the T-Rex - and we saw a lot more of him around the walk. Each of the over 50 life-sized dinosaurs moves, whether it's their eyes, tails, arms or mouths, and the roaring sound effects help set the scene that we're on an adventure walk to find out all we can about these creatures. While the movements and noises are fun for the kids, there's also an educational element as each dinosaur has its own information panel and, from these, we learned all about lesser known species such as the Yunnanosaurus, Lufengosaurus and Tsintaosauraus including where in the world they'd come from. Animatronic dinosaurs at Glasgow's Lost Kingdom | Rosalind Erskine I, with the help of my nephews and sister, were seeking my favourite dinosaur, the diplodocus but we came across so many other unknown dinosaurs such as a furry one and a heavily armoured, crocodile-like creature. Despite the weather we did end up spending a good hour and a half on the walk, before heading to the dinosaur themed welcome area, where some food vans serving hot food, teas and coffee were. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad There was also a gift shop and educational marquee. Satisfied with our hot drinks and doughnuts, but still no further forward on spying a diplodocus, we headed back to the car. The Lost Kingdom is an ideal morning or afternoon out for kids during the summer holidays, and adults will find it educational too. Samuel, my oldest nephew said: ' There were plenty of dinosaurs, some were cute and one T-Rex was 54 feet tall. I enjoyed it, five stars…although I was fuming that there was no diplodocus.' While Christopher, his younger brother added: 'The dinosaurs were really great.'
