NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world leader in live moments, today announced the acquisition of Great Big Events (GBE), a leading sports event production company known for its work on the world’s biggest sporting events. Past credits include over 100 World Championships, World Cups, Olympic, Paralympic, Commonwealth and multi-sport Games. As a result of this transaction, the company is launching RWS Global Sports, a new division of RWS Global that will provide an unrivaled, comprehensive range of offerings, including venue design, entertainment, sports production, merchandise and more. The new RWS Global Sports division will serve as a one-of-a-kind solution for clients, offering best-in-class, end-to-end live experiential offerings for audiences worldwide.

“This exciting acquisition redefines the possibilities for integrated, live sports and entertainment experiences on a global scale and propels us into a new realm of innovation and creativity,” said Ryan Stana, Chairman and CEO of RWS Global. “Fusing together our teams, resources and talent strengthens our position as leaders in the live experiential sector and allows us to deliver unprecedented live sports and entertainment experiences for our clients and their audiences across the globe.”

GBE co-founder Kim Henshaw will join and lead the RWS Global Sports division, bringing extensive industry expertise and knowledge that will be invaluable as RWS Global continues to expand its presence in the live entertainment and sporting events market. This acquisition represents an incredible opportunity for growth and innovation. 

“We are thrilled to be joining forces with RWS Global and excited about the endless possibilities ahead,” said Kim Henshaw EVP, RWS Global Sports. “With our combined expertise, we will develop unparalleled live sports experiences and set a new standard for the industry. Today marks the beginning of an incredible journey, and we can’t wait to showcase the innovative and groundbreaking work we will achieve together with RWS Global.” 

This acquisition follows the previously announced strategic investment from RWS Global’s first institutional investor, Bluestone Equity Partners, a private equity firm with diverse sports and entertainment assets. The investment will support the new RWS Global Sports division in delivering revolutionary viewer experiences across major upcoming international events over the next three years with ambitious plans for further global expansion.

“We have long believed in the significant growth opportunity for RWS Global across new sectors. This announcement is a natural evolution for the RWS Global portfolio, further cementing its position as the leader in global live entertainment,” added Bobby Sharma, Founder & Managing Partner, Bluestone Equity. 

Additionally, the deal sees RWS Global strategically expanding its digital capabilities with the acquisition of GBE’s suite of fan engagement apps, including Ultimate Fan App and Anywhere Live, along with the integrated software system, PV4. This portfolio of interactive event apps and software further enables RWS Global to deliver connected, dynamic experiences across major global sporting events. 

RWS Global is establishing an office in Sydney, its fourth global hub, complementing existing locations in New York, London and Cincinnati. The RWS Global team now comprises more than 300 full-time employees and engages over 8,000 seasonal talents annually. For more information about RWS Global and their services, please visit their website at www.rwsglobal.com.

SHERIDAN, Texas — In the heart of Texas, where laughter echoes under wide-open skies, a family oasis known as Splashway Waterpark & Campgrounds has just been named the Number ONE Outdoor Waterpark in America by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This accolade recognizes the thrilling slides and sparkling pools but is also a testament to a family’s vision of creating the ultimate haven for family fun and making lasting memories.

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards are highly respected accolades in the hospitality industry, determined by public vote. Each year, these awards recognize excellence across a variety of categories, including hotels, resorts, restaurants, and attractions, highlighting those who achieve outstanding standards in service and guest experiences.

Nestled midway between Houston, San Antonio, and Austin in the quaint town of Sheridan, Splashway has long been a retreat for families looking to splash, play, and stay. At the helm are Carl and Laura Blahuta, a husband and wife team who have poured their hearts into every corner of the park. “It’s about more than just fun; it’s about family,” says Carl, the energetic owner and general manager. “Our mission has always been to provide a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment where families can come together and create those joyous memories that last a lifetime.”

The park’s journey to the top is a story of relentless dedication to service and innovation. “We are family, serving family,” remarks Laura Blahuta, co-owner and administration director, echoing the park’s guiding motto. This philosophy has shaped every decision at Splashway, from the design of adrenaline-pumping rides for thrill-seekers to tranquil spots for those seeking relaxation.

USA Today’s recognition comes as a result of Splashway’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Visitors to Splashway can expect a variety of attractions that cater to all ages and thrill levels. Whether it’s conquering their tallest water slides or floating lazily along the lazy river, there is something for everyone. “Seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter, that’s how we know we’re succeeding,” Laura adds.

The future looks bright for Splashway as it plans to expand its offerings. “This accolade is both an honor and a motivator. We are excited to push the boundaries of what a waterpark experience can be,” says Carl, with a visionary mindset. Plans to introduce even more award-winning, innovative water rides and expand the camping facilities are already in the works, promising to bolster its reputation as the premier family destination.

In recognition of this national recognition, Splashway Waterpark invites everyone to a series of celebratory events and special promotions throughout the season. The first event is Sunday, May 19th, where our guests can purchase a regular-price ticket and get their second ticket for just one dollar. More details will be available on our website and social media channels, where families are encouraged to join in the festivities.

For anyone seeking the thrill of adventure or the comfort of a peaceful retreat, Splashway is ready to welcome you to what is now officially the best outdoor waterpark in the nation. Come and see for yourself why families return year after year, making Splashway a part of their traditions and their stories.

GRAPEVINE, Texas — Meow Wolf Grapevine, in collaboration with local artist Lauren Lewchuk, announced the launch of its inaugural exterior mural project, P.A.R.K.E.D. (Phenomenal Asphalt Realm of Kaleidoscopic Expressionistic Design.) This massive parking lot mural will transform the landscape surrounding the Grapevine Mills location, inspired by the otherworldly experience of The Real Unreal. Guests will have the entire summer to explore this groundbreaking ground painting at the immersive creative wonderland.

Cosmic meteorologists of The Real Unreal forecasted the emergence of new art based on significant indicators of unreality emanating from the exhibition. The Real Unreal’s wondrous disruption has begun to leak outside the bounds of Meow Wolf Grapevine, changing the Grapevine Mills Mall parking lot into a cavalcade of blooming creations. Chromatic chemists have found that asphalt is the perfect canvas for this form of interdimensional artwork, as P.A.R.K.E.D. will cover the parking lot area adjacent to Meow Wolf Grapevine adding bursts of creativity before guests even enter the innovative exhibition.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Lauren Lewchuk on this original project that brings The Real Unreal to life beyond our exhibition space,” said Meow Wolf Grapevine General Manager Kelly Schwartz. “This mural is a celebration of creativity and community, inviting visitors to experience a piece of Meow Wolf’s magic from the moment they arrive at Grapevine Mills all summer long.”

Dallas-based artist Lauren Lewchuk is a creative force fueled by a passion for nature and music, with a career spanning over 14 years across graphic design, screen-printing, faux finishes, and mural painting. With subjects ranging from microorganisms to expansive landscapes, the TIN District artist’s work is a whimsical exploration of the real and surreal, with intricate compositions inspired by nature’s wonders.

“Incorporating inspiration from the natural world, I explore themes of growth, identity, and existentialism in my artwork,” shared artist Lauren Lewchuk. “Turning a parking lot into a colorful canvas is a perfect way to vividly showcase these themes.”

Lauren’s P.A.R.K.E.D. mural is slated to be unveiled on Monday, May 27. Guests will have all summer to view it. These on-view dates coincide with Meow Wolf Grapevine’s one-year anniversary celebration, providing guests ample options to experience The Real Unreal at the convenience of their vacation plans. 

“Continued collaboration with the Texas artist community is vital to us,” emphasized Meow Wolf Grapevine Artist Liaison Will Heron. “Our community boasts an impressive array of talented artists. This project presents a fantastic opportunity to welcome new Texas talent into Meow Wolf Grapevine’s multiverse.”

As a special summer artwork, visitors will not want to miss this temporal masterpiece at the Grapevine Mills Mall property.

“Meow Wolf’s vibrant paintings on Grapevine Mills’ parking spaces are more than just paint— they are portals to imagination. We proudly support their vision of bringing art to every corner, and transforming an everyday space into a visual experience for all to enjoy.” said Grapevine Mills’ Director of Marketing and Business Development Trudy Cresswell. 

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Get ready for an exciting summer filled with bricktastic adventures as LEGOLAND Florida Resort announces its annual and most anticipated summer event, Summer Brick Party! From June 1 to August 11, families, and LEGO aficionados of all ages are in for a treat with new and thrilling shows, characters, and mouthwatering seasonal treats. The Park’s beloved characters, including LEGO Shark Suit Guy, will be making a return, along with events like Red, White & BOOM!, the Park’s annual 4th of July celebration and more.

• Making a Comeback: Go Xtreme!
  LEGOLANDFlorida Resort is heating up with adrenaline-pumping shows! Catch the high-flying action of Go Xtreme! where you’ll be on the edge of your seat as stunt performers compete for fame on LEGO City’s hit TV show soaring on skateboards, stunt bikes and more. Stick around after the show to meet the newest character, “LEGO Producer” for pictures and high fives.
• New Characters + New Dance Parties
  All-time favorites like LEGO Shark Suit Guy make a return. Additionally, the park introduces exciting new characters like I heart LEGOLAND Boy and I heart LEGOLAND Girl. Also, don’t miss meeting the Park’s NEW bright red LEGO DUPLO bunny, Hopsy who is joining the park in character form for the first time! Geared for preschoolers, Hopsy debuts at her NEW exclusive show, Playtime with Hopsy teaching little ones how to play using their imagination! In addition, shimmy your way through Park-wide dance parties with LEGOcharacters, including an exciting NEW show filled with high-energy party music, singing, and dancing called Party. Play. Fun!
• Unique Water Ski Show
  If you want to cool off from the summer heat, you can sail over to Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show. While there, you can wave to Brickbeard’s buccaneer recruits as they perform a gravity-defying water stunt show, featuring wakeboarding, barefoot-skiing, jump acts, and the show’s iconic waterski pyramid on select dates.
• Summer, Snacks, & Sips
  Indulge in an array of NEW seasonal delights at LEGOLAND Florida Resort! Try sinking your teeth into the seasonal Pineapple Party Apple Fries, topped with vanilla ice cream, and served on a pineapple upside-down cake. Or you can explore something savory like braised pork tacos and grilled Argentinian chorizo topped with fresh chimichurri on a hoagie. These seasonal delights are available for a limited time only.
• Red, White & BOOM!
  Each year, on July 4th, LEGOLAND Florida Resort hosts its one-day-only celebration, Red, White & BOOM! This year, participate in the fun with activities including an American flag LEGO brick build and a DJ dance party. The park ends the night with an unforgettable fireworks show called Touch The Sky over the breathtaking Lake Eloise. All guests are encouraged to wear special and unique 3D viewing glasses that transform the fireworks into LEGO bricks right before your eyes, making this experience unlike any other fireworks show.

Sea Life Park Hawaiʻi invites the ʻohana to make a year of incredible memories and get immersed in marine education with its all-new season pass program for 2024. Offering special perks for every passholder, the program also opens up a world of wondrous learning opportunities for younger guests. For the first time, a new ‘Opihi Pass is available for FREE for guests ages 4–6 with the purchase of one of these new pass tiers—Honu, Nai’a or Manō. The popular Keiki Pass for guests ages 7–12 is also available for purchase at the special keiki price. Admission for children under age 3 remains free, with no pass required.

All pass levels offer unlimited park admission and access to special park events, with the Naiʻa or Manō tiers additionally including free parking, discounted admission for friends, and savings on shopping, food and photos! At the apex of offerings, the Manō tier is swimming with even more savings, including packages to the park’s Aloha Kai Lūʻau, signaure birthday parties, and engaging encounters with marine life.

Passes are on sale now. The ʻOpihi Pass grants kids ages 4–6 free park admission through December 31, 2024 when purchased with a Honu, Nai’a or Manō Pass by June 30, 2024. Passes must be processed at the park by June 30 to be valid.

RIYADH — WhiteWater is delighted to announce their collaboration with Aquarabia Qiddiya City, a groundbreaking water theme park in Saudi Arabia, to bring a unique aquatic experience to life. WhiteWater will design and deliver 22 exhilarating rides and attractions including some record-breaking and signature experiences.

Slide enthusiasts will enjoy the heart pumping rides while the families get to experience some of their favorite slides and kids’ activities with a twist. One of the standout areas of the park for the entire family to play together, features a FusionFortress 18. This structure is known for its ground-level interactives so children with limited mobility can still explore and engage with the toys spraying their siblings with jets, turning wheels to set off various reactions on the structure, and, most importantly, sharing in the fun. The first play structure of this scale in the world, the FusionFortress 18 boasts a staggering 181 interactive play features, 11 diverse water slides, two tipping buckets, and a water geyser spraying nearly 30 meters (100 feet) into the air. Covered in hand-carved desert animals and vibrant geometric patterns to engage the imagination, the FusionFortress 18 is an accessible attraction that is designed to create hours of entertainment without long wait times.

The park will feature many attractions not yet seen before in the Middle East, including a Mat Blaster water slide where guests will ride headfirst on a series of gravity-defying blasts and an AquaLoop + Flatline Loop Fusion, merging two of the world’s most heart pumping drop slides together into one slidepath. Both attractions will be in the center of the park at the iconic Camel Rock.

Mike Rigby, GM & RVP, Middle East at WhiteWater, said, “We are deeply honored to be a partner of the groundbreaking Aquarabia Qiddiya City and eager to bring our innovative water slides, attractions, and experiences to this remarkable destination in Saudi Arabia.”

Some dry fun was also accounted for to ensure every visitor at the water theme park is enjoying their time, setting a new standard in the industry:

• Hyper Viper (also known as ‘Shoot the Chute’): guests will have the high-thrill experience of a 15-meter drop before creating the industry’s biggest splash, soaking both riders and enthusiastic spectators. Unseen before now, WhiteWater’s Water Rides team has introduced unique lighting and spray features, enhancing the traditional Shoot the Chute experience.
• Wadi Tahaddi (also known as ‘Spinning Rapids’): groups of six embark on a circular raft, delivering a heart-pounding adventure suitable for the entire family. As riders spiral down the over 600-meter-long ride, they experience intense centrifugal forces across a ride path of river trough elements combined with water slide fiberglass sections.

Kelly Sall, General Manager of Water Rides at WhiteWater, states, “At WhiteWater, our commitment to create water rides that entertain diverse audiences is integral to our mission. We believe that these attractions should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or attire. Our Shoot the Chute and Spinning Rapids Ride exemplify this commitment, offering unforgettable experiences that bring people together, fostering unity and fun for all who visit this Water Theme Park.”

Aquarabia is also set to make waves, quite literally, with the first inland surf pool in Saudi Arabia. Powered by Endless Surf technology, the pool will deliver the most authentic surf experience outside of the ocean with its limitless wave customization potential and surf zones to accommodate surfers of all skill levels. The revolutionary technology allows waves to be produced every 8-16+ seconds with custom waves delivered to match the abilities of those in the pool using Endless Surf’s proprietary Swell Studio software. This flexibility ensures that multiple surfers can enjoy the pool simultaneously, accommodating beginners near the Shore and advanced surfers testing new tricks on a variety of waves peeling from the Peak—together in one session.

“Surfing is a rapidly expanding global sport, and we’re excited to introduce it to the people of Saudi,” commented Paul Chutter, President of Endless Surf. “Our state-of-the-art technology is poised to empower surfers to push the boundaries of their skills, offering a showcase for spectators as they watch riders conquer waves from the proximity of the pool’s shoreline. This development is expected to substantially enhance Qiddiya’s capacity to grow the sport of surfing, while hosting surf competitions in the future, solidifying their position as industry trailblazers in this space.”

WhiteWater is revolutionizing the global attractions landscape, redefining the very essence of “iconic.” WhiteWater’s unmatched scale, design prowess, and extensive expertise position it uniquely to bring to life the world’s most extensive and ambitious projects, as demonstrated by this venture. With approximately 1,692 meters of slide path already installed within the water theme park, anticipation steadily mounts as the world eagerly awaits the grand unveiling of this unique water theme park to the world.

DUBAI, U.A.E. — Embed, the ultimate cloud-based, cashless solutions provider for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries proved its position as the most reliable FEC tech partner at the SEA Expo 2024 from 7 to 9 May at the Riyadh International Convention Center.

“After the successful DEAL in Dubai and Amusement Expo International in Las Vegas, we’re happy to be back in the KSA for SEA Expo!” says Renee Welsh, CEO at Embed. “Exciting developments around the entertainment sector are happening in the MENA region, and there’s no other place for Embed to be in right now to help transition FECs from manual to cashless operations. We are most opportune to be in a position to prove our reliability as a business partner.”

“This is why we fronted our Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions like the award-winning Mobile Wallet virtual game card and STATS business intelligence dashboard at the show. These tech solutions are our response to the growing consumer demand for safer and faster transactions,” says Saeed Abdillahi, EMEA Regional Sales Manager.

With the Mobile Wallet guaranteeing a 5x increase in average reload value versus cash or credit card, and STATS giving near real-time business visibility to operators through game performance, revenue insights, and other data for key decision-making, these SaaS solutions were well-received by SEA Expo. 

“FEC operators aren’t just looking for solutions to boost profitability anymore,” explains Sara Paz, CMO at Embed. “No matter how cutting-edge a piece of tech is, if your tech partner behind it is constantly down, guests will still walk out the door and you lose revenue. This is why we partner with the most trusted tech partners in the industry, like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Apple, and Google. If the biggest global brands like NASA, Disney+, Facebook, NFL, and more trust AWS with their data centres, then our customers can rest assured that their FEC data is in the most reliable hands.”

Gardaland unveiled the name of the new and legendary attraction for families, thrill-seekers and daredevils of all ages, with a unique event that involved the numerous guests present at the Park in an unforgettable experience, where they became an integral part and protagonists of the occasion.

Visitors were enlisted by staff members at the entrance gates, where they received a mysterious numbered sphere containing a single clue: “at the howl of the wolf, you will reveal the name of the new attraction”.

And so it was with these brief but clear indications that, at 12 noon, at the howl of the wolf – the key figure of the new and adventurous attraction – the many visitors and families, intrigued by the unusual summons, gathered in Gardaland’s central square.

Here, after picking up their mystery object and taking their seats, amidst amazement and wonder, and at the end of an exciting group countdown, the guests raised their many puzzle pieces to the sky, thus composing the name of this year’s new attraction, which had remained secret until now.

The name Wolf Legend, picked up by a drone that flew over the area, was immediately projected across all the screens in the Park, leaving the guests stunned. The news was immediately spread by those present to their friends and family, creating a wave of enthusiasm for the opening of the new Drop and Twist Tower as the word quickly spread among the Park’s avenues.

Wolf Legend promises to be an attraction that will amaze young and old daredevils alike. Following a gripping story, they will have to perform a daring ritual with courage and determination: plunge into the jaws of the giant stone wolf and free him from the curse that hangs over him.

Once again, Gardaland managed to amaze the guests in attendance, who were the undisputed protagonists of this event, continuing in its commitment to providing unique and engaging experiences while waiting for the inauguration next June.

Gardaland reconfirms itself once again for the current season as a destination of excellence in the panorama of amusement parks in Italy and abroad.

ITASCA, lll. — Family Entertainment Group (“FEG”), the industry leader in game room and entertainment center operations, design, development, and consultation has named Sajju Elakkatt its Vice President of Finance.

Elakkatt has worked with several large organizations including Sears Holding Group and Walgreens Boots Alliance as well as a tech start-up. He has worked with multiple teams in areas ranging from budgeting and forecasting, financial modeling, sales and marketing support and operational financial analysis.

In this newly created role, Elakkatt will focus on financial planning and analysis for FEG as the company continues its aggressive growth trajectory. “We are excited to have Sajjuu on our team,” said Jim Connolly, Chief Financial Officer of FEG. “Adding his experience and leadership , he will play a key role in our financial strategic planning.”

Signaling and indicator lights, switches, and buttons – elements that hardly any machine can do without. The new JW Winco cabinet U-handle EN 6284 integrates all these functions into a single, compact element.

The new U-handle is designed to enhance the operation of systems and machines. It features an integrated button and a large, colored, backlit area on the back of the handle. These elements can be used individually or in combination, providing a versatile tool for system control and process monitoring.

The EN 6284 prioritizes safety in its design. The two-channel switch element, available in different contact configurations, enhances operational safety. It can handle a wide range of applications with DC and AC voltages from 24 to 240 volts and currents of up to 3 amperes, ensuring compatibility with various systems and machines.

The light element on the back of the handle comprises a form-fitting diffusor made of robust polycarbonate that is tightly attached with an IP 67 protection rating. It homogenously diffuses the light produced by the interior LED module in a variety of colors and brightness levels depending on the activation of the 24-volt RGB matrix. This transforms the handle into a visible status indicator even from the side or from a distance – ideal for large systems operating with small crews. Depending on how it is wired, the light signal can indicate problems in the process, signal regular operation, or show that the system is ready to be opened. The colors and functions can be allocated individually. The extensive documentation and the video tutorial on the JW Winco website offer several possibilities.