Pico Play recreates The Wizard of Oz for Warner Bros Movie World
Pico Play, in collaboration with Warner Bros Themed Entertainment and Village Roadshow, is recreating ‘The Wizard of Oz’ as a themed area at Warner Bros Movie World. This marks the first time the classic 1939 film will be brought to life in a theme park setting. The development is taking place at Pico Play’s fabrication plant in Johor, Malaysia, where 95 artists and engineers are working on the project, which includes designing two new roller coasters and immersive experiences that pay homage to the movie’s iconic scenes and characters.
Darren McLean, executive director of Pico Play, emphasises the project’s focus on storytelling and immersive visitor experiences, far beyond the rides themselves. The thematic design will feature a range of colours mirroring the film’s pioneering use of colour, from sepia tones in Kansas to the vibrant land of Oz. Notably, the new area will use innovative materials like glass-reinforced concrete to meet design and safety standards.
The redevelopment is revitalising the retired Arkham Asylum area and is one of the largest investments in Warner Bros Movie World’s history. Bikash Randhawa of Village Roadshow Theme Parks highlights the collaboration’s synergy and shared dedication to delivering top-tier experiences.
With the first shipments already raising anticipation, the project is set to be completed by late 2024. Pico Play will oversee the installation and testing of all components, including sound and visuals.
This article is an excerpt of an interview published in blooloop on 25 March 2024.