Bob the Builder makes Dubai debut
Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine and Barney are among children’s entertainment characters to feature at a new attraction in Dubai.
UK-based HIT Entertainment, one of the world’s leading independent children’s entertainment producers and rights owners, has forged a strategic alliance to develop family entertainment projects in Global Village at DUBAILAND, a three billion sq ft development, claimed to be the world’s biggest tourism, leisure and entertainment destination.
The world’s first HIT Entertainment ‘Little Big Club’ will be created. The 25,000 sq ft project is set to open its doors in the last quarter of 2008.
It will offer young children and their families a secure and interactive experience designed around popular characters Barney, Pingu, Bob the Builder and Thomas & Friends with themed rides and indoor and outdoor play-centres.
The ‘Little Big Club’ will also feature party and educational spaces and a theatre presenting live shows as well as screening the most popular television shows produced by HIT Entertainment as well as first-run productions.
Other plans include live shows, a mix of music and entertainment, themed restaurants and shops.
UK-based theme park designers RMA will design the park layout, rides and project-manage all architectural, scenic and technical aspects of the club.
RMA’s portfolio includes Cadbury’s Story, the Jorvik in York, Drusilla’s Park in East Sussex and a new Thomas Land in the UK, set to open at Drayton Manor Park next month.
HIT’s CEO Bruce Steinberg said: “Barney, Pingu, Bob the Builder and Thomas & Friends are brands that are loved by children and trusted by parents. With the launch of our new ‘Little Big Club’, children and families will be able to experience their favourite brands in a new and unique way.
“This project represents an important strategic direction for the company and ushers in a new era for our live events and attractions business.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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