Harry Potter Theme Park
Am I the only one who thinks it is surprising that Universal Studios Orlando is opening an entire theme park centered around Harry Potter? I can certainly understand a ride or even maybe a section of a theme park, but a whole park for it? They’re calling it a theme park within a theme park. I have to say I didn’t think it could draw that many people. First of all, you have a whole population of people who would not even consider going because of religious conflicts. I know plenty of families who would not allow their children to read the books or watch the movies.
Second, isn’t Harry Porter mainly for younger age children? Is a 9 to 16 year old target audience enough to support a whole park? Of course there are older kids, even adults who would be interested in going to a Harry Potter theme park (named “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter”), but I am surprised that there is a large enough market for it. And I do believe Universal did their market research. I’m sure they don’t just act on projects of this magnitude without feeling fairly confident that they will not only be able to make money, but continue doing if for years and years to come. They wouldn’t put this many millions of dollars into this, only to tear it down and build something else in a few years. Apparently, they think Harry Potter will be hot for a very long time. Boy J.K. Rowling must be richer than rich.
Well, in any event, the park is scheduled to open next summer. It’s part of Islands of Adventure. Maybe I’m totally clueless as to the size of the Harry Potter fanbase. I mean, I know it’s large, but I must be really missing something for me to be so surprised at the whole idea.