The Behind-the-Scenes Design Process of Universal Studios' Mummy Roller Coaster

Universal Studios is a global leader in theme park attractions, providing thrilling and immersive experiences for millions of visitors worldwide. One of the most popular elements in these theme parks is roller coasters, such as The Mummy at Orlando's Universal Islands of Adventure. This article delves into the design process that culminated in the creation of this iconic roller coaster, clarifying the roles and contributions of various companies and teams involved in its development.

Understanding the Design Process

It is a common misconception that companies like Premier Rides, which specialize in manufacturing roller coaster systems, are the sole designers of rides like The Mummy. This notion is akin to attributing the entire design and creation of an iPhone to Qualcomm, despite the significant contributions of other key teams and departments. Similarly, the design and development of Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom are often credited to Vekoma, when it is Walt Disney Imagineering that ultimately oversees and leads the design process for all Disney properties.

The Role of Universal Creative

Universal Creative (UC) plays a crucial role in the design and realization of all rides within Universal Studios parks. UC specializes in creating immersive and theme-based attractions that tie directly into the park's overall fictional universe. This department works closely with other teams, including production and design specialists, to ensure that the final product delivers the desired experience.

Collaboration and Contracting

The design process for The Mummy roller coaster is a prime example of the collaboration and contracting process typical in the theme park industry. UC oversees the overall creative direction, but when it comes to the actual construction of the roller coaster, they often contract out to specialized firms such as Premier Rides for the track, control systems, and mechanical components. However, the entire project involves numerous other elements that go beyond just the physical track and coaster.

For instance, the storyboarding, the integration of special effects, and the creation of immersive environments all fall under the purview of UC. These elements are combined with the technical aspects provided by companies like Premier Rides to create a seamless and thrilling ride experience. This collaboration ensures that the final product is not only technically sound but also aligns with the overarching theme and aesthetic of the park.

The Design Lead: Universal Studios' Role

Universal Studios is the overarching owner and operator of the parks but does not typically handle the execution of physical attractions in-house. Instead, they engage with external experts to ensure that each ride meets their high standards and theme requirements. In the case of The Mummy roller coaster, UC is directly responsible for the design process, working closely with Premier Rides and other contractors to bring the project to life.

The design process for complex attractions like The Mummy involves several stages, from initial concept to final construction. UC starts by defining the overall theme and objectives for the ride. This is followed by extensive research and development, including storyboarding, concept art, and engineering studies to ensure that the ride is both thrilling and safe.

Conclusion

The Mummy roller coaster at Universal Studios is a testament to the collaborative efforts of various teams and companies. While Premier Rides plays a vital role in providing the necessary technical components, Universal Creative is the driving force behind the design and overall experience. Understanding this process can provide insight into how other high-profile theme park attractions are created, and emphasizes the importance of both technical expertise and narrative storytelling in the theme park industry.

Keywords: Universal Studios, Mummy roller coaster, design process