Keywords

lucha libre, theme parks, culture

Abstract

Lucha libre, also known as Mexican wrestling, is a cultural phenomenon whose history dates to 1933. Every wrestling match pits flamboyantly costumed and masked wrestlers (luchadores), classified as either the good guys (técnicos) or the bad guys (rudos), against each other in choreographed and dramatized battles. Although lucha libre is often seen as campy or “low brow” due to its exaggerated, theatrical style, this perception overlooks the deeper cultural significance and narrative potential inherent in the form. This thesis will explore the cultural evolution of lucha libre as a highly interactive themed ride attraction. By integrating guest participation through custom lucha libre mask creation, this ride merges the vibrant culture of masked wrestling with innovative ride technology. Guests will create their own lucha libre masks before the ride, and these masks will be projected onto their faces during key moments of the experience, making each guest a part of the action. This research examines how interactive storytelling, cultural engagement and ride technology can combine to craft a deeply immersive and personal themed ride experience.

Completion Date

2026

Semester

Spring

Committee Chair

Peter Weishar

Degree

Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)

College

College of Arts and Humanities

Department

Theatre

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Identifier

DP0053153

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