Centre for Audiovisual Research, Royal Holloway, University of London, June 18–20, 2026
A conference for exploring and experiencing theme park music and sound.
With maps in hand, children secured in strollers, and bags strapped to waists, guests at amusement parks are prepared to explore the themed lands that transport them to faraway and fantastical places. The spectacular attractions, shows, rides, and experiences of these parks provide new senses of scope and space, but they also encourage a form of sonic cartography with sounds and music defining and grounding their numerous themed areas.
This conference offers research talks and demonstrations about the music and sound of theme parks and other themed spaces, experiences, and explorations.
The conference includes keynote addresses by Olivia Zorab, composer for theme parks including numerous attractions and areas in Lost Kingdom at Paultons Park, and Gregory Camp, Senior Lecturer at the University of Auckland and author of Music in the Disney Theme Parks, published by Routledge.
Organizers:
- William Ayers, University of Central Florida
- Carissa Baker, University of Central Florida
- Tim Summers, Royal Holloway University of London
Sponsors: