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‘Star Trek: Red Alert’ is one of the spotlight attractions featured at the inaugural Fan Fest Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Universal Studios Hollywood has taken its themed celebrations to a new level with the introduction of Fan Fest Nights. This event builds upon the success of Halloween Horror Nights by bringing to life beloved pop culture icons such as Star Trek, Dungeons and Dragons, and Back to the Future in a fresh, immersive way.
Set to commence on Friday, April 25, 2025, Fan Fest Nights will occur on select evenings until Sunday, May 18, 2025. Tickets are now available. Leading up to this first-time event, I had the opportunity to preview two key attractions, starting with Star Trek: Red Alert.
According to Stephen Siercks, Senior Director of Entertainment Production at Universal Studios Hollywood, “Every element in this attraction draws inspiration from the original sets and archival materials provided by Paramount. Our collaboration with the team behind these early franchise developments has allowed us to create something truly authentic and uniquely Universal.” He emphasized that the scale and narrative elements of the attraction play a vital role in its overall design, enhancing the guest experience.
Fan Fest Nights Brings Star Trek Enthusiasm to Life in ‘Red Alert’
Star Trek: Red Alert is a walkthrough experience crafted over two years, delivering an exceptional level of detail that transports visitors from the famed bridge of the Enterprise-D to iconic locations within the franchise. Siercks noted, “We didn’t just recreate the doors; we included the signature sound effects directly from the original series. This recreation is vital, as it connects guests to the original series’ legacy.”
The experience takes place in a venue that previously housed The Walking Dead attraction. Guests embark on an adventure that begins with a shuttlecraft ride, introduced through a pre-show video setting the stage for a special tour of the Starfleet Museum, featuring the iconic Enterprise-D ship.
As the shuttlecraft flies through a video-aided backdrop of space, the immersion intensifies. Guests find themselves aboard the Enterprise-D, where unexpected events unfold, including a mysterious entity breaching their defenses. The narrative culminates in a red alert being declared, leading to a moment of first contact that resonates deeply with die-hard Star Trek fans.
Experience the action on the Enterprise-D in ‘Star Trek: Red Alert.’
Simon Thompson
‘Dungeons and Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep’ Offers an Immersive Adventure
Continuing our exploration of Fan Fest Nights, the next attraction is Dungeons and Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep on the Lower Lot, located in the same space that has hosted previous Halloween Horror Nights experiences.
Siercks shared that the attraction aims to immerse fans in the gameplay experience itself. Upon entering, guests are surrounded by gaming memorabilia, setting the atmosphere for a unique adventure. A Dungeon Master’s voice introduces players to their roles and objectives, culminating in an entrance into the Curious Past Shop, further deepening the immersion.
The adventure introduces characters Throckary and Evalina, who assist guests in their quest to retrieve the Dragon Staff. This character-led approach allows for enhanced interactivity throughout the approximately ten to twelve-minute journey, as guests engage with the story.
As players navigate through various environments—including an abandoned marketplace where they must solve the Rune Rumble puzzle—dynamic interactions occur, such as a dragon flying overhead and causing chaos. These moments heighten the thrill of the adventure while participants seek a secret exit to progress.
The quest culminates in a face-off with Xanathar, the Beholder character renowned in the game. Siercks highlighted the meticulous craftsmanship achieved in collaboration with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, bringing Xanathar to life for guests in a way unlike any previous representation.
Marvel at the intricate design in ‘Dungeons and Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep.’
Universal Studios Hollywood
The experiences don’t end with Star Trek and Dungeons and Dragons. Fans can also immerse themselves in a nostalgic trip with Back to the Future’s Destination Hill Valley, which replicates key moments from the film in the park’s backlot. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will also feature interactive experiences, light shows, and character meet and greets. Other engaging features include activities themed around One Piece and Jujutsu Kaisen.
“Our aim with Fan Fest Nights has been to create an experience grounded in authenticity and fan engagement,” Siercks remarked. “We draw inspiration from successful events like Halloween Horror Nights to deliver immersive storytelling through every aspect of the event.”
Source
www.forbes.com