Stephen Erin Dinehart IV presented original research at the Themed Entertainment Association Academic Symposium (TEAAS), held in conjunction with IAAPA Expo — the world’s largest gathering of attractions industry professionals.
The presentation introduced Fantasy-Reality Tension Maps, a new analytical framework for understanding how themed entertainment experiences negotiate the threshold between immersive fictional worlds and the physical reality of the guest. The research draws on case studies from theme parks, immersive attractions, and branded experiences — including projects from Wonderfilled’s own portfolio.
Key findings:
- Five distinct tension zones in themed environments, from full immersion to deliberate break-frame moments
- A methodology for mapping audience emotional calibration across the experience arc
- Design recommendations for experiences that maintain narrative integrity while accommodating operational realities
The Fantasy-Reality Tension Map framework builds on Dinehart’s earlier work in narrative experience design and his THEA Award-recognized contributions to themed entertainment. A peer-reviewed version of the research is in preparation for academic publication.
TEAAS presentations are archived and available to Themed Entertainment Association members.