The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has signed a contract with TEA (formerly Themed Entertainment Association) to produce the “What’s New Theater” session November 15 at the IAAPA Attractions Expo 2006 Annual Conference and Trade Show in Atlanta.

“We are very excited about this opportunity to support IAAPA and raise awareness of TEA and its members,” said TEA International Board President Craig Hanna, Thinkwell Design & Production. “It is a unique event that showcases all that is new in the industry and on the IAAPA show floor and will help propel attendees to the grand opening of the Expo with new ideas and expectations.”

Traditionally, the “What’s New Theater” is the largest session at the industry trade show, and is seen as the “kick-off” for the conference and trade show opening.

“TEA will bring its storytelling, experience design, and themed entertainment skills and expertise to bear on this session,” Hanna said. “The entire Board is enthusiastically behind this new effort, and we hope to give IAAPA and attendees a great show!”

“We asked the TEA to produce the What’s New Theater session for us because they can leverage the creative talent of their membership and tell IAAPA’s story about all the latest developments in our industry,” said IAAPA President and CEO Charlie Bray. “Working together on this key event will boost the opening day at IAAPA’s Attractions Expo and will help ensure an active and productive trade show floor in Atlanta. It will be an event you just can’t miss!”

Steve Ryan at ShoConcepts Inc. has been contracted to produce and provide creative direction and staffing for the convention session. “Steve at ShoConcepts was chosen to spearhead this production for TEA and IAAPA because of his excellent work in producing the Thea Awards Gala for the past three years,” said Hanna. “He quickly understands the objectives of events and leverages creative talent to best tell the story and entertain and engage the guests.”