MinaLima / News / Theme Park
“Harry Potter” fans know the design team MinaLima as the force behind all the wonderful designs and props in the “Harry Potter” films. For the newly opened Diagon Alley extension of the Orlando theme park, Universal used MinaLima to help bring the park to life. In a new interview, the MinaLima team, Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, speak about their work on Diagon Alley.
This morning, Universal Orlando Resort officially opened the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Confetti, fireworks, and a red carpet lined with dozens of cheering Diagon Alley team members welcomed thousands of excited guests as they entered the all-new spectacularly themed land for the very first time.
This is how the MuggleNet staff reacts when we get excited about Diagon Alley opening up (Hint: We’re just as nerdy as you are).
As many of you may or may not know, the Jaws ride at Universal Studios Orlando was closed in 2012 to make room for the Wizarding World Diagon Alley/London expansion. Now comes word that the creative team at Universal Studios has paid homage to the classic ride, which opened in 1990, by placing Jaws Easter eggs throughout Diagon Alley and London.
Just moments ago, Universal Orlando announced via their blog that even though Diagon Alley will not actually open until July 8 as indicated at the Diagon Alley preview event, guests at the park were treated to an early admission as part of a “soft open.” Learn more here!
The creative team at Universal Studios recently revealed some interesting new details on the technology used at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Some exciting new technology has been put to use to make the Diagon Alley expansion even more amazing and magical than its Hogsmeade Village counterpart!
We’ve been posting our own Diagon Alley reports all week, but it looks like there’s even more to look forward to for fans itching to get a look inside Diagon Alley! NBC will be airing a special about the creation of the expansion next week, including a behind-the-scenes look at design and construction of the park!
Over the last year I’ve eaten a few times at the Hog’s Head in Hogsmeade. The food is good yet traditional, and I would say that holds true for the fare at the Leaky Cauldron. I love that Universal is providing visitors with two mostly completely different menus, new drinks, new desserts, the works. It makes both restaurants an absolute MUST for visitors. Just save room for the Butterbeer soft serve.
Voice of the Sorting Hat
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15-year-old Tom Riddle (HBP)
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