The annual Halloween event at Kings Dominion transforms the amusement park into a collection of themed haunted mazes, scare zones, and live entertainment experiences. This seasonal offering provides a distinctly different atmosphere compared to the park’s regular operating schedule, attracting a specific audience seeking thrills and frights.
The event is important for driving attendance during the off-season, extending the park’s revenue stream beyond the typical summer months. It offers opportunities for creative expression in set design, costuming, and performance, while providing temporary employment within the local community. Over time, the event has evolved, incorporating new themes, technologies, and interactive elements to enhance the guest experience.
The following sections will explore the specific attractions offered, the target demographic, and the event’s overall impact on the surrounding area.
1. Nighttime Transformation
The “Nighttime Transformation” at Kings Dominion’s Halloween Haunt is a crucial element, distinguishing the event from the park’s typical daytime operations. It involves a complete overhaul of the park’s ambiance and environment to create a distinctly immersive and terrifying experience for guests.
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Atmospheric Changes
This facet encompasses the use of strategic lighting, fog effects, and soundscapes to alter the park’s visual and auditory environment. The familiar daytime setting is replaced with darkened pathways, eerie glows, and unsettling noises, contributing significantly to the overall haunted atmosphere. For example, areas once brightly lit become shrouded in shadow, enhancing the fear factor of lurking scare actors.
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Thematic Overlay
The park’s pre-existing infrastructure is re-themed to align with the Halloween Haunt’s specific narrative. This includes decorating buildings, pathways, and landscaping with ghoulish props, cobwebs, and thematic elements relevant to the various haunted attractions. This overlay transforms recognizable park features into integral parts of the horror experience.
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Scare Actor Integration
The effectiveness of the “Nighttime Transformation” hinges on the integration of scare actors within the altered environment. These performers utilize the darkness and transformed spaces to create unexpected and startling encounters with guests. Well-placed scare actors emerging from the shadows capitalize on the changed atmosphere to maximize their impact.
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Operational Adjustments
The transformation extends beyond purely aesthetic changes to include operational adjustments. Some areas of the park may be closed off or re-routed to create specific pathways for haunted mazes or scare zones. Safety protocols are also adjusted to ensure guest safety in the darkened environment, balancing the need for scares with responsible park operation.
The “Nighttime Transformation” is, therefore, a holistic process that involves physical changes to the park, integration of performers, and operational adjustments. This elaborate process is essential for creating the immersive and terrifying experience expected at Halloween Haunt, drawing attendees seeking unique seasonal entertainment.
2. Haunted Mazes
Haunted mazes constitute a core component of Kings Dominion’s Halloween Haunt, representing a significant draw for attendees seeking immersive and interactive horror experiences. Their design and execution are critical in defining the overall success and reputation of the seasonal event.
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Thematic Design and Narrative
Each haunted maze at Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion typically features a distinct theme, storyline, and set of characters. This thematic consistency enhances immersion, creating a cohesive and believable environment for guests to navigate. For example, a maze themed around a haunted asylum might incorporate unsettling medical equipment, disheveled patient rooms, and actors portraying deranged inmates, contributing to a psychologically disturbing experience. The effectiveness of the maze is often judged on the coherence and originality of its thematic narrative.
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Environmental Immersion and Special Effects
The success of a haunted maze relies heavily on the effective use of environmental elements and special effects. This includes detailed set design, strategic lighting, fog effects, and carefully crafted soundscapes. These elements work in concert to heighten the senses and create a palpable sense of unease. Disorienting corridors, claustrophobic spaces, and sudden bursts of air or water can further amplify the experience, blurring the line between reality and illusion within the maze.
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Actor Performance and Interaction
The presence and performance of live actors within the haunted mazes are essential to delivering effective scares. Actors are tasked with embodying the roles of menacing characters, utilizing movement, vocalizations, and direct interaction to create personalized and unsettling encounters with guests. The quality of the acting, the timing of scares, and the actors’ ability to improvise and adapt to individual reactions contribute significantly to the overall impact of the maze experience.
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Flow and Pacing
The layout and pacing of a haunted maze are critical factors in maintaining a consistent level of tension and engagement. The maze should present a balanced combination of tight corridors, open spaces, and unexpected turns, creating a sense of disorientation and vulnerability. The frequency and intensity of scares should be carefully calibrated to avoid desensitization, ensuring that each encounter retains its impact. Ultimately, the goal is to create a sustained and suspenseful experience from beginning to end.
The interconnectedness of these design elements, environmental immersion, actor performance, and flow determines the quality and memorability of the haunted mazes at Kings Dominion’s Halloween Haunt. These mazes, therefore, represent not merely walkthrough attractions but intricately crafted performance spaces designed to elicit a range of emotional responses from participants, solidifying their status as a crucial part of the overall haunt experience.
3. Scare Zones
Scare zones within Kings Dominion’s Halloween Haunt serve as crucial transitional spaces, contributing significantly to the immersive horror environment established throughout the park. Unlike the structured narratives and confined spaces of haunted mazes, scare zones offer open-air encounters with roaming characters and thematic displays designed to generate spontaneous fear and enhance the overall atmosphere. The success of these zones directly impacts the perceived value and enjoyment of the entire Halloween Haunt experience. For example, a well-designed scare zone near the park entrance sets an immediate tone of dread and anticipation, priming guests for the more elaborate attractions to follow. Conversely, a poorly executed zone can detract from the immersive quality, diminishing the overall impact of the event.
The design of these zones typically involves a combination of atmospheric effects, detailed set pieces, and costumed performers. Lighting, fog, and sound effects are carefully orchestrated to create a sense of unease and suspense. Thematic elements, such as dilapidated buildings or overgrown graveyards, further enhance the immersive quality. Crucially, the performers inhabiting these zones are trained to interact with guests in character, utilizing movement, vocalizations, and props to deliver unexpected scares. Consider the practical application of a “Zombie Wasteland” scare zone, where actors portraying infected individuals lurch through the fog, interacting with guests while maintaining the established thematic narrative. The effective integration of these elements allows scare zones to transform ordinary walkways into zones of palpable fear.
Ultimately, the strategic placement and execution of scare zones are paramount to the success of Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion. They effectively bridge the gaps between attractions, maintaining a continuous sense of dread and suspense throughout the park. These zones present unique operational challenges regarding crowd control and safety, yet their contribution to the overall immersive experience makes them an indispensable element of the event, reinforcing its reputation as a premier Halloween destination.
4. Live Shows
Live shows at Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion serve as a critical component, providing structured entertainment interludes amidst the unstructured frights of mazes and scare zones. These performances offer a change of pace, allowing guests to briefly disengage from the pervasive atmosphere of fear while still remaining within the overall Halloween Haunt experience. The quality and thematic relevance of these shows significantly impact the perceived value and duration of guest engagement. The presence of live shows directly affects crowd management, providing dedicated areas for audience congregation and mitigating congestion within the park’s walkways and queue lines. A compelling live show can act as a gravitational point, drawing crowds away from heavily trafficked areas and improving the overall flow of guests throughout the park.
Content and thematic alignment are vital considerations. Live shows typically incorporate elements of horror, comedy, or musical performance, aligning with the Halloween theme and catering to a diverse audience. For example, a magic show incorporating illusions and macabre humor provides an alternative to the intense scares of the haunted mazes. A high-energy musical performance with costumed performers and thematic set design contributes to the festival atmosphere of the event. Careful consideration is given to show times and locations, minimizing noise bleed into scare zones and maximizing accessibility for guests throughout the evening. Operational logistics, including stage setup, performer coordination, and technical requirements, demand significant planning and execution to ensure seamless performance and minimize disruptions to park operations. The choice of musical tracks and audio levels should also contribute to atmosphere rather than distract.
Ultimately, the strategic integration of live shows enhances the Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion experience. These performances offer a respite from the scares, provide alternative entertainment options, and contribute to the management of crowds within the park. Their success relies on thematic relevance, high-quality performance, and careful operational planning. Live entertainment remains an integral element of creating a holistic and engaging Halloween event. Moreover, this is where Kings Dominion can experiment with new technology that attracts different crowds.
5. Seasonal employment
Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion relies heavily on seasonal employment to execute its complex operations. The event’s temporary nature necessitates a significant influx of personnel to staff various roles, from scare actors and makeup artists to ride operators and security personnel. The scale of seasonal hiring directly correlates with the scope and intensity of the Halloween Haunt, with larger and more elaborate events demanding a greater workforce. The availability of local labor pools and the park’s ability to attract qualified candidates are critical factors in determining the overall success of the event. For example, if the park struggles to recruit sufficient scare actors, the intended level of fright and immersion within haunted mazes and scare zones will be compromised. Conversely, a successful recruitment strategy can ensure that all roles are adequately staffed, contributing to a seamless and engaging guest experience.
Beyond direct operational roles, seasonal employment extends to support functions such as concessions, merchandise sales, and park services. These positions are essential for maintaining the overall functionality of the park during the Halloween Haunt. The training and management of seasonal employees represent a significant undertaking for Kings Dominion. Effective onboarding programs are necessary to ensure that new hires are adequately prepared for their roles and understand the park’s safety protocols and guest service standards. Performance management systems are also critical for monitoring employee performance and addressing any issues that may arise. The ability to effectively manage a large and diverse seasonal workforce directly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of the Halloween Haunt. Specifically, seasonal employment provides workforce development in local communities. It provides youth work experience, while boosting the local economies.
In conclusion, seasonal employment is an indispensable element of Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion. It enables the park to staff the event effectively, providing the necessary personnel to deliver a high-quality and immersive experience for guests. Challenges associated with recruitment, training, and management require strategic planning and execution. Recognizing the integral role of seasonal employees is essential for ensuring the continued success and growth of the Halloween Haunt. Without it, a main piece of the show is lost.
6. Themed experiences
Themed experiences form the foundational architecture of Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion, influencing guest engagement, satisfaction, and overall event success. These curated environments leverage narrative, sensory details, and interactive elements to transport attendees into immersive worlds of horror and fantasy.
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Haunted Maze Narratives
Each haunted maze within Halloween Haunt operates as a self-contained, themed experience. These mazes incorporate specific narratives, character archetypes, and environmental designs to create distinct and engaging walkthroughs. For example, a “Zombie Apocalypse” maze might feature decaying urban environments, infected inhabitants, and objectives requiring participant interaction, thus deepening the thematic immersion.
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Scare Zone Atmospherics
Scare zones represent open-air, themed environments designed to create spontaneous and pervasive frights. The success of scare zones hinges on the integration of lighting, sound, fog, and actor performances. Themed examples include a “Medieval Torture” zone, employing period-accurate set pieces, costuming, and implements to evoke a sense of dread and historical horror, thereby amplifying the thematic impact.
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Live Entertainment Integration
Live shows within Halloween Haunt often align with overall event themes or showcase specific sub-themes, enhancing the immersive experience through performance. Themed concerts or theatrical productions incorporating horror elements can provide a structured narrative break amidst the unstructured frights. For instance, a circus-themed sideshow featuring macabre acts reinforces the unsettling atmosphere of the event as a whole.
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Food and Beverage Theming
Themed food and beverage offerings contribute to the overall immersive experience by extending the event’s thematic elements beyond traditional attractions. Halloween-themed snacks, desserts, and beverages, often presented with creative and unsettling names and presentations, provide a sensory reinforcement of the event’s core themes. Examples include “spider web” cotton candy or “blood bag” cocktails, enhancing the immersive sensory experience. This attention to thematic detail is crucial for reinforcing the sense of immersion throughout the park.
These facets of themed experiences collectively define the unique character of Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion, distinguishing it from generic Halloween events. The deliberate application of narrative, sensory detail, and interactive elements creates an immersive environment that significantly contributes to the event’s overall appeal and memorability, impacting both repeat visitation and word-of-mouth promotion.
7. Target demographics
Understanding the target demographics of Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion is crucial for tailoring marketing strategies, optimizing event content, and maximizing attendance. The event’s appeal is not universal, requiring focused efforts to attract specific segments of the population most likely to engage with its offerings.
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Young Adults (18-24)
This demographic typically seeks thrill-seeking experiences and social opportunities. Halloween Haunt’s intense scares, social atmosphere, and nighttime setting are attractive to this group. Marketing efforts often emphasize the event as a social gathering point, featuring shareable photo opportunities and highlighting the thrill of navigating haunted attractions with friends. This group is most likely to record their experience on social media.
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Horror Enthusiasts (All Ages)
Individuals with a pre-existing interest in horror, regardless of age, represent a key target audience. These enthusiasts actively seek out opportunities to experience immersive and intense horror entertainment. Halloween Haunt’s commitment to themed mazes, detailed set design, and high-quality scare actors caters directly to this group. Targeted advertising on horror-related websites and social media groups is an effective strategy to reach this demographic.
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Families with Older Children/Teenagers (13+)
Families with older children and teenagers constitute a segment that appreciates shared, thrilling experiences. Halloween Haunt provides an opportunity for families to bond over navigating haunted attractions and enjoying the park’s unique Halloween atmosphere. Marketing efforts often highlight the event as a family-friendly, albeit frightening, outing, emphasizing the availability of milder attractions for younger attendees or those less inclined to intense scares. Families will more often come in groups, rather than independently.
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Local Residents (Drive Market)
Individuals residing within a reasonable driving distance of Kings Dominion represent a significant and accessible target market. These residents are more likely to attend the event due to its proximity and convenience. Local marketing campaigns, utilizing radio, television, and community events, are effective in reaching this demographic. Special ticket offers and promotions targeted at local residents can further incentivize attendance. These individuals already know the location and how to get around, therefore attendance will come easier.
Attracting and retaining the attention of these target demographics is essential for maintaining the success and profitability of Halloween Haunt Kings Dominion. Tailoring marketing strategies and event content to resonate with these specific groups will maximize attendance and solidify the event’s position as a premier Halloween destination.
8. Economic Impact
The annual Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion generates significant economic impact within the surrounding region. Its influence extends across multiple sectors, stimulating local businesses and providing valuable tax revenue.
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Direct Spending by Attendees
The primary economic driver is direct spending by event attendees. This includes ticket purchases, in-park spending on food, beverages, merchandise, and games. A substantial portion of this revenue remains within the local economy, supporting Kings Dominion’s operations and providing income for its employees. Increased attendance during Halloween Haunt leads to a direct proportional increase in revenue generated by these sources.
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Tourism and Hospitality Sector Boost
Halloween Haunt attracts visitors from outside the immediate area, resulting in increased demand for local hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality services. This influx of tourists generates revenue for these businesses, contributing to their profitability and supporting local employment. The event’s reputation as a regional Halloween destination incentivizes overnight stays, amplifying this economic effect.
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Indirect Job Creation
Beyond direct employment at Kings Dominion, Halloween Haunt indirectly supports job creation in related industries. Local businesses that supply goods and services to the park, such as food vendors, cleaning services, and security providers, experience increased demand for their services during the event. This ripple effect extends to their own employees and suppliers, contributing to broader economic growth.
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Tax Revenue Generation
The economic activity generated by Halloween Haunt results in increased tax revenue for local and state governments. Sales taxes collected on ticket purchases and in-park spending, as well as hotel occupancy taxes, contribute to government funding for public services. This tax revenue can be used to support infrastructure improvements, education, and other vital community programs.
In summary, the economic impact of Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion is multifaceted, extending beyond direct revenue generation to encompass tourism, job creation, and tax revenue. This event serves as a significant economic engine for the region, providing tangible benefits to local businesses and communities.
9. Park Infrastructure
Park infrastructure constitutes the essential foundation upon which Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion operates. The pre-existing layout, facilities, and systems of the amusement park are adapted and transformed to accommodate the seasonal event. Understanding this relationship is vital for appreciating the logistical complexities and creative possibilities that define the Haunt’s success.
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Pathway Networks and Crowd Management
The existing network of pathways and walkways is repurposed to guide guests through haunted mazes and scare zones. Effective crowd management is crucial, especially given the increased attendance during Halloween Haunt. Wide walkways, designated queuing areas, and strategically placed directional signage become essential components for ensuring guest flow and preventing congestion. For example, widening pathways in high-traffic areas minimizes bottlenecks and enhances the overall experience.
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Electrical Systems and Lighting
The park’s electrical infrastructure is adapted to power the extensive lighting and special effects that create the Haunt’s eerie atmosphere. Strategic placement of lighting fixtures, fog machines, and sound systems transforms familiar areas into unsettling landscapes. Reliable power distribution is vital to prevent disruptions to the Haunt’s immersive environment. The addition of backup generators can address electricity failures, and ensure continuity of the event.
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Building Structures and Repurposing
Existing buildings and structures within the park are repurposed to house haunted mazes and support other Haunt-related activities. Empty retail spaces, storage facilities, and even ride platforms can be transformed into themed environments. Careful planning and structural modifications are necessary to ensure safety and accessibility within these repurposed spaces. For instance, an unused arcade might become the setting for a zombie-infested hospital.
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Water and Sanitation Systems
Adequate water and sanitation facilities are essential for maintaining guest comfort and hygiene during Halloween Haunt. Increased attendance places a greater demand on restrooms and drinking fountains. Ensuring that these facilities are properly maintained and adequately stocked is crucial for preventing negative impacts on the overall guest experience. The addition of temporary restrooms and sanitation stations may be necessary to accommodate peak crowds.
These examples illustrate the vital role that park infrastructure plays in supporting Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion. The event’s success depends on the effective adaptation and utilization of existing resources, combined with strategic investments in temporary enhancements. The park’s physical layout and systems are not merely a backdrop, but an integral component of the Haunt’s immersive and terrifying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion
The following addresses common inquiries concerning Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion, providing detailed and informative responses.
Question 1: What are the standard operating dates and times for Halloween Haunt?
The event typically operates on select Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings in September and October. Specific dates and times are subject to change and are published on the Kings Dominion website. It is advised to consult the official schedule for the most current information.
Question 2: Is Halloween Haunt appropriate for young children?
Halloween Haunt is designed for mature audiences and contains intense themes, graphic imagery, and startling encounters. Parental discretion is strongly advised. Kings Dominion also offers “The Great Pumpkin Fest” during daytime hours, providing a family-friendly alternative with less intense Halloween activities.
Question 3: Are costumes permitted for guests attending Halloween Haunt?
Guests over the age of 12 are generally prohibited from wearing costumes or masks that obscure their faces. This policy is enforced to maintain security and prevent confusion with event performers. Refer to the Kings Dominion website for specific costume guidelines.
Question 4: Are all of Kings Dominion’s rides and attractions operational during Halloween Haunt?
Not all rides and attractions are guaranteed to be operational during Halloween Haunt. Select rides may be closed for maintenance or due to operational constraints. A list of operating rides is typically available on the Kings Dominion website or at the park entrance.
Question 5: Is outside food and beverage permitted within the park during Halloween Haunt?
Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited inside Kings Dominion, including during Halloween Haunt. Exceptions may be made for guests with specific dietary restrictions or medical needs. Contact Kings Dominion guest services for clarification on permitted items.
Question 6: Does a regular Kings Dominion park ticket grant access to Halloween Haunt?
A regular daytime park ticket does not automatically grant access to Halloween Haunt. Admission to Halloween Haunt requires a separate ticket, which can be purchased online or at the park entrance. Combination tickets offering access to both daytime operations and Halloween Haunt may also be available.
This section has addressed some of the commonly asked questions. All are recommended to stay up to date with the official schedule.
The following section will provide insight into the safety measures.
Tips for Navigating Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion
Effective preparation and strategic planning can significantly enhance the Halloween Haunt experience. Prior knowledge and proactive measures can mitigate potential frustrations and maximize enjoyment.
Tip 1: Purchase Tickets in Advance: Securing tickets online prior to the event date is highly recommended. This minimizes wait times at the park entrance and often provides access to discounted pricing. Early ticket acquisition guarantees entry, as event capacity is limited.
Tip 2: Arrive Early: Arriving at Kings Dominion before the official opening of Halloween Haunt allows attendees to bypass initial entry congestion. Entering promptly maximizes the time available to experience the event’s attractions before wait times increase.
Tip 3: Prioritize Haunted Mazes: Haunted mazes are typically the most popular attractions. Strategically visiting these mazes early in the evening or during less crowded periods minimizes queue durations. Utilize park maps or mobile applications to locate mazes efficiently.
Tip 4: Understand Scare Zone Dynamics: Scare zones are designed to create spontaneous encounters. Remaining aware of surroundings and avoiding distractions, such as mobile phones, enhances situational awareness. Observe pathways and escape routes in case immediate egress is desired.
Tip 5: Utilize the Mobile Application: The Kings Dominion mobile application provides valuable real-time information, including wait times for attractions, park maps, and show schedules. Employing this tool optimizes navigation and facilitates informed decision-making.
Tip 6: Wear Appropriate Attire: Comfortable footwear is essential, as extensive walking is required to navigate the park. Dress appropriately for anticipated weather conditions, as Halloween Haunt operates primarily outdoors. Restrictive clothing can hinder movement and potentially impede rapid egress from scare zones.
Tip 7: Designate a Meeting Point: Establishing a pre-determined meeting location is crucial for groups attending Halloween Haunt together. This provides a central rendezvous point should individuals become separated amidst the crowds. Select a readily identifiable landmark.
Adhering to these recommendations will contribute to a more efficient, safe, and enjoyable experience at Halloween Haunt. Proactive planning and awareness of surroundings are key components for maximizing the value of this seasonal event.
The subsequent section will address the importance of safety measures.
Conclusion
This analysis has dissected various facets of halloween haunt kings dominion, ranging from its operational infrastructure to its economic impact and target demographics. The event represents a complex ecosystem of themed experiences, seasonal employment, and infrastructure adaptations, all converging to deliver a specific form of entertainment. The success of Kings Dominion in executing this event hinges on a careful orchestration of these elements.
The enduring appeal of halloween haunt kings dominion lies in its ability to tap into primal human emotions and offer a controlled environment for experiencing fear. The event’s future viability depends on continued innovation in theme development, technological integration, and a sustained commitment to safety protocols. By maintaining a focus on these core principles, halloween haunt kings dominion can continue to be a regional entertainment fixture.
