Universal Orlando Resort has temporarily halted the drone segment of its popular nighttime spectacular, Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular. According to a statement provided to Fox 35 Orlando, a spokesperson for Universal said, “We have currently paused the drone component of Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular. Guests can still enjoy the show nightly at Universal Studios Florida.”
The decision to remove the drones comes in the wake of a troubling drone-related incident during a separate holiday event at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando. While Universal did not explicitly connect the pause to the Lake Eola mishap, the timing has sparked speculation that the resort is taking a cautious approach.
Tragic Drone Incident at Lake Eola
The Lake Eola incident has become a flashpoint for concerns about drone safety. During the holiday-themed drone show, a falling drone struck seven-year-old Alezander, causing severe injuries. His parents, Adriana Edgerton and Jessica Lumsden, reported that their son required open-heart surgery to treat his chest injuries.
In a statement to Fox 35, Lumsden said, “He is still being monitored but remains determined to walk again.” The family will be spending the holiday season by Alezander’s side in the ICU, a devastating turn of events for what should have been a joyous time.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the incident. Memory cards from the drones involved are being analyzed at the NTSB recorders laboratory in Washington, D.C. While a preliminary report is expected within 30 days, a full investigation could take up to two years.
This is not the first time the City of Orlando has worked with Sky Elements, the drone operator responsible for the Lake Eola show. The city had previously contracted the company for similar events, and nearby Ocala recently renewed its agreement with the same vendor.
The Rise of Drone Entertainment: Opportunities and Risks
Drone technology has revolutionized live entertainment, offering stunning visual effects that enhance storytelling. However, incidents like the one at Lake Eola highlight the challenges of ensuring safety in large-scale drone displays.
Universal’s decision to temporarily suspend drones in Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular may reflect broader concerns about maintaining the safety of guests and staff. The resort has not confirmed whether the pause is related to the Lake Eola incident, but the move aligns with a growing emphasis on precautionary measures in the entertainment industry.
About Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular
Despite the absence of drones, Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular continues to dazzle audiences with its breathtaking combination of music, lights, and pyrotechnics. The 22-minute show, set against the backdrop of Universal Studios Florida’s lagoon, celebrates the soundtracks of beloved films and franchises.
Featured movies include:
- Harry Potter
- Jurassic World
- Jaws
- Shrek
- Ghostbusters
- Trolls
- Back to the Future
- Universal Monsters
- Transformers
- How to Train Your Dragon
- E.T.
- Fast and Furious
- The Super Mario Bros. Movie
- Minions
- The Mummy
- King Kong
The show uses 228 fountains, reaching heights of up to 131 feet, and 4K projection mapping to create a multi-sensory experience. While the drones added a unique visual element, the performance remains a highlight of Universal’s entertainment offerings.
Drone Safety in Orlando Theme Parks
Universal’s drone pause comes at a time when drone shows are gaining popularity in Orlando’s theme park scene. Disney, for example, recently debuted Dreams That Soar, a nighttime drone display at Disney Springs. Notably, this show took place over water, a safety measure that likely reduced the risk of drones falling into crowded areas.
While drones offer a fresh way to captivate audiences, the technology’s risks must be carefully managed. Events like the Lake Eola incident serve as a sobering reminder of what can go wrong when safety protocols fail. For Universal, the decision to reevaluate its drone component demonstrates a commitment to prioritizing guest safety without compromising on its reputation for delivering world-class entertainment.
Looking Ahead
As investigations into the Lake Eola incident continue, the use of drones in public entertainment will likely face increased scrutiny. For now, Universal fans can still enjoy Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular nightly, even as the park works to ensure that its cutting-edge displays remain as safe as they are spectacular.
