Glossary of Technical Theatre Terms – Themed Entertainment

Advanced Control Network. A new (2003) ethernet-based control protocol between control desk, dimmers & moving lights. Developed by ESTA and Strand Lighting. DMX nodes are used to communicate with non-ethernet devices.

Originally Audio-Animatronic™, this term describes a robotic figure, particularly in a theme park environment or on a movie set, which is able to repeat a limited range of pre-programmed functions, typically in synchronisation with a pre-recorded soundtrack. The term now describes a character controlled either electronically by radio remote control, or by cable/lever controls.

A scenic design technique that makes a building or set appear larger than it actually is. The scale of objects that are supposed to be further from the observer is reduced to make them appear further away, even if they're not.

Covered structure within a theme park containing a single ride system.

SOP / S.O.P.
Standard Operating Procedure. The preferred method for running a particular attraction or ride in a theme park / amusement park.

Themed Entertainment Association (California, USA)
TEA website

Entertainment venue in which traditional fairground rides and more technologically advanced attractions are interspersed, often with live entertainments, and tied together thematically.