Some announcements are routine, and some make you stop and think.
A new one at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is firmly in the second camp.
A video of part of the new announcement was shared online on Saturday, October 17, and it has recently been added to Halloween Horror Nights 35. It plays periodically in the queues for the haunted houses at Universal Orlando Resort. The video may not capture the full recording, but here’s the wording that was heard.
“We ask that you do not touch performers, threaten or harass others, use obscene language, jump ahead in line, or engage in horseplay. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in removal from the event.”
The announcement asks guests not to touch performers, threaten or harass others, use obscene language, skip the line, or engage in horseplay. The consequence is clear too, which is removal from the event. That lines up with Universal’s published Code of Conduct, which reserves the right to deny entry or remove visitors who violate its rules.
There’s no official reason for the new announcement, and Universal hasn’t made a statement about it. It’s also not known whether the same recording plays at Universal Studios Hollywood.
If you’re heading to Halloween Horror Nights, here’s the practical takeaway. The announcement is aimed at the queue, which is where guests are waiting close to scare actors and to each other, so expect to hear it as you line up for a haunted house.
I’ll be honest, this one is a little disappointing. Halloween Horror Nights is a favorite for a reason, and the scare actors, the sets and the atmosphere are what make it special. It’s sad that a recording has to remind guests of things that should go without saying, like keeping your hands to yourself and being kind to the people around you. Those performers are doing a job, and the people in the line next to you are there for the same fun you are. At the same time, I’m glad Universal is being clear about the consequences, because it protects the cast members and the guests who just want to enjoy the night. If you’re heading out for HHN, a little patience and respect goes a long way for everyone in line.
We’ll keep sharing Universal Orlando news alongside everything else in the theme park world. Keep checking back with us here at Theme Park Scope, and tell us in the comments what you think of the new announcement.
Leave a Reply