Replacing and Remembering Rides : Ontological Security, Authenticity and Online Memorialization

Abstract

Drawing on Anthony Giddens’ idea of ontological security, this chapter considers fan reactions when favourite rides are closed or replaced. First it explores fan responses to the closure of the Maelstrom ride at Walt Disney World’s EPCOT Park which was replaced by attractions based on the animated film Frozen and how opposition was linked to the importance of ‘classic attractions’ to the park’s history and Disney’s brand, and a desire to remain ‘true to’ EPCOT’s original emphasis upon education. Second, the chapter looks at how Disney’s abandoned River Country Water Park in Florida has offered some of the most detailed instances of fan archiving, curation and discussion online, considering what remembering, representing and discussing the park online offers fans within participatory theme park culture.