2011 and 2012 brought a number of huge expansions to Disney’s Parks and Resorts division, including the expansion of Disney California Adventure and the opening of Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa in Hawaii. In recognition of these high-quality expansions, the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) has honored Disney with several Thea Awards.
Disney California Adventure‘s grand expansion, which debuted in June, was recognized with several awards. Cars Land was awarded the Thea Award for New Theme Park Land, and its headliner attraction Radiator Springs Racers was honored in the Attractions category. Additionally, the Carthay Circle Restaurant & Lounge, located in the park’s Buena Vista Street area, took the top honor for Theme Park Restaurant.
An award was also given to Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa, which opened in 2011 in Ko Olina, Hawaii. The resort was honored with the Thea Award in the Themed Hotel Resort category. Additionally, former Disney Imagineer Frank Stanek was recognized with the The Buzz Price Award – Recognizing a Lifetime of Distinguished Achievements. Stanek, the former Corporate Vice President of Research and Planning for the Walt Disney Company, was involved with the development of EPCOT Center in Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris.
The 19th Annual Thea Awards will be officially presented on April 6, 2013 at the Disneyland Hotel.
