Themed Entertainment Leaders Announced for TEA INSPIRE Panel

Industry experts to discuss the evolving future of themed entertainment at annual conference

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:19pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, minimalist composition using bold, jagged black silhouettes and stark white negative space to conceptually represent the diverse elements of the themed entertainment industry converging.Top industry experts convene to discuss the evolving future of themed entertainment at the annual TEA INSPIRE conference.Today in Orlando

The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) has announced the panel of global industry leaders who will examine the forces shaping the future of themed entertainment at the 'State of the Industry' session during the 2026 TEA INSPIRE conference in Orlando, Florida. The forward-looking discussion will focus on shifting guest expectations, diversification of portfolios, global expansion, IP strategy, innovative technologies, and changing business models.

Why it matters

As the themed entertainment industry continues to evolve, this high-profile panel discussion at the annual TEA INSPIRE conference will provide strategic insight and practical perspective for professionals across all sectors, from attractions and experiences to IP and technology.

The details

The 'State of the Industry' session will take place on Friday, May 1 during the 2026 TEA INSPIRE conference at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes. Moderated by Shawn McCoy, Senior Vice President & Creative Strategy at Imagine, the panel will include industry leaders such as Ali Rubenstein from Walt Disney Imagineering, Page Thompson from Universal Destinations & Experiences, Cecil Magpuri from Falcon's Beyond, Andy Westfall from Herschend Creative Studios, and Jenefer Brown from Lionsgate.

  • The 'State of the Industry' session will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026.
  • The 2026 TEA INSPIRE conference will be held at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes.

The players

Shawn McCoy

Senior Vice President & Creative Strategy at Imagine, the moderator of the 'State of the Industry' panel.

Ali Rubenstein

SVP Executive Global Management – Creative Development at Walt Disney Imagineering, a panelist.

Page Thompson

President of New Ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, a panelist.

Cecil Magpuri

Founder of Falcon's Beyond, a panelist.

Andy Westfall

Senior Director of Strategic Planning and Development at Herschend Creative Studios, a panelist.

Jenefer Brown

President of Global Products & Experiences at Lionsgate, a panelist.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“As the themed entertainment industry continues to evolve, this high-profile panel discussion at the annual TEA INSPIRE conference will provide strategic insight and practical perspective for professionals across all sectors.”

— Shawn McCoy, Senior Vice President & Creative Strategy, Imagine

What’s next

Registration for TEA INSPIRE, TEA Inspire the Night and the 32nd Annual TEA Thea Awards Gala is open.

The takeaway

The 'State of the Industry' panel at TEA INSPIRE will bring together top leaders in the themed entertainment industry to discuss the key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of this dynamic sector, providing valuable insights for professionals across the industry.