Staff Writer
Universal Orlando Resort unveiled its highly anticipated new theme park, Epic Universe, on May 22, and members of the Full Sail University community played a pivotal role in bringing the immersive experience to life.
Epic Universe features five distinct worlds: Celestial Park, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic. Behind the scenes, Full Sail graduates, faculty, and students contributed their expertise to various aspects of the park’s development, including technology, media production, sound design, and show operations.
Mobile Development Enhances Guest Experience
Julieth Lorne, a graduate of Full Sail’s Sports Marketing & Media and Mobile Development programs, worked as a Mobile Developer on the Epic Universe mobile app. Her team developed interactive features such as real-time park maps, show schedules, mobile food and beverage ordering, virtual line access, and photo validation—tools designed to streamline and elevate the guest experience.
Her husband, Kevin Lorne, a current student in the Computer Science Bachelor’s Completion Program with a focus in Mobile Development, served as a Facility Project Engineer. He helped manage the construction of 15 buildings in Celestial Park, including dining venues, retail shops, and guest amenities.
Visual Media and Storytelling
Jacob Fuller, a Film program graduate, contributed as a 1st Assistant Camera on promotional interviews featuring Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort, and Steve Tatham, Executive Creative Director of Epic Universe. The resulting video, Get Ready for Universal Epic Universe & Beyond, has been showcased across Universal’s marketing platforms, including YouTube and the park’s app.
Lighting, Sound, and Show Production
Danielle Korotko, a graduate of the Show Production program, is currently a Senior Ride and Show Manager – Lighting for Epic Universe. Her work focused on the Dark Universe section, where she managed both the visual lighting elements and the technical infrastructure supporting them.
On the audio side, Lee Riley, Course Director for Full Sail’s Audio Production degree, served as a Sound Designer for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. He helped shape the audio landscape of the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction, blending the game’s signature sounds with new sonic elements to deepen immersion.
Broad Industry Involvement
Graduates from a wide range of Full Sail programs—including Recording Arts, Entertainment Business, and Digital Arts & Design—also contributed to the project in various capacities. Roles ranged from Audio Lead and AV Show Systems Lighting Lead to on-site commercial production for NBCUniversal.
Creative Voices Behind the Magic
Among the contributors is Tharin White, a graduate of the Digital Arts & Design and Creative Writing programs, who specializes in theme park storytelling and content development.
A Collaborative Milestone
This collaborative effort underscores the breadth of industry-ready talent fostered by Full Sail University, with alumni and faculty working alongside industry leaders on one of Orlando’s most ambitious entertainment ventures to date.
As the countdown to opening day continues, Epic Universe stands not only as a new chapter in theme park innovation but also as a showcase for the real-world impact of creative and technical education.
Source: Full Sail University
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