Kids
Disney theme park: Hong Kong opposition raise queries
MUMBAI: Disney has not yet opened its theme park in Hong Kong but already that country’s legislators have started asking awkward questions. Hong Kong Disneyland is due to open on 12 September 2005.
The lawmakers are questioning the Hong Kong government’s decision to give Hong Kong Disneyland a 20-year option to buy an adjacent site for expansion. Their stance is that other theme parks ought to be given a chance to get the land. The commissioner for Tourism Eva Cheng said that the government would like to hold talks with Disneyland soon about exercising the option.
Last year Financial Secretary Henry Tang had said that the government approached three other US theme park companies about coming to Hong Kong — Six Flags, Universal and Warner Bros. Disney is understadably nervous. After all it might never have agreed to open its park on Lantau Island if it had known that there was the chance that a competitor might set up shop next door. Disney’s first-bid rights on the site last until 2019, and can be extended longer if the park draws in more then 8 million people.
Opposition lawmaker Sin Chung-kai was quoted in media reports saying, “From Hong Kong’s standpoint, it doesn’t necessarily have to be Disneyland. Other than Disneyland there are many other theme parks popular in the world”
The 125-hectare (310-acre) Hong Kong Disneyland is a joint venture between Disney and the Hong Kong government. However local taxpayers are footing most of its US$3.5 billion (euro2.6 million) price tag. Critics have therefore questioned whether Hong Kong got a good deal.
The government will test the park and its transportation infrastructure ahead of the scheduled opening by inviting tour operators and Hong Kong residents to visit.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!
