Step back into the age of sword and sorcery as we unravel the untold story of Universal Studios' most dangerous and innovative attraction: the Conan the Barbarian Sword and Sorcery Spectacular. This legendary stunt show wasn't just entertainment—it was a revolution that forever changed how theme parks approach live experiences.

From Robert E. Howard's complex literary character to Frank Frazetta's iconic artistic vision and Arnold Schwarzenegger's silver screen portrayal, we trace Conan's evolution before diving deep into the attraction that dared to use real fire, military-grade lasers, and death-defying stunts to wow audiences. The show's creation marked the moment Universal deliberately established itself as the "anti-Disney," poaching Imagineers and pushing boundaries Disney wouldn't touch.

What forgotten theme park attractions do you wish would return? Share your memories with us on our Facebook group or at [email protected]!

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Notes: de Camp editing - http://www.barbariankeep.com/issues.html
Planet of the Apes article: https://boardwalktimes.net/disney-drops-the-finest-science-fiction-film-series-of-all-time-on-hulu-4c1a03f1329d

Chronology of the Castle Theater: The Land of a Thousand Faces (1975-1980), Castle Dracula Live (1980-1983), The Adventures of Conan: A Sword and Sorcery Spectacular (1983-1993), Beetlejuice's Rock and Roll Graveyard Review (1991-1999), Spider-Man Rocks (2002-2004), Fear Factor Live (2005-2008), Creature from the Black Lagoon: The Musical (2009), Special Effects Show (2010-2023), Theater Closed for Fast & Furious coaster.

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