What does immersive entertainment actually mean — and why does it feel like the future of theme parks?

This week, we’re joined by Sage Starkey to talk about storytelling, guest agency, themed entertainment, and what it takes to make audiences feel like they truly belong inside a world.

From experiences like Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser to interactive theater, live performance, and projects like The Good Neighbor Game, Sage helps us understand how immersive experiences are built from the ground up — and why the guest is such an important part of the story.

In this episode, we cover:

If you love Disney parks, themed entertainment, the Starcruiser, or the future of storytelling, this conversation is a fascinating look at where experiences could go next.

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Timestamps

The World of Immersive Entertainment with Sage Starkey 00:00

Give Kids the World Fundraiser 01:43

What is Immersive Entertainment? 04:00

How to Be More Engaged in Conversations 10:10

How Sage Got Into Themed Entertainment 13:15

Developing the Galactic Starcruiser 17:06

How Much Ownership Did the Cast Have on the Characters? 23:47

The Struggle of Getting Out of Character 27:59

How to Guide the Guests in Immersive Experiences 34:31

You Don’t Know What You Have Until It’s Gone 37:50

How Did Sage Remember Hundreds of People’s Names? 41:00

Good Neighbor Game 43:10

The Future of Themed Entertainment 47:46

The IP ASKING to Be Turned Into an Immersive Experience 51:20

Sage’s Parks Favorites 56:34

Sage’s Favorite AllEars Video 58:07

Did We Just Become Best Friends? 1:00:08

Follow Sage on Social Media 1:03:57