GGRAsia – Melco Crown, DreamWorks strike Philippines deal

Melco Crown, DreamWorks strike Philippines deal

May 22, 2014 Newsdesk Latest News, Philippines

Melco Crown (Philippines) Resorts Corp has entered into a licensing agreement with popular American animation studio DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc for its City of Dreams Manila.

The casino-resort will host animated characters including Kung Fu Panda Po, Shrek and King Julien of Madagascar, under an education-based, interactive entertainment concept called “DreamPlay by DreamWorks”, Melco Crown Philippines said today in a statement.

“Melco Crown Philippines is delighted to be introducing DreamWorks to the Philippines as we continue our strategy of delivering innovative leisure and entertainment offerings,” said Clarence Chung, chairman and president of the company.

“The ‘DreamPlay’ concept delivers an education experience through spontaneous and sensory play that represents an industry first,” Mr Chung added.

The US$1.2-billion City of Dreams Manila is being developed and will be operated by Melco Crown Philippines in alliance with SM Group’s Belle Corp at Entertainment City along Manila Bay. It will feature up to approximately 365 gaming tables, 1,680 slot machines and 1,680 electronic table games upon opening. The property is scheduled to open later this year, likely in the fourth quarter.

Melco Crown Philippines is a subsidiary of Macau-based Melco Crown Entertainment Ltd.

“‘DreamPlay’ represents an exciting blend of integrated live and digital play spaces, featuring DreamWorks’ popular characters and creative storytelling combined with innovative educational play, appealing to children and adults alike,” said the statement.

Each experience will be designed exclusively for City of Dreams Manila, aiming at creating a “one-of-a-kind family adventure”.

“We are very excited… to build something that we believe is a truly unique way for children to experience, learn and interact with the characters and worlds of DreamWorks Animation,” said Paul Kurzawa, head of global retail development and entertainment at DreamWorks Animation.

This is the second time DreamWorks Animation signs a deal with a casino operator in Asia, following the one announced last year with Macau-based Sands China Ltd for its Cotai Strip resorts.