USA: RWS Entertainment Group Acquires International Attraction Design Firm JRA

Headquartered in New York City and with a European office in London, RWS Entertainment Group, which specializes in the production of live entertainment, events and branded experiences for theme parks and cruise ships, among others, is acquiring Cincinnati, Ohio-based planning and design firm JRA, as both companies announced yesterday during an official press conference. The acquisition of JRA positions RWS Entertainment Group as a full-service provider for the holistic development of guest experiences and attractions in the international leisure market. Both companies intend to benefit from even stronger growth through the take-over.

“JRA is launching into one of the most prolific years in its history. Over a dozen JRA-designed attractions will open in 2022, with still more in development through 2025. Whether it’s children’s museums, science centers, indoor theme parks, outdoor theme parks, or branded attractions, JRA designs will bring smiles to visitors across the globe,” said Keith James, now former owner of JRA, and added, “Selling JRA to RWS Entertainment Group is a natural evolution for the company, staff, and clients I love so much. With Ryan’s support, enthusiasm and energy, I can continue to do the work that excites me, lead our amazing team in Cincinnati, and stay engaged with the University of Cincinnati’s School of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning. […]”

Ryan Stana, Founder & CEO of RWS Entertainment, commented: “RWS Entertainment Group has also experienced unprecedented growth this year. We’ve tripled our cruise ship activations, added a new Leased Experiences Division, new RWS Décor Products line and launched the RWS Fun Crew: Staffing Reimagined. Adding the design, project management and media production experience of the JRA team to the RWS portfolio allows our clients to dream even bigger and achieve even more in terms of guest satisfaction and return on investment. I have admired Keith James for as long as I can remember. To have the opportunity to work side-by-side with him, expanding the team’s creative vision to theater and cruise ships, and bringing live entertainment to even more venues throughout the world, is truly the realization of a dream. Thanks to the hard work, discipline and drive of both our teams, we are enjoying a record 2021 with even bigger projects and plans on deck for 2022 and beyond,” concluded Stana. (eap)