The lighting design for Isle of Berk at Universal’s Epic Universe has received a THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement from the Themed Entertainment Association.

The project required the creation of a fully immersive nighttime environment where architecture, landscape, storytelling, and theatrical lighting operate as one continuous experience. Guests needed to feel inside the world of How to Train Your Dragon, with every layer of light reinforcing the identity of Berk.

The lighting strategy was developed around three key principles:

First, visible lighting equipment was carefully integrated into the environment. Lanterns, forge fires, bioluminescent accents within the rockwork, and the ambient glow of the village became part of the visual language of the land. Together, they create a layered hierarchy that responds to the time of day, show programming, and the movement of guests through the space.

Second, the control system was designed to support live performances and dynamic scene sequences. Lighting responds to programmed show moments and changing operational conditions while maintaining a consistent and immersive atmosphere across the land.

Third, the energy strategy balanced high-output theatrical lighting with the quieter ambient sources that sustain the environment between performances. Each layer was calibrated to deliver the required visual impact while maintaining an efficient overall system.

Isle of Berk is one of the most technically complex themed environments delivered by our team. This recognition reflects the strength of the lighting design and the close coordination between architecture, landscape, show lighting, technical systems, and operations throughout the project.

UMAYA Lighting Design collaborated on the project with Gallegos Lighting Design as GxU Lighting Design, with teams working across the Middle East and the United States.