0

Niagara Takes Flight: Behind the Scenes

Behind the Scenes
of Canada's Newest Attraction



Niagara Takes Flight isn’t just Ontario’s first flying theatre, it’s a breathtaking thrill ride and a captivating history lesson. Go behind the scenes and discover how this immersive experience came to life. From cutting-edge technology and ambitious production schedules to hundreds of dedicated extras and the challenges of unpredictable weather, see how every element came together to launch this soaring adventure over Niagara Falls.

Now Boarding!

Be among the first to fly

The Making of Niagara Takes Flight

Step inside the making of Niagara Takes Flight in Chapter 1 of our exclusive series. From cutting-edge technology and ambitious production to daring drone shots and wild weather, see what it took to bring Canada’s newest attraction to life.

Step behind the scenes to witness the incredible choreography, intricate period costumes and dramatic pyrotechnics in the War of 1812 scene and learn how they all came together for one perfect take.

Niagara Parks Project Team

From bold vision to groundbreaking reality, each member of the Niagara Parks project team remained united through a shared commitment: deliver an exceptional new visitor experience that was true to the spirit of Niagara Parks.

Marcelo
Gruosso

Chief Operating Officer

Ron
Carpenter

Director, Capital Works

Josie
Massa

Senior Manager, Visitor Experience

Missy
Sauer

Director, Retail and Attractions

Chris
Giles

Director, Communications and Marketing

  • Attraction Image

    Marcelo Gruosso

    Chief Operating Officer

  • Attraction Image

    Ron Carpenter

    Director, Capital Works

  • Attraction Image

    Josie Massa

    Senior Manager, Visitor Experience

  • Attraction Image

    Missy Sauer

    Director, Retail and Attractions

  • Attraction Image

    Chris Giles

    Director, Communications and Marketing

The Creative Development Team

  • Attraction Image

    Rick Rothschild,
    Creative Director

    With a legacy that includes three decades as a Disney Imagineer and creation of the world’s first flying theatre Soarin’, Rick provided expert guidance and an extraordinary vision for the Niagara Takes Flight experience.

  • Attraction Image

    Mike Quigley,
    Film Director

    Award-winning Canadian director and aerial cinematographer Mike Quigley infused every frame with his love for nature and cinematic flair. His storytelling and artistry captured the spirit of Niagara, offering passengers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view.

  • Attraction Image

    Gabriel Kocher,
    Head Pilot

    With unmatched precision and instinctive skill, Gabriel elevated Niagara’s story to new heights. Piloting a custom-built drone the size of a lawnmower, he flew along the Falls and over the Gorge, pushing the boundaries of aerial filmmaking.

  • Attraction Image

    Rio Mitchell,
    Pre-Show Director

    Rio Mitchell combined her wealth of experience from credits on successful flying theatres in Vancouver and Chicago with her dedication to rich and layered storytelling to make Niagara Takes Flight’s pre-show something truly special.

Meet the Makers