LPWire: Universal Studios Hollywood Appoints Tim Runco, VP, Entertainment

Universal Studios Hollywood Appoints Tim Runco, Vice President Entertainment
John Murdy Named Creative Director, Entertainment Production

Adding impetus to its long-term shift from its roots as a studio tour to its current role as a leading entertainment destination and theme park, Universal Studios Hollywood has named veteran theme park executive Tim Runco, Vice President, Entertainment, and has brought attraction designer John Murdy back to the company as Creative Director, Entertainment Production, it was announced by Michael Taylor, Vice President and General Manager.

In his new role, Mr. Runco will be responsible for character development and the creative development and operation of new shows and special events as well as existing live attractions. He will report to Mr. Taylor.

In his new position, John Murdy will oversee the creative development and quality control of all Universal Studios Hollywood shows and live attractions, reporting to Mr. Runco.

In making the announcements, Mr. Taylor said: "Tim and John's combined wealth of experience and reputation in themed entertainment production, creative development and strategic planning make them an invaluable asset to the Universal Studios Hollywood team as we continue develop cutting edge rides and attractions that maximize our position as the original and authentic Hollywood entertainment experience."

Prior to joining Universal Studios, Mr. Runco was an independent consultant at Entertainment Creative Development and Management based in La Habra, Ca, where led concept development and strategic planning for various clients including Cirque du Soleil, T-Logic, Inc. and Hong Kong Disneyland. Mr. Runco also spent 20 years at the Walt Disney Company, Disneyland Resort in a variety of capacities including Director and General Manager of Entertainment Operations in which he managed a $20 million operating budget and directed all aspects of Entertainment Operations for Disneyland, Disney's California Adventure, The Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian and Disney's Pacific Hotel.

Mr. Runco earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from California State University at Fullerton where he also did post-graduate work in Literature and Theatre.

Mr. Murdy rejoins Universal Studios Hollywood after spending eight years with Universal Parks & Resorts devising rides and attractions, including the recent "Revenge of the Mummy-The Ride" roller coaster for Universal theme parks worldwide. Prior to that, Mr. Murdy was employed at KBD Innovative Arts as a writer/producer responsible for creative development of various entertainment projects for such global companies as Elvis Presley Enterprises, Sea World, Time Warner and Walt Disney Imagineering. Mr. Murdy began his career as a Studio Tour guide at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Mr. Murdy earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre from Whittier College.

--Posted November 22, 2004
Source: Universal Studios Hollywood