This year’s International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Orlando 2003 show has a feature which could leave some visitors completely in the dark.

In an agreement which took effect on 29 August, the International Association of Haunted Attractions (IAHA) has completed negotiations with IAAPA on an alliance permitting 200 IAHA exhibitors to display their products in an unlit area of the show area for exhibitors needing darkness for display effects.

In addition to the ‘Haunt Zone’, the agreement includes the sharing of mutually beneficial educational efforts such as safety and operations manuals, marketing resources, best-training practises and other amusement park management material as required.

Explaining the thinking behind the agreement, IAHA current president, Liz Foral, said: "While having a presence and booth at IAAPA last year, IAHA felt a real need to further educate their attendees regarding haunting.

"Some of the specific topics of interest are designing, building, executing and managing haunts."

IAAPA’s Orlando show runs from 17 – 22 November. Details: www.iaapaorlando.com