Episode 3721: The Future of Immersive Entertainment: VR, AI, Theme Parks & Experience-Driven Leisure with Michael Mascioni Weekend of 6-27

Entertainment is no longer something you simply watch—it’s something you experience.In this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton sits down with futurist and author Michael Mascioni to explore the explosive growth of immersive entertainment and how it’s transforming the way we interact with the world around us. Drawing from his book Expanding the Immersive Landscape in Leisure Facilities, Mascioni reveals how technologies like virtual reality (VR), mixed reality, AI, and projection mapping are reshaping everything from theme parks and museums to cruise ships and entertainment districts. From immersive art installations and escape rooms to interactive theater and next-generation attractions, the boundaries between physical and digital experiences are rapidly disappearing. This conversation dives into the rise of social, interactive entertainment—and why audiences are craving deeper, more engaging experiences than ever before.You’ll discover:  How VR, AR, and AI are redefining entertainment   The rise of immersive attractions like Meow Wolf and AREA15   Why passive entertainment is giving way to interactive experiences   The future of leisure, storytelling, and shared social experiences  If you’re curious about where entertainment is headed next—or how technology is shaping the future of fun—this episode offers a fascinating look at what’s coming.