'Simpsons' ride opens at Universal Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla., May 15 (UPI) -- "The Simpsons Ride," based on the long-running animated television series, officially opened Thursday at the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida.

The attraction features original animation starring cast members Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria and guest star Kelsey Grammer.

Universal said riders are swept into Krustyland, Krusty the clown's new theme park, just as maniacal Sideshow Bob escapes from prison and takes control of the park to exact his revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family.

"Hand-picked by Krusty to be the first to ride his newest attraction, you are thrust into the middle of the action," the theme park said.

"I take with all due sense of mission and humility the opportunity to spray water and spritz baby powder at Universal patrons," "Simpsons" executive producer James L. Brooks said in a statement.

"For 20 years I've been dreaming about this, and here it is -- a wild, thrilling Simpsons Ride put together by a huge number of talented artists and amusement-park maniacs," added "Simpsons' creator Matt Groening.

"We have created the ultimate Simpsons experience," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International