A creative leader behind Epic Universe
Steve Tatham stands among the world’s most respected voices in theme park design, shaped by decades at the forefront of global experience creation. As the Executive Creative Director of Epic Universe, he led every creative aspect of the seven-billion-dollar flagship project. The result has already earned extraordinary praise, with many calling it the world’s greatest theme park. The New York Times captured the response perfectly: “Believe the hype. Epic Universe lives up to its name and then some.”
His leadership on this massive undertaking reflects his talent for turning ambitious ideas into places that feel alive, coherent and culturally resonant. Across years of development, he shaped lands, attractions, narrative frameworks and guest journeys with a level of craft that continues to influence the industry.
A career shaped by Disney and Universal
Before his near decade-long commitment to Epic Universe, Steve served as Vice President of Creative for Universal Studios Japan, where he guided major expansions and creative initiatives for one of the world’s highest-attended parks. His foundation in the field began at Walt Disney Imagineering, where he contributed to every Disney theme park prior to Shanghai Disneyland.
This combination of Disney precision and Universal scale gives him a perspective few can match. His work has earned six Themed Entertainment Association Awards, often described as the theme park world’s Oscars, along with multiple additional recognitions. Steve’s projects are known not just for innovation, but for clarity of story, emotional resonance and an ability to connect with guests of all ages.
Professor, CCO and global voice in experience design
Beyond his creative leadership roles, Steve is deeply committed to shaping the next generation of designers. He is a full professor of Experience Design at the University of Southern California School of the Cinematic Arts, one of the most influential programs in the field. He also teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Design.
After one of his talks, Dr. Rena Fonseca, Director of Executive Education and International Programs at GSD, shared a reaction that mirrors what many audiences express: “It was superb, incisive, bright, interesting, illuminating, and so thought provoking… I felt like some new synapses grew this morning.”
Steve was recently appointed Chief Creative Officer at MDSX, an innovative experience design firm, where he brings his vision to projects that push beyond traditional entertainment into new realms of experiential storytelling.
A multifaceted creator with an unexpected background
Although best known for his major theme park achievements, Steve’s background is unusually rich and varied. He has worked as a stand-up comedian, radio host, tour guide, Jungle Cruise Skipper, illustrator and architectural draftsman. This broad creative foundation gives him a unique voice—one that blends humor, design thinking and narrative instinct with practical leadership experience.
He is also the author of two traditionally published books, including one recognized as one of the year’s ten best by the Village Voice. His pioneering daily comedy news vlog, The Ointment, led to him being honored as one of the People of Los Angeles.
This diverse path informs his speaking style: sharp, entertaining, insightful and fueled by genuine curiosity.
Why audiences book Steve Tatham
- He offers an insider’s view of how landmark destinations are conceived, designed and built, supported by stories from Disney, Universal and Epic Universe.
- His talks blend rigorous creative thinking with humor and a vibrant narrative style, making complex ideas feel accessible and inspiring.
- As a professor and CCO, he bridges academic insight, industry leadership and real-world experience in a way that resonates across sectors.
- His sessions consistently leave audiences energized, imaginative and ready to think differently about creativity, design and innovation.
Steve Tatham is based in the northeastern United States and continues to shape the global future of immersive experience design, one bold idea at a time.
