Sally Dark Rides, a leading creator of immersive attractions, is mourning the loss of Jan Sherman, a long-time employee and friend.
Sally Dark Rides is sad to announce the loss of Jan Sherman, a much-loved member of the team, who has passed away due to complications with diabetes and cancer.
Sherman joined Sally Dark Rides in 1982, where her original role was in the production of soundtracks and scripts for animated productions. CEO John Wood says, “She was quite the stickler, always striving for perfection—this made her an invaluable member of our team.”
A valued colleague and friend
During her time at the company, some of her early projects included Daniel and the Dixie Diggers, Bubba Bear and the Badlands Band, Billy Jo and the Bluegrass Bears, Ursula and the Om Pah Pahs, Mr Beaks and the Tropical Tweeters, Merlin and the Magic Music Makers, and the White Tiger Show for Chimelong.
Sherman was also able to switch gears easily when the company changed its focus to dark ride production, handling her new responsibilities and challenges with enthusiasm and diligence.
She led the installation of the first dark ride refurbishment at Alton Towers in the UK, which was a key project for the company as it began its new mission to build and revive dark rides across the globe. Sherman was a valuable member of the team until she retired from the company in 2014.
In addition to her talents as a writer and producer, she also created Sally’s advertising and print materials for more than 20 years. She was an ideal spokesperson for the company, thanks to her charisma and grace. She was well-liked amongst her colleagues, with her love of animals, theatre, grammatical precision, creativity, and professionalism.
“We’re grateful to have had the force that was Jan Sherman for all those years,” Wood says. “She will be missed.”