When she walked through the gates of Canada’s Wonderland on opening day, 18-year-old Heather Hill would never have imagined that she’d be running the place one day. As culture and lifestyle reporter Briony Smith reported, she went on to eventually rule the entire domain as vice-president and park manager.
Having now retired after 45 years at the park, her roller coaster career has inspired other former workers to fondly share their own memories with the Star.
From theatre performers to ride supervisors, here’s how past Canada’s Wonderland staff are reminiscing about their old summer jobs:
Started at 18, just like Heather
“This story about Heather brings back wonderful memories of performing in ‘Those Magnificent Movies’ and ‘The Best of Broadway’ back in 1982 and 1983 at the Canterbury Theatre at Wonderland. Like Heather, I was 18 when I started and the shows were top drawer with amazing sets and costumes, and they auditioned across Canada to cast the shows. It really was a privilege to have experienced that.” — A
The park didn’t stop when the gates closed
“I worked there one summer too. It was a great time! I don’t know if they still do it, but they used to have a DJ come in and have a dance for the staff after the park closed, out in front of the fountain. It was a very social place to work.” — Ian
Lessons that lasted a lifetime
“I worked at Wonderland in Heather’s department as a lead hand on Dragon Fyre and things I learned during that time have helped me succeed in my career and life. Specifically, 1) If you see something wrong or not right, fix it! 2) Process oriented 3) Anticipate and train for the worst scenarios.” — Raj
From roller coasters to romance
“As a teenager working in rides and operations (Mine Buster and So Loco) I started dating a girl who worked as an usherette at Canterbury Theatre. I’d go there and watch the shows until her shifts finished. Had it not been for that summer job, my cultural experience at that age would have been much less! Bravo!” — Ian
A summer of fun and games
“Working there was my favourite job. I worked at expo games during high school. The guests were always happy, having a fun time with the games and hanging out with a large group all my age. Got it to meet people from all over the world. Also got to stand in the shade and it wasn’t loud or very physical like rides. So fun!” — Karen
We want your stories. Did you work at Canada’s Wonderland? Do you remember the after-hours staff dances, the Canterbury Theatre shows or the lessons you learned on the rides? Share your memories in the comments below.
