The historical theme park Puy du Fou in France and the revamped Star Tours 4D experience at Disneyland, California, US were among the attractions to win a Thea award for their achievements in design and theming.

Star Tours was given the award for the best refresh of an attraction while Puy du Fou won the prestigious Classic Award.

The Thea awards are judged and handed out annually by members of the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA). Now in their 18th year, the awards seek to gauge and celebrate excellence in storytelling that supports the creation of compelling places and guest experiences.

Other winners for 2011 included Space Fantasy Ride at Universal Studios, Japan (best attraction) and Barnas Brannstasjon at Kongeparken, Norway (best attraction on a limited budget).

Full list of winners:

Space Fantasy, The Ride at Universal Studios Japan (Best Attraction)

Barnas Brannstasjon (Children's Fire Station) at Kongeparken, Norway (Attraction on a Limited Budget)

Arthur, L'Aventure 4D at Futuroscope, France (Attraction)

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue at Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood
Studios at Walt Disney World, US (Attraction Refresh)

NatureQuest at Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Atlanta, US (Museum Exhibit)

YOU! The Experience at Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, US (Museum Exhibit)

The Changing Climate Show at Science North, Ontario, Canada (Science Center Attraction on a Limited Budget)

Ghost of the Castle at Louisiana's Old State Capitol, US (Cultural Heritage Attraction on a Limited Budget)

Crane Dance at Resorts World Sentosam Singapore (Show Spectacular)

The Magic, The Memories, and You! at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, US (Show Spectacular)

Yo México, Celebration of the Century of the Mexican Revolution, Mexico City, Mexico (Live Show Event Spectacular)

The House of Dancing Water at City of Dreams, Macau, China (Live Show Spectacular)

FoodLoop at Europa-Park, Germany (Themed Restaurant Experience)

Animation Magic in the Animator's Palate Restaurant aboard Disney Cruise Line's Ship - Disney Fantasy (Ingenious use of Technology)