Celebrate the Holiday Season at Disneyland Resort Starting Nov. 8!

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July 26, 2019

Holidays at Disneyland Resort — Photo Credit: Disney

The Disneyland Resort will transform into the Merriest Place on Earth as guests begin their holidays here, Nov. 8, 2019, through Jan. 6, 2020.

This year, guests will be dazzled by the return of “World of Color – Season of Light,” a holiday-themed production of this nighttime spectacular that features lights, lasers, water, fire and hundreds of fountains bringing animation to life. Also returning are guest-favorite holiday experiences and entertainment, including Disney Festival of Holidays – which honors the sights, sounds and tastes of Christmas/Navidad, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day (Jan. 3-6) – and the “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular. Guests may even partake in a “Frozen” adventure as they encounter Anna and Elsa in the theme parks, just in time to celebrate the release of Disney’s new animated film, “Frozen 2,” in theaters Nov. 22, 2019.

Guests plan their seasonal visits to Disneyland Resort year after year to experience beloved Holiday traditions and festive cheer, from snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A., to glistening décor, Disney-themed treats and merchandise, holiday entertainment and the one-of-a-kind transformations that create “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday.

At Disney California Adventure Park

The nighttime spectacular “World of Color – Season of Light” wraps guests in the warm glow of holiday magic. Fusing cherished holiday music sung by beloved artists with memorable moments from treasured Disney animated films, this sparkling winter fantasy is magical for all ages. This production of “World of Color” is made extra brilliant with dazzling lights, lasers, and high-definition projections.

Disney Festival of Holidays brings the spirit of the season to life with live entertainment and special traditions. Children will enjoy craft stations and everyone will appreciate the delicious food at Festive Foods Marketplace, featuring a mix of holiday dishes and beverages that bridge many diverse cultures and family traditions.

The Three Caballeros host the popular “Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party” celebration, featuring folklórico and samba dancers, live musicians, and Mickey and Minnie in their fiesta best.

The holidays are zooming into Cars Land and the residents are racing to celebrate the season. Two attractions rely on holiday magic to transform into Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree. The whimsical “Snowcar” greets guests on the road to Radiator Springs, and each “Cars” character also gets a holiday makeover at their Route 66 address to reflect their personality.

Santa Claus is coming to town! Guests will enjoy special holiday-themed activities with Santa and his sleigh full of mischievous elves at Santa’s Holiday Visit at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.

As guests enter the park and stroll along Buena Vista Street, a dazzling, 50-foot Christmas tree adorns Carthay Circle to help guests get in the holiday spirit. The tree and surrounding buildings are decorated with vintage-style ornaments in keeping with the theme of Buena Vista Street, inspired by Los Angeles as it appeared when Walt Disney arrived in the 1920’s. Pacific Wharf, Hollywood Land and Grizzly Peak will also sparkle with holiday décor throughout the season.

Guests will drift into a wintry mood as they encounter the splendid sisters Anna and Elsa inside the Disney Animation building. Guests may also relive the story of the Disney blockbuster film “Frozen” as they immerse themselves in the wondrous magic and music in the spectacular stage musical, “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion.”

At Disneyland Park

In the evening, the spectacular “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular and its magical snowfall finale create lasting holiday memories for guests.

Mickey, Minnie, Disney Princesses, and Santa celebrate the season in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a daily procession with floats, music, and marching “tin soldiers.” Guests may wave to Anna, Elsa, and Olaf, who bid them a warm winter welcome from their fantastic “Frozen” float.

The holiday magic shines brightly with the glow of the shimmering icicles and twinkling lights on Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, enchanting guests from day to night.

Guests entering Disneyland are greeted by a magnificent. 60-foot tall Christmas tree on Main Street, U.S.A., decorated with nearly 1,800 ornaments. The classic tree is an ideal location for holiday photos, to document the magical memory for a lifetime.

Disneyland guests also will want to experience the popular seasonal transformations of these attractions:

- “it’s a small world” is transformed each evening into “it’s a small world” Holiday, with 50,000-plus colorful lights, music, and video projections. Inside the attraction, holiday magic takes guests around the world and back as dolls and toys representing children enjoy the distinctive holiday traditions of their countries.
- ‘Twas “The Nightmare before Christmas” and all through the Haunted Mansion, Jack Skellington, and his friends are causing a collision between Christmas and Halloween to transform the Haunted Mansion into Haunted Mansion Holiday.*

Throughout the resort, guests will discover holiday culinary treats and festive fare, along with special merchandise for the merry season.

Also during the holiday season, the Downtown Disney District will be full of festive shopping, dining, and entertainment and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort also join in the yuletide celebration with twinkling lights and ornaments, holiday displays, special entertainment, and holiday-inspired eats and treats.

Source: Disney

Disneyland Resort Celebrates 50 Frightful Years of the Haunted Mansion

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 25, 2019

On Aug. 9, 2019, Disneyland Park will celebrate the 50^th Anniversary of the beloved Haunted Mansion attraction. The mansion overlooking the Rivers of America is home to the most “spirited” attraction in New Orleans Square. A steady stream of “Doom Buggies” carries guests on a tour of the Haunted Mansion, which is inhabited by a lively collection of 999 happy haunts and filled with stunning special effects, haunting show sets, and ethereal music.

The Disney Gallery at Disneyland Park features a new exhibit entitled “Happy Haunts Materialize – The Art of Haunted Mansion.” The exhibit showcases the evolution of an idea. It is the first to display early sketches and sculptures of the Haunted Mansion concept, and it describes how they evolved into the attraction that guests experience today.

In August, you may choose to attend one of the special events, “The Haunted Mansion: Celebrating 50 Years of Retirement Unliving.” These after-hours events at Disneyland are filled with chills, thrills and frightful fun. Guests will unearth commemorative anniversary merchandise items, delight in spirited sips and bites, enjoy special entertainment, character encounters, photo ops, and access to several west-side park attractions.

To celebrate the 50^th anniversary of this classic attraction, here are 50 frightful facts about the Disneyland Resort Haunted Mansion.

History

The idea for a haunted house at Disneyland was included in an early concept design sketch by Harper Goff dating back to 1952 when Disneyland was being conceptualized.
The designers of the attraction originally wanted to make the outside of the mansion look scary. Walt Disney, however, wanted to keep the outside looking like a stately mansion, while letting the ghosts take care of the inside.
The exterior of the attraction was built in 1962-63. It was unoccupied until 1969 while Walt Disney participated in the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair and his Imagineers were re-tasked to work on those timely projects. The World’s Fair experience made way for some of the technology that’s used in the Haunted Mansion.
On August 9, 1969, after more than 15 years of development, the Haunted Mansion opened to the public.
Within a week of the Haunted Mansion’s opening, Disneyland celebrated what was then its highest single-day attendance.
The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland was the first major Disney attraction created without the direct supervision by Walt Disney. Although Walt reviewed many of the early vignettes, he never saw the completed show concepts.
In 1966, New Orleans Square, where the Haunted Mansion is located, became the first new land added to Disneyland since the park opened on July 17, 1955.
Originally, the Haunted Mansion was going to be a walk-through attraction where guests were led in small groups by a cast member who would describe scenes that lasted two to three minutes each.
In 2016, Marvel Comics debuted the “Haunted Mansion” comic book series.

By The Numbers

999 ghosts haunt the attraction with “room for one more.”
13 candles sit on top of the birthday cake in the Grand Hall in the Haunted Mansion.
3 hitchhiking ghosts are looking for a ride out of the Haunted Mansion: Ezra Beane, Professor Phineas Plump and Gus.
20 tombstone tributes exist both inside and around the exterior of the attraction. The epitaphs on the tombstones are written in honor of Disney Legends and Walt Disney Imagineers who created and maintain the attraction.
7 tombstones are featured in the pet cemetery outside of the attraction.
1 unique exhibit at Disneyland Park, “Happy Haunts Materialize – The Art of Haunted Mansion,” provides an inside look into the story of the Haunted Mansion for a limited time at the Disney Gallery.
3 of the trees located at the Haunted Mansion are: Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Weeping Mulberry Tree (Morus alba “Chapparal”) and Tolleson’s Blue Weeping Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum).
Since 2001, the Haunted Mansion has been transformed each fall into Haunted Mansion Holiday, a tradition celebrated by guests year after year.
More than 400 flickering candles create a ghostly glow on the façade of the attraction during Haunted Mansion Holiday.
Nearly 7,500 square feet of snow cover the graveyard inside Haunted Mansion Holiday.
More than 200 bones are gathered by Jack Skellington’s ghost dog Zero in Haunted Mansion Holiday to use as décor, garland and presents for the seasonal overlay.

Ghosts and Characters of the Mansion

The Hatbox Ghost was featured in Haunted Mansion when the attraction first opened. Then, he mysteriously vanished, only to reappear in 2015 in time for the 60th anniversary of Disneyland.
Constance is the far-from-blushing bride who is bedecked in pearls and heavily armed. Constance can be found in the attic as well as featured in the portrait chamber atop her husband’s tombstone.
Madame Leota floats in the dead center of the room, calling out for “serpents and spiders, tail of a rat,” during her séance to bring about the happy haunts.
Sarah “Sally” Slater, a delicate young girl, can be found inside the portrait chamber balanced on a tightrope, as if from a circus.
Alexander Nitrokoff is a distinguished-looking man but, as his portrait stretches in the Portrait Chamber, he is shown to be wearing nothing but striped undershorts and socks from the waist down. He is standing on a barrel of dynamite, and a candle lights the fuse.
Victor Geist, the quirky German-born organist, plays the Haunted Mansion’s signature tune in the ballroom to everyone’s ghostly delight.
Pickwick, the spirit from the era of Dickens, is found swinging from the chandelier in the Haunted Mansion’s ballroom.
The Phantom Five, the singing bust quintet, is made up of Rolo Rumkin, Uncle Theodore, Cousin Algernon, Ned Nub, and Phineas Pock.
The Ghost Host, one of the 999 happy haunts who call the Haunted Mansion home, welcomes the “foolish mortals” into the attraction.
Each year, Jack Skellington gives the Haunted Mansion a holiday makeover, complete with jack-o-lanterns and wreaths, a real gingerbread house and kooky characters from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Jack Skellington’s ghost dog Zero makes a surprise appearance among the spooky, transforming portraits in the gallery corridor when the attraction transforms into Haunted Mansion Holiday.

Behind The Scenes

The Haunted Mansion is the only attraction that is featured in four different lands in four different parks. This includes the Phantom Manor attraction at Disneyland Paris.
The pipe organ seen in the ballroom sequence was featured as Captain Nemo’s pipe organ in the Disney film classic, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea”.
During Haunted Mansion Holiday, the haunting scent of tasty gingerbread wafts throughout the Grand Hall, tempting Happy Haunts and guests alike. Every year, a new ghoulish concept for a gingerbread house is created for the celebration scene in the Mansion’s Grand Hall.
The pet cemetery that features humorous epitaphs was added in front of the Haunted Mansion in the mid-1990s.
In spring 2005, the séance scene was updated to include the crystal ball floating overhead.
In 2005, the Walt Disney Imagineers were able to sync the changes in the portraits along the portrait hall to the lightning strikes.
In spring 2006, Imagineers enhanced the attic scene, replacing the translucent, static bride with a ghostly dimensional bride.
Portraits of Constance feature each of her former husbands in the attic, and the heads of the grooms magically disappear. As the ghostly bride recites her vows and marriage phrases, an axe appears in her hands, then disappears again.
Several Disney Legends contributed to the attraction including Marc Davis, Claude Coats, Rolly Crump, Yale Gracey, X Atencio and Leota Toombs.
The title of the spell that appears in the book in Séance Circle is taken from the Disney film, “Blackbeard’s Ghost”. The large book of incantations is entitled Necronomicon—Book of the Dead and is opened to pages 1312 and 1313.
The final exterior concept for the house is heavily influenced by the Victorian-era Shipley-Lydecker House in Baltimore, Maryland.

Voices and Faces of the Haunted Mansion

Paul Frees is the voice of the Ghost Host and is known for also being the voice of Professor Ludwig Von Drake.
Eleanor Audley is the voice of Madame Leota. She was also the voice of Lady Tremaine in Cinderella (1950) and Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty (1959).
Leota Toombs, a former Walt Disney Imagineer and Disney Legend, is the original face of Madame Leota.
The holiday version of Madame Leota uses the face of Kim Irvine, an Imagineer and daughter of Leota Toombs, the original Madame Leota.
The lyrics of the Haunted Mansion theme song “Grim Grinning Ghosts (The Screaming Song)” were written by Disney Legend X Atencio.
Disney Legend Buddy Baker created the music for the Haunted Mansion theme song.
Thurl Ravenscroft is the voice of “Uncle Theodore” who leads the Phantom Five quintet of headstones. His voice can also be heard at Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room as the voice of Tangoroa.
The Mellomen is the real-life singing group who voices the Phantom Five singing busts

Source: Disney

MGM’s Killer Klowns from Outer Space Debut at Universal Studios Hollywood

By

Socalthrills Staff

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July 25, 2019

Metro Goldwyn Mayer’s (MGM) “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” lands at this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” in all-new chilling mazes at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort – bringing together the most twisted scenes and ghastly gags from the popular horror sci-fi film at the nation’s premier Halloween events.

Based on the cult 1980s film favorite, the “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” mazes will transport guests to the sleepy small town of Crescent Cove, taken over by a pack of murderous clown-like creatures. Guests will be lured by the sweet smell of cotton candy and ice-cream and find themselves in an otherworldly circus tent where they’ll come face-to-face with the crazed klowns and their sinister, side-splitting antics. As they make their way through the Big Top Space Ship, guests will witness diabolical klowns making cotton candy cocoons from unsuspecting victims and will realize the joke’s on them as they are next to become the gooey snack. From one shrieking klown to the next, the mazes will lead guests through the doomed community of Crescent Cove to an eerie amusement park closed for the season. Trapped in a terrifying funhouse full of killer klowns, guests will be left screaming as there’s no stopping this twisted three-ring circus.

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” is the ultimate Halloween event. For more than 25 years, guests from around the world have visited “Halloween Horror Nights” to become victims inside their own horror film. Multiple movie-quality mazes based on iconic horror television shows, films, and original stories come to life season after season. And, the streets of each park’s event are transformed into highly-themed scare zones where menacing scare-actors lunge from every darkened corner.

“Halloween Horror Nights” begins Friday, September 6 in Orlando and on Friday, September 13 in Hollywood. Additional details about the events will be revealed soon. For more information about “Halloween Horror Nights” and to purchase tickets at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Disney’s live-action “Aladdin” on Digital Aug 27 and Blu-Ray Sept 10

By

Socalthrills Staff

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July 25, 2019

Aladdin Marketplace — Photo Credit: Disney

Disney’s “Aladdin,” the thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic, lands in homes on Digital in HD, 4K Ultra HD™ and Movies Anywhere on Aug. 27, and physically on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™ and DVD on Sept. 10. Fans of all ages will enjoy the exciting, humorous tale of the lovable “street rat,” Aladdin (Mena Massoud), courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott) and the larger-than-life Genie (Will Smith) with all-new bonus features. The release of the live-action adventure coincides with the addition of the original animated classic to the highly celebrated Walt Disney Signature Collection — granting “Aladdin” fans everywhere the opportunity to own both magical movies.

Extras explore elements of “Aladdin” that audiences adore, from the film’s treasured, iconic award-winning music to its beloved characters and their hilarious antics on and off-screen. Viewers get the first look at an all-new song “Desert Moon,” deleted from the final film, written by eight-time Academy Award® winning composer Alan Menken and Oscar®-and Tony Award®-winning songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“The Greatest Showman,” “La La Land”). Features document Guy Ritchie’s joyful, easy-going approach to directing that led to movie magic; Will Smith’s fresh take on the infamous shape-shifting blue entity confined to an oil lamp; Naomi Scott’s powerful performance as the spirited princess who yearns to lead the people of Agrabah; and the indescribable feeling of playing Aladdin chronicled personally by Mena Massoud. Deleted scenes and a blooper reel round out the fun.

In addition, early owners of “Aladdin” gain access to exclusive bonus features. Fans who pre-purchase will receive a feature showcasing the making of the massive musical number “Prince Ali,” and those who bring home the film first on Digital will secure an exclusive extra detailing the creation of Jasmine’s new song “Speechless.”

“Aladdin” is sure to become an instant classic for viewers of all ages and will be packaged in several ways to ensure the entire family gets the most out of its in-home entertainment experience. The film arrives two weeks early on Digital 4K Ultra HD and HD. A Digital bundle, which includes both the Walt Disney Signature Collection edition of the original animated classic “Aladdin” and the live-action adaptation, is also available for early purchase. A physical copy of the film will be released as a 4K Ultimate Collector’s Edition (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and Digital Code), a Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray and Digital Code) and a single DVD.

Bonus features include*:
DIGITAL PRESELL BONUS:

MAKE WAY FOR PRINCE ALI – Take a look at the gigantic design extravaganza that came together for this scene of Genie-sized proportions.

DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE BONUS:

“SPEECHLESS”: CREATING A NEW SONG FOR JASMINE – Follow the story of Jasmine’s inspirational song “Speechless,” written by Alan Menken, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul especially for this version of “Aladdin.”

BLU-RAY & DIGITAL BONUS:

ALADDIN’S VIDEO JOURNAL: A NEW FANTASTIC POINT OF VIEW – Watch behind-the-scenes moments captured by Mena Massoud (Aladdin) in this fun, fast-paced look at his personal journey.
DELETED SONG – “DESERT MOON” – Experience a moving duet performed by Jasmine and Aladdin, fully shot and edited, with an introduction by Alan Menken.
GUY RITCHIE: A CINEMATIC GENIE – Discover why director Guy Ritchie was the perfect filmmaker to tackle this exhilarating reimagining of a beloved classic.
A FRIEND LIKE GENIE – Discover how Will Smith brings talent, experience and his own personal magic to the iconic role of Genie.
DELETED SCENES
- Falling Petals Into OJ
- Jafar’s Magic Orrery
- Anders’ Gift
- Wrong Wishes
- Silly Old Fool
- Post Yam Jam Debrief
BLOOPERS – Laugh along with the cast and crew in this lighthearted collection of outtakes from the set.
MUSIC VIDEOS
- “Speechless” – Music video performed by Naomi Scott
- “A Whole New World” – Music video performed by ZAYN and Zhavia Ward
- “ A Whole New World” (“Un Mundo Ideal”) – Music video performed by ZAYN and Becky G.

*Bonus features may vary by retailer
Source: Disney

Kenny Ortega Receives Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 25, 2019

MITCHELL HOPE, KATHY NAJIMY, DOVE CAMERON , KENNY ORTEGA, MONIQUE COLEMAN, BOOBOO STEWART, ZACHARY GIBSON — Photo Credit: Disney

Known for directing and producing Disney Channel’s hugely popular “High School Musical” and “Descendants” franchises, Ortega has a long history with The Walt Disney Company including directing “Newsies” and “Hocus Pocus.” Throughout his remarkable career, which spans over four decades, Ortega also directed and/or choreographed “Dirty Dancing,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” “Pretty in Pink” and the “This Is It” documentary.

Emmy Award-winning director, producer, and choreographer Kenny Ortega received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Wednesday, July 24, presented by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. As part of the ceremony, actresses Kathy Najimy and Jennifer Grey, and Gary Marsh, president, and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, made remarks honoring Ortega.

Ortega’s family, friends, and stars from “High School Musical” and “Descendants” attended the ceremony along with fans who gathered on Hollywood Boulevard outside of the Pantages Theatre to celebrate this milestone in Ortega’s career.

Universal Studios Hollywood Newest Attraction Celebrates with Star Power

By

Russell Tom

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July 24, 2019

Jurassic World stars Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard along with the film’s Director/Screenwriter Colin Trevorrow and producer Frank Marshall were joined by Ron Meyer, Vice Chairman, NBCUniversal – Tom Williams, Chairman, Universal Parks & Resort – Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Studios Hollywood, and Mark Woodbury Vice Chairman, Universal Parks and Resort & President to open Universal Studio Hollywood’s newest attraction, Jurassic World – The Ride on July 22.

The newest theme park ride is an epic adventure that replaces the previous Jurassic Park ride, in a way that’s more real and more intense than ever before. While the new adventure, still utilizes the ride’s previous track, new dinosaurs are featured, which now include the Indominus Rex and the aquatic Mosasaurus. In collaboration with filmmakers Steven Spielberg, Colin Trevorrow, and Frank Marshall, the ride is inspired by the blockbuster franchise and blends that with some movie magic.

In addition to the new ride, there is an all-new themed “Raptor Encounter,” where Blue, the beloved Velociraptor from the JURASSIC WORLD movies, engages with guests in daring face-to-face encounters, along with the addition of two new realistic dinosaurs, Baby Raptor with her handler and a life-size, life-like Triceratops. Also, a new interactive “Dino Play” area where children of all ages get to explore and excavate giant dinosaur fossils has opened nearby.

An all-new Costa Rican-inspired cuisine and flavorful Tiki cocktails are served at the Jurassic Café with a new tropical Isla Nu-bar that adds to the guest experience. A wide variety of souvenir collectible, limited edition and one-of-a-kind dimensional dinosaur sculptures from the Jurassic Outfitters store invites everyone to take home a piece of their experience.

We were recently invited to preview this exciting new attraction and to check out the new food and beverages, as well as merchandise and collectibles. Check-out some of the photos below.

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To learn more about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, go to www.universalstudioshollywood.com

All Photos by Robbie Bulus unless otherwise stated. Additional info added by Robbie Bulus.
Source: Universal Studios Hollywood

Midsummer Scream Biggest Event yet Returns Aug 3-4 to Long Beach

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 24, 2019

Midsummer Scream, the largest Halloween and horror fan convention in the world, returns to Southern California August 3-4 for a monstrous weekend of thrills, chills, and haunting fun. For the first time, Midsummer Scream will occupy the entire Long Beach Convention Center, doubling the show’s size for 2019.

Tickets for Midsummer Scream 2019 are now on sale at MidsummerScream.org including single-day General Admission passes, as well as the very popular limited-edition Gold Bat Weekend Pass, which enables guests to access the show floor, Hall of Shadows, and other areas of Midsummer Scream an hour early each day before the convention opens to the general public; front of line priority access to panel presentations and attractions throughout the venue; a collectible lanyard and credential; and a Gold Bat 2019 enamel pin.

Midsummer Scream is expected to draw over 30,000 fans of all things macabre to Long Beach, where they will find a greatly-expanded show floor featuring more than 350 unique vendors, Paranormal Pixie’s children’s activity area with Buster Balloon, a wide variety of live entertainment performances, and exciting celebrity appearances including the queen of Halloween, Cassandra Peterson (Elvira, Mistress of the Dark).

This year, Midsummer Scream celebrates the 50^th Anniversary of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion, complete with a must-see panel presentation that includes Disney Legends Bob Gurr and Tony Baxter, vendors on the show floor in the Corridor of Creepy Creeps selling Mansion-inspired merchandise, and a Saturday night party, the Grim Grinning Gala, which promises to be the swingingest wake anywhere for both the living and the disembodied, complete with a movie screening of The Haunted Mansion with live commentary by the film’s director, Rob Minkoff, and Producer, Don Hahn. Happy Haunts that materialize in costume Saturday night are invited to participate in the Grim Grinning Gala’s contest with a $500 prize being awarded to the ghost with the most creativity! Tickets to the Haunted Mansion Gala is $20 and can be bought on the website while supplies last. (Note: Party admission already included with Gold Bat Pass.)

Deemed the “gateway to the Halloween season” by fans, Midsummer Scream will host presentations from many of Southern California’s major haunt attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, and Knott’s Scary Farm, as they offer guests exclusive sneak peeks at what terrors they have in store this coming October across the Southland.

Other outstanding presentations will include The Curious Creators of Christine McConnell’s Show; a Tales From the Crypt 30^th Anniversary reunion featuring the voice of the Crypt Keeper, John Kassir; the Winchester Mystery House; a look at Spooky and Strange Themed Bars of Southern California; Charles Phoenix and his all-new Halloweenland retrospective; the ever-popular Buzzfeed: Unsolved with Ryan Bergara and Shane Madej; and a look at JFI Productions’ attractions, from Creep to The Willows and beyond.

The massive Hall of Shadows dark zone is themed this year to Tiki Terror – a monstrously ghoulish mash-up of Polynesian lore and everything evil that goes bump in the night! As guests pass through a foreboding jungle portal created by the incredibly talented CalHauntS group – complete with a crashed airplane, crumbling temple ruins, and an erupting volcano – they will find a unique tiki vendor area featuring artists and merchants such as Jeff Granito, Sweet Siren, Tiki Tiki Monster, and McBiff. For those 21 years of age or older, libations can be found in the Drunken Devil’s Freaky Tiki Bar, where guests will mix and mingle with a kooky crew of castaways just dying for social interaction.

Also featured in this year’s Hall of Shadows will be over a dozen haunted attractions and displays, including Sinister Valley from Lake Elsinore’s Storm Stadium, Twisted Minds Productions, Hellsir Cemetery, Shattered Realm, and Wicked Pumpkin Hollow, to name just a few! Returning once again, the Decayed Brigade will thrill thousands of onlookers several times each day with sliding exhibitions that push the boundaries of gravity!

With more than 350 artisans and exhibitors, Midsummer Scream’s show floor has more than doubled in size, featuring unique artwork, props, Halloween accessories, clothing, and makeup supplies. Always keeping guest comfort in mind, Midsummer Scream has widened the show floor aisles to 15 feet for easier traffic circulation as fans visit their favorite vendors such as Trick or Treat Studios, Kreepsville 666, Bearded Lady’s Mystic Museum, Edyn Rashae Studios, and Dark Delicacies. Among the horrific hustle and bustle on the show floor, fans will also find Midsummer newcomers Madame Tussauds, Crypt TV, and Bloody Mary: Makeup to Die For.

Live entertainment is abundant at Midsummer Scream, from the show floor stage to the Theatre Macabre on the upper concourse of the convention center. Returning again this year to delight guests are Force of Nature Productions teasing their Halloween production; Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group presenting Urban Death for adults, and for the first time ever, Urban Death for Kidz!; a sexy horror fashion show by Poltergeists and Paramours; and Jimmy H as the creepy-but-cool Mudd the Magnificent. Guests will also be wowed ‘40s and ‘50s-style by Dr. Zomba’s Ghost Show of Terror throughout the weekend!

For those looking to get a jump on the Halloween season or sharpen their haunting skills, Midsummer Scream offers a robust education program, completely included in the price of admission, with the exception of select make-and-take classes by the incredible SoCal Valley Haunters group, which has a dedicated workshop area on the show floor. Educational classes and presentations this year range from novice to advanced and include everything from projection mapping on a budget to cosplay ideas and tips, to the importance of audio for your attraction, taught by industry sound designer Dan Bieranowski. There’s even a seminar taught by Matthew Maldonado and Cassie Lopez, two themed entertainment professionals who will teach aspiring designers what it takes to break into the business of creating theme parks and scream parks!

New for 2019, Midsummer Scream has created a Podcast Studio, where fans can watch their favorite podcasters interview industry icons and personalities live in a relaxed, fun environment all weekend long! Programming includes Forever Midnight interviewing Miko Hughes (Gage from the original Pet Sematary); the Theme Park Duo Podcast featuring Jeff Schiefelbein of Sinister Pointe; Parks and Cons chat it up with Jon Cooke and Ted Dougherty of Plague Productions; Dizney Coast to Coast with Kimberly J. Brown from Halloweentown; and Tales From the Fog hosting members of CalHauntS, who invite aspiring haunters to come at them with whatever questions they may have about effects techniques, creating yard displays or walk-through attractions, or prop-making in this very special So, You Want to be a Haunter? audience Q&A session; Fangoria will be hosting two podcasts as well – Post Mortem with Mick Garris interviewing horror legend Tony Todd, and Nightmare University with Dr. Rebekah McKendry, where she’ll deliver a crash-course on all things Hellraiser!

HorrorBuzz is back at it again, with wall-to-wall hand-picked horror flicks in the Screaming Room, where guests are invited to rest for a while and take in all the gore-filled movies they can handle, including curated film blocks from Etheria Film Night, Crypt TV, and USC Film School.

This is Midsummer Scream’s fourth year partnering with Kitten Rescue Los Angeles is presenting the Black Cat Lounge, where guests can mix and mingle with adorable felines roaming freely through a decorated play space. The Black Cat Lounge gives guests looking to adopt a pet the perfect opportunity to bond with their new little friends and give them forever homes.

Tickets are now on sale at MidsummerScream.org.

Source: Midsummer Scream

Things to do at Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park

By

Robbie Bulus

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July 24, 2019

Are you looking for the COOLEST and HIPPEST new spot to hang out at the Disneyland Resort? Then be sure to fly on over to the planet of Batuu to visit the Black Spire Outpost, where you’ll find a fun cantina hidden away among the streets of the outpost. Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the notorious watering hole where smugglers, bounty hunters, and weary travelers of all ages can come partake in some out of this world refreshments.

https://youtu.be/jcnutzknruY

When you step inside, you’ll be greeted with the musical stylings of DJ R-3X (also known as DJ REX), the former Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid we first met in Star Tours. With his quirky banter and rad beats, you are sure to have a good time as you partake in concoctions made from unique “otherworldly” ingredients from across the galaxy.

One of these concoctions is the Hyperdrive (Punch It!) – a non-alcoholic specialty beverage featuring Powerade Mountain Berry Blast, white cranberry juice, black cherry purée, and Sprite. Or you can sip on the Jabba Juice, a yummy beverage featuring Simply Orange with pineapple, kiwi, cantaloupe, and blueberry popping pearls. For the adults, the Fuzzy Tauntaun is a delicious concoction with peach vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice with tangerine, pure cane sugar, and “buzz button tingling” foam. And while you’re partaking in these refreshing treats, you can even snack on some Batuu Bits for a light and crispy galactic snack.

To make trip planning easier and more flexibility, Oga’s Cantina now offers advance reservations, which are highly recommended because walk-in opportunities are limited. Soon, Oga’s Cantina (as well as Savi’s Workshop) will follow the 60-day reservation process currently offered for restaurants and experiences requiring reservations. To make reservations, visit the Disneyland.com/Cantina.

Source: Disney

Marvel Brings Exclusive Experiences to D23 Expo 2019

By

Maverick Bohn

-

July 23, 2019

It’s time to suit up and get ready for this year’s D23 Expo in Anaheim, and to help you prepare for your hero’s welcome, Marvel has announced a thrilling show floor lineup that will include guest appearances, panels, stage events, exclusive merchandise, and much more.

The D23 Expo will be home to the Marvel Studios Pavilion, bringing guests right into the action of the record breaking blockbuster, Avengers: Endgame via a D23 Expo exclusive video experience. Costumes from throughout the MCU will also be on display, perfect for any cosplayers looking to get a closer look.

The weekend is sure to be action packed, as Marvel Studios will also host panel conversations with filmmakers, artists, as well as special talent signings. Fans will be given the chance to put their MCU knowledge to the ultimate test each day with trivia and prizes.

Fans will also get their first look at the new Marvel experiences coming to Disney Parks with Disney’s “Imagining Tomorrow, Today” Pavilion, bringing guests closer to the Avenger-themed areas coming to Disney California Adventure, Hong King Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris.

A full array of exciting panels are planned to go along for the ride, which can be seen below courtesy of our friends at D23! Make sure to make your plans, grab your best costume, and assemble at the D23 Expo this August:

How to Draw the Marvel Way
Friday, August 23, 3:30 p.m. PT, and Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m. PT, Center Stage
Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski, Creative Director of Themed Entertainment Brian Crosby, and some of Marvel’s top artists take you step by step through a creative tutorial on how to draw your favorite Marvel characters!

Marvel Animation’s Venom Invasion and a World Premiere!
Friday, August 23, 6 – 7 p.m. PT, Stage 28
Join Marvel Animation for an exciting panel full of sneak peeks, special guests, and big announcements, including scoop on fan-favorite series Marvel’s Spider-Man and the world premiere of the new Marvel Rising special Battle of the Bands!

The Walt Disney Studios Hall D23 Presentation
Saturday, August 24, 10 a.m. – noon, Hall D23
The Walt Disney Studios will present a behind-the-scenes look at its blockbuster collection of upcoming films, including a peek at exciting projects from Marvel Studios. As always, attendees will be treated to exclusive footage, special guest appearances, and more!

MARVEL COMICS: Marvel 80th Anniversary
Saturday, August 24, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. PT, Stage 28
Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and Executive Editor Tom Brevoort take you through the amazing, incredible, and uncanny history of Marvel Comics! Get the inside scoop on the House of Ideas—from Captain America to Captain Marvel! As part of Marvel’s 80th anniversary celebration this year, this commemorative panel looks back at the history of the Marvel Universe, honoring the iconic characters and timeless stories that have inspired fans all around the world. Marvel will continue celebrating this milestone with its characters and fans in exciting ways all year—from comics and games, to digital shows, toys, collectibles, and more.

More panels and surprises will be revealed. All guests are also encouraged to download the new D23 Expo App, which will be home to panel schedules, helpful tips, and much more! Limited tickets for single day Friday and Sunday passes are still available. Don’t miss your chance to take part in the magic. You can learn more by visiting D23’s official site!

2019 Pageant of the Masters Travels in “The Time Machine”

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

-

July 21, 2019

pageant pic A — “The Final Impossibility” by Norman Rockwell is one of many incredible painting that are recreated at The Pageant of the Masters (photo - www.foapom.com)

Summer is here and that means it’s time for the beach and barbecues. And if you love art – especially the kind with living people in it – then it’s time for one of the greatest performance spectacles around. It is time for the annual Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach.

Held each summer in an open-air canyon theater, the event is something that any lover of art and culture should experience at least once.

Now in its 87th season, the world-renown stage show incredibly recreates and brings to life famous paintings with a group of live, motionless models and beautiful backdrops, set within huge picture frames on a massive outdoor stage, with a professional orchestra, live narration, and sophisticated lighting.

Located in a rustic Laguna Beach canyon, two blocks from the ocean, The Pageant’s 90-minute nightly performances are highlighted by tableaux vivants or living pictures that take the 2,000-seat Irvine Bowl Park stage in the corner of the festival grounds.

The “pictures” are remarkable re-creations of classical and contemporary masterpieces, “painted” with real people, painstakingly made-up with costumes and makeup. The painting is then filled with authentic backdrops and wrapped by giant picture frames. When the curtain is lifted, each 90-second-long picture is accompanied by an orchestra, with an original score; a live narration; and sophisticated lighting.

The title of the 2019 Pageant is “The Time Machine” and it promises audiences a trip around the globe and into the past, present, and future in search of great art and amazing stories. Taking its cues from science fiction and steampunk fantasies, The Time Machine will be a “ticket to thrills, laughter, beautiful music and extraordinary living art under the stars.”

Pageant of the Masters producer/director Diane Challis Davy says this year’s show was inspired by the novel “The Time Machine” by H.G. Wells “and we intend to conjure up a collection of artists who imagined and re-created scenes from the past and future. We hope The Time Machine will become a mysterious journey through time and space, and art,” she says. “Of course, there’ll be no shortage of surprises along the way, perhaps a few pop-culture cameo appearances.”

Act 1 of the Pageant show begins with an incredible live recreation of the painting “Napoleon and his General Staff,” by Jean-Léon Gérôme from the 1860s. This oil painting shows Napoleon on a military adventure on the back of a camel in the Egyptian desert, surrounded by his men.

Another stunning picture brought to live is “Cleopatra on the Terraces of Philae” by American painter Frederick Arthur Bridgman. This 1896 oil on canvas shows Cleopatra with two other women standing by the water, with a boat and palm trees in the background.

The performance ends with “The Final Impossibility” by Norman Rockwell, which depicts two astronauts landing on the moon. As with all of the other “paintings” it is very hard to believe that these are real live people recreating these scenes.

The pageant is part of the larger Festival of Arts, a summer-long celebration of art and artists. This year’s festival showcases the works of 140 of Orange County’s best original painters, sculptors, ceramists, jewelers, and photographers. The festival also offers free daily art workshops for the whole family, live Jazz and blues, wine tastings, cooking classes, restaurants and more. In 2017, the Festival of Arts debuted its brand new $10 million facility which features a new layout for the art exhibit area, workshops, gift shop, and concert stage. Admission to the festival is $10. For more information, visit: www.LagunaFestivalofArts.org

During my visit to Laguna Beach for the Pageant of the Masters last year, I stayed at The Inn at Laguna Beach, a boutique, water-front hotel perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, with 70 guest rooms, a rooftop terrace, swimming pool and a complimentary Wine Hour, held each day between 5pm and 6 pm. For more information on the hotel, call 800 544 4479 or visit: www.innatlagunabeach.com

The 2019 Pageant of the Masters, The Time Machine, runs through August 31, 2019. Tickets are on sale now. A Pageant ticket is also a season pass to the 2019 Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, which also runs through August 31, 2019. For more information on tickets, call (949) 494-1145 or visit: www.foapom.com or www.PageantTickets.com

LA Zoo Celebrates World Elephant Day

By

Monique Lopez

-

July 21, 2019

The LA Zoo is celebrating is annual World Elephant Day (which is August 12) with immersive experiences all weekend long on August 10 and 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This weekend event is to help raise awareness of Asian and African elephants. The LA Zoo has put forth many efforts to protect and prevent extinction for our pachyderm friends.

The weekend celebration will showcase Asian and African elephants. The LA Zoo has put forth many efforts in protecting and preventing the extinction of these gentle creatures. So, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a fun and educational activities for all ages!

Guests attending will learn about the four elephants that reside at the zoo. Exclusive barn tours are also offered. During the barn tour, guests will learn how our pachyderm friends are cared for.

Younger guests can also bring in their favorite plush toy for a “check-up” at a “medical clinic” and will receive a certificate of health to keep. There will also be kids conservation crafts available for your little ones to enjoy!

The LA Zoo holds a large, 6.56 acre, habitat for their Elephants of Asia exhibit. This vast space has bathing pools and a high-tech barn for elephants of all sizes. However, it is important to learn about the troubles the elephant can face in the wild. They face extinction. In contrast, the zoo offers guests opportunities, like this event, to contribute to conservation programs.

Celebrate World Elephant Day at the LA Zoo Saturday, August 10th through Sunday, August 11th!

For hours, location, and more information, please visit LaZoo.org

What To Expect At the D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim

By

Monique Lopez

-

July 21, 2019

The 2019 D23 Expo is just a few weeks away and Disney fans are excited! This event will be held from August 23rd to August 25th and will provide guests with a complete immersion of all things Disney!

At this year’s D23, fans will get to experience all the panels and merchandise a Disney heart desires. Guests of the expo will get an exclusive inside look to upcoming lands, renovations, and attractions. At the “Imagine Tomorrow, Today” pavilion, fans will learn and see all the changes happening at Walt Disney World’s Epcot park. Fans will also get an exclusive look at the new Marvel-themed lands coming to Disney California Adventure, Hong Kong, and Paris parks. The fan-favorite Hall D23 presentation with Bob Chapek, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, will take place Sunday, August 25, at 10:30 a.m. Guests will be treated to more details on much-anticipated attractions, experiences, and transformative storytelling that set Disney apart.

During this three-day fan event, you will get the first look and pick some special merchandise as well as shop limited edition items from shopdisney.com and official D23 merchandise.

Guests will get to experience panels and pavilions for every different type of Disney fan. On different stages, you can join in everything from celebrating 50 years of The Haunted Mansion attraction, to meeting the artists behind the exclusive designer ears collection.

There are many other exciting offerings to discover, including several special panel presentations:

The Music and Sounds of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Friday, August 23, 12:30 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Sound design is an instrumental layer of storytelling found throughout every Disney park, resort, and cruise ship. Join Imagineering Music Studio lead Matt Walker in discussing the creative process behind the original music and sound design heard throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Join Imagineers and collaborators who will share how they developed all-new iconic soundscapes while taking inspiration from the rich legacy of Star Wars music and sound design, from the land’s epic John Williams-composed musical score to the sounds of low-flying starships.

Haunted Mansion: Celebrating 50 Years
Saturday, August 24, 12:30 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Celebrate Disney’s famed home of 999 happy haunts. The attraction’s rich history has generated global fandom from both the living and the unliving. Our ghost host has assembled a procession of bodies you will be dying to meet!

Immersive Worlds: Bringing Stories to Life in Disney Parks
Saturday, August 24, 3:30 p.m., Stage 28
Disney Imagineers continue Walt Disney’s legacy in creating themed environments where beloved stories and characters come to life. Join Imagineers Joe Rohde and Scott Trowbridge to learn about the creative process for dreaming up and developing new Disney experiences as we invite guests to enter authentic worlds previously seen only in a film, a book, or one’s imagination.

Travels with Marty: A Conversation with the Sklars and Imagineers
Saturday, August 24, 6 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Celebrate the legacy of Disney Legend Marty Sklar as his colleagues, mentees, and family recount the journey of publishing his last book and discuss his lasting impact on The Walt Disney Company.

Behind the Art of Disney Costuming: Heroes, Villains, and Spaces Between
Sunday, August 25, 10 a.m., Stage 28
Celebrate the imagination, passion, and attention to detail in creating Disney costumes. Go behind the scenes with the team that crafted the dazzling new Walt Disney Archives exhibit on the D23 Expo show floor and its accompanying coffee table book.

Inspiring Women Behind Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Sunday, August 25, 2 p.m., Stage 28
Meet some of the talented women from across Disney Parks, Experiences and Products responsible for bringing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to life. Hear stories about their roles and experiences in developing everything from the original backstories of the land and its inhabitants to the themed merchandise, galactic fare, and the interactive elements found throughout Black Spire Outpost.

Magic Journey: My Fantastical Walt Disney Imagineering Career with Kevin Rafferty
Sunday, August 25, 4 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Join veteran Imagineer Kevin Rafferty as he reminisces about a career spanning 40-plus years, from a dishwasher at Disneyland to builder of immersive worlds. Kevin explains his path to Imagineering and talks about his new book.

Marc Davis in His Own Words – Imagineering the Disney Theme Park
Sunday, August 25, 6 p.m., Stage 28
Authors Pete Docter and Christopher Merritt reveal their magnificent two-volume tribute to the artwork and career of Disney Legend Marc Davis. Featuring artwork from Marc for the creation of the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland, the presentation will also highlight the 50th anniversary of the storied attraction.

Disney Store Artist Signing Schedule
Friday, August 23 – Saturday, August 24, Talent Central
Come meet the artists and designers behind some of our amazing D23 Expo product ranges:

Disney Pixar Tiki Mug Signing with Jerome Ranft

Friday, August 23, 4 – 5 p.m., Talent Central

Midnight Masquerade and Animator Villains Collections with Steve Thompson and Courtney Watkinson

Saturday, August 24, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Talent Central

The Little Mermaid 30th Anniversary Collection with Steve Thompson, Bryan Mon, Daria Vinogradova, Diana Tran, and Cathy Clark-Ramirez

Saturday, August 24, 4 – 5 p.m., Talent Central

Disney Parks Designer Collection Artist Signing Schedule
Friday, August 23 – Sunday, August 25, Talent Central
Meet the artists behind the latest releases from this exclusive, limited-release collection of Mickey ear hats and Minnie ear headbands:

Jerrod Maruyama

Friday, August 23, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Talent Central
Saturday, August 24, 12:30 – 2 p.m., Talent Central

SHAG

Saturday, August 24, 2– 3:30 p.m., Talent Central

Noah Fine Art

Saturday, August 24, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Talent Central

Ashley Eckstein for Her Universe

Saturday, August 24, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Talent Central
Sunday, August 25, 5 – 6:45 p.m., Talent Central

Single-day tickets for Friday and Sunday of D23 Expo 2019 are available for $89 for one-day adult admission and $69 for children ages 3–9. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $79 for one-day adult admission and $59 for children ages 3–9. Single-day Saturday tickets and three-day passes are sold out.

For tickets and more information visit D23 online

Socalthrills.com

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Kenny Ortega Receives Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame

Universal Studios Hollywood Newest Attraction Celebrates with Star Power

Midsummer Scream Biggest Event yet Returns Aug 3-4 to Long Beach

Things to do at Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park

Marvel Brings Exclusive Experiences to D23 Expo 2019

2019 Pageant of the Masters Travels in “The Time Machine”

LA Zoo Celebrates World Elephant Day

What To Expect At the D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim

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