Theatre Review: Hello Dolly

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January 27, 2019

Put on your Sunday clothes and head out to the theater! Hello, Dolly is dancing across the stage of Segerstrom Center for the Arts until January 27, then parades to the Hollywood Pantages Theater from January 29 to February 17. Hello, Dolly! is a feel-good farcical comedy about the meddling self-made socialite, matchmaker, dance instructor, and anything else you need her to be, Dolly Gallagher Levi. We begin with Dolly in the process of assisting artist Ambrose Kemper with getting to marry the love of his life, Ermengarde Vandergelder, the niece of Yonkers half-a-millionaire feed shop owner Horace Vandergelder. Dolly, a widow, soon reveals that she is in pursuit of marrying Horace herself, despite having just set him up with Yonkers milliner and fellow-widow Irene Malloy. Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker, Mr. Vandergelder’s overworked and underpaid employees, decide that since he will be out of town on business, they will sneak out and spend the day in New York themselves. Upon arriving in New York, Cornelius and Barnaby meet Irene Malloy and her apprentice, Minnie Fay. The pairs instant attraction to, unbeknownst to them, their boss’ fiancé quickly sets off the ridiculous farce that allows true love to fall into place for everyone.

This performance was originally set to Star the famous Betty Buckley, but due to illness, she was unable to perform this leg. Her understudy, Jessica Sheridan (Dolly), is an absolute delight! Her stage presence, comedic timing, and facial expressions really bring Dolly Levi to life. Sheridan has phenomenal vocal prowess, making you laugh and cry from song to song. I actually teared up for her Curtain Call.

Lewis J. Stadlen (Horace Vandergelder) is quite the character actor. He has a perfect voice and accent for this role! Stadlen’s dry humor is spot on. I was also delighted by Nic Rouleau (Cornelius Hackl); his singing and vaudevillian stage ability are absolutely delightful.

This show has some of the coolest sets I’ve seen, including a horse-drawn carriage (no animals were harmed) and a steam train. Like almost all large-scale modern productions, the many sets moved seamlessly along invisible pulleys. I would even say that this was the most in-the-moment I felt in a musical in a long time, thanks to the large and intricate sets. The costume design is beautiful, boasting many bright colored Victorian-era outfits.

Overall, I can understand why this musical was able to win a Tony Award just for its revival alone. This was a stunning and heartfelt journey into love and moving on from life’s hardships.

Minnie Mouse Brings the Magic of Valentine’s Day to Disneyland

By

Maverick Bohn

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January 24, 2019

Love is in the air, hearts are fluttering, and the magic of Valentine’s Day can be felt throughout Disneyland Park thanks to a certain polka dot loving mouse! Minnie Mouse has added her own special flair to the park, sprinkling the land with decorative hearts and one of a kind treats.

Snap a lovely photo with this adorable photo op right on Main Street!

From now through mid February, all guests of the Disneyland Resort will get a chance to take part in the fun. Minnie has placed her hearts in special locations, providing the perfect photo op for you and your loved ones. All the main street vehicles have been fully decorated, filled with flowers, flags, and sweetheart messages.

If taking in the sights is not your only goal, make sure to ask about Minnie’s special Valentine’s scavenger hunt, which we will be covering in further detail very soon! Meanwhile, take full advantage of Minnie’s limited Valentine’s Day treat offerings, each available through mid February.

Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor – Donut Sundae

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe – Heart Shaped Mousse Dessert

Golden Horseshoe – Strawberry Cheesecake “Funnel of Love”

Plaza Inn's limited Strawberry Bundt Cake! — Plaza Inn’s limited Strawberry Bundt Cake!

Red Rose Tavern – Cherry Mousse Treat

Market House (Starbucks) – Heart Shaped Linzer Cookie with Minnie Center

Plaza Inn – Strawberry Bundt Cake

Blue Bayou Restaurant – Strawberry Beet Salad and Pillow Cake Dessert

Market House's Heart Shaped Linzer Cookie with Minnie Center — Market House’s Heart Shaped Linzer Cookie with Minnie Center

Hungry Bear Restaurant – Specialty Funnel Cake

Rancho Del Zocolo – Molacajete Platter and Chocolate Tamale

River Belle Terrace – Southern Pork Belly Sliders and Chocolate Lava Cake

Bengal Barbeque – Roasted Vegetable Spring Roll

Check out the full Valentine’s Day Food Guide here.

There will also be specialty merchandise available, from pins to sweetheart paired plushes. It’s the perfect excuse to find your sweet spot and share a special memory with the one you care about most. Whether you want to cruise down lovers lane, or make a quick trip to see Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the fun continues on. It’s all apart of this year’s Get Your Ears On Celebration. Don’t miss out!

“Project Stardust” Revealed at the Disneyland Resort

By

Maverick Bohn

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January 24, 2019

In preparation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and for the 60th anniversary of Sleeping Beauty, Disney Imagineering has revealed more details on the recent plans to refurbish Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s all part of an initiative titled, “Project Stardust”, which encompasses all the recent changes and updates resort wide that include the recent debut of Tropical Hideaway, updates to the tracks and current curb layout of Main Street, in addition to many other elemental adjustments throughout the park.

According to the Disney Parks Blog, the project goals aims “to continue to deliver a world-class guest experience. The enhancements will range from overall beautification of the theme park to maximizing guest comfort and access.” The project will also provide additional efforts to provide even more updates to the park that have not yet been revealed, though for some veteran park goers, the changes may already be noticeable. This includes pathway updates in areas such as New Orleans Square, vendor cart location changes, enhanced stroller parking, and updated attraction queues across the resort.

The name “Stardust”, also holds a unique meaning, as it can be tied to both the power of Disney magic and whimsy in addition to being the code name for a top secret project in the Star Wars universe. In Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, it was revealed that heroine, Jyn Erso’s childhood nickname was “Stadust”, which ultimately became the Empire’s code for the Death Star project. With Galaxy’s Edge on the horizon, this may be the perfect project title, tying in both worlds to bring forward a new era for the resort.

Special film art from Sleeping Beauty is now on display surrounding Sleeping Beauty Castle during its refresh.

Imagineer, Kim Irvine, provides more details in the video below, provided by the official Disneyland YouTube Channel. Sleeping Beauty Castle will continue it’s refresh and updates throughout the spring. Special displays are already in place for those wanting to learn more about the history of the park icon, including art renders of the castle and scenes from the film.

Stay tuned for more details!

Day Tripping Down to Dana Point Harbor

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

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January 24, 2019

Pilgrim - Copy — Dana Point Harbor features tall ships, a marine institute, whale watching and tide pools (photo by Greg Aragon)

For Richard Henry Dana, it was the culmination of an epic and grueling two-year voyage from Boston to California. For me, it was a day trip in a rental car. Either way, you slice it, Dana Point Harbor makes a great getaway.

Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, the man-made harbor provides slips and mooring for 2,500 boats within two marinas inside a one-and-a-half mile jetty. Activities include fishing, whale watching, windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, boat charters, sailing, shopping, dining, picnicking, swimming, and paddle boarding.

The harbor also boasts an ocean institute, tide pools, and a beautiful full-sized replica of the Pilgrim, the two-masted “Tall Ship” that Dana sailed aboard in the 1830’s.

Immortalized by Dana in his classic 1840 American seafaring novel “Two Years Before the Mast,” the Pilgrim sailed from Boston in 1834 loaded with shoes, foodstuffs and ironware. When she arrived in San Juan Bay (Dana Point), the crew sold or traded her wares, then procured hides from the missions and rancheros to be transported back to Boston.

His novel gives readers a shocking and memorable look inside the rough world of 18th century American sea life. “The vessel I am going on is small, but strong and a remarkably fast sailor having been built for the smuggling trade,” wrote Dana about the ship.

The original Pilgrim burned at sea in 1856, but a new one sailed into Dana Point Harbor in September 1981. This one was built in Denmark in 1945. Each September, the Pilgrim and maritime history are celebrated in the annual Tall Ships Festival.

On most Sunday’s the ship is open for public tours. Admission is free with purchase of an Ocean Institute ticket. Once aboard visitors are greeted by volunteers in period costumes with pirate accents. As I toured the boat I wondered how a crew could live aboard something so small and cramped for two years as Richard Henry Dana did.

After touring the Pilgrim, I visited The Ocean Institute (www.ocean-institute.org), an ocean education center that offers in-depth marine science, maritime history and outdoor education programs. The Institute includes state-of-the-art teaching labs, the spectacular Maddie James Seaside Learning Center, two historic tallships, and an oceanographic research vessel. The facility is open to the public seven days a week and offers exhibits such as the Headlands and Beyond, which features an intertidal touch tank, artifact displays, pop-up experiments, and children’s playscape.

Throughout the year institute offers family programs, summer camps, whale-watching cruises, tallship sails, and various events including the annual Toshiba Tall Ships Festival and Festival of Whales.

After the institute we walked about 25 yards to beach and explored Dana Point’s famous tide pools. Here, with the tide receding we saw a multitude of sea creatures exposed in tiny coral pools. I saw hermit crabs, limpets, periwinkles, mussels, sea stars, sea urchins, and a bunch of other slimy creatures.

From the tide pools, we drove up the steep end of Golden Lantern Street and discovered the Dana Point Headlands Nature Interpretive Center and Trail. The Center is small, but informative, with lots of historical, cultural, and natural history exhibits. The highlight is the beautiful nature trail, located beside the museum. It is marked clearly with wire rope and follows the rugged cliffs of Dana Point.

Lined with soft sand, the trail offers incredible ocean and landscape views. Hikers can see dolphins, flocks of pelicans flying in V-formation, passing boats, gorgeous sunsets, a couple hillside mansions, and whales if they are in season. After the 20-minute hike, we had a picnic lunch on the sand next to Doheny State Beach.

January through April is a great time to visit Dana Point, as it is peak season for whale watching, which begins the day after Thanksgiving. Blue Whale season runs from May until November. Whatever the season, Dana Point also typically sees pods of dolphin, sea lions, squadrons of pelican and other sea faring birds.

The Ocean Institute is located at 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point, CA 92629. For more information on admission and tours, call 949.496-2274 or visit: www.ocean-institute.org. For more info on visiting Dana Point Harbor, visit www.danapointharbor.com.

Mickey’s Mix Magic Makes Magical Debut

By

Maverick Bohn

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January 19, 2019

"Mickey's Mix Magic" Projection Show Lights Up Disneyland Park — “Mickey’s Mix Magic” lights up the night at Disneyland Park with a new high-energy projection show celebrating the one and only Mickey Mouse. The nightly extravaganza creates a family-fun dance party throughout the park with “DJ” Mickey spinning the new celebration song, “It’s a Good Time” along with new, fun takes on favorite Disney songs. On select nights, “Mickey’s Mix Magic” is enhanced with the addition of fireworks. Disneyland Resort is located in Anaheim, Calif. (Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort)

Mickey and Minnie’s Get Your Ears On Celebration is officially underway at the Disneyland Resort, bringing a brand new nighttime entertainment spectacular, Mickey’s Mix Magic. The dance party features fireworks, projections, lasers, and other special effects, bringing both Main Street USA and It’s a Small World to life in a one of a kind journey through some of our favorite Disney moments. You can preview the entire show below!

The nighttime fun kicks off at 9:30 PM PST and has a run time of just over ten minutes. Mickey’s Mix Magic features a wide variety of songs from Disney classics like Aladdin, The Aristocats, and The Jungle Book. The entire playlist is below, giving you the full scoop on what to expect.

EVENT PLAYLIST

“It’s a Good Time”
“I Wanna Be Like You”
“Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat”
“Friend Like Me”
“Grim Grinning Ghosts”
“Un Poco Loco”
“Let It Go”
“It’s a Good Time” (Finale)

Disneyland’s official site has revealed that Mickey’s Mix Magic will expand to the Rivers of America in sync with Fantasmic! Make sure to keep an eye out for more updates, as SoCalThrills will be exploring all that Mickey and Minnie’s Get Your Ears on Celebration has to offer!

Meandering Through Meersburg, Germany

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

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January 18, 2019

Set on a cliff above Lake Constance , Meersburg , Germany is charming medieval village of castles, vineyards, museums and pubs (photo by Greg Aragon)

As the boat glided across Lake Constance, a 7th-century castle appeared through the morning mist, her fortified walls jetting from the side of an ancient cliff. Below the fortress a village of half-timber structures and fertile vineyards climbed a hillside, exposing a colorful medieval town.

This is how sailors saw Meersburg centuries ago. This is how I discovered the tiny German village last spring.

My getaway began by climbing a flight of ancient stairs to the upper part of the city, known as Oberstadt. Here I found a pedestrian-only town of meandering cobblestone streets and colorful buildings hidden above the lake.

My first stop was Hotel 3 Stuben (www.3stuben.de) a historic, half-timbered house located on the edge of old town, near the oldest inhabited castle in Germany (“Old Castle”) as well as the famous Baroque Neues Schloss (“New Castle”). The hotel consists of 28 rooms individually decorated with character and style true to its 16th-century roots. And while the décor is whimsically historic, the amenities are all modern and efficient.

At the hotel, I checked into a charming top floor room with a pitched ceiling, comfy twin bed, large TV, work station, sofa and chairs, minibar, bathroom with shower, and big windows looking over the city.

With home base taken care of I went exploring, starting with the Old Castle. Located on a ridge overlooking Lake Constance, Meersburg Castle was built sometime in the 7th century to protect city dwellers from invaders. Today it is both a public museum and a private residence.

To enter the giant fortress, I crossed a draw bridge and was instantly transported back to the Middle Ages, where I encountered medieval living areas; Knight’s armor and weaponry such as lances, swords and battle-axes; and a creepy castle dungeon, in which prisoners were lowered to their doom. The torture chamber in the deep castle dungeon offers insight into medieval justice. Guests visiting the castle can see more than 35 furnished rooms, including the “dirnitz” or great hall, the castle kitchen, and the well chamber. There is also a bathhouse and bakery.

The castle tour also includes the rooms in which famous German poet, Annette von Droste-Hülshoff, lived when she visited Lake Constance until her death in May 1848. The castle café with its magnificent panoramic terrace and the romantically situated castle tavern by the Marienbrunnen fountain offer great views of Lake Constance.

From the castle, I strolled past pubs, gift shops, eateries and museums. One of the most interesting museums is dedicated to wine and features old-school wine making tools, such as a mammoth wooden grape crusher and wine barrel.

My next stop was the banks of Lake Constance, where I found a public swimming area teaming with locals taking advantage of precious spring sun. While soaking, I admired a spectacular view of the Swiss Alps in the distance and the island of Mainau a few miles offshore.

Also known as Flower Island, Mainau (www.mainau.de) is a short ferry ride from Meersburg and makes a perfect day trip. The island is a giant garden full of roses, palms, bamboo, hibiscus, tulips, orchids, Sequoia trees, and more. There is also a butterfly house and a restaurant.

In the morning, I shuttled to Friedrichshaven and visited the Zeppelin Museum (www.zeppelin-museum.de), the world’s largest airship museum. The museum features thousands of historical items on the history of Zeppelin airships and is highlighted by a 40-meter-long reconstruction of the Hindenburg and artifacts from the airship’s fiery last voyage. Visitors can climb a ladder onto the legendary passenger ship, rebuilt according to its original dimensions, to get an eerie feeling of what it would feel like to be a passenger on this innovative, luxury airliner.

To get back to Meersburg, I biked 11 gorgeous miles through lush lakefront vineyards, picturesque hamlets and green parks. I concluded my evening in Meersburg with traditional German cuisine and local wine at Winzerstube zum Becher restaurant in the center of town.

For more info on visiting Meersburg, go to: www.meersburg.de or www.germany.travel. For info on flying there, visit Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) at: www.swiss.com

Your Official Food Guide to Mickey and Minnie’s Get Your Ears On Event

By

Maverick Bohn

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January 18, 2019

The biggest party this side of Toontown kicks off January 18th, 2019 with Mickey and Minnie’s “Get Your Ears On” event at the Disneyland Resort. To celebrate, park guests will get to enjoy a large assortment of treats and special limited time food options perfect for the occasion.

Everyone gets to take part in the fun, as each item pays special tribute to Mickey and Minnie Mouse. There’s a huge variety of food offerings, including a special vegan hot dog! Each limited item will be available until May (unless otherwise stated). Make sure to take a full list below!

Churros- Because it wouldn’t be a Disneyland food event without churros!

Disneyland Park

Small World Promenade

Mickey Mouse Celebration Churro – Warm chocolate churro drizzled with cookie butter topped with Mickey confetti and served with a side of red marshmallow crème and classic Mickey buttons

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Fantasia Mickey Churro – Warm chocolate churro dusted with red and blue sugar served with a side of red marshmallow crème and Sorcerer Mickey hat

Haunted Mansion

Banana Pudding Churro – Classic churro rolled in vanilla cookie crumbles with banana pudding dipping sauce

Disney California Adventure

Willie’s Churros

Caramel Corn Churro – Classic churro dusted with corn cereal sugar and topped with salted caramel and caramel corn

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

Maple-Bacon Churro – Classic churro dusted with cinnamon sugar and topped with maple icing and crumbled bacon

Goofy’s Sky School

Celebration Mickey Chocolate Churro – Chocolate cookie-dusted churro with chocolate icing and sprinkles

Disneyland Park

Carnation Café

“Celebrate Mickey” Chicken and Waffles (breakfast only) – Mini Mickey waffles with icing, sprinkles, and frosted cereal-crusted chicken
Hot Chicken and Waffles – Spicy hot chicken and a large Mickey waffle with blistered tomato and balsamic glaze
TV Dinner Pot Roast – Wagyu pot roast, blue cheese and bacon mac and cheese, sautéed green beans and carrots, and braised red cabbage served with a pineapple upside-down cake

Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor

Birthday Sundae – Two large scoops of birthday cake ice cream with a Mickey Mouse-shaped brownie, hot fudge, whipped cream, a cherry, and Mickey Mouse-shaped sprinkles served in a Mickey or Minnie Mouse Kitchen Sink

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe

Mickey Mouse Club Hat Dessert – Chocolate truffle mousse dome with vanilla bean crème brûlée center, Mickey ears, and Mickey Mouse Club logo
Specialty Toasted Cheese Sandwich – Swiss, Jack, and Fiscalini cheddar cheese with crispy pancetta and blackberry jam

Plaza Inn

Celebration Cake (available starting on February 19) – Red and yellow cake with raspberry and lemon filling

Red Rose Taverne

Mickey-inspired Cheeseburger – 1/3 lb. Angus patty with burger sauce and lettuce on a red potato bun with black sesame seeds

ToonTown

Mickey Chocolate Chip Cookie Cupcake – topped with buttercream frosting, birthday sprinkles, red glitter macaron, sugar candle, chocolate ears, and blue sprinkle cone “party hat”
Minnie Chocolate Chip Cookie Cupcake – topped with buttercream frosting, birthday sprinkles, chocolate ears, and a red bow

Pluto’s Dog House

Bacon Mac & Cheese Footlong Hotdog – topped with creamy bacon mac and cheese and served on an Italian roll

Daisy’s Diner

Mickey Mouse Pepperoni Pizza

Clarabelle’s

Mickey’s Birthday Sundae – Frozen yogurt with fruit popcorn, birthday cake cotton candy, candied chocolates, and colorful celebration cake

Troubadour Tavern

Jumbo Hand-Crafted Bavarian Pretzel – topped with nacho cheese, crushed spicy onion chips, and smoked black salt

Rancho del Zocalo

Mickey Hat Dessert – Vanilla mousse dome with churro crunch filling, mango glaze, and striped Mickey ears
Frozen Strawberry Horchata – flavored with strawberry and topped with whipped cream, a dehydrated strawberry, and a sprinkle of cinnamon
Sopes Trio – Chicken, beef, and pork served on fried corn dough with refried beans, shredded lettuce, spicy lime aïoli, and salsa roja

Café Orléans

Charcuterie Board – Artisanal French goat, sheep, and cow milk cheese, sliced meats, honeycomb, dried fruit, nuts, cornichons, creole mustard, and toast
Smoked Salmon Salad – topped with cucumber, red onion, fried capers, heirloom tomato, croutons, and lemon crème fraîche
Fried Chicken and Beignets – Buffalo-tossed chicken served with sugar-dusted beignets, herb bacon coleslaw, and waffle fries
Birthday Cake Mickey Beignets – Chocolate-coffee cake and white cake beignets

French Market

Mickey’s Mac and Cheese (kid’s meal) – Mickey-shaped pasta tossed with a creamy cheese sauce and served with applesauce, seasonal fruit, and choice of milk or small bottled water
Mickey Pasta with Marinara Sauce (kid’s meal) – served with applesauce, seasonal fruit, and choice of milk or small bottled water

Harbour Galley

Lobster Pot Pie Soup – Lobster, red potatoes, carrots, celery, and herbs in a rich seafood cream sauce served in a bread bowl
Vegan Hot Diggity Dog – Vegan hot dog topped with spicy lentil chili, onions, and mustard served with seasonal fruit

River Belle Terrace

Cookie Butter Monkey Bread – covered in cookie butter and vanilla ice cream and garnished with two cookie butter cookies
Mickey Jumbo Pretzel – Hand-crafted Bavarian pretzel

Bengal Barbecue

Pad Thai Spring Roll – with shrimp, bean sprouts, sweet and sour-flavored rice noodles, garlic chives, scrambled eggs, cashews, julienne carrots, pickled radishes, and butter lettuce with a cashew-hoisin dipping sauce

Galactic Grill

S’mores Parfait

Alien Pizza Planet

S’mores Parfait
Bowtie Pasta – with tomato cream sauce, sausage, and diced red bell peppers
Buffalo Chicken Pizza – Fried chicken breast pieces, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing topped with fresh carrots and creamy buffalo sauce

DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK

Trolley Treats

Steamboat Willie Black and White Cookie – Butter shortbread cookie dipped in white and dark chocolate with silver crunch pearls

Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café

Mickey’s Chocolate Cup and Brownie – Chocolate brownie with cookies and cream mousse-filled chocolate cup

Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream

Hand-dipped Mickey or Minnie Ice Cream Bar – Choice of ice cream bar dipped in chocolate with sprinkles

Smokejumpers Grill

Confetti Cake Shake – Vanilla shake with crumbled confetti cake, icing, whipped cream, and Mickey sprinkles
“Share Your Ears” Cheeseburger – Angus 1/3 burger with American Cheese and cheeseburger slider “ears”

Pacific Wharf Café

Cookies ‘n Cream Bread Pudding – with condensed milk, whipped cream, and crushed chocolate cream-filled cookies

Gourmet Coffee Cart

Mickey Fun Wheel Cookie – Sugar cookie filled with raspberry jelly topped with colored chocolate drizzle and Mickey Fun Wheel chocolate decor
Celebration Cookies – One sugar shortbread cookie filled with raspberry jam and two sugar shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche and topped with a chocolate Mickey celebration logo

Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta

Spectacular Mickey Pizza – Mickey pepperoni pizza with confetti of peppers and onions

Award Wieners

A Cheesy Celebration – Cheddar sausage link with creamy mac and cheese, salsa verde, crumbled spicy cheese puffs, and cheese curds on a toasted bun
More Cheese Please – Filmstrip fries with creamy mac and cheese, salsa verde, crumbled spicy cheese puffs, and cheese curds
“Get Your Ears On” Funnel Cake Fries – Chocolate cookie-dusted funnel cake fries with cookies and cream icing, whipped cream, chocolate cream-filled cookie ears, and “90” sprinkles
Celebration Cake Funnel Fries – Funnel cake fries topped with crumbled confetti cake, frosting, whipped cream, and Mickey sprinkles

Schmoozies!

Mickey Donut with apple filling
Minnie Donut with cherry filling
Mickey Cookies ‘n Cream Shake with “90” sprinkles

Cozy Cone Motel

Birthday Hat Macaron

The Disneyland Hotel

Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie Celebration Dinner at Goofy’s Kitchen

Starting on January 18, Chef Goofy is serving up a heaping helping of fabulous new themed eats, celebratory take-home swag, décor, and special appearances by your favorite pals – Mickey and Minnie! In addition to five all-you-care-to-enjoy stations featuring a variety of tasty bites, you’ll enjoy several unique dishes including Steamboat Chili, Mouse Ear Cookies, and Celebration Cupcakes. Reservations are highly recommended, and character experiences and menu items are subject to change without notice. To make reservations, visit the Disneyland Resort website or call 714 781-DINE (714 781-3463).

Mickey’s Tea Party Celebration

Starting Jan. 19 through March 31, you’re invited to celebrate Mickey with a limited-time tea party. Sip on loose leaf tea and herbal infusions brewed by the potful while you enjoy a delicious assortment of sweet and savory tea sandwiches, gourmet morsels, and Mickey-themed treats! You’ll enjoy this afternoon tea in the Hollywood-style setting of Steakhouse 55. In addition, guests can choose from two different tea menus:

Classic Celebration Tea:

Chicken Salad Tea Sandwich
Roasted Watermelon and Pimento Goat Cheese on Pumpernickel
Blueberry, Ricotta, Prosciutto, and Shredded Coconut Sandwich
Apple and Edamame Sandwich
Duo Chocolate Strawberries
Variety of Themed Desserts
Teas and Herbal Infusions

Premium Celebration

Salad with Tomato, Melon, and Burrata with Balsamic Reduction
Chicken Salad Tea Sandwich
Roasted Watermelon and Pimento Goat Cheese on Pumpernickel
Blueberry, Ricotta, Prosciutto, and Shredded Coconut Sandwich
Apple and Edamame Sandwich
Duo Chocolate Strawberries
Variety of Themed Desserts
Teas and Herbal Infusions

Mickey’s Tea Party Celebration occurs on Saturdays and Sundays and every Thursday in March from 12:00 noon to 3:00pm. Reservations are highly recommended. For more information and to make reservations, visit the Disneyland Resort website or call 714 781-DINE (714 781-3463).

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa

Storytellers Cafe (Buffet Offerings)

Mickey Mac & Cheese – Mickey-shaped pasta in a cream cheese sauce
Minnie “Bow” Pasta – Bowtie pasta salad with roasted tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and olive oil
Mickey Pepperoni Flatbread with tomato sauce, Grana Padano, and aged provolone
Minnie Polka-Dot Cheese Flatbread with tomato sauce, Grana Padano, aged provolone, and mozzarella cheese

White Water Snacks

Mickey Mouse-Shaped Artisanal Pizza – with tomato sauce, Grana Padano, and aged provolone
Mickey Mouse Pretzel
Mickey Mouse Birthday Cake Crispy Treat – Three-layered crispy treat with colorful cereal and Mickey-shaped sprinkles

Hearthstone Lounge

Mickey’s Baked Alaska – Chocolate ice cream encased with brûléed meringue and raspberry sauce
Mickey Mouse-shaped Artisanal Pizza – with tomato sauce, Grana Padano, and aged provolone

With this many food offerings, one visit may not be enough. Keep an eye out and share your favorites with us by posting with the hashtag #SoCalFoodies. You can also get a special look at some of the unique merchandise offerings now available for Mickey and Minnie’s Get Your Ears On by clicking here!

Naples Ristorante E Bar Dishes Out New Menu

By

Russell Tom

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January 15, 2019

Naples Ristorante e Bar in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort introduces a new look, new bar, new dining area, and most importantly, a new menu. Chef Goofy and Chef Mickey rose to the occasion at a brief ceremony to mark the fresh offerings.

Signature wine and appetizers make a great start to your meal. A selection of gourmet cheese and fresh fruit with bread provides a light snack. Be sure to save enough room for the mouth-watering main course.

The open kitchen provides a clear view of the chefs as they prepare hot entrées including authentic oven-fired flatbread pizza dishes.

Be sure to save room for delectable desserts. The tarts and cheesecake will dance on your palates.

Downtown Disney continues to serve up even more new offerings in the near future.

Celebrate Mickey Mouse Merchandise Hits the Shelves at Disneyland

By

Maverick Bohn

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January 14, 2019

The big party is just getting started at the Disneyland Resort, as brand new Mickey Mouse 90 merchandise hits the shelves just in time for this year’s big celebration. From festive shirts to one of a kind mugs and toys, there’s something for Mickey fans all shapes and sizes. Take a look at some of the amazing things you can now find in the parks to show off your Mickey pride!

This collection has a wide assortment of colorful t-shirts, hoodies, and outerwear all featuring the same Mickey Mouse 90 design. Mickey’s dapper birthday look works perfectly, bringing it all together quite nicely.

Mickey and friends will also be getting limited edition birthday celebration Tsum Tsums. These adorable additions are already flying off the shelves. Each Tsum Tsum has their own party hat and exclusive design.

The ever-popular birthday themed Mickey plush has made its triumphant return. The limited toy can be found throughout the resort in bountiful quantities. Though, if Mickey’s birthday was any indication, these won’t last long!

Minnie Mouse also takes the spotlight, celebrating her own exclusive polka dot fashion collection. The series includes exclusive ears, purses, and a dotted out spirit jersey. You can find the new, “Minnie Rock the Dots” items in both parks.

Make sure to snag your own piece of the magic and join in the celebration kicking off this year at the Disneyland Resort. You can see a full gallery of photos below for both collections and can learn more about what’s coming next by clicking here.

#Mickey90

La Mirada Theatre Takes Us Back to 1776 with Roaring Spectacle

By

Maverick Bohn

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January 14, 2019

The revolution has begun at the La Mirada Theatre of the Performing Arts in glorious fashion with the debut of the hit, 1776 The Musical. Directed by Glenn Castle, the show is a roaring spectacle, bringing you on your feet and tossing you right into the most pivotal moment in American history.

From start to finish, 1776 is just what we need right now, a satirical look at the foundations of American government. The show is comedy gold, shedding the light on how far we think we’ve come and what struggles we still face today in the very halls that were forged by the squabbling, attention seeking, and tantrum-prone Congress that the American people idolize with glorious acclaim. Just like the likes of Hamilton, 1776 is pulled right from the pages of history, bringing in a modern flair that brings the past to life in a way that no history class or documentary could ever hope to attempt.

The show stars an all star cast featuring the brilliant styles of James Barbour as “Edward Rutledge,” Peter Van Norden as “Benjamin Franklin,” Andy Umberger as “John Adams,” Teri Bibb as “Abigail Adams,” Caleb Shaw as “Thomas Jefferson,” Ellie Wyman as “Martha Jefferson,” Nick Santa Maria as “John Hancock,” Peter Allen Vogt as “Samuel Chase,” Victor E. Chan as “Robert Livingston,” Brad Rupp as “George Read,” Gordon Goodman as “Stephen Hopkins,” Jason Chacon as “Dr. Josiah Bartlett,” Joey Ruggiero as “Joseph Hewes,” Jordan Goodsell as “Charles Thomson,” Jordan Schneider as “Dr. Lyman Hall,” Jotapé Lockwood as “Lewis Morris,” Matthew Kimbrough as “Colonel Thomas McKean,” Michael Dotson as “Roger Sherman,” Michael Rothhaar as “Andrew McNair,” Michael Starr as “Richard Henry Lee,” Michael Stone Forrest as “John Dickinson,” Mitchell McCollum as “Reverend John Witherspoon,” Ted Barton as “James Wilson,” Rodrigo Varandas as “Leather Apron/Painter,” and Nick McKenna as “Courier.”

Van Norden and Umberger were absolute standouts, never letting the laughs die down in their extremely memorable performances. They drove the rest of the cast to a whole new level, bringing it home in an act worthy of a standing ovation. La Mirada Theatre has truly done it again, bringing only the highest quality stage acts in a venue that continues to impress. Along with a recently updated sound system and renovated seating hall, it’s the perfect place to kick off a new year of entertainment. 1776 The Musical will run from January 12th to February 3rd.

You can purchase tickets for the show and see the rest of the 2019 season by checking out La Mirada Theatre’s official site. Make sure to stay tuned, as more exciting things are to come, including the hit musical, Beauty and the Beast!

Ballast Point Makes a Splash into Downtown Disney

By

Russell Tom

-

January 13, 2019

Enjoy handcrafted drafts and local, seasonal fare at the only onsite brewery at Disneyland Resort. This research and development brewery is complete with a 3-barrel brewing rig and an array of craft beers on tap.

Relax in the beer garden and tuck into sumptuous Southern California cuisine like Duck Confit Nachos, the Smokey Blue Burger or Baja-Style Fish Tacos. Pair your meal with an ale or lager like Sculpin® IPA, Manta Ray®, Victory at Sea and more—pinnacles of their styles and premium award-winners.

This is the very spot to quench yer search for good food and refreshing libations. Welcome ashore Ballast Point to Downtown Disney. The American brewery founded in 1996 has gathered a large following with its Southern California establishments in San Diego and Long Beach. Anaheim can now be part of that legacy with its newest location in the Disneyland Resort.

The kitchen’s output of great food is also something to look forward to as many of the menu items are designed just for this Orange County location.

Rest assured that new and exclusive flavors of beer will be brewed in this facility. The same team that brews in Long Beach will oversee and create new concoctions that can only be found in the Disneyland property.

A familiar friend is dressed as a seafaring pirate perched by the ceiling as a fitting nod to its former occupant of Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Along with the great atmosphere provided inside Disneyland’s first craft brewery is a store dedicated for die-hard fans that want to show off their love of craft beer. Everything from coolers, shirts, hats, and even growlers!

So weigh anchor and set sail for Ballast Point, Downtown Disney’s newest hidden treasure!

A Special Look at Captain Marvel

By

Maverick Bohn

-

January 7, 2019

Prepare to kick it into high gear as Captain Marvel is just months away from making her big screen debut. Marvel Studios has released a new special look featurette, bringing us some more time with Carol Danvers (Brie Larson) as well as our old friend, Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson). The clip focuses on Fury and Danvers’ newfound relationship as well as a few looks at the mysterious origins of Danvers awesome power.

Moviegoers can now purchase tickets for the upcoming release, including special limited opening night fan event screenings. These events will include first access to the film in addition to exclusive perks, footage, and collectibles. There will be multiple venues participating in the fan event, which include the El Capitan Theatre, AMC Theatres, Regal Cinemas, and many more. You can see a full list of formats and screening options by checking out Fandango.

To celebrate the news, Marvel Studios has also released a brand new poster for the film, which features Brie Larson in heroic fashion. Make sure to purchase your tickets before they fly away and take a look at what’s coming next from Marvel Studios. Captain Marvel releases in theaters on March 8th.

Socalthrills.com

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