“The Notebook – The Musical” exceeds in beautiful ways as a sentimental, refreshing, and ageless musical adaptation of one of the most undeniably popular romantic stories ever told. Even the hardest critics of the 2004 movie will have a hard time denying the enthralling appeal of the musical. Many questionable acts and toxic behaviors from the movie gets smoothed over or absent to streamline the fragility of a older couple’s relationship barely holding together.
“The Notebook – The Musical” has more skillful balance transitioning from one medium over another compared to the likes of “Pretty Woman”. The pieces of memories flowing in, slipping out, and merging like a cross fade blends lovingly thanks to the choreography visually enhancing the already stellar music and spiritual lyrics. Those missing elements from the movie were quickly forgotten and not missed or compromised the core integrity of the beloved characters and engaging story.
“The Notebook – The Musical” is set on a coastal town in the Mid-Atlantic in a senior home. Older Noah (Beau Gravitte) reads aloud from a notebook a love story to an Older Allie (Sharon Catherine Brown). The story shifts in time from the late 1960s with Younger Noah (Kyle Mangold) and Younger Allie (Chloe Cheers) as their romance blossoms and grows over the summer. Their love is not approved by Allie’s Mother (Anne Tolpegin) nor her Father (Jerome Harmann-Hardeman).
They see Noah as not right for their daughter being from a lower working class and not up to their standards seeing what is best for their daugther. The years separate the young lovers. The late 1970s sees Middle Noah (Jesse Corbin) return home rebuilding the dream home the couple spoke about. Middle Allie (Alysha Deslorieux) moved on engaged to Lon (Nick Brogan). Lon is just the right man Allie’s parents have dreamed their daughter would marry.
The gorgeous soundtrack is highlighted with countless melodies and words that will rain tears of “Sadness and Joy” down many cheeks. The hopeful romantic stands as a beacon in the empty darkness still willing to “Leave the Light On” for the one that got away. Unrecognizable faces from the past and present stirs up agonizing frustration. “I Wanna Go Back” to before the memories started to fade and left lost feeling alone again. Choreography synonymous with the song of faces fading away. “Kiss Me” is funny yet relatable inner thoughts running a mile a minute concerned of appearances yet yearning for the other. Sensual romance.
“Forever” burning infatuation cooled down with rain. In this case, real water poured over the couple during the rainfall. Projections would not have done this iconic scene justice . A choreographed lift moment more than makes up for lowly watercraft. “My Days” is the major solo stand out. The starry eyed woman needing to clear mind away from what others want for her figuring out what see wants for yourself. A new favorite Broadway song I can listen to over and over again.
Minor roles get minor time on stage just enough to get the point across. They are part of the story, not part of the journey. The set design is also minimal. There’s no need for grand scales for such an intimate tale. The majority of time spent is with the main couples throughout different time periods. Because multiple actors are playing the same character, having less exposure with minor characters actually help the story be less cumbersome. The couple is funneled and focused to the mainstream mindset. The main obstacle belongs to time and memory.
Less moments with minor characters also means less cringe moments from those that remember the movie version. In fact, any musical lover can walk into the story without any previous knowledge and enjoy it for what it is. A slight setback is the depiction of Young Noah as nasally and whiny seemed out of place attempting to sound younger. But still has a graceful singing voice.
In the end, the young couple still only knew each other for one summer but strong enough to last for decades. Some may find that unrealistic and impractical. But who really knows everything about love and how it works? Every love is different and not the same like the other. This is not your love story, it’s theirs. Tissue boxes are ready for purchase to take to your seat.
“The Notebook – The Musical” is playing at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles, California from January 6 – January 25, 2026. Music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson. Book by Bekah Brunstetter. Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks. Choreography by Katie Spelman. Directed by Michael Grief and Schele Williams
The LEGO Group has unveiled LEGO® SMART Play™, a new interactive platform set to transform LEGO play experiences for kids and families. With this exciting innovation, builders can bring their LEGO creations to life in ways they’ve never imagined!
Showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 in a presentation from Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer of the LEGO Group and Tom Donaldson, Senior Vice President & Head of Creative Play Lab at the LEGO Group, LEGO SMART Play™ represents one of the most significant evolutions in the LEGO System-in-Play since the introduction of the LEGO Minifigure in 1978.
Designed to inspire children, LEGO SMART Play™ turns their imaginative ideas into reality, bringing their creations to life with moments of surprise and discovery. The combination of LEGO SMART Play™’s platform elements – the LEGO SMART Brick, LEGO SMART Tags and LEGO SMART Minifigures – react in real time to bring an interactive play experience to kids that is full of exploration and imaginative storytelling.
Joining the LEGO Group at CES was Asad Ayaz, Chief Brand Officer of The Walt Disney Company and President of Disney Entertainment Marketing, and Dave Filoni, Chief Creative Officer of Lucasfilm, to announce that the first LEGO SMART Play™ building sets announced for fans will feature Star Wars™ – the perfect playground for epic storytelling, unforgettable characters and endless brick-built adventures. For the first time, with LEGO SMART Play™, a galaxy far, far away…. will play back! The new sets will launch on March 1st, 2026, in select markets.
What is LEGO SMART Play™?
The new platform features more than twenty patented world-firsts within its technology, and the LEGO SMART Brick – at the heart of the platform – is powered by a custom-made chip, measuring smaller than a standard LEGO stud.
The technology has been developed by the LEGO Group’s Creative Play Lab team to enable responsive physical play, breathing new life into builder’s LEGO creations through advanced, invisible technology.
The LEGO SMART Brick is packed with technologies that bring play to life including sensors, accelerometers, light sensing and a sound sensor as well as a miniature speaker driven by an onboard synthesiser, and much more, in addition to easy wireless charging.
LEGO SMART Tags and LEGO SMART Minifigures are paired with the LEGO SMART Brick to power the system and allow builders’ creations to become interactive, responding to actions with appropriate sounds and behaviours, allowing for a truly responsive play experience. All elements are compatible with the existing LEGO System-in-Play.
“For over 90 years, the LEGO Group has sparked imagination and creativity in children around the globe. As the world evolves, so do we— innovating to meet the play needs of each new generation. LEGO SMART Play™ is the next exciting chapter in our LEGO System in Play and something we are super excited about being able to bring to the world at this scale,” said Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer of the LEGO Group.
Tom Donaldson, Senior Vice President & Head of Creative Play Lab at the LEGO Group said “The launch of LEGO SMART Play™ brings creativity, technology, and storytelling together to make building worlds and stories even more engaging, and all without a screen. We truly believe we are setting a new standard for interactive, imaginative experiences and can’t wait to see this innovation in the hands of kids when we launch this year.”
LEGO SMART Play™ building sets come to the LEGO Star Wars™ Galaxy
Now, brick builders and Star Wars fans alike can interact with iconic scenes, characters and moments inspired by a galaxy far, far away…. like never before as the LEGO® SMART Play™ system makes its debut with three ‘All-In-One’ LEGO Star Wars building sets.
“Our teams work hand-in-hand with best-in-class licensees to bring technology and innovation to products that continue our storytelling in new and unexpected ways,” said Paul Gitter, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Commercialization at Disney Consumer Products. “This milestone in our long-time collaboration with the LEGO Group adds a new dimension to this legacy, continuing to help fans express their creativity and imagination by extending the Star Wars story through play.”
“We’ve worked with our incredible friends at Lucasfilm for over 25 years, and our focus has always remained on creating original, unique experiences for the fan community through our sets. With LEGO SMART Play, legendary stories and characters of the Star Wars galaxy will come to life like never before.” said Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer of the LEGO Group.
The three ‘All-In-One’ LEGO Star Wars sets will come with a LEGO SMART Brick with charger and at least one LEGO SMART Minifigure and LEGO SMART tag.
LEGO® Star Wars™ SMART Play™: Luke’s Red Five X-Wing building set™
A 584-piece set, including two SMART Minifigures (Luke Skywalker, in his iconic pilot suit, and Princess Leia), as well as Luke’s trusty companion, R2-D2, and Rebel Crew and Stormtrooper Minifigures.
This set includes an Imperial turret, transporter and command center, all of which unlock interactive features, such as laser-shooting sounds, engine sounds and lights plus refueling and repair sounds, through the use of the included LEGO SMART Brick, two LEGO SMART Minifigures and five LEGO SMART Tags.
LEGO® Star Wars™ SMART Play™: Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter™ building set
One of the galaxy’s most iconic villains and his fighter ship arrives as part of LEGO SMART Play™, allowing fans to replay and re-define the most epic battles on behalf of the Galactic Empire.
This 473-piece set features a brick-built Rebel Outpost and an Imperial Fueling Station, as well as a SMART Minifigure featuring Darth Vader and a Rebel Fleet Trooper Minifigure. The roar of the twin ion engines comes to life, among other interactive features, with the LEGO SMART Brick.
LEGO® Star Wars™ SMART Play™: Throne Room Duel & A-Wing™ building set
Fans will be able to re-enact and re-imagine one of the most memorable moments from the original Star Wars trilogy, the final lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader at the end of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi™. The 962-piece set comes with three SMART Minifigures featuring the characters Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine and Luke Skywalker (Jedi).
Additionally, the set comes with a brick-built A-Wing Fighter and Pilot Minifigure, two Royal Guard Minifigures, and a SMART Tag-enabled cannon turret to defend the Emperor’s Throne Room.
For the first time in the history of LEGO Star Wars™, with LEGO SMART Play™ sets, the battle comes to life, allowing fans to recreate iconic scenes and interactions, as well as create new ones. Fans can unlock SMART features such as Lightsaber™ hums with the SMART Minifigures of Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, the engine roar of the A-wing and even listen to “The Imperial March” with Emperor Palpatine sitting on his throne.
The LEGO SMART Play™ All-in-One sets from LEGO Star Wars will be available for pre-order from January 9th and available to purchase from the 1st March from www.LEGO.com, LEGO Stores and select retailers in launch markets.
Universal Pictures is proud to announce the 20th anniversary nationwide theatrical re-release of DreamWorks Animation’s Madagascar. With its infectious laughs and groovy soundtrack, the beloved animated comedy adventure starring Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith delighted audiences around the world, launching a $1 billion franchise.
Now, as the uproarious fish-out-of-water tale celebrates its 20th anniversary, Madagascar roars back into theaters across the country on January 16, 2026, for a special limited theatrical engagement. Advance tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here.
Directed by Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath, the rollicking tale kicks off with Alex the lion (Stiller) enjoying his best life as the “King of New York.” The hilariously self-involved big cat is the star attraction at the Central Park Zoo, where he lives alongside his best friends—irrepressible zebra Marty (Rock), sassy hippo Gloria (Pinkett-Smith) and hypochondriac giraffe Melman (Schwimmer). Although Alex is excited to toast Marty’s 10th birthday, Marty himself is experiencing an existential crisis, feeling penned in (literally) by his days at the zoo and wondering what it might be like to roam free.
Inspired by the mischievous antics of the zoo’s penguins, an intrepid crew determined to make their way to Antarctica, Marty leaves behind his enclosure and heads for Grand Central Station to hop a train to the wild. But that single rash decision has unimaginable consequences. Once Marty’s worried friends set off on his trail, a series of mishaps lands the quartet half a world away from the comfortable confines of the zoo.
Stranded on the island nation of Madagascar off Africa’s southeastern coast, the group must rely on their instincts to survive. Encountering a colony of dancing lemurs ruled by the funky King Julien (Sacha Baron Cohen) and his loyal assistant Maurice, an aye-aye (Cedric the Entertainer), Marty couldn’t be more thrilled by his new digs. His joy turns to worry, though, as Alex’s taste for steak brings out his friend’s predatory appetites. Suddenly, the zebra begins to question whether leaving home was such a good idea after all.
Released on May 27, 2005, Madagascar enjoyed massive success with family audiences, becoming the year’s sixth highest-grossing feature with a $193.6 million North American haul. Critics raved about the cast’s endearingly comic performances, with the Los Angeles Times’ Kenneth Turan describing the film as “a good-humored, pleasant confection that has all kinds of relaxed fun bringing computer-animated savvy to the old-fashioned world of Looney Tunes cartoons,” Turan wrote. “Madagascar also benefits from not having any heavy moral to impart or life lesson to teach. It simply wants you to crack a smile, and with the expert voices of Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith, it has no trouble managing that.”
The blockbuster hit spawned two sequels that further explored the adventures of Alex, Marty and the gang: 2008’s Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa and 2012’s Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted. Additionally, the 2014 feature spin-off Penguins of Madagascar told a standalone story starring the crafty colony of scene-stealing marine birds, who previously had starred in their own DreamWorks Animation television series on Nickelodeon.
The film’s soundtrack became one of 2005’s most popular, featuring instrumental tracks by two-time Academy Award®-winning composer Hans Zimmer (The Lion King, Dune: Part One) and Baron Cohen’s cover version of Reel 2 Reel’s dance track, “I Like to Move It.” The propulsive banger became a fixture within the Madagascar franchise.
Earning industry acclaim, Madagascar received a Best Animated Feature nomination at the Annie Awards, among several other nods. It was also nominated for a Critics Choice Award, a Golden Reel Award from the Motion Picture Sound Editors Guild, and a People’s Choice Award. Producer Mireille Soria received a Producers Guild Award nomination for Outstanding Producer of Animated Theatrical Motion Pictures for her work on the film.
Tickets for the theatrical re-release of Madagascar are on sale now and can be purchased here.
Just in time for the New Year, fans can rejoycify and return to the Emerald City for the epic conclusion to the untold story of the witches of Oz, now from the comfort of their own home. After debuting at #1 at the global box office earning a thrillifying $223M and surpassing Part One as the biggest opening ever for a Broadway musical adaptation, WICKED: FOR GOOD will now be available to buy* or rent exclusively on digital platforms starting December 30, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.
The film comes home with 2 versions of the movie, including an exclusive sing-along for fans and over one hour of bonus features, including deleted scenes, a 50+ minute exclusive look into the making of the movie with Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo and the cast and filmmakers, and more must-have behind-the-scenes featurettes. WICKED: FOR GOOD will also be available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray™ & DVD on January 20, 2026. There’s nowhere like home to watch WICKED: FOR GOOD.
In WICKED: FOR GOOD, Elphaba and Glinda are now estranged, each living with the consequences of their choices. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), now demonized as The Wicked Witch of the West, lives in exile, continuing her fight to expose The Wizard. Meanwhile, Glinda (Ariana Grande) has become a glamorous symbol of Goodness, basking in the perks of fame and popularity. When a girl from Kansas crashes into their lives, Elphaba and Glinda must reunite and truly see each other—if they are to change themselves, and all of Oz. Bring home the adventure with an exclusive sing-along and prepare to be changed…for good.
The film is based on the generation-defining musical stage play with music and lyrics by legendary Grammy and Oscar® winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz and book by Winnie Holzman, from the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire. Directed by renowned filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Wicked, Crazy Rich Asians,), the film co-stars Critics’ Choice® Award winner and Emmy nominee Jonathan Bailey (Jurassic World: Rebirth, “Bridgerton”), Emmy® Award winner Jeff Goldblum (Jurassic Park, Independence Day), Oscar® and Golden Globe® Award winner Michelle Yeoh (Everything Everywhere All at Once, Crazy Rich Asians), Screen Actors Guild® Nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s SpongeBob SquarePants, The Man Behind the Camera), Bowen Yang (“Saturday Night Live,” Isn’t It Romantic) and Marissa Bode.
*DIGITAL BUYER RECEIVES LIMITED LICENSE TO ACCESS CONTENT. SEE RETAILER’S TERMS FOR DETAILS.
EXCLUSIVE BONUS FEATURES WHEN YOU BUY AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS:
SING-ALONG – ALTERNATE FEATURE-LENGTH VERSION – Rejoicify! The time has come to raise your voice and unleash the magic of Oz. Sing with all your heart as Elphaba and Glinda’s destiny unfolds in the spellbinding Sing-Along Edition of WICKED: FOR GOOD.
DELETED SCENES
Brick Making – A musical montage shows Munchkins busily shaping and painting brilliant golden bricks, bringing the Yellow Brick Road to life.
Glinda Train Tour – As Glinda leaves Emerald City, the citizens erupt into musical fanfare, sending her off with radiant cheers and lavish celebration – Featuring Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh and Bowen Yang
Even You, Fiyero* – Elphaba retreats to her lair, wrestling with the sting of Fiyero’s betrayal and the weight of her heartbreak – Featuring Cynthia Erivo
Return to the Governor’s Mansion* – Lost and abandoned, Elphaba returns to the one place she swore she’d left behind – her childhood home – Featuring Cynthia Erivo
Friendship Montage – A lively montage unfolds as Elphaba, Glinda, Fiyero, Boq, and Nessarose spend a carefree afternoon together—playing games, laughing, and relaxing over a cheerful picnic – Featuring Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Jonathan Bailey, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo
The Wizard is Sentimental – Glinda steps into her ethereal bubble to float above Emerald City, contrasted with the Wizard’s nostalgic hot air balloon ascension as he reprises “A Sentimental Man” – Featuring Ariana Grande and Jeff Goldblum
MAKING WICKED: FOR GOOD – Step behind the curtain for an exclusive look at the magic of Oz. Through never-before-seen footage and candid interviews, discover how the cast and crew brought this epic story to life—from the artistry of building Oz brick-by-brick to the challenge of filming two sweeping productions at once. A talent-led journey you won’t want to miss.
THE TRUE WIZARD – An exploration of why Jon M. Chu was the ideal director to bring WICKED: FOR GOOD from stage to screen. See how his inventiveness as a filmmaker and passion for WICKED are key ingredients for the humanity and joy we feel in every shot.
MORE THAN JUST A PLACE – A closer look at Elphaba’s new song in WICKED: FOR GOOD.
Cynthia Erivo, Jon M. Chu, Stephen Schwartz, and others reflect on its emotional resonance, Elphaba’s vulnerability, and the expressive movement artists portraying the animal characters she sings to.
THE GIRL IN THE BUBBLE – A closer look at Glinda’s brand new song for the WICKED: FOR GOOD film. Ariana Grande, Jon M. Chu, Stephen Schwartz, and more discuss how the song comes at such a pivotal moment for Glinda why filming the sequence was such a feat of technical mastery.
KIAMO KO – Return to Kiamo Ko, where the film’s climax unfolds. Cast and filmmakers reflect on Elphaba’s embrace of her identity as the Wicked Witch, the poignant reunion with Glinda, and the bittersweet consequences that follow in this emotionally charged sequence.
Disney+ is kicking off January 2026 with a powerhouse lineup that bridges iconic legacies and bold new entries into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Headlining the month is the highly anticipated premiere of Marvel Television’s Wonder Man, starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, which offers a satirical, behind-the-scenes look at the superhero industry. Fans of Rick Riordan’s world will also see the epic conclusion to Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2, as the quest for the Golden Fleece reaches its finale.
For those looking to revisit the classics, a massive library update brings the first four Indiana Jones films to the platform, while new episodes of Phineas and Ferb (Season 5) and the debut of the animated short series Agent P, Under C ensure there is plenty of nostalgia and fresh adventure for all ages.
Thursday, January 1
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
Friday, January 2
The Big Year
Cheetahs Up Close with Bertie Gregory – Premiere
Bertie arrives in the Serengeti as the spectacular wildebeest migration kicks off. He’s here to film the fastest land animal on Earth: the cheetah. As he gets close to a mother caring for her tiny cubs and a young group of males executing phenomenal hunts as a team, he learns about the unexpected challenges the species endures.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
Sunday, January 4
Incredible Northern Vets (Season 2) – Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
Follow the busy daily lives of three Indigenous veterinarians at unique clinics across three provinces. Each vet serves a wide range of clients and pets, with services ranging from animal acupuncture to behavioral expertise for pet anxiety. All three vets are fueled by their love for animals, putting their skills to the test every day by keeping the human/animal bond strong between the owners and pets.
Monday, January 5
I AM BOXER (Hulu Original) – New Episode
From 30-year boxing veteran Don Lee comes the ultimate survival competition. Ninety boxers, regardless of age, weight, or profession, gather to prove they’re the best. They’ll face off in explosive matches and missions on an epic scale. Who will survive to the end and be crowned the champion?
Wednesday, January 7
Made in Korea (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 1970s South Korea a man determined to reach the pinnacle of wealth and power lives a double life – KCIA agent by day and dangerous business man by night. Determined and unstoppable, he comes face to face with a tenacious prosecutor willing to risk it all to bring him down.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians(Season 2) (Disney+ Original) –New Episode
After Camp Half-Blood’s protective border is breached, Percy Jackson embarks on an epic odyssey into the Sea of Monsters in search of his best friend Grover and the one thing that may save the camp — the legendary Golden Fleece. With help from Annabeth, Clarisse and his newfound cyclops half-brother Tyson, Percy’s survival becomes essential to stopping Luke, the Titan Kronos, and their impending plan to bring down Camp Half-Blood — and ultimately, Olympus.
Friday, January 9
The Tale of Silyan – Premiere
From the Oscar-nominated director of ‘Honeyland’ comes a poignant and visually arresting story set in the heart of rural Macedonia. Nikola, a farmer grappling with the harsh realities of new government policies, finds himself unable to sell his land or crops. When his family leaves in search of a better life abroad, Nikola takes a job as a landfill attendant, where he encounters the injured white stork Silyan. As he nurses the bird back to health, an unlikely bond forms between man and animal. The result is a deeply moving film that touches on climate change, economic migration, resilience and the quiet power of connection.
Theme Song Takeover (Season 5) – Premiere
Your favorite characters are back to hijack their shows to perform delightful covers of theme songs they have no business singing!
Saturday, January 10
The Artful Dodger (Season 1) (Hulu Original)
It’s a tale of reinvention, betrayal, redemption, and love with a twist. Jack Dawkins is The Artful Dodger, whose pickpocketing fingers have become the skilled hands of a surgeon. He is torn between an impossible love and the criminal underworld he secretly craves. This will require Artfulness.
Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends (Season 4) – New Episodes
In season four of the global hit series, a new “Water-Webs” story arc is introduced in which Team Spidey receives water-themed powers and pirate suits. It also continues the popular “Dino-Webs” story arc from season three.
Monday, January 12
I AM BOXER (Hulu Original) –New Episode
From 30-year boxing veteran Don Lee comes the ultimate survival competition. Ninety boxers, regardless of age, weight, or profession, gather to prove they’re the best. They’ll face off in explosive matches and missions on an epic scale. Who will survive to the end and be crowned the champion?
Wednesday, January 14
Hey A.J.! –Premiere
Inspired by children’s book author and former Super Bowl champion Martellus Bennett, the upcoming new family comedy series is a whimsical and music-filled family comedy about an imaginative young girl who, along with her stuffed bunny sidekick, uses her big imagination to make ordinary life moments extraordinary.
Made in Korea (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 1970s South Korea a man determined to reach the pinnacle of wealth and power lives a double life – KCIA agent by day and dangerous business man by night. Determined and unstoppable, he comes face to face with a tenacious prosecutor willing to risk it all to bring him down.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians(Season 2) (Disney+ Original) –New Episode
After Camp Half-Blood’s protective border is breached, Percy Jackson embarks on an epic odyssey into the Sea of Monsters in search of his best friend Grover and the one thing that may save the camp — the legendary Golden Fleece. With help from Annabeth, Clarisse and his newfound cyclops half-brother Tyson, Percy’s survival becomes essential to stopping Luke, the Titan Kronos, and their impending plan to bring down Camp Half-Blood — and ultimately, Olympus.
Pole to Pole with Will Smith–Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
Five years in the making, POLE TO POLE WITH WILL SMITH follows Will across all seven continents, taking him from the icefields of Antarctica to the jungles of the Amazon, the mountains of the Himalayas, the deserts of Africa, the islands of the Pacific and the icebergs of the Arctic. Inspired by his late mentor to explore life’s big questions, Will throws himself into incredible challenges for 100 days: skiing to the South Pole, catching a giant anaconda, milking a venomous tarantula, climbing mountains, and diving under the ice of the North Pole. Guided by experts, scientists and explorers, Will helps make world-first scientific discoveries and forges profound human connections — from the Amazon’s Waorani community to the Kalahari’s San people — whose knowledge and resilience offer powerful lessons about our future on the planet. Told with a cinematic scale, access, and authenticity only National Geographic can deliver, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure blends cutting-edge science, environmental storytelling, and bold exploration.
Friday, January 16
Agent P, Under C: Shorts – Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
“Agent P, Under C” follows Perry the Platypus, who returns as his alter ego Agent P, as he takes on a new undercover mission to stop animal enemies from rival spy organization A.N.A.T.H.E.M.A. (the Alliance of Nefarious Animals That Has an Exceptionally Memorable Acronym).
Saturday, January 17
America’s Funniest Home Videos (New Seasons)
Phineas and Ferb (Season 5) – New Episodes
The new season of “Phineas and Ferb” follows the inventive stepbrothers as they tackle another 104 days of summer. Candace is more determined than ever to finally bust her little brothers while their pet platypus, Perry, continues to lead a double life as the suave Agent P, whose sole mission is to thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz from taking over the Tri-State Area.
Monday, January 18
Playdate with Winnie the Pooh: Shorts (Season 3) – Premiere
Winnie the Pooh and his friends enjoy all kinds of Playdates at their Treehouse in the Hundred Acre Wood and this season brings a new friend Owl, who loves books.
Tuesday, January 19
I AM BOXER (Hulu Original) – New Episode
From 30-year boxing veteran Don Lee comes the ultimate survival competition. Ninety boxers, regardless of age, weight, or profession, gather to prove they’re the best. They’ll face off in explosive matches and missions on an epic scale. Who will survive to the end and be crowned the champion?
Wednesday, January 21
Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Season 2) (Disney+ Original) – New Episode
After Camp Half-Blood’s protective border is breached, Percy Jackson embarks on an epic odyssey into the Sea of Monsters in search of his best friend Grover and the one thing that may save the camp — the legendary Golden Fleece. With help from Annabeth, Clarisse and his newfound cyclops half-brother Tyson, Percy’s survival becomes essential to stopping Luke, the Titan Kronos, and their impending plan to bring down Camp Half-Blood — and ultimately, Olympus.
Thursday, January 22
Venom: Let There Be Carnage
Friday, January 23
Minnie’s Bow-Toons: Pet Hotel – New Episodes
The next chapter of the Emmy Award-winning short-form series, “Minnie’s Bow-Toons: Pet Hotel” follows Minnie, Daisy and Cuckoo-Loca as they open a brand-new pet hotel in Hot Dog Hills, complete with a pet spa, a yoga studio, a stage for evening pet-tertainment and a gourmet kitchen where they whip up healthy snacks for their hotel guests.
Monday, January 26
I AM BOXER (Hulu Original) – New Episode
From 30-year boxing veteran Don Lee comes the ultimate survival competition. Ninety boxers, regardless of age, weight, or profession, gather to prove they’re the best. They’ll face off in explosive matches and missions on an epic scale. Who will survive to the end and be crowned the champion?
Tuesday, January 27
Disney+: Wonder Man (Disney+ Original) – Premiere at 6pm PT – All Episodes Streaming
Aspiring Hollywood actor Simon Williams is struggling to get his career off the ground. During a chance meeting with Trevor Slattery, an actor whose biggest roles may be well behind him, Simon learns legendary director Von Kovak is remaking the superhero film “Wonder Man.” These two actors at opposite ends of their careers doggedly pursue life-changing roles in this film as audiences get a peek behind the curtain of the entertainment industry.
Wednesday, January 28
Disney Jr. Ariel – The Little Mermaid (Season 2) – Premiere
In the new season, Ariel and her friends discover a magical new undersea realm and embark on imaginative journeys through the beautiful Crystal World.
Friday, January 30
Pupstruction Construction – Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
It’s Pupstruction Construction time! Join Phinny as he watches real-life builders use the same tools and trucks as Pupstruction to build houses, roads, tunnels, bridges, and more!
Also Coming This Month
Disneyland Handcrafted – Premiere
Disneyland Handcrafted chronicles the exhilarating year that gave rise to The Happiest Place on Earth. Built entirely from rare archival footage and original audio recordings, the film reveals the extraordinary artistry, grit and pressure it took hundreds of craftspeople to bring Walt Disney’s dream project of Disneyland to fruition — from groundbreaking to Opening Day.
Companion Video Podcasts
Companion video podcasts are now streaming, designed to deepen fans’ connections to their favorite TV shows and keep them engaged between episodes. The video podcasts will feature hosted conversations with the creatives and casts as they recap each episode, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes and give fans a deeper dive into the storylines, characters and series itself.
• Disney+ and Hulu: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Official Podcast – New episodes drop weekly on Wednesdays, timed to the release of each new series episode
Streams
New Streams launch this month, offering Premium subscribers carefully curated, continuous programming.
Phineas and Ferb Launches January 6
“I know what we’re gonna do today!” The Phineas and Ferb Stream is back, delivering an always‑on feed of every episode of the beloved series, plus movies, specials, and brand-new adventures from Season 5.
High School Musical Launches January 7
Disney+ is celebrating the 20th anniversary of High School Musical with a marathon featuring all three films, Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure, and every season of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.
Pixar Launches January 8
Filled with unforgettable characters and heartwarming adventures, Pixar’s films and shorts have defined generations of animation. This January, Disney+ honors the legacy of Pixar Animation Studios with an always-on stream featuring many of the Studio’s most storied classics.
Bob Baker’s Nutcracker is the marionette adaptation of a ballet classic and Bob’s most beloved Holiday show since its opening in 1969. This year, they’re thrilled to present more magical merriment at the Sierra Madre Playhouse, an intimate 99-seat venue serving the San Gabriel Valley. Take an adventure through the wizardry of strings and into the enchanted world of the fantastic.
The family friendly show warms up with a musical overture depicted by shadow puppets doused in a colorful rotation of lights. Reminiscent of Walt Disney’s 1940 “Fantasia” live action sequences with the orchestra tuning their instruments. Calling back to a simple charm pulling away from modern distractions.
A 30 minute presentation is broken into three acts loosely following the respective story beats of “Nutcracker”. Clara, along with her little brother and parents, celebrate Christmas Eve with dancing Christmas trees. The little girl is gifted a nutcracker which she immediately adores. Upon being sent to bed, Clara dreams of shrinking down to the size of a toy where menacing rats kidnap her to be their queen. The nutcracker comes to life in order to do battle with the rat king.
Whisked away by the handsome nutcracker, they travel by cloud, open mysterious doors, dance with sugar plum fairies, indulge in the land of candy, play notes with flutes, waltz with shimmering flowers, and rock out with slamming drums and piano keys.
Puppeteers are dressed in red, matching the color of the show curtain, so as to blend in the background allowing the audience to focus on the performance of the puppet characters themselves. The crew of eleven bring the puppets to life with choreographed movements demonstrated by careful hand eye coordination. Cast of characters have an old-school appeal that can be appreciated by anyone delighted with practical craftsmanship. From the sculpture to the wardrobe, the fanciful movement pulls the show to life. Before navigating the aisles, the theater reminds the audience that the puppets are delicate being 50 years old.
Sound and audio is a throwback to a mix and match of nostalgic holiday television specials of yesteryore. The elegant narration of “Frosty the Snowman” (1969). The glamor of festive music and loving artistry of “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” (1964). The cheerful joy of Christmas spirit from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1966) The recorded narration and delivery manifests a pleasant warmth that hits the right spot for the holiday season. Children, parents, and grandparents will delight in the carefree simpleness of the animated characters set to the backdrop of a wholesome holiday tale, sweeping music, and inviting voice work.
Stereophonic, the highest Tony-nominated play of all time, has finally opened in Los Angeles. I went into this one entirely blind, only having heard of the play prior to attending. There was a notable amount of buzz among patrons ahead of the performance, with the set plainly visible as everyone took their seats.
The play centers around a Fleetwood Mac-esque band in 1976, just beginning to realize their success. As we enjoy our voyeuristic look into their experience in a Sausalito, California recording studio, we learn alongside them that their music is re-entering the charts and continuing to climb, specifically a song written and performed by one of their standouts, Diana (Claire DeJean), whose timidness and lack of self-assurance nearly makes it unbelievable.
Despite this, it is clear the band is feeling pressure to create another hit. Peter (Denver Milord), the frustrated other standout—think Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham—brings his issues with Diana both in their relationship and professional envy. Even with all of their challenges, the band has creative chemistry that cannot be denied as soon as they all get in the studio and begin recording.
Across four acts, we spend a year with the band, never leaving the studio, watching their recording process and relationships develop. While the band is somewhat dysfunctional due to a considerable amount of personal history and ongoing intertwined lives, we find additional comedy in their two sound engineers who bring frustrated lightheartedness to scenes that feel heavy.
Claire DeJean has an amazing voice, which really resonated in the song “Masquerade.” Her performance as Diana sold the feeling of being a talented person with a severe lack of self-confidence, a feeling that can be all too relatable. The characters I found the most endearing and interesting, however, were not our two superstars, but their chaotic bandmates and notably, the hilariously awkward sound engineers Grover (Jack Barrett) and Charlie (Steven Lee Johnson). The juxtaposition of the serious conversations between bandmates and the youthful and inexperienced conversations between Grover and Charlie made the overall experience more palatable.
They were able to gain a few laughs from an otherwise silent audience, with Barrett delivering a relatable meltdown that had me nearly in tears from laughing. Holly (Emilie Kouatchou), is the other woman in the band, experiencing her own interpersonal challenges and serving as Diana’s confidant in her own relationship woes. Kouatchou wowed the audience with an amazing and heart wrenching monologue on grief in Act III that received a resounding applause.
The set is simultaneously simple and incredibly detailed. We never leave the studio, oddly even when we travel in time and place from Sausalito to Los Angeles, California. The details in the studio are considerable, with enough set dressing to allow your eyes to scan the room periodically as you absorb the music and dialogue. Lighting is heavily used to aid in transition, due to not having any set changes, and it is quite effective in demonstrating a lapse in time as the characters move in and out of the set.
Admittedly, I am not a person who identifies as a fan of plays, as I tend to favor Musical Theater, and I struggled a bit with Stereophonic. The music, written by Will Butler, formerly of indie rock band Arcade Fire was fantastic—when we got to hear it. Such a concept felt that it should have lent to having more music; despite being labeled a play and not a musical, this could be attributed to personal preference. The play itself, written by David Adjmi, offered an extensive amount of dialogue performed in a way that grew to feel natural, with varying emotions, overlapping dialogue, and most notably long and intense silence.
Unsure if it was the dialogue or the Pantages venue itself that made these silences feel like an uncomfortable eternity, hearing every sniffle and Playbill fidgeting for what felt like minutes at times. Direction of dialogue was certainly intentional, but with four acts, the whiplash between comedic moments, large group discussions, and quiet reflection made the show feel a bit like a marathon, from which I was drained by the curtain call.
Overall, the performances were great, and the music was memorable enough to want to revisit again in the car heading home. But the pacing of this show is naturally slow and deliberate, which felt contrasting to the energy of the music, but accurately reflected the tedious nature of the songwriting process in a way that brought the audience into the creative, painful, yet sometimes rewarding experience.
Stereophonic, the 2024 Tony Award-winning Best Play, will performs at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre now through January 2, 2026 as part of a U.S. National Tour. Tickets are available at www.BroadwayInHollywood.com or at www.Ticketmaster.com.
“Scrooge! The Musical” is a heartwarming and festive adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novella “A Christmas Carol” at the Chance Theater in Anaheim. Featuring music, lyrics, and book by Academy Award and Grammy winner Leslie Bricusse (Doctor Dolittle, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory). Directed by James Michael McHale. Music directed by Lex Leigh.
Set in Victorian London, the story follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge (Bruce Goodrich), a cold-hearted moneylender who despises Christmas and lives a life devoid of compassion and joy. On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley (Justin Ryan), who warns him to change his ways or suffer a grim fate in the afterlife.
Scrooge undergoes a profound experience of redemption over the course of a Christmas Eve night, after being visited by the spirits of the holiday season. The Ghost of Christmas Past (Kayley Stallings) transports Scrooge back to his lonesome childhood up to his heartbreaking love with Isabel (Sophie Sonntag). The Ghost of Christmas Present (Winston Peacock) unveils the present condition of Scrooge’s employee Bob Cratchit (Matt Takahashi) with his struggling family and Scrooge’s nephew Harry (Corydon Melgoza) with his party guests. Shedding a light on how truly Scrooge’s influence has been received by his peers and family. The Ghost of Christmas Future unearths what tomorrow brings should the current path lay unaltered and thus sealing Scrooge’s faith in the afterlife.
With a score full of memorable songs, including music for which composer Bricusse received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score for the Albert Finney 1970 film adaptation, “Scrooge! The Musical” from its 1992 debut blends humor, drama, and uplifting messages in a celebration of redemption and the true meaning of Christmas.
“Scrooge! The Musical” stage should look familiar to regular patrons of the Chance Theater as it is a similar set up to their successfully ongoing Literary series of book-stage adaptations like “Emma” and “Secret Garden”. A cleverly designed flexible space that evoke the pages of a book come to life. Projections of still and animated backgrounds on the over-sized written pages of the novel. Feels like being on a Disneyland dark ride. In fact, an earworm song from the musical has played in Disneyland’s “A Christmas Fantasy” parade for many years with the Dickens dance choreography. Musical numbers feel justified and earned not only to push the story but also the characters forward. Nothing feels like it overstays its welcome.
The wholesome holiday tale takes a few liberties for unique spins invigorating fresh takes and engaging viewpoints. Picture frames inventively reused to portray windows. Tongue in cheek moments of self awareness of the story’s retelling nature. Scrooge’s stern interactions with the townspeople further elaborates how he conducts his business relationship with cilents and their rightful distaste in return.
The extra link to the Ghost of Christmas Past pulled on heartstrings. The soulful duet between younger and older Scrooge for happiness with love lost. Performances like Mrs. Cratchit (Megan Sigler) with her direction and delivery sets an emotional weight with her husband regarding a toast to their founder of the feast.
Moments like these were quite prevalent. Regardless of knowing what scene is to be played out, in other productions they felt hurriedly glossed over for the sake of having been written in the book. But here at the Chance Theater, extra care has been taken to really flesh out key moments that should not be overlooked. As if to tell the audience, read between the lines. Or in this case, the pages.
More of these subtle moments can be found throughout. As the Ghost of Christmas Present relay the message “decrease the surplus population”, Scrooge says the same along with him. Emphasizing Scrooge’s recount of his own words refocused on his attachment to Tiny Tim.
Scrooge’s engagement with his newphew’s musical wordplay game is crafty getting our protagonist emotionally attached with unopposed joyful glee. And despite his non-existent presence, engages with the party guests allowing a glimpse of what he would be if actually there.
The Ghost of Christmas Future is not an embodiment of one cloaked figure perceived as Death, but in essence an ensemble of ghostly entities. As if to say the future is not yet set. Many possibilities of open realities determined by our choices. Suitcases positioned as tombstones with Tiny Tim hauntingly strolling by as his father observes his son’s final resting place. Perpetuating the idea for some adults who see children as scary.
Heavy metal chains echoing the sound of rising and dropping bound to Jacob Marley and later forge links to Scrooge. The imagery evoking a “Hellraiser” esthetic. Visually more earnest for Scrooge to change his ways besides a foreboding tombstone with an etched name.
“Scrooge! The Musical” is a beloved and enchanting stage classic playing at the Chance Theater in Anaheim from November 28 – December 21, 2025. With soulful tunes, timeless message, engaging character performances, and signature staging, this production has set a high standard that will be hard to beat. The meticulous detail in story and character development sets it apart and on its own.
The story of “A Christmas Carol” written by Charles Dickens has become a seasonal annual tradition for many theater companies. So even when most audiences are familiar with the stories and characters, it’s also enlightening to see how creative visionaries adapt the timeless tale to a live stage. Particularly one as professionally produced by experts in their craft tucked in a subtle corner of Pasadena. A Noise Within Theatre, just steps away from the Sierra Madre Villa Metro station, brings holiday cheer with Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” as adapted for the stage by Geoff Elliott. Directed by Julia Rodriguez Elliott and Geoff Elliott.
Set in traditional Victorian London, Ebenezer Scrooge (Geoff Elliott) is the cold-hearted elderly miser. Succumbed to the life of a wealthy and stingy businessman, he dismisses human values particularly when it comes to Christmas season. Dressed in black neutral attire, the Narrator (Alison Rodriguez) bookends the story with readings directly from the Charles Dickens as written and performed by its characters.
Scrooge’s deceased business partner Marley (Riley Shanahan) appears as a ghostly figure to warn Scrooge of a doomed afterlife bound in chains. To overcome this fate, Scrooge is to be visited by three spirits at a chance for redemption over his treatment of mankind. Marley is not alone as other apparitions appear bound with extended chains swinging and dangling over the audience of the thrust stage. The stunning visual envelopes the audience causing a sense of entrapment. A clever use of space wavering with each agonizing moan of Marley’s ghost.
A blanket of darkness unveils the first of Scrooge’s spiritual visitors, Ghost of Christmas Past (Trisha Miller) flies in on a giant swing gently swaying back and forth like a pendulum of time. Scrooge recounts his time as a secluded boy, relationship to his gone too soon sister, and lost love with Belle (Cassandra Marie Murphy).
Ghost of Christmas Present (Anthony Adu) stands tall with jolly yet astute observation of how the people around Scrooge’s life truly sees him and his effect on others. Bob Cratchit (Kasey Mahaffy) and his family celebrate the holiday in light of his dismal situation. Scrooge’s nephew and only living relative, Fred (Jack Zubieta) raises a glass for a toast to his uncle despite his dismissive behavior. The Ghost of Christmas Present leaving an echo of Scrooge’s own words back at him.
Ghost of Christmas Future (Dan Lin) lurks over the Christmas Yet To Come atop of walking stilts draped in a shredded robe. The fate of his legacy and the life of Tiny Tim (Aria Zhang) rests in the hands of Ebenezer Scrooge.
“A Christmas Carol” at A Noise Within Theatre solidifies the long-lasting staying power of the beloved classic story and characters. The production reemphasizes memorable moments thru stellar performances, eye-catching visuals, and delightful music. There are some clever standouts that set A Noise Within apart from other Christmas Carol productions. Hand bells incorporated early in the first act of the show caught my eyes and ears.
I wished there was more use put in them, but not sure if more would oversaturate the appeal of hand bells. There was more to the Ghost of Marley that heightened the sense of haunting urgency. Being a fan of Halloween myself, I was quite taken by the theater’s approach leaving me breathless. The entrance of the Ghost of Christmas Past from uncertain terror to laid back swinging of innocence translated well. The adornment of the Ghost of Christmas Future as a silent stilt walking spectator made for a unique profile.
The show has a running time of under 2 hours that includes a 15 minute intermission. The first act performed more like a stage play with Christmas weaved within the story. Towards the second act, the show becomes more of a musical with dedicated song and dance numbers. Performances were well rounded from adults with emotional depth. And even the children were professionally well spoken. With many Christmas Carols to choose from this holiday season, A Noise Within should be checked and placed on the nice list rather than a “humbug”.
For those unfamiliar with A Noise Within theatre in Pasadena, “the award-winning resident theater company is honored to represent the entire community at its state-of-the-art, 324-seat performance space. In addition to producing world class performances of classic theater, the organization runs robust education programs with the goal of inspiring diverse audiences of all ages.”
“A Christmas Carol” is presented at A Noise Within Theatre in Pasadena from November 29 – December 24, 2025. For more information including ticket sales, visit https://www.anoisewithin.org/ or call 626-356-3121.
“Suffs – The Musical” takes its tour de force to the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood! The Tony Award winning musical for Best Score and Best Book about the American Women’s Suffrage Movement focuses on the years leading up to the the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Exploring the passionate, struggle within the struggle, and divided influences fight for the right for women’s vote. “Suffs” takes the challenge of summarizing and highlighting what seems like an endless and fruitless fight to stand up for not only women’s suffrage but also for minorities.
Tactics and conflicts between both sides and the same side of the coin shine dramatically as a powerhouse voice of the past that speaks to the uncertainty of the present. “Suffs” proves how much history continues to repeat itself. Making this musical a timeless powder keg of the relentless fight justice and truth.
Alice Paul (Maya Keleher) is the young confrontational radical leader bumping heads with long time organized suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt (Marya Grandy), president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association, on the best methods to reach their goals. Journalist Ida B. Wells (Danyel Fulton) spearheads the underlining of segregation. The ensemble is led by an all female cast as seen with male characters portrayed by the opposite sex.
The suffrage movements biggest obstacle being President Woodrow Wilson (Jenny Ashman) with his empty promises and dismissive behavior. His president’s aide however, Third Secretary of the State, Dudley Malone (Brandi Porter), learns to adopt and support the change from societal norm. Leading suffragist and lawyer Inez Milholland (Amanda K. Lopez) makes a grave impact in the movement riding horseback through the Woman Suffrage Procession. Her collapse in the middle of a speech sends shockwaves among devoted supporters.
The American Women’s Suffrage Movement not only can be explorers through books, documentaries, movies, and television, but now as a musical. Further amplifying not only with the power of voice and speech, but through song and and stage. The all female cast singing in unison as a harmonious company stirs an uncontrollable sense of pride and strength that needs to be experienced live. The imagery of women’s silhouette against a bright background evokes the paper cut art of the time enhancing individual profiles and the number of characters that struggled and binded together to reach their goals for a better tomorrow today.
“Suffs – The Musical” is as relevant today as it was then. Condensing and packing decades of history, figures, and events into an emotional 2.5 hour musical is an overwhelming challenge that the creative team has successful met. The best musical based on American history since “Hamilton”. If any viewer should feel a particular matter has been omitted, just know there are other resources to choose from besides one medium.
“Suffs – The Musical” plays November 18 – December 7, 2025 at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. Directed by Leigh Silverman. Shaina Taub not only wrote the book, music, and lyrics, but also starred as Alice Paul in the original Broadway production.
During the opening night welcome speech at curtain call, she also noted the real Inez Milholland actually spoke at the Pantages Theatre just before her passing. So performing and watching a musical about the suffragette movement in this context holds an extra significance not to be missed.
The first trailer and poster for Disney’s highly anticipated live-action reimagining of “Moana,” starring Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson, who reprises his role as the trickster demigod Maui has debuted.
The trailer provides a first look at the live-action adventure, introducing audiences to the majestic island and vibrant people of Motunui; the shapeshifting demigod Maui; the intimidating yet adorable tribe of Kakamora; and Lagaʻaia as wayfinder Moana, who sings the powerful line “I Am Moana.”
In addition to Lagaʻaia and Johnson, the “Moana” cast includes Auckland, New Zealand, native John Tui as Moana’s no-nonsense father, Chief Tui; Samoan-New Zealander Frankie Adams, who portrays Moana’s playful and strong-willed mother, Sina; and Rena Owen, from Bay of Islands, New Zealand, as Moana’s revered Gramma Tala.
In Disney’s live-action reimagining of the beloved Oscar®-nominated animated adventure, Moana (Catherine Lagaʻaia) answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people.
The film is directed by Emmy® and Tony Award® winner Thomas Kail (“Hamilton”); produced by Dwayne Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia and Lin-Manuel Miranda; and executive produced by Thomas Kail, Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth and Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated features “Moana” and “Moana 2.” Audiences can experience the brilliant cinematic sights, sounds and songs of “Moana” in U.S. theaters on July 10, 2026.
“Shucked” stalks up on an earful of amusing puns and a hootenanny of talented singing and boastful dancing but falls short on attention grabbing pull. The humor jam packed full of corn puns by the storytellers and innuendo from the main cast are sorted between the sleep inducing songs. Production value is professional enough against music that head nods slipping into heavy eyelids. The shock of returning to the stage able to piece together any gaps that may have been missed felt like tuning in and out of a TV soap opera.
The history of a small farm town that prides itself in growing fields of corn and manufacturing corn based products such as whiskey. Storytellers (Maya Lagerstam and Joe Moeller) share a tale of a significant event that occurred in which just before the wedding of Beau (Nick Bailey) and Maiz (Danielle Wade), the local corn stalks began to mysteriously wilt. If livelihood is to continue to thrive in the town, the corn must return back to health.
The last option is for a local to venture out to the real world to seek aid. Maizy shows little hesitation drawn to the calling but Beau doubts the answer is in the outside world. Maizy is soon attracted to city-slicker Gordy (Quinn Vanantwerp). Gordy arrives under false pretenses to solve the corn problem while really hiding out to pay off his looming debt. Maizy and Beau are not alone even when not together. Maizy’s cousin Lulu (Miki Abraham) and Beau’s friend, Peanut (Mike Nappi) latch on with their own set of advice and comic spirit.
“Shucked” is no corn hole in one as it hits and misses on gags and retaining drifting interest. A contemporary twist of “The Music Man” meets “Oklahoma”. The talent stands out holding the forgettable songs with chuckling word play. Nick Bailey as Beau gives it his all through emotional voice and body expressions. The storytellers in the end get sweetly folded into the main story that ties up their place with the characters.
For those with a musical hankering for country living and farm raised goodness to be expected from the likes of “Knott’s Berry Farm”, “Shucked” will satisfy that tasty mouth watering craving. Playing at the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts from November 11 – 23, 2025. Book by Robert Horn. Music & Lyrics by Brandy Clark & Shane McAnally. For more information including ticket sales, visit www.scfta.org
Disney has revealed the extraordinary lineup of visionaries and talent who will receive the prestigious Disney Legends Award, the company’s highest honor. The Disney...
