What starts out as a lavish train ride through Europe quickly unfolds into one of the most stylish, suspenseful and thrilling mysteries ever told. From the novel by best-selling author Agatha Christie, “Murder on the Orient Express” tells the tale of thirteen strangers stranded on a train, where everyone’s a suspect. One man must race against time to solve the puzzle before the murderer strikes again. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast including Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley and Josh Gad.
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Mystery
Release: November 10, 2017
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Screenplay by: Michael Green
Based upon the Novel by: Agatha Christie
Produced by: Ridley Scott, Mark Gordon, Simon Kinberg, Kenneth Branagh, Judy Hofflund, Michael Schaefer
Cast: Tom Bateman, Kenneth Branagh, Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Josh Gad, Derek Jacobi, Leslie Odom Jr., Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley, Marwan Kenzari, Olivia Colman, Lucy Boynton, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Sergei Polunin
Wow… was my very first reaction to The Bodyguard. I honestly went into this performance not expecting a lot, as I am not a huge fan of Whitney Houston’s music. The suspense of this show is real and the musical numbers were phenomenal. From the moment the show began, I was pulled between being on the edge of my seat and dancing out of it.
Though I believe the statute of limitation on spoiler alerts for this story ended in the mid-1990’s, I will not spoil the story for you. The premise is that big-time celebrity singing sensation Rachel Marron (Deborah Cox) has been receiving threatening letters directly to her private dressing rooms right under the nose of her security detail. As the letters begin to intensify and one of her costumes is stolen, her manager reaches out to professional body guard Bill Farmer (Judson Mills) desperately seeking his assistance in keeping her safe. Hesitant to work with a celebrity, Farmer initially is disinterested in the opportunity, but upon finding that Marron has a young son, he offers to at least look into the situation for one day. His fondness for Marron and her family grows and thus forms the story of Rachel’s family, her stalker, and her body guard. Does the stalker get her? Can Farmer protect her? Buy your ticket to the show, and you too can be on the edge of your seat.
Deborah Cox as Rachel Marron was of course, the stand out. Her vocal performance, dancing and energy truly embodied the role. Judson Mills as Frank Farmer–the bodyguard namesake for the musical– had an air about him that was George Clooney-esque. Mills’ performance was extremely charming and his chemistry with Cox was comfortable and believable. Rachel’s sister Nicki (played by Jasmin Richardson) had a dark and unfortunate story. Richardson gave an amazing performance with heart that really allowed you to feel for her character and her vocals were well-matched with Cox. Rachel’s entourage of manager Bill (Charles Gray), press agent Sy (Jonathan Hadley), and former body guard Tony (Alex Corrado), are all great personalities and do a fantastic job adding (sometimes comical) stress to every situation. Kevelin B. Jones III wowed the audience with his dancing and singing as Rachel Marron’s son Fletcher and Jorge Paniagua created an almost palpable sense of fear as Rachel Marron’s dangerously calculated stalker.
Aside from the performances, the staging stood out to me the most. Using very minimal sets, basic lighting and projectors, the show has an in-between feel of being both a stage production and a movie. The use of sliding doors allowed them to shift focus on different sized scenes all over the stage. This focus allowed the audience to concentrate on certain people and situations while other staging and people were moved elsewhere. It was seamless. Scenery shifted quickly from a cabin in the woods to on-stage at The Oscars without a long dark scene.
Overall, we were wowed by the show and how much we loved it. The musical numbers were exciting–like being at a concert. The story moments were poignant and I empathized with the characters. Cox and Mills chemistry was warm and I loved when they were on stage. I laughed, I screamed and I was amazed. Though still not a Whitney Houston fan, (this is the rare situation where I will likely not be blaring the soundtrack on the drive home) within the context of this musical the music was really great. It was a very effective use of her music and the lyrics. I would definitely recommend The Bodyguard.
The Bodyguard will be performing at Segerstrom Hall until June 11, 2017, tickets start at $29 and are available online at SCFTA.org, by calling (714) 556-2787 and at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa.
Disney restaurants continually rotate their menus to provide better experiences throughout Walt Disney World. May brings a long list of additions and changes to many of the park and resort food locations. For many, this also includes the addition of new vegetarian options throughout the parks.
The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, found in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, has premiered a number of new options, including signature blended beef burgers. The BBQ burger features a house sauce with bacon, cheddar, crispy-fried jalapeño and onion straws all packed between a brioche bun. A Falafel Burger with a crispy chickpea falafel patty, arugula, tomato, Tatziki sauce and red pepper aioli on a brioche bun has also been added to Sci-Fi’s menu.
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at Epcot has rolled out a new Fylt pasta dish. This dish features four-cheese stuffed pasta with white wine-cream sauce, roasted vegetables, chive oil and a balsamic glaze.
Surf and Turf has made a return to Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The meal pairs a six-ounce lobster tail with a six-ounce sirloin, served with Yukon gold rustic mashed potatoes and roasted spring vegetables.
Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort has began offering new specialty candy themed drink specials. The Gummy Oasis, features gummy bears in a frozen cotton candy lemonade. The Watermelon Crush features Nerds® candy mixed into frozen watermelon and cherry lemonade. Both drinks are also available in alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.
Changes at the Magic Kingdom can be found at some popular quick service locations. Casey’s Corner will be featuring a Buffalo Chicken dog with an all-beef hot dog loaded with shredded buffalo chicken, garlic-ranch dressing and celery starting on June 4th. Pizza Frusta, a folded pizza-like snack, is now available at Cool Ship. This on-the-go options give you the choice of tomato and cheese or pepperoni and sausage.
The Smiling Crocodile at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has also added Open-Faced BLT sandwiches to its menu. For one snack credit you can choose from turkey, salmon or pimento-cheese on toasted ciabatta with lettuce, tomato, and thick-cut smoked, house-roasted bacon.
Which of these new options are you most excited to try?
Summer is in full swing in Disney parks around the world, and each location is offering experiences you definitely do not want to miss. Disneyland Resort, California just kicked off their ‘Summer of Heroes’ event with the opening of their new attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT in Disney’s California Adventure park. The Summer of Heroes also features daring missions with some of your favorite Avengers, heroic meet and greets, and even a dance-off featuring an ‘awesome mix’ from Star-Lord. Hong Kong Disneyland will also be starting their Super Hero Summer event on June 14th.
Walt Disney World just set their ‘Blockbuster Summer’ in motion with the opening of their new land Pandora- The World of Avatar in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Here you will travel right to the moon of Pandora and be able to experience thrills like riding on a banshee and tasting many of the local flavors. Hollywood Studios also just began showing their ‘The Music of Pixar Live’ show. This show will bring the music of Pixar to life as a live orchestra performs many favorite scores from movies like Monsters Inc, Cars, Toy Story, Up, and Finding Nemo. Various characters from these films will also be making an appearance as well.
Of course, what would a trip to any Disney park be without a nighttime spectacular. The Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World just launched their new fireworks show, ‘Happily Ever After.’ This new show features amazing castle projections of many of your favorite characters and movies, dazzling fireworks, and an humorous and heartwarming story. If you want even castle magic, don’t forget to check out the ‘Once Upon a Time’ projection show, which begins shortly after ‘Happily Ever After’. In this show, Mrs. Potts and Chip tell the stories of many favorite Disney classics. Some new stories will be told in ‘Fantasmic’ this summer at Disneyland Park, California. While you are there, make sure to check out the ‘Main Street Electrical Parade’, before it’s gone on August 20th.
Around the world, international Disney parks will be celebrating summer in their own ways. Tokyo DisneySea will be featuring their ‘Disney Pirates Summer,’ while Tokyo Disneyland is bringing back their nighttime parade ‘Dreamlights,’ which will now feature characters such as Elsa and Anna from ‘Frozen.’ Disneyland Paris is celebrating their 25th anniversary, and you will be able to experience two new shows, a new parade, and a new nighttime show. Shanghai Disney is also preparing to celebrate its first anniversary after welcoming over 10 million people in its first year of operation.
With so much going on this summer at Disney parks all around the world, there is no limit to what you can do and explore! Will you be taking a trip to see any of these attractions this summer?
Five new dining concepts debut as early as Fall 2017, joining the stellar line-up of awarding-winning restaurants at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort:
Opening in 2018 on the West Side is Jaleo, a concept by world-renowned Chef José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup. Bringing the spirit and flavors of Spain, the Disney Springs restaurant will feature an extensive menu of tapas that reflect the rich regional diversity of traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine, such as paella cooked over a wood fire, hand-carved Jamon Iberico de Bellota and wood-grilled Iberico pork. With five locations in the United States and Mexico City, this will be the first location in Florida. The first floor of the multi-level restaurant will feature a “grab-n-go” storefront with Spanish-style sandwiches. Designed by noted Spanish designer Juli Capella, the multi-level space will feature vibrant, theatrical décor representing the colorful culture of Spain.
Also in 2018, a new Wolfgang Puck concept will open in a new location in Town Center. Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, will modernize the traditional “bar and grill” concept in a setting inspired by traditional farmhouses with a touch of elegance. The restaurant, designed by tonychi, will capture the essence of laid-back California dining made popular by Puck at Spago, his flagship restaurant in Los Angeles. The menu will highlight the best of Puck’s signature dishes with Mediterranean influences, innovative takes on comfort food classics and handcrafted specialty cocktails, beer and wine.
This fall, Chicago-based Levy Restaurants is introducing a new Italian concept at Disney Springs with James Beard award winner and “Top Chef Master” Chef Tony Mantuano leading development. The new restaurant will replace Levy’s Portobello Country Italian Trattoria and will feature dishes inspired by Mantuano’s adventures in Italy.
Opening later this year, The Edison, a lavish “Industrial Gothic” restaurant, bar and nighttime destination will debut. A collaboration of Patina Restaurant Group and Kinetescape’s Andrew Meieran, The Edison is noted for classic American food, craft cocktails and live entertainment including cabaret. (The Disney Springs location is inspired by its sister location in Los Angeles.) With Old World sophistication and romance, The Edison will be themed to a 1920s-era electric company, recalling an exuberant era of invention and imagination with entertainment that includes contortionists, aerialists, DJs and more.
Also opening in late 2017 is Wine Bar George, with Master Sommelier George Miliotes bringing his expertise to Disney Springs with an unparalleled wine list including more than 100 selections by the bottle and glass in a range of varietals, vintages and prices. Shareable plates, cheese and charcuterie will complement the wine list, featuring local artisans and seasonally relevant dishes. Wine education will be served up in an approachable and fun manner, including special events and visits from renowned winemakers. Miliotes is widely regarded as one of the industry’s foremost wine experts, and is one of only 236 professionals certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers.
There is nothing like sleeping in a classy, ocean-front room and awakening to the sounds of waves crashing against the sand. It is one of the finer things in life. And it is exactly what I experienced recently on a memorable getaway to The Inn at Laguna Beach.
The adventure began when a friend I pulled off the 5 Freeway in Orange County and took SR 133 nine miles south to Laguna Beach. This winding, canyon road can be crowded at times, but is definitely a beautiful ride through lush hills and wilderness areas. The road ends at Highway 1, where we turned right and found The Inn at Laguna Beach.
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the city of Laguna Beach, the boutique hotel features 70 well-appointed guest rooms, a roof top terrace with a fire pit, newly renovated swimming pool and modern meetings facilities. Our gorgeous 4th-floor room oozed beachside charm and came with a plush pillow-top king bed with 250 thread count linens, twin bathroom sinks, and shower and tub.
The Inn at Laguna Beach is a paradise on the cliffs above the ocean (photo by Inn at Laguna Beach)
The room also featured a desk area, with free Internet, flat screen TV, a big comfy sofa, and best of all, a large balcony with table and chairs overlooking the beach. From the balcony we could see the sunbathers, paddle boarders, swimmers, and boats in the ocean in front of us. To our left we saw the luxurious Laguna Beach coastline, with miles of sandy beach and ocean-front hotels. And to the right there was a small rock island inhabited by birds, and the Laguna Beach Tide Pools.
When not taking in the picturesque view on the balcony, we were laying on the beach or strolling around town looking for new places to eat. For lunch, we discovered The Greeter’s Corner Restaurant (www.thegreeterscorner.com) a block from the hotel.
At the restaurant I enjoyed a fresh crab and avocado sandwich stuffed with coleslaw on a French roll. My friend had crispy fish and chips with white cod, coleslaw and French Fries. While eating we sat on the patio next to the beach and absorbed the memorable atmosphere.
Eiler Larsen, also known as The Greeter, was one of Laguna Beach’s most beloved residents
The cafe is named after Eiler Larsen, who for 40 years stood on a corner in town and waved to all those who passed through town. A native of Denmark, Larsen came to be known as “The Greeter” and in 1963, the city proclaimed him to be Official Laguna Greeter. He was such a part of town that they even put his foot-prints in the sidewalk. My mom, who used to come to Laguna Beach as a child remembers his long hair and cheerful smile.
After lunch, we walked along the beach and followed a walking path in front of the hotel to Heisler Park. Stretching about a half-mile along coastal bluffs, this oceanfront park has walking trails, gardens, a marine refuge with tide pools, picnic tables, barbecues, lawn bowling greens, stunning vistas, and a bunch of awesome sculptures, such as blue whale, giant time pieces, and mariners of the sea.
The hotel is located right next to great beach trails like Heisler Park
Back at the hotel we joined other guests for the complimentary Wine Hour, held each day between 5pm and 6 pm. Located on the 4th floor terrace, overlooking the ocean, the event is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. A server comes around with complimentary wines, the views are spectacular and there is also a full bar with drinks for purchase.
The complimentary daily Wine Hour at the hotel is great way to spend an afternoon
After Wine Hour, we headed to the lobby for complimentary milk and cookies, offered each day at 6 pm. From her we walked a block to C’est la Vie Restaurant and Bakery (www.cestlavierestaurant.com/)for a delicious French dinner.
A local favorite since 1982, the bistro serves authentic, freshly-baked crepes, croissants, macarons, and cronuts, along with sandwiches, espressos, house-made desserts, and aged port wines. For our meal, I devoured beef Bourguignon. Marinated 24 hours, these tender, braised short ribs were served with pearl onions, mushrooms, and garlic mash in a Burgundy wine reduction. My friend had Chilean sea bass with harissa oil ratatouille and beurre blanc sauce.
C’est La Vie serves awesome French food by the beach
We concluded our evening with a moonlit walk along the sand and a glass of wine on our balcony.
The Inn at Laguna Beach is located at 211 N Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. For more information on staying at the hotel and current specials, call 800 544 4479 or visit: www.innatlagunabeach.com
It’s no secret that every ‘once upon a time’ story ends with ‘happily ever after.’ Now, Walt Disney World Resort guests can discover just how magical and emotional that fairy tale ending can be with the newest, most breathtaking fireworks show in the history of Magic Kingdom Park – “Happily Ever After.”
In addition to fireworks, the stunning new nighttime extravaganza features more lasers, lights and projections than any show at Magic Kingdom Park before it. “Happily Ever After” is also an entirely new kind of Disney storytelling, one that takes guests on an inspiring journey filled with heart, humor and emotion. Guests become part of the journey themselves as they follow favorite Disney characters on an adventure to seek out their destiny, face adversity and ultimately fulfill their dreams on the road to their happily ever after.
The 18-minute spectacle features moments from classic Disney films such as “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin” to modern blockbusters “Moana” and “Zootopia.” Cinderella Castle becomes part of the story itself, with dazzling projections bringing heartfelt Disney stories to life on and around the iconic 18-story-tall castle. Quasimodo from “Hunchback of Notre Dame” swings from the turrets. Woody and his pals from Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story” recreate the castle entirely out of toys. And Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty” envelops the castle in her signature green flames.
Here is a just a sneak peak of the new show:
The story begins with scenes of fantastic dreams full of hope, wonder, magic and light. Disney villains soon become part of the story, attempting to quash those beautiful dreams and forcing the heroes to fight for what they believe in. Overcoming their fears, the heroes triumph and are celebrated with spectacular fireworks.
Because no Magic Kingdom Park fireworks display is complete without this little bit of magic, Tinker Bell flies across the night sky, reminding guests that with a little faith, trust and pixie dust, everyone can find their own happily ever after.
Characters and scenes from more than 25 Disney films are featured through state-of-the-art projections, enhanced by more than 50 choreographed spotlights, brilliant lasers and plenty of awe-inspiring fireworks. Paired with an emotional score, the new spectacular drives the message home that anyone can grab hold of their dreams and make them come true as long as they are brave enough to listen to what guides them and bold enough to pursue their destiny.
The score for “Happily Ever After” was recorded by a 75-piece orchestra in London and includes tunes from a multitude of Disney movies, including “Aladdin,” “Brave,” “Tarzan,” “The Lion King,” and “The Princess and the Frog.”
“Happily Ever After” is presented nightly. Show times vary based on park hours.
To the delight of many, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will be returning this fall for its 22nd year. It will feature more food marketplaces and run longer than ever before. The festival will run from Aug. 31 to Nov. 13, 2017 and will feature a record-breaking 35 marketplaces to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Epcot.
Two new stands that will appear at this year’s festival include the India and Spain booths. A Madras Red Curry vegetarian dish and Pistachio Cardamom Bundt Cake are some of the new dishes that await you at the India booth, while the Spain booth will offer flavors such as a Charcuterie in a cone.
Popular activities such as “Eat to the Beat” concert series, Remy’s Hide and Squeak Scavenger Hunt, and demonstrations from popular culinary icons will also be returning throughout the festival. There will also be a family focus this year, with more kid friendly options and activities found throughout the festival.
The Festival Center will also be returning to offer Culinary Demonstrations, Beverage Seminars, and Cheese Seminars throughout the festival. In addition, the Festival Center will feature special merchandise exclusive to the Food and Wine Festival as well as a wine and liquor shop where you can purchase some of your favorite drinks from around the festival.
Be sure to check out this year’s International Food & Wine Festival at Epcot to experience all of the exclusive tastes, sounds, and experiences available this fall.
For the last decade, Celtic Woman has been successfully bridging the gap between World music and chart topping hits. Celtic Woman: Voices of Angels, featuring Susan McFadden, Mairead Carlin, Éabha McMahon, and their newest member, fiddler and harpist Tara McNeill, breathed new life into the acclaimed music group. Joining the tour is a very talented back-up band of musicians that play multiple instruments, such as the bodhrán, tin whistle, bagpipes, and Uilleann pipes.
Performing Celtic traditionals like Óró, sé do bheatha ‘bhaile and Dúlamán, and American contemporary hits like My Heart Will Go On and You Raise Me Up, Celtic Woman dazzled audiences to multiple standing ovations. McNeill and the band provided amazing musical segues for costume changes with instrumentals that truly embodied the feel of Ireland.
The lighting design was beautifully done, appropriately highlighting performers as well as setting the tone for each song. Projected scenery from Ireland, and cinematic storytelling rounded out the overall feeling of the show.
Voices of Angels was an absolute treat to experience. The women of Celtic Woman each have a very distinctive voice, beautiful in their own way. The backup singers could dance as well, and the musicians were so talented. Bagpipes really pull on my heart strings, and I might have teared up a few times… hearing an almost acapella version of Danny Boy certainly helped.
The Collector, aka Taneleer Tivan, has officially opened his doors to his fortress for the guests at Disney California Adventure! His collection now features the infamous Guardians of the Galaxy and you are invited for a VIP tour! Entering his gallery one is witness to over 2,000 of his most prized possessions, many of which you have probably seen elsewhere…
We were fortunate enough to attend his gala event on Thursday where The Collector was there himself to open his doors with a bang! After some incredible eats, galactic drinks and groovy entertainment, we were welcomed past his prominent gold statue of himself to view his ginormous collection for ourselves!
However, walking through his office we were interrupted by a little critter… perhaps a rowdy raccoon of sorts, and I believe he wants you to help him with a special mission. Keep in mind he has the walkman belonging to Peter Quills, the Starlord. There is no telling what type of mischief he has planned.
Check out below our interviews, our reaction to our ride along the gantry lift and some photos from the nights offerings. To say the least, this attraction is non-stop excitement and pure thrills accompanied with some great laughs and a lighter undertone. It’s a welcome addition to the edge of the Disneyland Resort. In coming weeks, lookout for some burnt marks throughout the ground signifying your entry into the realm “Knowhere”!
Guardians of The Galaxy Mission Breakout Photo Gallery:
Get ready to be taken into the moon of Pandora at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Today marks the official opening of of Pandora- The World of Avatar, the newest land at Walt Disney World. In this new land you will travel 4.4 light years away from Earth and become immersed in the land and culture of Pandora. The care and detail that went into the creation of this new land is clear as soon as you step foot inside. You will find many unexpected interactive elements, and cast members and characters who speak the language of the indigenous Na’vi people.
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At night the land glows to life as much of the flora is made of bioluminescence. Guests will have to opportunity to purchase merchandise such as shirts, face paints, and even their own miniature banshee. Many of these items will also help you glow to life in the night time environment.
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Pandora also features two new attractions. The Na’Vi River Journey will take the entire family on a beautiful boat ride exploration of the forests of Pandora. If you are looking for a more thrilling experience, you can hop aboard your very own banshee (or “ikran” as it is pronounced in the native language) and fly through the skies of Pandora as your very own avatar. Both rides give you a very different way to experience the world of Pandora first hand and experience its beauty.
Check out the video below to see the dedication of this new land, and make sure to give it a visit the next time you are in Walt Disney World
Starting today at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World, guests will be able to experience the music of many favorite Pixar films performed from a live orchestra in ‘The Music of Pixar Live! – A Symphony of Characters.’ The show takes place in the three times per evening at the Theater of the Stars stage where the Beauty and the Beast show currently runs during the day. The show features live orchestral performances from beloved Pixar features such as “Toy Story,” “Up,” “Finding Nemo,” “Finding Dory,” “The Incredibles” and “Cars.” Characters such as Mike, Sulley, Woody, Buzz, Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Carl Fredrickson, and many more will also be dropping by!
Behind the scenes recordings with many of the minds behind the music and animation of the films will also be featured during the performance. These video segments will give guests an inside look on the composure, story building, and development of these films.
This show will be running every evening in the summer from May 26 – Aug. 27, 2017. Current times are 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:15 PM (subject to change). If you are heading to Walt Disney World this summer, put this on your must-do list!
Disney Legend, author and Cal State Fullerton alumna Martha Blanding will speak at a CSUF commencement ceremony for the College of Humanities and Social...
