“Doctor Strange” follows the story of neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange who, after a horrific car accident, discovers the hidden world of magic and alternate dimensions.
“Doctor Strange” is the latest film in Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Phase 3’s goal—over the course of four years and nine films—is to introduce audiences to new heroes and continue the adventures of fan favorites.
Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” is produced by Kevin Feige with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Charles Newirth, Stephen Broussard and Stan Lee serving as executive producers.
Director Scott Derrickson’s creative team also includes director of photography Ben Davis, B.S.C. (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy”); production designer Charles Wood (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy”); costume designer Alexandra Byrne (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy”); editors Wyatt Smith (“Into the Woods,” Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World”) and Sabrina Plisco, ACE (“Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium,” “Charlotte’s Web”); and visuals effects supervisor Stephane Ceretti (Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy”).
Based on the Marvel comic character who first appeared in “Strange Tales” Issue 110 published in July 1963, Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” continues the lineage of epic big-screen adventures chronicled in Marvel’s “Iron Man,” “The Incredible Hulk,” “Iron Man 2,” “Thor,” “Captain America: The First Avenger,” “The Avengers,” “Iron Man 3,” “Thor: The Dark World,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Ant-Man” and the upcoming “Captain America: Civil War,” (May 6, 2016), “Guardians of the Galaxy 2” (May 5, 2017) and “Thor: Ragnarok” (November 3, 2017).
The Guardians of the Galaxy are coming to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.
Beginning summer 2017, guests at Disney California Adventure Park will join in a daring confrontation with one of the most unusual characters in the park’s history: Tanaleer Tivan, the Collector. He has opened his unique collection of fauna, relics and species to guests for a special tour culminating with his latest prized possessions: the Guardians of the Galaxy, themselves! Fortunately, Rocket has a plan to free his friends – and that plan includes recruiting Disneyland Resort guests in a sensational rescue effort.
This comically cosmic, rocking new adventure, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! is the result of a collaboration between the creative minds behind the comic books, the films and Walt Disney Imagineering. The attraction will drop guests directly into the story alongside characters from the comic books and the blockbuster films.
Joe Rohde, Portfolio Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering, is leading the project. He shared this preview of the new attraction: “The setting is a kind of fortress that’s owned by the mysterious Collector and it’s packed with creatures and his latest acquisitions from across the universe. Now he has imprisoned the Guardians of the Galaxy and they’re hanging in display cases over a giant abyss. The captor doesn’t know it but Rocket Raccoon has escaped and is enlisting our aid—all the guests—to help the Guardians in a breakout scheme. And the rest is comical chaos; a very funny, very irreverent story and a really wonderful addition to Disney California Adventure.”
“It’s such a thrill to be working alongside a true visionary like Joe Rohde and the entire Walt Disney Imagineering team,” said Joe Quesada, Chief Creative Officer, Marvel. “Like our stories and characters, projects led by Joe are the stuff of legend, so Marvel fans rejoice! The universe couldn’t be in better hands! Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! is going to be an out of this world experience and what has me even more excited are Joe’s ‘secret’ plans for the future. We’re just getting warmed up.”
The announcement was made today at San Diego Comic-Con by Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, who said: “The incredibly talented Disney Imagineering team has found a way to harness the spirit which drove Guardians of the Galaxy’s success to create this immersive experience. With its debut timed to the release of the film’s sequel, we are eager to present the attraction to the millions who visit Disney California Adventure and place them in the center of the action as they join in a mission alongside our audacious Guardians of the Galaxy team.”
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! takes place in the fortress-like museum of the mysterious Collector, who has trapped his newest acquisitions, the Guardians of the Galaxy. One member of the group, the intrepid Rocket, has escaped, and he calls upon brave visitors for help. Guests board a gantry lift which launches them into a daring adventure as they join Rocket in an attempt to set free his fellow Guardians.
The new attraction will anchor a broader universe of Super Heroes that will grow over time in Disney California Adventure Park. Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will transform the structure currently housing The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ into an epic new adventure, enhancing the breathtaking free fall sensation with new visual and audio effects to create a variety of ride experiences. Guests will experience multiple, random and unique ride profiles in which the rise and fall of the gantry lift rocks to the beat of music inspired by the film’s popular soundtrack.
Fans of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror will want to experience the attraction from now until its final “drop day,” which will be celebrated in true Disney fashion in early January.
Acclaimed filmmaker Guy Ritchie brings his dynamic style to the epic fantasy action adventure “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword.” Starring Charlie Hunnam in the title role, the film is an iconoclastic take on the classic Excalibur myth, tracing Arthur’s journey from the streets to the throne.
When the child Arthur’s father is murdered, Vortigern (Jude Law), Arthur’s uncle, seizes the crown. Robbed of his birthright and with no idea who he truly is, Arthur comes up the hard way in the back alleys of the city. But once he pulls the sword from the stone, his life is turned upside down and he is forced to acknowledge his true legacy…whether he likes it or not.
Starring with Hunnam (FX’s “Sons of Anarchy”) and Oscar nominee Law (“Cold Mountain,” “The Talented Mr. Ripley”) are Astrid Bergès-Frisbey (“Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides”) as Mage; Oscar nominee Djimon Hounsou (“Blood Diamond,” “In America”) as Bedivere; Aidan Gillen (HBO’s “Game of Thrones”) as Goosefat Bill; and Eric Bana (“Star Trek”) as Arthur’s father, King Uther Pendragon.
Guy Ritchie (“The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” the “Sherlock Holmes” films) directed the film from a screenplay is by Joby Harold (“Awake”) and Guy Ritchie & Lionel Wigram, story by David Dobkin (“The Judge”) and Joby Harold. The film is produced by Oscar winner Akiva Goldsman (“A Beautiful Mind,” “I Am Legend”), Joby Harold, Tory Tunnell (“Awake,” “Holy Rollers”), and “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” and “Sherlock Holmes” producers Steve Clark-Hall, Guy Ritchie and Lionel Wigram. David Dobkin and Bruce Berman are executive producers.
Ritchie’s behind-the-scenes creative team included two-time Oscar-nominated director of photography John Mathieson (“Gladiator,” “The Phantom of the Opera”), Oscar-nominated production designer Gemma Jackson (“Finding Neverland”), editor James Herbert (“The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” “Edge of Tomorrow”), costume designer Annie Symons (Masterpiece Theater’s “Great Expectations”), makeup and hair designer Christine Blundell (“Mr. Turner,” the “Sherlock Holmes” films), and Oscar-nominated VFX Supervisor Nick Davis (“The Dark Knight”). The music is by Daniel Pemberton (“The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”).
Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures, a Weed Road/Safehouse Pictures Production, a Ritchie/Wigram Production, a Guy Ritchie film, “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword.” Slated for release on March 24, 2017, the film will be distributed in North America by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.
There are many “must see” attractions in Southern California and during summer, The Pageant of the Masters is definitely at top of the list for me. Now in its 84rd season, the world-renown stage show incredibly recreates and brings to life famous paintings with a group of live, motionless models and beautiful backdrops, set within huge picture frames on a massive outdoor stage, with a professional orchestra, live narration, and sophisticated lighting.
Located in a rustic Laguna Beach canyon, two blocks from the ocean, The Pageant is something that must be seen in person to fully appreciate its magnificence. The 90-minute nightly performances are highlighted by tableaux vivants or living pictures take the 2,000-seat Irvine Bowl Park stage in the corner of the festival grounds.
The “pictures” are remarkable re-creations of classical and contemporary masterpieces, “painted” with real people, painstakingly made-up with costumes and makeup. The painting are then filled with authentic backdrops and wrapped by giant picture frames. When the curtain is lifted, each 90-second-long picture is accompanied by an orchestra, with an original score; a live narration; and sophisticated lighting.
The theme of this year’s Pageant is “Partners.” The history of art is filled with stories of solitary artists abandoning society to pursue their creative expression. For the 2016 Pageant of the Masters, the organizers searched for stories of compelling collaborations that led to the creation of unforgettable artworks. This year’s performance is filled with provocative and passionate tales of some of art’s dynamic duos – artists and patrons, models, muses, even dance partners!
One of my favorite “paintings” of the show is “The Kiss on the Hand” by Gerolamo Induno. This 1877 oil masterpiece features a gentlemen kissing the hand of a lady in front of a horse and carriage. It Another impressive recreation is the 1903 “Outdoors in the Summer Winds” by Carl Larsson. This colorful oil mural depicts a group of people walking past a lush countryside of flowers, plants and trees. Like all the paintings in the show, it is practically impossible to tell that there are real people on stage.
The pageant is part of the larger Festival of Arts, a summer-long celebration of art and artists. This year’s festival showcases the works of 140 of Orange County’s best original painters, sculptors, ceramists, jewelers, and photographers. The festival also offers free daily art workshops for the whole family, live Jazz and blues, wine tastings, cooking classes, restaurants and more.
During my visit to Laguna Beach for the festival and Pageant of the Masters, I stayed at Hotel Laguna, an historic inn built in 1888 as the town’s first hotel. Located steps from the beach, the hotel is still welcoming guests to ocean-front luxury, with lots of old fashioned charm. Hotel Laguna is located at 425 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. For more information and reservations, call (949) 494-1151 or visit: www.hotellaguna.com
The Festival of Arts and the Pageant of the Masters runs through August 31. The address is 650 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, 92651. The festival is open daily, 10 am – 11:30 pm. Festival admission ranges from $5 – $12. Pageant of the Masters has performances nightly at 8:30 pm. For tickets and more information, call (949) 494-1145 or visit: www.foapom.com
A nostalgic yet fresh take on Rogers and Hammerstein’s original The Sound of Music comes to stage at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. An absolutely divine all-new production that was made just in time for the movies 50th anniversary. While the Tony Award winning musical from just 6 years prior to the popular film has had its fair share of revising, this new tour is near perfection. Keeping nearly every captivating song that audiences have already been engrained with, The Sound of Music captures the true embodiment of what we have all cherished from our childhood. A cast that can emulate even the incomparable Julie Andrews to the pure charm of the seven adorable Trapp family children, this production will have your heart wanting to sing every song you hear!
Even though The Sound of Music is far more recognizable for its 1965 film counterpart, the stage production stems from before the iconic frolicking through the hills of Austria scene. Based on a real families struggle leading up to the beginnings of Anschluss, a subject matter of such seriousness is hard to fathom would be part of such a cheery musical thats so uplifting and loving. However, to this day The Sound of Music has continued to be arguably the most admired musical of all time. Perhaps it has been contributed to it receiving a Tony, Grammy, and Academy Award-winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song. You know you are about to belt it out!
While it’s a story surrounded by the Austrian singing family, the Trapps, The Sound of Music is truly a story of our heroine Maria Augusta. The silly yet joyful woman of faith is forced by her Mother Superior to take a job as governess to a large wealthy family while she learns the righteousness of love, acceptance of herself, and whether nunhood is right for her. During her trials and tribulations she falls in love with the children, and eventually their widowed father, Captain von Trapp. Bringing music and happiness to the family Captain von Trapp and Maria are both faced with their own internal struggles searching for the answer to what’s worth fighting for.
All of your favorite things songs are performed with such elation and energy that one cannot help themselves from slipping into a state of ecstasy. These songs are beloved for their simplicity yet honored for their intricacy and intelligence leaving nearly all of them as musical standards. Each new number should bring goosebumps throughout your entire body even if your just vaguely familiar with the film.
From the powerful somber of the nuns hymns to the note belching epics of Mother Superior to the sophisticated “Do-Re-Mi”, the audience will smile throughout every note. Every song is crisp and composed similarly their original counterpart. Less surprises but more of what the audience wants is what helps The Sound of Music soar to a new musical benchmarck.
This could not be done without such a talented cast. Kerstin Anderson could not have been more delightful as Maria. Her vocalization is superb and her presence on stage is second to none; a perfect Maria that holds just as much gleefulness as Julie Andrews did in the movie. While I can praise everyone for their amazing performances, I must first speak of everyones chemistry. This subtle piece to any show is often overlooked, but the chemistry between actors in this performs helped show me whats been lacking from other musicals.
From the very beginning, you will see the realness had onstage between Kerstin and the amazing Melody Betts playing Mother Abbess. True magic is had between these two, but perhaps even more between Kerstin and her male counterpart Ben Davis as the polished Captain von Trapp. Delivering true heartfelt emotion to charisma not nearly like the stiff Christopher Plummer, Davis is able to provide a more caring and lovable character than the film’s counterpart.
The sophisticated semi-flamboyant comic-relief loyal family friend Max is played by Merwin Foard, a voice talent mecca that has been in countless animated films, delivers an upbeat fun performance that never feels forced or upstaged. The whole family of cast members all played an integral part in making this a show that cannot be missed.
I would imagine audience-goers would have some idea of what they’re getting themselves into, but if you have ever had any inkling of care for the music, the characters, or any musical theater, The Sound of Music is not one to skip-over.
The entire production is solid, grand, and creative. While perhaps not as intricate and detailed of other passed productions, this show strives for musical perfection and tops other musicals in recent memory. The show has a running time close to 3 hours, but never dragged… not once. Not only is it paced and pieced together well with some songs relocated to better tell the story, its a top notch production and flows like one should come to expect.
Several songs may become repetitive with a couple too many reprises, though warranted, but I still cannot get over how well the standards were performed. Nothing made me feel as though I would rather be watching the movie, instead I just found myself enthralled with a world class performances right in front of me.
The Sound of Music shows what a little love can bring to your life, what a little bit of music and singing can do for your enjoyment, and what facing your problems and standing up for what you believe in can do for your own life fulfillment. Maybe a little song is all I need. Rogers and Hammersteins last musical together is something to be held up on pedestal. It’s one that is well deserving of its praise and will take its theatergoers to a simpler more classic time in Broadways history. No evolution in storyline or style is needed, this timeless musical sensation will remain in audiences hearts for many generations to come.
The Sound of Music is playing thru July 31st with tickets starting at $29. More details are available on SCFTA.org.
For further reading, and for those that are true Sound of Music fans, or just want to learn more about the creation and backstory of this story, might I suggest “The Sound of Music Companion” by Laurence Malson. This is an incredibly detailed large format book with 150+ images from the film and theater productions along with detailed information of the real Trapps and backstory of Maria. It includes a ton of wonderful tidbits from other past productions and goes through the story from Broadway, to film, to where it is today. Click Here to buy your copy!
Join emoji-fied versions of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, Flash, Bogo, Bellwether, and more as they retell Disney’s Zootopia.
Created by the team at Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, the As Told By Emoji series has released six episodes to date, has reached nearly 73 million views since its 2015 debut, and has been translated into 25 languages.
For more emoji fun and to collect your own Disney and Pixar emojis, the new Disney Emoji Blitz app just launched and is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
A reimagined version of a Disney classic might inspire you to explore New Zealand from new heights
Based on the short story of the same name, Disney’s Pete’s Dragon tells the tale of a young orphan, Pete, and the friend he shares the forest with, Elliot, a dragon. And, thanks to some superb special effects wizardry by Weta Digital, fantasy is about to become reality in a live-action adventure for the whole family.
Starring Bryce Dallas Howard, Oakes Fegley, Wes Bentley, Karl Urban, Oona Laurence and the legendary Robert Redford, Disney’s Pete’s Dragon is set in the US Pacific Northwest, but was shot in New Zealand which means the film features a variety of glorious aerial shots as seen from Elliot’s point of view. As a result, many of New Zealand’s most impressive landscapes play a leading role.
So, once you’ve read the story, watched the film and bought the T-shirt, think about taking the experience one step further by exploring New Zealand yourself, following in Elliot’s flight path. What better way to savour the country’s beauty than through the eyes of a dragon as he soars over breathtaking landscapes?
Queenstown As the sun rises over the majestic peaks of the Remarkables range in Queenstown in New Zealand’s South Island, Elliot’s adventure begins. He soars above the 22-kilometre-long gorge known as Skippers Canyon, home to the Shotover River. As Elliot passes through the gorge, the steep walls envelop him, while the river below is the most brilliant shade of green.
Past Queenstown and into the Kawarau River, the curious dragon is more than a bit surprised to see people leaping off the historic Kawarau Bridge. The daring souls leaping the 43 metres rely on little more than a giant rubber band attached securely to their ankles to keep them safe. It looks to Elliot as if it must be tremendous fun, especially for creatures who aren’t fortunate enough to have wings. Circling down to take a closer look at the bungee jump, Elliot hears the echoes of the jumpers’ whoops and whistles in his ears. This is truly an adventure playground.
Local helicopter company Glacier Southern Lakes filmed the aerial sequences for Disney’s Pete’s Dragon. Tourists can soar like a dragon on their own aerial adventure around Queenstown, with the company offering daily scenic rides or private charters.
Central Otago Banking east, Elliot follows the Kawarau River into Central Otago, and leaves the green of the river behind for the hills, gorges and craggy mountains of the region. He continues on, flying over land where, a hundred years earlier, hardy miners found (and lost) their fortunes during the gold rush, and where visitors can still try their hands at gold panning.
Elliot makes a beeline for Clyde, one of Central Otago’s quaintest and most endearing historic villages of old stone buildings, on the banks of the emerald green Clutha River.
Looking more closely, Elliot spies the curious spectacle of humans rolling about on two wheels. His interest is piqued and he banks down over the groups of smiling humans cycling through picturesque farmland on the 152km Otago Central Rail Trail which follows former railway lines from Clyde to Middlemarch. With rides between one and five days, people can stop at all manner of tiny towns – with names like Ophir and Naseby – each with its own distinct character, rich heritage and dining experiences. If cycling is not your thing, you can try your hand at curling, dog sledding or horse trekking.
Tapanui, in the Otago region of the lower South Island, was transformed into the main street of the film’s quiet American town.
Marlborough Sounds and Wellington Elliot sets a course further north, up and over the picturesque bays of the Marlborough Sounds, the sea studded with small islands covered in forest and bush, with native birds filling the skies. Seeing families kayaking in the waters makes Elliot’s heart light, as do the campers and hikers making the most of nature’s bounty.
Elliot then flies into Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city and, arguably, the artistic and cultural hub of the nation, too. Sadly, he won’t get to experience the city’s fine-dining scene, or Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, tours of Weta Workshop, the lively theatre offerings, cafe culture and shopping.
The city is also home to Mt Victoria – which was used to film several of the forest scenes in Disney’s Pete’s Dragon.
The Central Plateau Following the warm northern wind currents, Elliot whizzes up through the central North Island. Buzzing over ranges and rivers, valleys and glades, he spots the volcanic cones of the Central Plateau jutting up into the sky. Snow-capped most of the year, the peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe are astonishing and, in the winter, this region is paradise for skiers and snowboarders.
The dragon spots a trail of people, like a colony of ants, marching in single file along a track. They are hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19.4km hike considered to be one of the world’s greatest day walks.
Rotorua
Puffing out a plume of smoke, Elliot pushes on to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua, its collection of picturesque lakes drawing people for fishing, water sports and hiking.
Most of the forest scenes for Disney’s Pete’s Dragon were shot in Rotorua’s Redwoods Forest, an extensive plantation of soaring Californian redwoods that makes it the ideal double for the USA.
Buzzing above Te Puia’s geothermal valley, Elliot sees people lining the path as the famous Pohutu Geyser erupts, shooting boiling steam 30m into the air. Performing this trick up to 20 times a day, Pohutu is considered to be one of the most spectacular geysers on Earth. A family waves to Elliot as the smell of Rotorua’s sulphuric air tickles his nostrils. This is a town a dragon feels at home in, with its bubbling mud pools and temperate lakes but Elliot must heed the call that pulls him inexorably north.
Bay of Islands Reaching this picturesque northern region, Elliot flies a celebration loop over historic Russell. It’s a pretty town, home to yachts and oyster farms, and the Duke of Marlborough tavern where the waterfront verandah is hard to beat. As he follows a boat cruising across the bay to the seaside town of Paihia, Elliot shares the sky with seabirds and the colourful chutes of parasailers.
As the sun slowly starts to set, Elliot swoops down through native trees to the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Drawn over the water by the call, Elliot flies low over the flagpole and down towards the marae (meeting house), where five Māori warriors perform a haka, the traditional war dance or challenge.
As he lands in front of her, the woman holding a fern – a traditional Maori welcome gesture – smiles at Elliot. He has found where the call was coming from, and he is home.
Roundabout Theatre Company’s Tony-winning masterpiece CABARET, starring Randy Harrison (Queer as Folk) as the Emcee, heads to Segerstrom Center August 9 – 21. The Center is hosting an LGBT night on August 12 where guests can enjoy a post-show party with the cast. Tickets are $79 each and include:
-One orchestra seat ticket
-A souvenir program
-An exclusive post-show mixer with the cast that includes complimentary bubbly and dessert
John Kander, Fred Ebb and Joe Masteroff’s Tony-winning musical features some of the most memorable songs in theatre history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” CABARET is set in the infamous Kit Kat Klub, where the Emcee, Sally Bowles and a raucous ensemble take the stage nightly to tantalize the crowd – and to leave their troubles outside.
As part of their 50th Anniversary season, Roundabout Theatre Company’s Tony-winning masterpiece CABARET features original Broadway direction by Sam Mendes and original co-direction & choreography by Rob Marshall. Tour direction is under the helm of BT McNicholl (Spamalot) and choreography is recreated by Cynthia Onrubia (Victor/Victoria).
Summer’s here and that means road trip season! If you’re doing any long-distance driving this year, you might be looking for family-friendly road-trip games that will keep everyone entertained for hours. Nintendo has your family covered with a playlist of new on-the-go games using the New Nintendo 3DS XL system. Combined with some classic road-trip games, these activities will keep your little (or big!) ones having fun during all your summer travels.
1. Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games: All of your favorite Mario and Sonic characters are ready to join the fun in Rio de Janeiro, host of the Olympic Games in 2016. Friends and families can take the rivalry on the road with this portable collection of supercharged events like Soccer, BMX, Beach Volleyball and Archery, or they can try Plus Events, which add a Mario & Sonic twist to the athletic proceedings, like dodging stacks of Goombas in BMX Plus or vaulting over Moto Bugs in Equestrian.
2. Nintendo’s Alphabet Game: The rules are simple enough: Find a word associated with a Nintendo game or character beginning with each letter of the alphabet in chronological order and keep going until the day’s final destination is reached. No repeat words!
3. Kirby: Planet Robobot: Kirby is back in one of his most technologically advanced 2D adventures yet. Jump into Kirby’s powerful new Robobot Armor to lift heavy objects with ease, scan enemies, gain abilities and transform into new Modes to complete a wide variety of creative stages. The game is full of features new to the series like Kirby’s powerful mech armor, new Copy Abilities, amiibo functionality and a cooperative multiplayer brawler in Team Kirby Clash.
4. I Spy Super Mario Bros: “I spy with my little eye, something pink.” [Princess Peach] This easy-to-learn game is perfect for kids and can keep them entertained for long periods of time. The directions are simple: One person spies something related to a Nintendo character or game they are playing and recites the line, ending in a clue. Everyone else takes turns trying to guess the mystery item.
5. Mario & Luigi Paper Jam: Paper Mario jumps out of a book and into the bizarre adventures of Mario & Luigi, resulting in hilarious, and dangerous, hijinks! Become the superstar team of Mario, Luigi and Paper Mario to take on quests, take down enemies and untangle these two unique universes in this playful new entry in the Mario & Luigi series.
6. Nintendo’s 20 Questions: This easy game is great for younger kids, thanks to its straightforward rules. Player One thinks of a person, place or thing associated with Nintendo. Everyone else takes turns asking questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no. After each answer, the questioner gets one guess. Play continues until a player guesses correctly or all 20 questions have been used.
7. Mario Kart 7: Fan-favorite game Mario Kart 7 brings Mushroom Kingdom racing fun into glorious 3D. For the first time, drivers explore new competitive kart possibilities, such as soaring through the skies or plunging to the depths of the sea. New courses, strategic new abilities and customizable karts bring the racing excitement to new heights on the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.
8. I’m Going on a Picnic – Nintendo Style: This memory game is great for kids 5 and up. The game can be played with as few as two players, but it’s more fun when the whole family joins in. The first player says “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing…” followed by a Nintendo game or character (i.e. Super Mario Bros.). The second player repeats what the first person said, but adds a different Nintendo game or character. So she might say “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing Super Mario Bros. and Princess Peach.” And so on. If someone forgets an item, she or he is out. The last player to recite all the items on the list wins.
9. Disney Art Academy: For the first time in the Art Academy series, Disney Art Academy teaches players to draw some of the most classic and recognizable Disney and Pixar characters. Once created, artwork can easily be shared through Miiverse or on social media channels like Facebook or Twitter using the game’s Image Share features.
If you’re heading to this year’s San Diego Comic-Con between July 21 and July 24, Nintendo invites you to the Play Nintendo Family Lounge to experience the latest and greatest video games, compete in tournaments for a chance to win prizes (while supplies last) and take photos with iconic characters. This must-see space will be on the first floor of the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, just a few steps away from the San Diego Convention Center. When visiting, you will be surrounded by all of your favorite characters and franchises, including Splatoon, Mario Kart and Pokémon, as well as new and upcoming games like YO-KAI WATCH 2, Style Savvy: Fashion Forward and more. Additionally, San Diego Comic-Con attendees with a show badge can also visit Nintendo’s Booth in the San Diego Convention Center to get inked through various Splatoon game-play activities and competitions.
The Play Nintendo Tour, which has been traveling the country all summer, will be integrated into the Play Nintendo Family Lounge. The one-of-a-kind tour offers a fun and engaging way for gamers to experience the hottest Nintendo 3DS games. You’ll be able to hop into a Yoshi egg to play Yoshi’s New Island, recline on a giant banana while checking out Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D or relax in a pink beanbag chair to play Kirby: Planet Robobot. Your inner shutterbug will be in heaven as you take photos next to a huge Kirby figure, beside an oversized Yoshi egg, inside a barrel flanked by Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, under a blue Spiny Shell from Mario Kart 7 or next to a giant Poké Ball from Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire.
“San Diego Comic-Con is the perfect venue for fans of all ages to experience what Nintendo has to offer,” said Cindy Gordon, Nintendo of America’s Vice President of Corporate Affairs. “This year, we have such a wide variety of activities to take part in that there’s truly something for everyone.”
The Play Nintendo Family Lounge will be open to the public July 21-23 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and July 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The current schedule of events includes the following:
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U 12 & Under Tournament (July 23): Nintendo fans that are 12 years old or younger and have parental consent can participate in a Super Smash Bros. for Wii U tournament at 2 p.m. on July 23. The tournament will be live-streamed on the Nintendo Twitch channel, so even people that can’t be there have a chance to keep an eye on the action. Tournament slots are limited for the one-day event, and fans will be able to sign up the day of the event on a first-come, first-served basis. The Grand and First Prize winners will each receive a prize pack filled with Nintendo products and merchandise.
The Play Nintendo Challenge (July 21-22, July 24): Play through three elimination rounds composed of three different Wii U games (Splatoon,Mario Kart 8 and Pokkén Tournament) in a group to see if you can emerge victorious! Participation will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The Play Nintendo Challenge runs all day and takes less than 30 minutes to complete. Winners will receive an exclusive champion Nintendo T-shirt. Players who participate may receive other giveaways while supplies last based on how far they make it in the challenge.
YO-KAI WATCH Voice Actor Event (July 22): Actors Alicyn Packard, J.W. Terry and Melissa Hutchison, who provide the voices for Jibanyan, Whisper and Komasan, respectively, in the YO-KAI WATCH video game and animated TV series, will be conducting a Q&A session, doing live voice demos and a table read of a scene from Season 2 of the animated TV series from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. PT. Select attendees will also have an opportunity to receive an autograph or take photos with the actors.
Pokémon Fan Gathering Area (July 21-24): Meet up with fellow Pokémon fans to catch, battle, and trade Pokémon with Pokémon X, Pokémon Y, Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire, and pick up some cool swag (while supplies last) and relax in our Pokémon gaming zone. The gathering area will be open during show hours.
Photo Opportunities (July 21-24): At various times during all four days, popular characters like Mario, Luigi, Pikachu, Kirby and Jibanyan from theYO-KAI WATCH series will make surprise appearances to take photos with fans.
And, of course, there will be playable Nintendo 3DS and Wii U games available during all days of the convention. These include:
On the San Diego Comic-Con show floor, attendees with a badge will be able to get inked by playing a variety of modes in the Splatoon game from July 21 to July 24 at the Nintendo booth (BOOTH #235).
Splatoon Multiplayer Battles (July 21-24): Fans of the kid or squid variety can show off their Splatoon skills in 4v4 multiplayer matches throughout the day.
Splatoon Splatfest (July 22-23): On Friday and Saturday, come enjoy the last Splatfest competition by battling for Callie or Marie in Splatoon.
Splatoon amiibo Challenges (July 21-24):Get an up-close view of the latest amiibo lineup for Splatoon and experience the challenges and bonus content that they unlock.
Visitors to the Play Nintendo Family Lounge will be able to experience the YO-KAI WATCH 2 game before it is released. When the game launches on Sept. 30, fans will have multiple purchase options. In addition to being able to select between YO-KAI WATCH 2: Bony Spirits and YO-KAI WATCH 2: Fleshy Souls – each version featuring a select number of unique Yo-kai to befriend and battle – players will also receive special bonuses depending on whether they buy the physical or digital versions. Picking up a physical version in stores will net you an exclusive Yo-kai Medal from Hasbro that gives Jibanyan a powerful new in-game Soultimate Move when scanned into the game. Meanwhile, downloading the digital version will allow players the opportunity to battle and befriend new Yo-kai: Sailornyan or Robonyan F. The Yo-kai and Medals will also be different based on the version of the game purchased.
Style Savvy: Fashion Forward, the upcoming Nintendo 3DS game lets you take the fashion world by storm, launches Aug. 19, but you don’t have to wait until then to play. A free demo for the game will be available in Nintendo eShop starting Aug. 4, but visitors to the Play Nintendo Family Lounge get an opportunity to check it out early. Kicking off on Aug. 5, fans with the demo can participate in the first Style Savvy: Fashion Forward Miiverse contest themed “Black and White,” which asks fashion designers in the making to submit their best look based on the contest theme for bragging rights. Similar Style Savvy: Fashion Forward contests will be hosted through Miiverse after launch. More details about these contests will be announced in the future.
The Play Nintendo Family Lounge is located on the first floor of the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina hotel just off the main lobby at 333 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101.
If you see a Nintendo Entertainment System on store shelves this holiday shopping season, you haven’t entered a time machine. (Unless everyone around you is wearing acid-washed jeans and neon leg warmers. If that’s the case, you may have unknowingly walked through a rift in the space-time continuum.) The most likely scenario is you are setting eyes on the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition, launching in stores on Nov. 11 at a suggested retail price of $59.99. That’s right: The NES is back! But this isn’t the same NES that you fondly remember. This new nostalgia-fueled system is a near-identical, mini replica of Nintendo’s original home console and plugs directly into your high-definition TV using an included HDMI cable. The console comes complete with 30 NES games built in, including beloved classics like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Donkey Kong, PAC-MAN, and Kirby’s Adventure.
We wanted to give fans of all ages the opportunity to revisit Nintendo’s original system and rediscover why they fell in love with Nintendo in the first place,” said Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime. “The Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition is ideal for anyone who remembers playing the NES, or who wants to pass on those nostalgic memories to the next generation of gamers.”
The system comes packaged with an HDMI cable, an AC adapter and one NES Classic Controller, which is patterned after the iconic design of the original NES controller. But you really just want to know the full list of 30 games, right? Feast your eyes on the fantastic collection of NES classics included with each and every system:
Balloon Fight™
BUBBLE BOBBLE
Castlevania™
Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest™
Donkey Kong™
Donkey Kong Jr. ™
DOUBLE DRAGON II: THE REVENGE
Dr. Mario™
Excitebike™
FINAL FANTASY®
Galaga™
GHOSTS’N GOBLINS®
GRADIUS™
Ice Climber™
Kid Icarus™
Kirby’s Adventure™
Mario Bros. ™
MEGA MAN® 2
Metroid™
NINJA GAIDEN
PAC-MAN™
Punch-Out!! ™ Featuring Mr. Dream
StarTropics™
SUPER C™
Super Mario Bros.™
Super Mario Bros. ™ 2
Super Mario Bros. ™ 3
TECMO BOWL
The Legend of Zelda™
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link™
There’s a little something for everyone: a nice mix of timeless favorites, cult classics and maybe even some games that you never got around to playing. Each is sure to bring back memories and produce plenty of new ones. You can even enjoy playing several of these games with two players by attaching a second NES Classic Controller, which will be sold separately at a suggested retail price of $9.99. A Classic Controller or Classic Controller Pro can also be used (each sold separately).
When connected to a Wii Remote controller, the NES Classic Controller can also be used to play Virtual Console NES games on a Wii U or Wii system. Playing these retro games using a retro controller makes the experience that much more authentic. And if you ever need to step away from the NES Classic Edition in the middle of a tough level (or take a break to call one of Nintendo’s helpful Game Counselors*), don’t worry about losing any hard-earned progress. Each game has multiple suspend points, so you can start where you left off at a later time, no passwords needed.
What’s old is new again with the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition. Relive past glories. Finish off that boss you never beat. Save the galaxy and rescue the princess!
Halloween time, a season for fun-loving spirits of all ages, adds spooky excitement to the Disneyland Resort from Sept. 9 through Oct. 31. Special Halloween-themed attractions–Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy–return to Disneyland Park, while the haunts who reside year-round at The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror invite guests to “drop in” at Disney California Adventure Park.
The separately ticketed Mickey’s Halloween Party also arrives at Disneyland in September with a thrilling new surprise: The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow rides through the park, bringing new chills to the family friendly party. The character is from Disney’s animated feature, “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.”
Currently at the Disneyland Resort, guests continue to enjoy the 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration, with sparkling décor in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, plus a dazzling array of after-dark shows, all of which are presented nightly through Labor Day, September 5.
As the summer season turns to fall, Mickey’s Halloween Party will begin Friday, Sept. 23, for 17 select nights. The after-hours party treats guests to unforgettable entertainment including the sensational “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, a guest favorite that is exclusive to Mickey’s Halloween Party. Adults and children are encouraged to dress in costume for the party as they trick-or-treat throughout Disneyland for a scary good time. Guests may check www.Disneyland.com for Mickey’s Halloween Party costume policy guidelines prior to their arrival.
Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party* go on sale for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members and Disney Visa card holders on Thursday, July 21. General public ticket sales begin Thursday, July 28.
Highlights of Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separate-ticket event, include:
New for Mickey’s Halloween Party in 2016, The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow rides his ghostly black steed and carries his flickering jack-o-lantern through the heart of Disneyland, heralding the arrival of Mickey’s Halloween Party character cavalcade, presented on the 17 nights of this special party.
Entry to Disneyland Park before the party is included with a Mickey’s Halloween Party ticket. Guests have the opportunity to play in Disneyland park for three hours before the party starts, and then go trick or treating – for candy and healthy treats – in the ultimate Disney neighborhood.
The “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, presented exclusively for guests of Mickey’s Halloween Party, is hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington.
Party guests will rock out at Tomorrowland Terrace in a family-friendly dance party.
Guests can “Party Like a Villain” as Disney villains appear in select locations for photos and character greetings. Mickey Mouse and his pals will appear as well, dressed in their Halloween costumes.
Enhancing the eerie atmosphere along Main Street, U.S.A., animated Halloween images – ghosts, bats, pumpkins and skeletons – appear and disappear mysteriously on the facades of buildings throughout the evening.
The ghoulish Cadaver Dans quartet performs Halloween tunes aboard a drifting graveyard-themed raft, on the fog-filled Rivers of America in New Orleans Square and Frontierland.
Nearly all the favorite Disneyland rides and attractions, plus Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, will be open to party guests.
On select, non-Mickey’s Halloween Party nights, guests visiting Disneyland will enjoy a special treat: the “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks spectacular. In addition, the dynamic “Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” will march down Main Street, U.S.A., each day throughout Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort.
Guests in search of Halloween chills may “drop in” to visit the ghostly full-time residents of The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror in Disney California Adventure. Here, in the remains of the Hollywood Tower Hotel, dwell the spirits of hotel guests who disappeared during a “supernatural” event on Halloween Night in 1939.
With the arrival of Halloween time, Jack Skellington makes his annual appearance in Disneyland to take over the Haunted Mansion and bring Haunted Mansion Holiday back to New Orleans Square. Haunted Mansion Holiday is inspired by the classic animated film “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas” and transforms the Mansion with a collision of Halloween spookiness and Christmas cheer. Oct. 3, 2016 marks the 15th anniversary of this special attraction’s premiere in Disneyland.
Spooky Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy in Tomorrowland draws guests back again and again during the Halloween season. The unique Halloween-themed experience launches voyagers into a haunted section of the universe, where ghosts appear out of the starry darkness and swirling galaxies of Space Mountain, reaching out as if to grab guests as they speed through space. The exhilarating drops and curves are punctuated by piercing screams, creepy sound effects and haunting music.
In Frontierland, the traditional Dia de los Muertos is observed through Tuesday, Nov. 1, with a holiday skeleton display in the plaza near the entrance of Rancho del Zocalo.
Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party* may be purchased online and on mobile devices at Disneyland.com/party, as well as at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400. Guests may check for availability for the 17 nights: Friday, Sept. 23; Monday, Sept. 26, Wednesday, Sept. 28; Friday, Sept. 30; Monday, Oct. 3; Wednesday, Oct. 5; Friday, Oct. 7; Monday, Oct. 10; Wednesday, Oct. 12; Friday, Oct. 14; Monday, Oct. 17; Wednesday, Oct. 19; Friday, Oct. 21; Monday, Oct. 24; Wednesday, Oct. 26; Saturday, Oct. 29; and Monday, Oct. 31, Halloween night. Online and mobile purchases are not available the day of the event. Parking is not included in the ticket price, and parking fees will apply.
Tickets purchased in advance are available at a discount on select nights. Tickets purchased on the day of the event are $89 each. All tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party on Saturday, Oct. 29, and Monday, Oct. 31, are $99 each. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a non-smoking event. Smoking will be permitted only in the Esplanade outside the Disneyland main entrance.
For more information about Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, see http://www.Disneyland.com/Halloween. Entertainment and attractions are subject to change without notice. Guests may visit the site for additional details.
*Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets are subject to availability and are valid only for specific event dates and hours. Space is limited. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be resold. May not be combined with other discounts. Costumes subject to Disney guidelines and should not be obstructive or offensive. Ages 2 and under: no ticket required. Entertainment may be cancelled due to inclement weather or otherwise. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.
Even though The Sound of Music is far more recognizable for its 1965 film counterpart, the stage production stems from before the iconic frolicking through the hills of Austria scene. Based on a real families struggle leading up to the beginnings of Anschluss, a subject matter of such seriousness is hard to fathom would be part of such a cheery musical thats so uplifting and loving. However, to this day The Sound of Music has continued to be arguably the most admired musical of all time. Perhaps it has been contributed to it receiving a Tony, Grammy, and Academy Award-winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song. You know you are about to belt it out!
This could not be done without such a talented cast. Kerstin Anderson could not have been more delightful as Maria. Her vocalization is superb and her presence on stage is second to none; a perfect Maria that holds just as much gleefulness as Julie Andrews did in the movie. While I can praise everyone for their amazing performances, I must first speak of everyones chemistry. This subtle piece to any show is often overlooked, but the chemistry between actors in this performs helped show me whats been lacking from other musicals.
