Disney Parks Christmas Day Special Gets a Frozen Makeover!

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December 23, 2014

This holiday season, Disney will put a “Frozen” twist on its 31st annual Christmas Day telecast, appropriately renamed the “Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration” airing Dec. 25, 2014 on ABC-TV.

Robin Roberts of ABC’s “Good Morning America” will host the reimagined television special inspired by the blockbuster hit’s message of uniting family and loved ones. Roberts will lead the telecast from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida with support from GMA Contributor and ESPN and SEC Network analyst Tim Tebow.

They will be joined by Rob Marciano, senior meteorologist of ABC’s “Good Morning America” from the “The Happiest Place on Earth” at Disneyland Resort. Sarah Hyland, star of ABC’s Emmy award-winning show “Modern Family,” joins the fun from Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‛i. The festivities will also feature a special appearance by Miss America 2015, Kira Kazantsev, making this year’s Christmas special a magical “Frozen” celebration not to be missed.

Disney Parks will celebrate this Christmas with more than a parade, but with a heartfelt wish for the holiday season, the coming together of loved ones and family. In keeping with the spirit of “Frozen” where two sisters are united through the power of true love, Disney will bring together three groups of families and friends who have been apart or separated for the holidays, providing the ultimate Christmas gift. The reunions will take place at three magical Disney destinations – Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and Aulani – making these reunions bigger, brighter and merrier.

The joyous occasion will fittingly include a special rendition of the “Frozen” hit single, “Let It Go,” as performed by 12-year-old YouTube sensation, Lexi Walker.

There will also be festive performances from some of today’s top musical talents at each of the various Disney locations:

Ariana Grande will regale Walt Disney World Resort guests with her new Christmas single “Santa Tell Me” and the Christmas tradition “Last Christmas”
Prince Royce adds to the merriment with “I Want to Wish You a Merry Christmas/Feliz Navidad”
The spotlight also will shine on special performances from the X Factor USA third and final season winners Alex and Sierra singing “Love is an Open Door” from “Frozen”
Yuletide cheer will be brought to the Hawaiian Islands by Gavin DeGraw, performing his latest single “Fire” and the holiday standard “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”
Laura Marano, of Disney Channel’s “Austin & Ally,” entertains viewers with her version of “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” as posed by Princess Anna in “Frozen”
Trey Songz, Lucy Hale and Train will serenade audiences at Disneyland Resort in California with holiday favorites such as “All I Want for Christmas is You,” “Mistletoe,” and “Shake Up Christmas”
Country music superstar Trisha Yearwood will perform her hit single, “Prizefighter,” and the holiday classic, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

Holiday Spirit Brought to Life

Celebrate the most wonderful time of year with familiar Disney friends and holiday characters as they spread Christmas joy and cheer at Disneyland Park in California and along parade routes at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida:

*characters/floats subject to change

The “Frozen” stars of the parade, Elsa and Anna, return from Arendelle to join the royal court and ring in the holidays on Main Street, U.S.A. at Walt Disney World Resort
Olaf, the summer-loving snowman from “Frozen,” joins hundreds of Dance the Magic youth performers in front of Cinderella Castle for a musical number to “In Summer”
Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty makes her holiday debut as the steampunk-inspired fire-breathing dragon, as featured in the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade
A new Club Penguin float joins the procession highlighting the holiday special, “We Wish You a Merry Walrus”
The superheroes of Big Hero 6 take a break from saving the world to wish onlookers happy holidays
The National Cheerleaders Association and National Dance Alliance Performance Cheer Team, featuring 800 members from 41 states, entertain park guests lining Main Street, U.S.A.
Boys and Girls Club National Youth of the Year winner, Maryah Sullivan, appears in the regal coach from the upcoming live action film, Cinderella
Traditional Christmas favorites such as Toy Soldiers and Gingerbread Men get their time in the spotlight to make the season merry and bright
After a long night of delivering presents, the jolly man in the red suit, Santa Claus, finishes his route on Main Street, U.S.A.

Tune in for the “Frozen” Magic and Merriment

The “Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration” airs December 25, 2014 on ABC-TV at 10 a.m. EST. Other airtimes vary; check local listings in your market.

Guests are encouraged to visit disney.com/disneyparkschristmas for details on the telecast, local broadcast times and talent updates. Guests can also join the conversation online using the hashtag #DisneyParade.

Frozen Soundtrack Ranked No. 1 Top Selling Album On The 2014 Year-End Billboard Chart

By

Robbie Bulus

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December 15, 2014

The Frozen soundtrack from Walt Disney Records was ranked the No. 1 best-selling album on the 2014 year-end Billboard 200 chart, for the period November 24, 2013 to November 16, 2014. It is the first soundtrack to reach No. 1 on the year-end chart since Titanic in 1998 and is the first Disney soundtrack to top the chart since Mary Poppins in 1965.

Released on December 9, 2013, the Grammy®-nominated soundtrack spent 33 weeks in the top 5 on the Billboard 200 chart, including 13 weeks at No. 1. It is certified triple Platinum, selling more than 3.6 million units to date. The soundtrack was also named iTune’s No. 1 best-selling album of 2014.

Featuring original songs from Oscar® winner Kristen Anderson-Lopez (“In Transit,” “Winnie the Pooh”) and Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony® winner Robert Lopez (“The Book of Mormon,” “Avenue Q”), and an original score by Christophe Beck (“The Muppets,” Oscar®-winning short “Paperman”), “Frozen” won two Academy Awards® (best animated film and best original song with “Let It Go”) and a Golden Globe® (best animated feature film). It is the fifth highest grossing film of all time and the highest grossing animated film earning more than $1.27 billion globally. Released wide domestically on Nov. 27, 2013, “Frozen” posted the No. 1 industry all-time Thanksgiving debut and Walt Disney Animation Studios’ biggest opening ever. The film’s Feb. 25 digital debut was the biggest digital release (sell-through) ever; its Blu-ray/DVD release on March 18 was No. 1 on the Nielsen overall disc charts for eight nonconsecutive weeks.

The album also received Grammy® nominations in the categories of Best Compilation Soundtrack, Best Score Soundtrack and Best Song Written for Visual Media.

In Addition, YouTube posted their 2014 Rewind video celebrating the biggest moments of the year, which featured performances of “Let It Go” by today’s biggest YouTube stars! Watch it below:

Into The Woods Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Now Available!

By

Robbie Bulus

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December 15, 2014

Walt Disney Records has released Into the Woods original motion picture soundtrack and the Into the Woods Deluxe Edition. Into the Woods features 20 songs from the film and the 2-disc Into the Woods Deluxe Edition also includes score. Both versions are NOW available. The film will be released in theaters December 25, 2014.

“Into the Woods” premiered on Broadway on November 5, 1987, at the Martin Beck Theatre. The production, which ran for 764 performances, won Tony® Awards for Best Score, Best Book of a Musical and Best Actress in a Musical. Among other awards, the musical received five Drama Desk Awards, including Best Musical. “Into the Woods” has been produced around the world, including a 1988 U.S. tour, a 1990 West End production and Broadway and London revivals, in addition to a PBS television production and a 10-year-anniversary concert.

The big-screen adaptation welcomes songs from the stage musical, including “Finale/Children Will Listen,” “Giants in the Sky,” “On the Steps of the Palace,” “No One Is Alone” and “Agony,” among others.

Starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine and Johnny Depp, “Into the Woods” is a modern twist on several beloved fairy tales, intertwining the plots of a few choice stories and exploring the consequences of the characters’ wishes and quests. This humorous and heartfelt musical follows the classic tales of Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), Jack and the Beanstalk (Daniel Huttlestone), and Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy), all tied together by an original story involving a Baker and his Wife (James Corden and Emily Blunt), their wish to begin a family and their interaction with the Witch (Meryl Streep), who has put a curse on them. Rob Marshall, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the Academy Award®-winning musical “Chicago” and Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” directs the film, which is based on the musical stage production by legendary eight-time Tony®, Grammy® and Oscar-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim and Tony® winner James Lapine, who also wrote the screenplay. The film was produced by John DeLuca, Marshall, “Wicked” producer Marc Platt and Callum McDougall.

The Into the Woods track list follows:

1. “Prologue: Into the Woods” – Company
2. “Cinderella at the Grave” – Cinderella’s Mother
3. “Hello, Little Girl” – Wolf, Little Red Riding Hood
4. “I Know Things Now”– Little Red Riding Hood
5. “A Very Nice Prince” – Cinderella, Baker’s Wife
6. “Giants in the Sky” – Jack
7. “Agony” – Cinderella’s Prince, Rapunzel’s Prince
8. “It Takes Two” – Baker’s Wife, Baker
9. “Stay With Me” – Witch
10. “On the Steps of the Palace” – Cinderella
11. “Careful My Toe” – Stepmother, Florinda, Lucinda
12. “Ever After” (Instrumental)
13. “Witch’s Lament” – Witch
14. “Any Moment” – Cinderella’s Prince, Baker’s Wife
15. “Moments in the Woods” – Baker’s Wife
16. “Your Fault” – Jack, Baker, Little Red Riding Hood, Witch, Cinderella
17. “Last Midnight” – Witch
18. “No One Is Alone” – Cinderella, Baker, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack
19. “Finale/Children Will Listen (Part 1)” – Baker, Baker’s Wife, Witch, Company
20. “Finale/Children Will Listen (Part 2)” – Company

The Into the Woods soundtrack, 2-disc Deluxe Edition and the digital Deluxe Edition soundtrack can now be purchased from the links below.

Wide Download Link: http://smarturl.it/itwdsa1
Amazon Music Smart Link (Digital): http://smarturl.it/itwdsama1
Amazon Music Smart Link (Physical): http://smarturl.it/itwsama1
Wide Streaming Partners Link: http://smarturl.it/itwdsta1

Holiday Tree-Shaped Cheese Ball

By

Robbie Bulus

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December 12, 2014

[ultimate-recipe id=”16887″ template=”default”]

The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies Movie Review

By

Patrick Campbell

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December 11, 2014

After twelve years, we have finally reached the sixth and final film in Peter Jackson’s immensely popular Middle Earth series, with The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies. Who would have thought that by the time the series was over, we would be looking at two trilogies, both totaling well over twenty hours of footage and story, and bringing J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved book series and world to life. While the first series of films were beloved by audiences and critics alike, The Hobbit series hasn’t been as fortunate. What started as a simple three hundred page book has now become three films, for better or worse, and has taken us on a very detailed and expanded tale of Bilbo’s journey out of The Shire and back again. While the first film in this new trilogy is the weakest of the bunch, this last film is a step above it, but the problem is it all feels like it should have been in the second movie.

Jackson’s series is epic, and rightfully so, and The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is no exception. In fact, next to The Return of the King, this may be the most epic film, as it’s almost two and a half hours of pure action. Jackson has crafted a film full of beautiful visuals, gorgeous battles, and outstanding action, all in this “Defining chapter of the saga”, as it is being sold as. The film can hardly be considered boring, and from the opening moments of Smaug attacking the village, the film just hits the ground running, and it never really stops. As the shortest film in the entire series, it’s great that it moves so quickly and it doesn’t feel long, really managing to make a great finale of popcorn entertainment.

The film’s final battle lasts an astonishing forty five minutes, throwing every orc, goblin, bat, troll, dwarf, elf, and hobbit they can into the mix by the time it’s over. Every character gets a moment to shine, or in the cast of Orlando Bloom’s Legolas, he gets five or six really spectacular moments that really stand out. Jackson has always found a way of making these epic battles seem almost intimate, and it’s really what makes these films work. We care about the characters, and their lives, so watching them in battle is always exciting, as our hearts race and we cheer for them. One small problem though, especially in the case of Legolas, is we know where he ends up, so there’s really no sense of danger when he battles. That always seems to be the biggest problems with prequels, but it’s one that’s easy to look past as long as you’re enjoying the ride.

The biggest problem though, and this has been this whole trilogies overall problem, is it just feels like excess. What could have, and started out as two movies, has been prolonged into three films, and it has really hurt them. As epic as the battle sequences are, the film really doesn’t have a narrative, next to Thorin going crazy as the gold poisons his mind, and he wants to go to war. It’s all fine and well, but it feels like it should have been left in another film, but in interest of making a full series with more story and battles, they’ve overall hurt it by expanding it too much. Thankfully, even with the little plot that seems to be left, Jackson takes us on a tour de force of spectacle, reminding us just why we’ve loved his Middle Earth films so much. That’s really what this film has going for it, and it really never stops being entertaining, even if it feels like a longer third act to overall story, not a proper film.

One thing that continues to be true for the series though is the acting is phenomenal from everyone involved. Martin Freeman was always the perfect choice for Bilbo Baggins, and he is fantastic once more in his final bow as the character. He brings the sweet, loving, and overly optimistic hobbit to life with ease, and it’s one of the best cases of art and actor being perfect for each other. Richard Armitage is also great as Thorin, bringing the mad and crazed side of his character to life with delicious intrigue, and you can’t help but be mesmerized by him every time he’s on screen. Ian McKellen gives a fantastic final performance as Gandalf as well, and as the only actor in the series who is in all six films, it’s great to see him going out in a big way. But it’s really Luke Evans as Bard who steals the film, and he continues to prove to be one of the most charismatic actors working today. Everything he has popped into over the last few years, whether the film was good or bad, Evans has always been fantastic in it, and he shows here why he should get a chance to headline his own franchise. He is a fantastic actor, and Bard ends up being the most emotionally compelling character of the film, and the one who has the most to gain, as well as lose in the film.

The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is a fitting finale for Peter Jackson’s Middle Earth saga, and while it didn’t necessarily need to be three films, the film is still fun to watch. What Jackson has managed to craft over the last twelve years has been a truly remarkable experience, it’s one that many of us will agree we are glad we took. It’s weird to finally say goodbye to Middle Earth, but it’s great to see it closing out in such a proper way. There’s not a really more perfect conclusion for this series that could be had, flaws and all.

[review]

Inherent Vice Movie Review

By

Patrick Campbell

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December 11, 2014

Kidnapping, deception, rock stars, Nazis, and a whole lot of weed. These are the things that incapsulate and make up the new Paul Thomas Anderson film, Inherent Vice, based on the novel by Thomas Pynchon, and starring Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson, Benecio del Toro, and Katherine Waterson. The film is hardboiled, noire style tale set in 1970’s Los Angeles, where a PI named Larry “Doc” Sportello (Phoenix) is dropped into a dark and twisted world where no one or anything is as it seems, all because his ex-girlfriend walks back into his life. As the story and chaos begins to unfold in front of Doc, his state of mind begins to change, as his drug fueled binges begin to take control, creating a world of paranoia where no one is to be trusted.

Paul Thomas Anderson has been a filmmaker that many have become absolutely infatuated with, and for good reason. He crafts remarkably intricate character studies in the confines of movies you may not necessarily know it could be possible, or that you even wanted. Things like Boogie Nights, There Will Be Blood, Magnolia, and The Master have proven he is capable of anything, and thankfully Inherent Vice follows in the footsteps of his best films. The film is an absolutely insane, and while many may call it convoluted, it’s not. The beauty of the film is that we understand everything that is going on in the film about as well as Doc, which is that we don’t at all. It’s really that feeling of loss and confusion that drives the film, and ultimately makes it work. We feel disoriented, just as Doc does, and makes you question everything that’s happening, and it’s all very intentional. Anderson is a very specific filmmaker, and to make us feel lost and confused just makes the chaos that the film devolves into that much more insane and fun. He also managed to craft an almost perfect feel for Los Angeles in the 1970s, really capturing the magic and feel of the city, and its seedy underbelly. It’s something that not all directors can managed, but Anderson really makes it feel authentic.

The film is littered with great moments of levity, reminding you just how ridiculous the whole thing. All the situational comedic moments work to not only humanize the characters, but to try and give the audience a breather before we delve back into this case’s twists, pushing us and making us question everything. Anderson balances it all perfectly, and the movie flows smoothly all the way through because of it. For a film that runs almost two and a half house, it never feels long, because it holds you on the edge of your seat the whole time. That’s always the sign of a great filmmaker and editor, and it’s great to see they could make a longer film feel so short, when so many longer films these days feel bloated.

But what really makes Inherent Vice work is the incredible work of Joaquin Phoenix, the film’s star, who plays Doc. The role is a career high for Phoenix, whose insane, over the top, funny, and crazed portrayal of Doc is one of the year’s best performances. Phoenix is in every scene of the film outside of the opening, and he carries the entire film on his shoulders, and you just marvel at the little idiosyncrasies he created with the character. He is completely lost in this character, and it shows, taking the film to the next level. Josh Brolin is also fantastic as “Bigfoot” Bjornsen, a cop who doesn’t like Doc or his hippie lifestyle much, but deals with him on a regular basis because of Doc’s PI work. It’s one of Brolin’s strongest performances in a while, and he steals every scene he’s in with his cold, but also almost fun demeanor. Everyone from Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson, and Benecio del Toro just give wonderful performances, populating this world with fantastic characters, and really making the world feel real. It just shows how great Anderson is at working with his actors, and the kind of performances he can get out of them.

Inherent Vic is a fast paced, funny, twisted, over the top, and absolutely insane 1970’s noire tale that feels like a product of the time period it is set in. While many viewers may feel lost or confused by the film, it really feels that is completely intentional on Anderson’s part, as we are inside Doc’s mind at all times, and we are seeing things through his drug addled thoughts. The film is populated by fantastic performances from everyone, especially Phoenix and Brolin, the former of which gives a career best, and crafting one of the best characters of the year on film here. There’s few films so fun and so satisfying as Inherent Vice, which makes you want to go back and watch it all over again. This is a film that will play spectacularly on multiple viewings, so you can try and take in and understand more of what lies in the film. This is one of the year’s absolute best films, hands down, and Paul Thomas Anderson once again proves why he is one of the Hollywood’s best filmmakers.

[review]

The Grinch Finds the Spirit Of Christmas in Costa Mesa

By

Joel Covey

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December 11, 2014

Gather your little “Whos” and your elderly bah-humbuggers to the theatre quick before the Grinch takes Christmas elsewhere. DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISMAS! THE MUSICAL is now playing at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa for a short run. This right of passage holiday tale is onstage to the delight of all with all the noise, noise, noise that you Grinch-lovers expect!

Normally packed into a 26-minute animated holiday special, HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS has been delighting audiences and theatre’s across the nation for years with this 90-minute ballad. Fans will find additional new delightful music by Mel Marvin and lyrics from Timothy Mason along with the beloved original tunes by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss. Set design was tastefully crafted to depict the original artwork of the book to recreate the feel of the story most of us have grown up with and past along to new youth.

This is not the Jim Carrey film version released several years ago. You can rest assured that this takes from the original piece of work and stays true to the witty light-hearted, non-Tim-Burton-like, poetic book your familiar with. While the original animated feature was packed with a punch, this brisk musical can still feel a little stretched at times.

However, no need to fret about your young ones getting squeamish as by the time they may get a bit restless, comedy will ensue and engaging breaking of the 4th-wall enraptures the audience once again. Let’s be honest with ourselves; while this is definitely a family musical, it still caters to the target audience of under 10 with a dash of enough nostalgia and humor to keep adults from feeling alienated.

This story begins mostly by following the point of view of Grinch’s dog Max post his traumatic experience with the mean one. With some lengthy songs featuring a grey-haired Max played by Bob Lauder watching over his young self as if he is looking into Christmas of yesteryear it can become cumbersome, but the Grinch shows up just in time. Lauder does a perfect rendition of “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” with a brief sing-a-long that helps this stage show immerse the audience into our holiday spirits.

The Grinch is played by a 7 year veteran to the role, Stefan Karl, who is known for his internationally renowned role of as the villain in the TV Series LAZY TOWN on PBS Sprout. This role may be near impossible to oversell, but at times you’ll wish that Grinch could lose a little of is raspiness especially during certain songs. He has a superb voice, but his Grinch voice may work better knowing a little goes a long way.

Whoville’s cast of characters are as colorful and whimsical as you could have dreamt. Parading their candy-striped costumes, their jolly and love for Christmas is unmistakable yet at times perhaps too bother-able. It’s Dr. Seuss, let me make up some words. These charming characters carry a tone throughout and offer plenty of lively musical acts. It one Whoville citizen that stands above the rest; little Cindy-Lou Who (Played by Raleigh Shuck during opening night). Your heart will melt as she sings the stand-out number “Santa for a Day” and then continues to rally Grinch into changing his attitude toward Christmas. If she did convince the Grinch, she sure convinced me.

It all collimates into that climatic moment that rivals the timeless A Christmas Carol where we had an epic battle between the children shouting out Grinch’s line to get it out of him. ’Tis was a moment that made me see that this tale is still holding ground with a new generation.

I was fortunate to see this with a kid that has already begun her way out of adolescence at the mighty age of 9! You know that time when you start to separate yourself with the kiddies and only want to like what the big kids are liking. She was hard to impress and after having her guard up for much of the show, the show finally broke her grinning with glee. She found her holiday spirit just like you and I have every year when we watch “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”.

This production is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard based on the original choreography by John DeLuca and originally created by three-time Tony Award® winning director Jack O’Brien.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL is now playing at Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Segerstrom Hall

December 10th – 14th, 2014
Wednesday & Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Thursday at 1 & 7:30 p.m.
Saturday at 11 a.m., 2 & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday at 11 a.m., 2 & 6:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $29

For more information visit scfta.org

Don’t forget to head to ORCHESTRA TERRACE LEVEL for a fun photo opportunity aboard Santa’s sleigh led by Max the Reindeer!

Check-out this overview video of the show!

Dixie Longate's Tupperware Party at SCFTA

By

Luis Mejia - Associate Entertainment Editor

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December 10, 2014

Thank you Ms Brownie Wise

Have you ever been to a Tupperware party? “Why not Chris? why not Chris why not?” This was one of the early questions Dixie Longate asked the audience at Dixie Longate’s Tupperwar Party showing at the Segerstrom Performing Arts Center. Dixie Longate travels all over the country showcasing all sorts of Tupperware while making you laugh. It was bawdy, loud and absolutely fabulous! This southern belle (with a lot of class) had the whole audience in stitches while still being very informative on all the different products, and no it’s no just bowls.

The show or demonstration, whichever you want to call it, ran for about 2 hours without intermission. Honestly time flew by so fast; I was having such a great time that I was a little sad it was over, but then again I probably would have ended up with a lot more Tupperware haha. One of the best moments of the night was when Dixie presented a FridgeSmart container which has a nifty table on it to show you on which setting to put it in order to increase the longevity of your produce. She gave the example of getting a big bag of lettuce and instead of it going to waste you could put your salad in the container and look for what main ingredient in a salad? At which point the audience almost unanimously responded: “WATER.” Her reaction was priceless, she just responded with “Yes Orange County, the main ingredient in a salad is water. So if we want to make out water salad we will just look on the table.” We all died of laughter realizing she wanted us to say salad.

Writing this I’m realizing it’s not sounding as funny as it really was. My cheek muscles were hurting by the time the show ended from how much I was laughing. If you ever get a chance to see Dixie Longate you should definitely go because it is not just for women and no it’s not just about bowels Chris! And who knows maybe you can win some awesome goodies! Dixie Longate is performing at the Segerstrom Center until January 4^th, 2015 so don’t miss your chance to be a part of this amazing experience and walk out with new pieces of Tupperware. Thank you Brownie Wise for starting the party decades ago!

Dixie’s Tupperware Party at Segerstrom Center for the Arts will continue for two more weeks in Samueli Theater from December 9, 2014 – January 4, 2015 (previously announced for December 9 – 21, 2014). There are also two very special opportunities to celebrate with Dixie: her 1000th performance on December 26 and her New Year’s Eve Tupperware Party on December 31.

New, Live ‘Frozen Fun’ Opens at Disney California Adventure Park Jan. 7, for a Limited Time

By

Robbie Bulus

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December 10, 2014

The Disneyland Resort celebrates the opening of spectacular new “Frozen Fun” beginning Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015, featuring magical adventures with characters from the Walt Disney Pictures blockbuster film. Guests at Disney California Adventure Park will be able to meet Anna and Elsa in a new location, sing along with the “Frozen” soundtrack, play in the snow, meet Olaf the snowman and “chill out” at a nighttime, family dance party.

A sneak peek of many of the live experiences begins Saturday, Dec. 20, in Disney California Adventure and a new “Frozen”-themed show opens in Disneyland Park Jan. 7, 2015. “Frozen Fun” continues for a limited time at Disney California Adventure. For specific dates, along with places to see Anna and Elsa beyond “Frozen Fun,” guests may visit Disneyland.com.

Anna and Elsa will relocate Dec. 20 from their Fantasyland greeting area in Disneyland to a roomier new home, “Anna & Elsa’s Royal Welcome,” inside the Disney Animation building in Disney California Adventure Park. Additional new “Frozen” experiences in the Hollywood Land area of the park include ”For the First Time in Forever” – A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration in the newly dubbed Crown Jewel Theatre; the immersive “Olaf’s Snow Fest” featuring snow play, music, food and Olaf himself, and an after-dark offering “Freeze the Night! A Family Dance Party.”

“Frozen Fun” Sneak Peek at Disney California Adventure Park

“Anna & Elsa’s Royal Welcome” provides an elegant new location for Anna and Elsa to receive visitors in the Disney Animation building in Hollywood Land. (Note: The Anna and Elsa meeting location in Disneyland Park will close at the end of the day on Dec. 19.) The colorful and varied animation experience already on display in the attraction’s lobby will feature new scenes that pay tribute to Arendelle and the world of “Frozen.” As they did in the previous location in Fantasyland, guests will utilize the Return Time Ticket to meet the characters, avoiding long wait times by securing a reservation time to return to the Royal Welcome. Elsewhere in the Disney Animation building, guests at the Animation Academy will be asked “Do You Want to Draw a Snowman?” – offering an Olaf drawing experience with an added Marshmallow-drawing class.

“For the First Time in Forever – A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” transforms the Muppet*Vision 3D Theatre into the welcoming Crown Jewel Theatre of Arendelle, where Anna, Elsa and Kristoff take part in a comedic retelling of their story that features popular songs from the film. Two Arendellian Historians, acting as hosts, lead the festivities, with the “Frozen” characters making memorable appearances throughout. Some of the favorite musical sequences (and lyrics) are shown on large screens to make sure everybody enjoys all the fun.

“Olaf’s Snow Fest” takes place next door to the Crown Jewel Theatre in Stage 17, which is transformed into a charming castle courtyard reminiscent of Arendelle. Music and lighting bring to life an immersive wintry environment for guests to meet and share a warm hug with Olaf. Kids of all ages will have fun in a giant play area with real snow where they are encouraged to build snow creations and zip down a snow slide. Guests who wish to observe the icy fun will have a nearby viewing area. A traveling musical duo, The Tubadors, will celebrate the tales of Arendelle in storytelling and song while, on their own stage, The Frolicking Fjords will present arrangements of Arendelle-themed tunes. Guests may enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, complete with snowman marshmallows, and decorate their own Olaf cookie, making memories that will warm their hearts.

“Freeze the Night! A Family Dance Party” invites guests to “chill out” in a family friendly setting inspired by the icy environment of “Frozen.” Created for all ages, this interactive party celebrates “all things Frozen” with exciting music, games, photo opportunities, drinks and snacks, an ice sculptor, and plenty of interactive moments, all infused with a super-cool crackle of exhilarating energy.

Winter Celebration Continues at Disneyland Park and Downtown Disney

On Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015, “Frozen Fun” celebrates its official launch with all the fun in Disney California Adventure, while a new “Frozen”-themed show opens in Disneyland at Fantasy Faire. The team of Mr. Smythe and Mr. Jones will put their unique spin on the “Frozen” story as they adapt it for the Royal Theatre. As expected, they present the tale in their own inimitable way, with a fun-filled, fast-paced retelling of the story featuring their own wacky performances in key roles, along with Anna, Elsa and the Faire Maidens.

Additionally on Jan. 7, 2015, “Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” resumes daily performances with Anna, Elsa and Olaf once again making a “pre-parade” appearance on their own special float.

Guests at Downtown Disney join the fun at “Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink” and the Downtown Disney Winter Village, in operation now through February 22, 2015. The Downtown Disney Winter Village chalets offer a variety of food, clothing and gift items. The 50-by-90-foot “Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink” features colorful graphics outlining the “Frozen” story and characters, with Olaf whimsically commanding the rink that bears his name. Sixty-minute skate sessions are scheduled between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursday, and 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

It's Disney Day! Crystal Sorcerer's Apprentice Mickey Available in Stores Today

By

Robbie Bulus

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December 5, 2014

In celebration of Disney Day, Disney Interactive announced the latest figure to join the Disney Infinity family – Crystal Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey – and shared special deals for select Disney games.

The mouse that started it all will be joining the wildly successful video game franchise in a brand new form. Starting today, Crystal Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey will be available at retail stores nationwide for a SRP of $13.99.

The Crystal Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey is a collectible version of the mischievous character whose magic boom sweeps and blazing fast energy bursts will deliver fun and engaging gameplay experiences to Toy Box 2.0. Players will also enjoy pairing Crystal Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey with other memorable Marvel, Disney and Pixar characters from the past and present to create a number of outrageous scenarios such as having him pal around with Aladdin, Jasmine and Baymax or jumping into a vehicle to race Vanellope or Dash.

Crystal Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey is playable in Toy Box 1.0 and Toy Box 2.0.

Additionally, players can purchase select Disney titles for up to 50% off from Steam, the Xbox Marketplace, the PlayStation Store and Nintendo’s eSHOP through December 8. More than 20 titles are currently discounted, including Disney Infinity: Marvel Super Heroes (available only on Steam) as well as Tron 2.0, DuckTales Remastered, Toy Story 3 and many more. Select offers vary by digital retailer. More information about Disney Day deals can be found here.

Captain Toad and Toadette Are Ready for Adventure in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

By

Robbie Bulus

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December 4, 2014

The underdog hero Captain Toad needs help! He and Toadette will do anything for treasure. How else to explain the two intrepid explorers tackling near-insurmountable obstacles like smoldering volcanoes, rickety mine carts, haunted houses and even fire-breathing dragons? Talk about perseverance! In the Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker game, launching exclusively for the Wii U console on Dec. 5, players must muster their own courage to help Captain Toad and Toadette tackle maze-like levels full of tricks, traps and enemies.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker finds players donning their own trusty head lamps to journey through more than 70 colorful and imaginative levels. Each level is a self-contained puzzle full of surprising obstacles and creative challenges that can only be solved by viewing the world from different angles using the Wii U GamePad controller. With Super Gems and Power Stars hiding in every nook and cranny, power-ups ready to be grabbed and many unlockable secrets, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is overflowing with treasures of all types to track. And tracking treasure is what Captain Toad and Toadette do best.

“The already strong lineup of exclusive Wii U games available this holiday season grows even more with Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker,” said Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “This charming new IP joins the ranks of fun family franchises that can only be experienced on Nintendo systems.”

When the giant bird Wingo accidentally whisks Toadette away at the start of Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, it’s up to Captain Toad to rescue her. But Captain Toad isn’t the only one doing the rescuing. When the roles are reversed and Captain Toad is later taken by Wingo, Toadette has to risk life and pigtails to save the captain. The goal of every stage is to find the coveted Power Star, but Captain Toad and Toadette can also gather hidden Super Gems, 1-Up Mushrooms and shiny gold coins. Players can also complete a specific challenge on each stage like “Slipped Past All the Shy Guys!” that will unlock additional levels in the game.

Equipped with a head lamp, backpack and fashion-forward kerchief, Captain Toad and Toadette look ready for adventure, but there’s that pesky problem of not being able to jump. But not to worry: Using creative thinking instead of fancy footwork, players have numerous ways to reach the Power Stars. They might need to pluck turnips to throw at enemies, ride in mine carts to reach the goal, grab helpful power-ups like the brick-breaking Super Pickax or multiplying Double Cherry, or spin the camera around to discover hidden passageways. Players can even tap the touch screen on the Wii U GamePad to deal with troublesome enemies. The amount of variety and creativity in the game is staggering and keeps getting better and better as the game progresses.

The adventure in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker doesn’t just end with the main story. Players that have Super Mario 3D World save data present on their Wii U systems can immediately unlock bonus content in the form of Super Mario 3D World-style stages. After completing the game, the Super Mario 3D World-style stages will also unlock for players who don’t have the save data. There are also “Mummy-Me” stages that find Captain Toad being chased by a mummy that resembles Captain Toad. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker will even support amiibo functionality. Nintendo will reveal more details about this cool feature in the future.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker will be available in stores, at Nintendo.com and in the Nintendo eShop on Wii U on Dec. 5 at a suggested retail price of $39.99. For more information about the game, visit http://captaintoad.nintendo.com.

Now You’re Playing with Portable Power in Ultimate NES Remix for Nintendo 3DS

By

Robbie Bulus

-

December 4, 2014

Cuff your acid-wash jeans and tease up that hair: It’s time to head back to the days of two-button controllers and game paks. On Dec. 5, the best (8-)bits from the NES Remix and NES Remix 2 games kick it portable style in Ultimate NES Remix. Here’s the 4-1-1: The Nintendo 3DS game features a fast-paced series of challenges from 16 of Nintendo’s finest NES games like Super Mario Bros. 3, Metroid and Kid Icarus. Have you ever wanted to use Princess Peach to rescue Princess Peach? Collect coins with Samus? Or help Link from Zelda II: The Adventure of Link battle a Hammer Bro? If so, then this game is, like, totally for you! On the same day, NES Remix Pack for Wii U launches in stores, combining previous digital-only games NES Remix and NES Remix 2 in one convenient physical package.

“Even decades later, NES games are once again making a big splash this holiday season,” said Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “Whether you’re buying gifts for the fan in the family who fondly remembers the NES, or introducing these classic Nintendo games with a twist to younger players, Ultimate NES Remix and NES Remix Pack make great retro-flavored stocking stuffers.”

With Ultimate NES Remix, even fans who have played both NES Remix and NES Remix 2 on Wii U will find new features and modes to enjoy. Famicom Remix Mode offers challenges from the Japanese version of NES Remix, featuring different sound effects and backgrounds. Fans of speed runs and time trials will be amped to try out Speed Mario Bros., a super-fast version of the original Super Mario Bros. that speeds up Mario, enemies and even the music!

Each challenge in Ultimate NES Remix has its own leaderboard, meaning players with broadband Internet access can compare their best times or top scores with other players in their regions. And when you see a “replay button” on the Best Time leaderboard, you can watch a replay to study the game play of some of the top players in that challenge. In addition, a new random challenge is available every day. These daily challenges encourage you to regularly check in with the game, hone your skills and see how you stack up against others on the online leaderboards. If you have friends registered on your Nintendo 3DS system you can also compare clear times or top scores. Challenges will change color depending on how you do against your friends.

Ultimate NES Remix will be available in stores, at Nintendo.com or in the Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS on Dec. 5 at a suggested retail price of $29.99. Purchase the game and you will also receive a rad Famicom theme from the Theme Shop on Nintendo 3DS while supplies last. (If you purchase the game in stores you will find the Famicom theme download code inside the game booklet. Those who purchase the game in the Nintendo eShop will find the download code for their free theme on their eShop receipt.) Shoppers who want to pick up NES Remix Pack for Wii U can do so exclusively in retail stores on Dec. 5 at a suggested retail price of $29.99.

For more information about Ultimate NES Remix and NES Remix Pack, visit http://nesremix.nintendo.com. Remember that Wii U and Nintendo 3DS feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit http://www.nintendo.com/wiiu or http://www.nintendo.com/3ds.

Socalthrills.com

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