We recently visited Medieval Times in Buena Park for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Castle and to talk with the cast & crew of the popular Dinner & Tournament show. Join Richard Lau, as we take a look at how the horses are trained as well as some of the special weapons the Knights use. Also take a look at the Castle itself and what it has to offer visitors.
Spend an evening as a noble guest at the castle as you watch an action-packed medieval tournament and enjoy the sensational four-course royal feast.
Six bold knights compete in a tournament of jousting, sword fighting, and hand-to-hand combat, using all of their skill and strength to win the title of tournament champion and gain the favor of beautiful Princess. Guests are seated in color-coded sections corresponding with one of the brave knights, so you can contribute to the action by cheering your favorite warrior to victory. The clashing swords and shattering shields of the tournament aren’t all the show has to offer – there is also an inspiring romance and a healthy dose of castle intrigue as the king seeks to maintain his kingdom’s peace, making for a truly inspiring story. Read our Full Review Here!
If you are you ready to step back in time, then you are ready to visit Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Buena Park, CA. located at 7662 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620. To make a reservation please call 1 (888) 935-6878 or visit www.medievaltimes.com.
Video filmed and Edited by Chris Mansker at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Buena Park before the Castle opened to the public.
My lords and ladies I had the privilege to visit Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Buena Park, CA. Upon stepping onto the castle grounds and retrieving your tickets you are whisked away to the Hall of Arms where you will be given your table assignments and being crowned depending on your colored knight for the evening tournament and festivities. You are then greeted by a wench or squire seeing if you had purchased a package upgrade for more photo opportunities, if you did you are sent to a different room where you can dress as royalty, knight, maiden or any honored subject of the kingdom and you can choose from a multitude of backgrounds. If you did not purchase an upgrade you still get a photo opportunity with King Don Carlos or Princess Catalina. After tour photo opportunities you may visit the Royal Dungeon where they have about 30 reproductions of torture devices that were used in the Middle Ages for a small fee.
Whether you choose to visit the Royal Dungeon or not you are then free to roam the castle grounds prior to dinner. As you wander the castle you may stop and quench your thirst with a tasty libation at either of the two bars. Have no fear my lords and ladies the mystical beverage slush that you see in the marvelous machines are prince and princess friendly with no alcohol. You may however prove your age and make any beverage slush into a noble alcoholic one indeed. Also you may visit some of the merchants selling trinkets to commemorate your visit to the kingdom. A unique experience is to purchase a scroll that will be announced during the tournament by the Princess or Lord Chancellor. You may also visit the stables prior to the show and you can see many of the horses getting groomed and prepared for the pageantry and tournament. When it is time to enter the arena the trumpets will herald your attention and your colored seating sections will be called, also any good gentles that need assistance will be ushered into the arena about 10 to 15 minutes prior to the general searing.
Upon taking your seats you will be greeted by your hard working Wench or Squire for the evening. They will be slinging the food and beverages throughout the evening, they will instruct you how to place your mug in different positions to show then what beverage choice you have made. Printed on your fine linen for the evening is your Bill of Fare, your four course meal, they do also offer a vegetarian option as well. Your first course is Dragon Soup with garlic rock (tomato bisque soup and garlic bread), Baby Dragon that taste like (chicken), Dragon Rib (spare rib) and half a herb-roasted potato and finally Pastry of the Castle (warm apple turnover), fresh fruit can be substituted upon request.
We were fortunate enough to sit in the front row of our colored section (we got Green). During the pageantry one of the horses riding at full gallop, kicked a clump of the sand that flew over the railing and onto my lap and exploded. I am okay, I am just thankful it was not horse droppings. I quite enjoyed watching Redha, head horse trainer for the king and the knights helped the horses demonstrate some fantastic skill skills like waling on its hind legs, trotting backwards in a straight line, and even doing a midair jump kick. They seem to be having a lot of fun on the field and I think the horses are very spoiled. Caitlin the royal falcon trainer showed us some skills with her falcon flying all around the arena and over our heads before being rewarded with a tasty treat.
For the tournament we were cheering for the Green knight, he is the champion from Leone this evening, I was very excited since my favorite color is green. Some of the games of skill at the tournament were a baton race on horseback, spear onto a target while riding horseback, large ring which is when two knights compete on horseback while holding a lance and charging thru the field and trying to catch a ring on two separate logs suspended over the arena. If they are successful upon catching the ring a ribbon is also released that is attached to the ring, that’s my favorite game of the tournament besides the famous joust and hand to hand combat. After each game of skill the knight or knights who were victorious were awarded carnations by the princess and then the knights may choose to reward any faire maiden in his realm. Those carnations can fly pretty high going to the back of the area table at times for some lucky maiden. Next to us was a family from Australia, the little princess was raising her hand and jumping up and down each time our green knight road by throwing carnations, she was a bit bummed because each time our knight would pass her up. It was okay because after winning the joust tournament the winning knights were awarded a colored ribbon representing their win and our brave knight awarded her with that special honor, she was so very happy and then a noble squire came down and asked to take her picture, she has a huge smile on her face the rest of the evening.
It was nerve racking at times during the tournament; since during the fight our knight was loosing steam but then our section cheered him onto being victorious in the kingdom and he was awarded by being able to honor one lucky maiden or princess to be the Queen of Love and Beauty. This time the Princess Catalina also came down and presented the little princess with a crown as well and a lovely photo was taken to commemorate this auspicious day. After the tournament you may wander some of the shops to purchase your souvenirs, and or also pick up and purchase your photo(s) from earlier in the evening. The highlight then is you may meet and great the knights at the Knight night club bar. This is where the royal knights retire after an evening of pageantry. You can strike a knightly pose with them or ask them any questions. I suggest doing this and it will help you kill time and not have the headache of possible gridlock with the other gentles trying to leave the castle as soon as the tournament is over.
I highly recommend Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament to anyone local and also anyone visiting from out of town, seats are $59.95 per person they also offer two upgrade options, the Kings Royal package is a $20.00 upgrade and you are guaranteed front row seating in your respective colored section, commemorative program, framed group photo, a behind the scenes DVD (1 per group), and knights cheering banner so you may use it to cheer on your brave knight. The Royalty package, it’s only a $10.00 upgrade and it guarantees your seats closer to the arena like row two or three, commemorative program, and knights cheering banner. The Royalty package is what I recommend to any gentles who are visiting the castle for the first time.
My lords and ladies, are you ready to step forth and step back in time, then you are ready to visit Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Buena Park, CA. 7662 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620. To make a reservation please call 1 (888) 935-6878 or visit www.medievaltimes.com.
Halloween is just around the spooky corner. To get your little ones ready – Factory Kids and Hasbro Studios is releasing My Little Pony – Friendship is Magic Spooktacular Pony Tales on DVD.
The DVD includes episodes with all the Little Pony favorites from Ponyville – Rarity, AppleJack, Pinkie Pie, Spike, Fluttershy, Princess Luna and my two favorites Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash.
The 6 Episodes included in the DVD are titled – Boast Busters, Stare Masters, Luna Eclipsed, Sleepless in Ponyville, Castle Mane-ia, Bats! Boast Busters starts the DVD with a battle between the Ponyville favorites and a newcomer Trixie, who is likes to go around showing off her magical powers. Luna Eclipsed has Princess Luna visiting Ponyville during the Halloween festival and wanting to just fit in instead of having everyone running away and scared of her. Sleepless in Ponyville about a camping trip and spooky stories was very cute, but might give the little ones nightmares. Castle Mane-ia has Rainbow Dash and Apple Jack competing for the title of most daring pony by spending the night at a haunted castle. The last episode – Bats! has Apple Jack fighting a swarm of bats who have destroyed the apple orchard. What happens to Fluttershy in the Bats! episode is something My Little Pony fans will not want to miss.
All the episodes were cute and as always teach kids a lesson in teamwork and friendship. The Halloween theme featured in each might be a bit scary for the younger viewers, but older kids will enjoy the stories. The Bats! sing along at the end of the DVD will have the kids singing “Stop the bats, Stop the bats, make them go and not come back” over and over again.
My Little Pony- Friendship is Magic Spooktacular Pony Tales is a perfect addition to your collection. Get your copy soon and enjoy the DVD, poster and pumpkin carving stencils with your little witches and goblins.
My name is Loretta Garcia and I am an independent travel agent ready to book your next Amazing Magical Adventures. Follow me on my Facebook page for travel news and updates.
Knott’s Berry Farm Season Passes – one of the best entertainment values in all of Southern California – are now on sale for 2015 at the best price of the season. This year, Passholders can add the new All Season Dining Plan to their Pass and enjoy endless dining options all season long.
The All Season Dining Plan allows Season Passholders the opportunity to enjoy an entree and a side twice daily, every four hours, at one of Knott’s Berry Farm’s participating restaurants for as little as $99.00, or with nine Easy Pay payments of just $11.00, when purchased in the same transaction as your 2015 Season Pass; that’s over 700 meals per year for one unbeatable price! The convenient All Season Dining Plan can be purchased by simply adding it to a new or renewed Season Pass while shopping online or by purchasing it separately at the theme park. Passholders can begin satisfying their hunger for savings when Season Pass Dining debuts on January 1, 2015.
Knott’s 2015 Season Passes offer unlimited visits in 2015 with no blackout dates, allowing guests to enjoy everything from the completely refurbished Calico Mine Ride and Timber Mountain Log Ride to the fresh Camp Snoopy with three new rides. Season Passes are now on sale at the best price of the season for just nine easy payments of $8.50, or for nine easy payments of $19.50 when the All Season Dining Plan is added (prices valid for a limited time; plus applicable taxes and fees).
Knott’s 2015 Season Passes offer incredible discounts, perks and special events, including:
• Convenient easy pay program (for a limited time)
• One FREE visit during the 2014 season
• Additional visits for just $9.99 each through December 31, 2014*
• Unlimited visits in 2015 with no blackout dates
• Access to Knott’s great seasonal offerings, including Knott’s Merry Farm and Camp Spooky
• Discounts on select food and merchandise
• Discounts on Knott’s Scary Farm tickets
• Early Ride Time on select rides during the summer
• Other great Season Pass perks and surprises throughout the year!
* Per Pass Holder /per day/ non-transferrable.
For information about Knott’s Berry Farm, and a complete list of the All Season Dining Plan redemption locations, visit www.knotts.com. (Locations and entrees are subject to change.)
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is a one-of-a-kind celebration of chilling, family friendly fun. From Friday, Sept. 12, through Friday, Oct. 31, guests will explore their spooky Disney Side with special Halloween transformations of Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain; encounter Disney villains conjured by a magic cauldron; dance to the Mad T Party band and meet Mickey Mouse and his friends in Halloween costumes.
An additional Halloween Time highlight is the separate-ticket, after-hours Mickey’s Halloween Party, where adults and children show their Disney Side by dressing in costumes, trick-or-treating at Disneyland Park and enjoying an array of special entertainment, including the exclusive “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular.
New to Halloween Time at Disneyland this year are the latest twists at Haunted Mansion Holiday and additional entertainment experiences at the Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch, with more mysterious fun joining the Astounding Cauldron of Magic.
Spooky Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy in Tomorrowland is one of the guest favorites during Halloween Time. The unique Halloween-themed experience begins as a typical Space Mountain adventure, but suddenly launches voyagers into a haunted section of the universe. 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.
Jack Skellington returns to Disneyland to take over the Haunted Mansion and brings Haunted Mansion Holiday back to New Orleans Square. Transformed with a mix of Halloween spookiness and Christmas cheer, Haunted Mansion Holiday is inspired by the classic animated film “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Guests find new surprises within the Mansion every Halloween, including this year’s special gingerbread house, designed to resemble an “iron maiden” coffin with spikes (candy canes) and a hapless gingerbread zombie trapped inside. This is the 14th original gingerbread design since Haunted Mansion Holiday debuted in 2001. This one features opening and closing doors, lights and a very unhappy zombie struggling for his un-life.
In addition to Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy:
In Frontierland, guests discover an exciting, new magic show presented on the Halloween Carnival stage at Big Thunder Ranch. Nearby they also may conjure up a Disney Villain at the “Astounding Cauldron of Magic” sideshow tent at the Halloween Carnival.
Also at the Halloween Carnival in Big Thunder Ranch, guests encounter favorite Disney characters in Halloween costumes, pumpkin carvers showing their Disney Side with elaborate creations, Halloween décor and activities for youngsters.
Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland transforms to become the Pumpkin Festival, with hundreds of pumpkins on display, no two of them the same.
Guests age three and up show their Disney Side and live their pirate dreams as they learn the ways of the seven seas at The Pirates League. A part of the Halloween Carnival, The Pirates League offers a variety of pirate transformation options: Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Captain Hook, Ghosted Pirate, Black Beard, Black Eyed Jack, and Empress, created especially for pirate princesses. For The Pirates League reservations call 714-781-STYLE / 714-781-7895.
Frontierland observes Dia de los Muertos with a traditional skeleton display that will remain through Sunday, Nov. 2.
In Disney California Adventure Park, Halloween Time offers frightful fun for guests of all ages, with favorite attractions such as The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror, where a “supernatural” event happened on Halloween evening 1939, 75 years ago, forever haunting the building with spine-tingling fun. Also at Disney California Adventure, the nighttime Mad T Party in Hollywood Land gets some new Halloween spice. Tweedledee and Tweedledum welcome guests as the Mad Hatter offers some devilishly delicious All Hallows Eve fun featuring new Halloween music and a chilling new look for Mad T Party band.
Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separate-ticket event* for trick-or-treating families, expands to 14 special, spooky nights in Disneyland. Highlights of Mickey’s Halloween Party include:
“Villains Square.” Throughout the evening, the Disney villains arrive in Disneyland Town Square as the “Bad Apple Party Crashers,” riding a black horse-drawn carriage accompanied by thunder, fog and special lighting effects. Villains such as Cruella De Vil, the Queen of Hearts, Judge Frollo from “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” and Lady Tremaine from “Cinderella” appear for photos and character greetings, and guests are invited to “Party Like a Villain.”
The opportunity to play in Disneyland for three hours before the party starts
Trick or Treating – candy and healthy treats - in the ultimate Disney neighborhood
The “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington (presented exclusively for guests of Mickey’s Halloween Party, weather permitting)
“Mickey’s Costume Party” cavalcade featuring some favorite characters, performed twice nightly and preceded by the new “Frozen” float with Elsa, Anna and Olaf from the blockbuster animated film
“Monsters U Dance Party” at Tomorrowland Terrace: Class time is over and the students of Monsters University join Halloween Time guests in a family-friendly frat party with the most popular students from Monsters U, Mike & Sulley.
The Cadaver Dans, a ghoulish quartet performing Halloween-themed tunes aboard a drifting graveyard-themed raft on the Rivers of America in New Orleans Square and Frontierland
Photo locations with popular Disney and Pixar Pals, plus Disney Villains
Nearly all the favorite Disneyland rides and attractions, plus Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy
Complimentary parking for one standard-size vehicle
Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party may be purchased online and, for the first time, 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 14 nights: Friday, Sept. 26; Tuesday, Sept. 30; Friday, Oct. 3; Monday, Oct. 6; Wednesday, Oct. 8; Friday, Oct. 10; Tuesday, Oct. 14; Friday, Oct. 17; Monday, Oct. 20; Wednesday, Oct. 22; Friday, Oct. 24; Monday, Oct. 27; Wednesday, Oct. 29; and Friday, Oct. 31. Online purchase is not available the day of the event.
Tickets purchased in advance are available at a discount on select nights. Tickets purchased on the day of the event are $70 each. All tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party on Halloween Night, Friday, Oct. 31, are $77 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 Disneyland Resort, see www.Disneyland.com/Halloween. This site will be updated with frightfully fun details.
Here are this week’s Disney and Orlando deals from our friends over at Destinations in Florida Travel
Stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Walk to Magic Kingdom Park
Disney Discounts
Walt Disney World Resort
Save up to 30% off Disney Resort Hotels: Planning a visit during the late Fall to Orlando? You still have time to save up to 30% off Disney Resort Hotels through November 25, 2014.
Active/Retired Military Rates: For US active and retired military, save money on tickets and resort accommodations through October 2015.
Florida Resident & Annual Passholder Rates: Florida Residents and Annual Passholders can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resort Hotels up to 35% off.
RunDisney Group Rates: Are you a runner? Do you want to run a race with Mickey Mouse? Join our VIP runners at Destinations in Florida for some of the favorite races including Tower of Terror 10 Miler, Walt Disney World Marathon, and Princess Half Weekend. These exclusive rates are only with our agency.
Disneyland Resort
Save up to 20% off Disneyland Resorts: For a limited time, you can save up to 20% off your hotel accommodations through September 27, 2014.
Retired Military Rates: For US active and retired military, save money on tickets and resort accommodations through October 2015.
Book a Package for as Little as $89 Per Person/Per Day: Stay right down the road from the Disney Magic at a Good Neighbor Hotel from now through November 21 for as little as $89 per person/per day.
3rd, 4th or 5th Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels: Visit Anaheim during select nights through December 2014. Stay at select Disney Good Neighbor Hotels and enjoy a 3rd night, 4th night or 5th night free.
RunDisney and D23 Expo Group Rates: Are you a runner? Do you want to run a race with Mickey Mouse? Join our VIP runners at Destinations in Florida for some of the favorite races including Stars Wars Half Weekend, Tinkerbell Half Weekend and D23 Expo. These exclusive rates are only with our agency.
Disney Cruise Line
Canadian Residents Save up to 20% Off: From November 2014-January 2015, Canadian Residents can save up to 20% off Disney Cruise prices on select cruises.
Special Rates for Florida Residents and US Military: Take advantage of special deals for Florida Residents and active/retired United States Military.
Universal Orlando Resort Discounts
Universal Hotel Discounts: Save up to 30% at Universal Orlando Onsite Resorts this holiday season through December 2014.
A Celebration of Harry Potter: The 2nd Annual Event hosted by Warner Brothers and Universal Orlando takes place January 30-February 1, 2015. Exclusive Onsite Packages start at $219/person and include 3-Night Accommodations, 3-Day Park-to-Park tickets, Access to an exclusive evening event at Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade, Special Guest access to Harry Potter Expo, Reserved seating/viewing for select Celebration events, Breakfast at Three Broomsticks and more!
Florida Resident Halloween Horror Nights Package: Are you ready to scream? You can now book a HHN Package at special savings, just for Florida Residents.
Halloween Horror Nights Packages: For non-Florida Residents, you can still save money with a special HHN Package from $459 per adult at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort most Sun-Thurs September 19-November 1, 2014.
Halloween Horror Nights Tickets: Pre-order your HHN tickets to save money and lock in your favorite date. These are now available as stand alone tickets or they can be added to any Universal Orlando package.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort Florida Resident Deal: Florida Residents can experience this new hotel from just $79 per night plus tax.
Universal 1-Day or 2-Day Pass with Shuttle Transportation for 2014: Take a day away from the Disney World Parks to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Book a 1-Day or 2-Day Pass to Universal Studios with shuttle transportation included in the ticket.
“Take 2” Transfer: If you do not want to rent a car during your Orlando vacation, take advantage of the new “Take 2” Transfer ticket for only $39 per person. This transfer includes transportation from a Disney Resort hotel to Universal Orlando Resort for a Universal Studios vacation. After your Universal vacation, the transportation takes you back to the Orlando International Airport.
Sea World Discounts
Eat for Free During Your Vacation: Book your Sea World package at one of the partner hotels and get the All Day Dining Deal for FREE!
Kids Free at Sea World: Book your Sea World Package and kids play for free. You will receive one free child ticket (ages 3-9) for every paid adult.
Other Orlando Discounts
Richard Petty Driving Experience: Are you ready to get really scared? How about a Rookie Experience at the Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World? Learn how to drive and then drive a real Nascar. If you book by September 30, you get a free ride-along (valued at $99).
When Heather isn’t busy sharing Planning tips about Walt Disney World, the Disneyland Resort, Universal Orlando, and more, you can find her planning Disney and Universal Orlando vacations. Contact her on Facebook at Heather Abbott-Agent with Destinations in Florida. For more info and to book your travel, use the Price Your Vacation Form in the Sidebar or click here. You can also call 877-918-8941 and ask for Heather to book. Make sure to mention that you were referred by Socalthrills.com! Safe travels everyone!
Last month, August, brought Segerstrom Center for the Arts Executive Vice President Judy Morr along with EVP of Marketing for Broadway Across America Bob Bucci back onstage to present a preview of their 2014-2015 season. This year the preview had performances from MOTOWN, Once, Pippin and the revitalized Phantom of the Opera.
This a simple show the center presents showcasing not just next year’s big musical productions lineup, but also for the music and dance series featured in the gorgeously grand Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall and Samueli Theater. Every year they continue to expand these series with more shows and dates. Here’s hoping that eventually we’ll be able to catch a concert at Segerstrom Center for the Arts every week.
There are so many exciting Broadway shows coming next season delivering unforgettable experiences with Center premieres, new productions, and cherished classics.
Pippinis also back on Broadway for the first time since the original stint 40 years ago. This is all new production directed by Tony winner Diane Paulus (Hair) and it features new choreography and breathtaking acrobatics. We were treated by a performance from Pippin himself, MIKE SCHWITTER, as well as an incredible acrobatic performance by 5th generation circus performer VIKTORIA GRIMMY that was like something I could see win on “America’s Got Talent”. This had the audience screaming in excitement!
This new production is focused more on the circus aspect and really appears to be full of fun stunts and energy giving this classic new life.
We had the opportunity of speaking with the new Pippin, MIKE SCHWITTER, who was most recently seen in The Book of Mormon and has been through many regional shows. He is one of 5 siblings and got the itch in 7th grade. Fresh out of school in Cincinnati he booked the The Book of Mormon tour and then left to New York and is currently gearing up to start rehearsals for Pippin. He also did the original premiere of Next to Normal where he played “Gabe”. This was one of his favorite roles he has ever had being that it was an all-star cast and one of if not the best scores in his opinion.
I asked if Pippin has a lot of crossover with the acrobatics. While he states the dancers and acrobatics are pretty separate, he will be performing some magic with disappearing acts and more. However, SCHWITTER discussed about how important trust is within everyone as there is still a lot of interactivity between everyone.
When asked what makes Pippin stand out SCHWITTER mentions how its success is based on it already being such a classic. He states it is perfect for kids, families and adults with this production featuring “gymnastics, magic, fire and awesome lights that’s sort of what you see on the surface” but it’s what you see when you see past all of that. He continues that at the heart of the show is an awesome script, timeless music that’s just solid with strong relationships and a total team effort that makes it sort of like a real circus show!
Pippin – November 11-23, 2014
MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is coming to Segerstrom Hall for the first time next summer. This incredible show about Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from boxer to music mogul is truly about music bringing America together. Berry launched the careers of such giants like Diana Ross, Michael Jackson and Smokey Robinson. The musical features 60 memorable songs including “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”.
We were treated to one of the songs by ensemble cast member and Berry’s understudy JAMARICE DAUGHTRY (Member of the stellar award winning group, Group Therapy) along with a powerful duet later with TRISHA JEFFREY (2013 Broadway World Chicago Best Actress for Celie in The Color Purple, Tour: Sister Act, Rent). They also shared some of their feelings toward this important story and it was clear how much passion these two have for MOTOWN.
I had the pleasure to speak with each of them and they are an absolute delight. They are so passionate and it was quickly evident how happy they are to be a part of MOTOWN. With there being such a large catalogue of music within the show I asked about how grueling of a task it is on the cast. TRISHA JEFFREY explained that many songs are performed as a way to progress the story, but there are many songs that are performed as they would in that time period. Therefore the leads are not singing through 60 songs.
DAUGHTRY also performs as Berry and he only has 4 songs, but he stated it adds so much for his character to be singing helping bring more life to the story. Berry wasn’t a singer in real life, but this is the story of his life through his own eyes. A lot of the groups like The Supremes, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, etc. are featured and the music tunes into their relationships between them all.
I also asked about the feeling of the show and with such a strong song selection if it is upbeat and high-energy the entire show. Trisha said, “This time in the world there was a lot of hatred and music and the whole point of Motown was to use music to bring people together; he did just that. In doing that it was scary with the changes, John F. Kennedy dies, a whole bunch of stuff happening, so yes there are some serious moments too.”
MOTOWN – June 16-28, 2015
Other Center premieres include: Kinky BootsDecember 30, 2014 – January 11, 2015 Dirty Dancing February 3 – 15, 2015 Nice Work If You Can Get It March 17 – 22, 2015
Along with How the Grinch Stole Christmas for a short stint from December 10 – 14, 2015.
We even got to see our host Bob Bucci wearing a pair of the famous large red high-heeled boots seen in Kinky Boots. This is one I’m personally thrilled to see as it’s a touching story with great choreography and big musical numbers.
Returning to Segerstrom Hall includes Annie The Musical May 14 – 24, 2015 and Guys and Dolls April 15 – 19, 2015; an already impressive lineup, no doubt. Nonetheless, we need one more big production to round out the year. Returning is an all-new production of the beloved Phantom of the Opera.
Two cast members from the new production of Phantom were on hand to perform and have a brief discussion of the new show. There was also a short video sharing some of the new stage design and special effects we can expect. No worries here folks, the chandelier will return, and with a new special mechanism! This will be sure to wow the audience as new scenic design PAUL BROWN marries updated technology with classic design as this show has to fit the late 1800s after all.
We sat down with ERIC RUIZ (King Lear, South Pacific) who plays multiple roles including The Phantom and CELIA HOTTENSTEIN (National tour debut, 2013 graduate of The Boston Conservatory) who plays Princess and understudy for Christine Daae.
I first asked what they both thought people will enjoy most about this new amped up production. HOTTENSTEIN started off explaining how both productions are very different despite the same music and costumes.
HOTTENSTEIN:What I think they are going to like about this production is it’s a darker grittier production so they get a little slice of the backstage of the opera house and it’s more true to life. The phantom is as magical as he is in the Broadway production, you see a real man. You get to see how he ticks, and into his psyche, why he does the things he does. You have the same show but told in two very different ways.
Me:This is such a pivotal, iconic role; do you find it kind of surreal for both you to be in a role like this?
RUIZ:You know, this is a child hood dream come true first of all, and then I think you really you have to get to your brass tax. You know ‘I’m here. This is amazing. I am in the amazing role that I always wanted to play’ and that’s all great and wonderful and has its place too, but there is also so much work. There is so much of a technical aspect to the show that you have to be right on your mark for too, so it’s challenging at the same time.
It’s a show that in certain aspects is made with stage combat, fights that are out of control and have to be choreographed so distinctly that must play the same every night, which is a challenge to do something like that and [still] make it look like a mess…
Also, with this being such a BIG show it takes such a large support team to make everything look good. He went on to state how for every cast member there is 1-5 people to support because of the costumes, wigs, make-up and all the technical aspect as well. They have 21 semi-trucks to bring this show to fruition! That’s a HUMONGOUS production.
Phantom of the Opera returns August 5 – 16, 2015.
As mentioned before, there is so much more Segerstrom Center for the Arts offers. There are great ballets apart of their International Dance Series, incredible music in a smaller setting in the Jazz and Cabaret Series and class it up with checking out a performance in their Chamber Music Series. More information is listed below and on SCFTA.org.
Later this year is some special engagements from Shirley MacLaine, Yanni, Fiesta Navidad and Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan.
Single tickets for shows will go on sale approximately six weeks prior to the engagement. More information can be found on SCFTA.org. All of us here at Socalthrills look forward to seeing you at the theater!
There is entirely too much to be able to post it all here, but below is a complete line up of Segerstrom’s offerings for September:
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Shirley MacLaine September 20, 2014 | Saturday at 8 p.m.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $39.
Academy Award®-winning actress, dancer and author Shirley MacLaine will share with the audience a montage of memorable film moments and private revelations about her extraordinary life, career and spiritual journey. MacLaine’s five decade career includes 50 feature films, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, six Emmy Awards, the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award and the title of international best-selling author. A longtime outspoken advocate for civil rights and liberties, women’s rights and spiritual understanding, MacLaine remains committed to boldly speaking her truth, unedited and uncensored.
The National Acrobats of The People’s Republic of China September 13, 2014 | Saturday at 3 p.m.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $19.
The National Acrobats of The People’s Republic of China have entertained audiences worldwide for more than 60 years with astonishing feats of acrobatic agility and stunning display of martial arts. This elite group of acrobats continues a remarkable 2,000-year-old tradition of mastering precision, balance, grace, strength and artistry that result in dazzling and high adrenaline performances that also feature beautiful costumes, thrilling choreography and both traditional and modern music.
The Best of Jethro Tull Performed by Ian Anderson September 18, 2014 | Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
Segerstrom Hall. Tickets start at $39.
The legendary Jethro Tull frontman returns to Segerstrom Center with concert that spans his groundbreaking career as one of rock’s most innovative creators. This unforgettable evening features Anderson and his band (guitarist Florian Opahle, bassist David Goodier, keyboardist John O’Hara, drummer Scott Hammond and backing vocalist/actor Ryan O’Donnell) performing his new album, Homo Erraticus, in its entirety, along with a selection of best-loved Tull classics.
Engelbert Humperdinck September 20, 2014 | Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
Segerstrom Hall. Tickets start at $56.
The “King of Romance” makes his Segerstrom Center debut with an evening filled with classic songs from his vast catalogue of hits. A music legend with legions of fans around the world, Engelbert Humperdinck has released more than 80 albums of tender, beloved ballads, earning him an outstanding 63 gold and 24 platinum records, four Grammy® Award nominations, a Golden Globe for Entertainer of the Year and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Praised for his longstanding career, ultra-smooth stylized performances and dozens of hit songs, such as “Release Me,” “A Man Without Love,” “Spanish Eyes” and “The Last Waltz,” Humperdinck is considered one of the world’s consummate entertainers.
Special V.I.P. “After the Lovin’ Lounge with Engelbert Humperdinck” packages are available. V.I.P. package includes a meet and greet with Humperdinck after the show, autographed V.I.P. tour laminate, autographed greatest hits CD and more.
Shirley MacLaine September 20, 2014 | Saturday at 8 p.m.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $39. www.scfta.org
Academy Award®-winning actress, dancer and author Shirley MacLaine will share with the audience a montage of memorable film moments and private revelations about her extraordinary life, career and spiritual journey. MacLaine’s five decade career includes 50 feature films, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, six Emmy Awards, the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award and the title of international best-selling author. A longtime outspoken advocate for civil rights and liberties, women’s rights and spiritual understanding, MacLaine remains committed to boldly speaking her truth, unedited and uncensored.
Yanni September 21, 2014 | Sunday at 7 p.m.
Segerstrom Hall. Tickets start at $59.
A phenomenal composer and live performer, Yanni has brought hundreds of millions of fans and fellow world citizens together via his concerts, with more than two billion more experiencing the magic of his music through television broadcasts worldwide. His iconic performances at the Acropolis in Greece, the Taj Mahal in India, the Forbidden City in China, the Royal Albert Hall in England and El Morro in Puerto Rico have crossed countless borders and have resonated with billions across the globe. Yanni has been awarded more than 40 platinum and gold albums worldwide and has sold more than 25 million albums globally.
Joshua Bell September 25 – 27, 2014 | Thursday – Saturday at 8 p.m.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $25. www.pacificsymphony.org
Carl St.Clair, conductor
Joshua Bell, violin
Program includes:
Williams: Sound the Bells!
Rouse: Supplica (West Coast Premiere)
Glazunov: Violin Concerto
Straus: Dance of the Seven Veils from Salome
Ravel: Suite No. 2 from Daphnis and Chloe
Like no other violinist of recent times, Joshua Bell has captured the imaginations of both critics and audiences. Interview Magazine once said his playing “does nothing less than tell human beings why they bother to live.”
Pacific Symphony presents: Afternoon with Joshua Bell September 28, 2014 | Sunday at 3 p.m.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $15. www.pacificsymphony.org
Carl St.Clair, conductor
Joshua Bell, violin
Program includes:
Glazunov: Violin Concerto
A true classical music superstar, Joshua Bell enjoys a successful concert career, famous chamber music collaborations, partnerships with artists outside the classical arena and performances on movie soundtracks including, famously, The Red Violin. Glazunov’s lyrical Violin Concerto is a colorful, bravura showpiece for this special guest.
Back in April, Marvel Studios released their ninth film in the ever growing Marvel Cinematic Universe, Captain America: The Winter Soldier to rave reviews, and massive commercial success, and you can read my full review here. But now, just a few months later, Captain America: The Winter Soldier is coming home on blu-ray and DVD, courtesy of Walt Disney Studios. The film, which sees Steve Rogers broken and on the run from the people he believed he was helping to protect the world, as a mysterious assassin known as the Winter Soldier begins to hunt him. Teamed up with Black Widow, and his new friend Sam Wilson, also known as the Falcon, the trio fight to uncover the truth behind the Winter Soldier, while trying to protect the nation from a takeover of a dark, and long forgotten advisory.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is not only Marvel studio’s strongest film, but it’s also their best. The film works so well because Joe and Anthony Russo, the men behind the lens, because of their understanding of the characters and the Marvel Universe. The duo have crafted a film that is not only a great follow up to Steve’s story in Joss Whedon’s The Avengers, but it’s a very interesting and game changing film for the MCU. It’s always great to see a film that is willing to change the status quo of its series, really turning everything upside down. The story that the directors, along with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, based the film on is one of the most personal for Captain America, and the way they’ve adapted it is is fantastic. The basis of the story is based on Ed Brubaker’s run of the same name, and it translates very nicely on film. It creates a tense, thrilling, and really well made action picture that is easily one of the best of the year.
Thankfully, the film is done justice from a technical standpoint on blu-ray, coming to video with beautiful picture and sound. The film has an excellent, and frankly perfect transfer, that completely translates how the film looked in theaters. It’s one of the year’s best transfers, and one you can use to show off your home theater if you wanted. The same goes for the 7.1 DTS-HD audio track, that if you play too loud, may bring your house down. It’s a very strong, vibrant, and loud sound mix that’ll really give your speakers a test, making this a very demo worthy disc to show off just how exciting your home theater can be. This film looks and sounds absolutely astonishing.
It’s just too bad the film isn’t treated better in the special features department, which is this release’s most disappointing and glaring aspect. For a film with so much love and time put into it, you’d think that there would be more than just thirty minutes of extra features to talk about the making of the film. On the plus side, Joe and Anthony Russo do have an excellent and fun commentary track, where you to really listen to them talk about the film, and it shows just how much they love the material and the characters. But that’s sadly where the really informative information stops. There’s a small ten minute feature that talks about the making of the film, but it hardly feels like enough time to dig in to the behind the scenes process, because for a film like this, I would love to see more about the making of, from comic to screen. There’s four minutes of deleted and extended scenes, as well as a short gag reel, which is standard for these releases now. Finally, there’s a small Anthony Mackie feature, about him as the Falcon, and how he got the part, that should have been much longer, and a short look at the notebook that Captain America keeps on him in the film, which shows how the items in the list change in different international territories.
Overall, it’s a very disappointing set of features, which is disheartening to the say the least. The Marvel Studios films used to have some of the best special features to offer on the market, with the blu-rays of Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk, as well as Iron Man 2 really being stacked with content. But that seems to slipping away, which is unfortunate not just for the comic fans and film fans, but consumers in general, because they’re not getting a chance to really get good behind the scenes looks at how these films are made anymore.
While Captain America: The Winter Soldier may not excel in its special features area, the film looks and sounds great, and is easily the best film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far. Full of action, mystery, and a gripping story, it’s a no brainer to pick this release up to add to your collection. It would just be great to see more from the overall special features down the line for some of these films, because films like this are the ones that really benefit more having a plethora of features that breaks down the behind the scenes process of making it. This is a hugely entertaining film that deserves the praise, and it’s a no brainer to be added to your shelves at home. Recommended.
Disney Interactive has announced that Hiro and Baymax from the upcoming action-packed movie “Big Hero 6” will be entering the Disney Infinity Toy Box (2.0 Edition). Fans will be able to use Hiro’s mind-power and Baymax’s super strength, along with hundreds of items, locations, props, vehicles and more from across the Disney and Marvel universes to create all-new adventures born from the imagination of players.
Hiro: From the heart of San Fransokyo into Toy Box 2.0 comes the brilliant robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada, who created “Big Hero 6.” The inventor of mind-controlled microbots uses his brain as his most powerful weapon.
Baymax: There is no robot better suited for the Disney Infinity Toy Box 2.0 than the plus-sized inflatable Baymax. While this robot might have a huggable side, he definitely packs a hard armor shell. His Kung Fu fighting moves can ward off even the fiercest of enemies. His rocket fist, super strength and thrusters are unmatched.
There will also be a “Big Hero 6” Chem Capsule Power Disc, which allows players to create a cloud of frost that freezes enemies right in their tracks.
Disney’s Hiro and Baymax figures will be available in North American retail stores on November 4. Disney Infinity (2.0 Edition) is rated E-10+ by the ESRB. Additional Disney and Marvel characters will be announced in the coming months.
Just a few months ago, Warner Bros. announced that they would be returning to the world of Harry Potter with a brand new spin-off film, Fantastic Beats and Where to Find Them. The new film, based on a text book within the world of the franchise, will follow the book’s author, Newt Scamander, as he traverses through the magical underbelly of New York City almost seventy years before Harry would go to Hogwarts. J.K. Rowling is currently writing the film, and now it’s been revealed that director David Yates will be returning to the franchise as well, to direct the film.
THR was the first to break the news of the new deal between Yates and Warner Bros. It’s very interesting, because Yates directed the entire back half of the Harry Potter series, directing the fifth through eighth films, so he clearly has a voice and feel for the universe. It’s clear that WB was hoping to land a director who had worked on the series before, because Alfonso Cuaron was also rumored to be in the running a few months back as well.
Yates is certainly a smart choice, as well as a safe one. He really fleshed out the world well, and brought the series to a fitting close, so I’m curious to see what he’ll do now set in the events before the original film. It seems that Warner Bros. is really hoping to stay in the Yates and Harry Potter business, and I’m very interested to see if he’ll be directing the new trilogy all the way through, or if he’ll only be directing the first film and setting the template for further filmmakers. This has a chance to be something very special, and with Yates and Rowling both involved, I’ll certainly be keeping my eye on the project.
The ever so popular recipient of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Direction of a Musical, Best Book, and Best Orchestrations has come to Orange County! ONCE has debuted at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and will play for a limited engagement until August 31st, 2014. This romantic, pure and gritty musical has quickly become a fan favorite across the nation and London. It’s a simple show relying heavily on the power of the music. It will encompass the entire audience with such emotion just with its beloved songs.
This incredible strong show is based on the Irish movie of the same name, written and directed by John Carney, about the life-changing connection between a pair of musicians known only as Guy and Girl. He is a street singer/songwriter in Dublin who works separately as a vacuum repairman, and she is a Czech immigrant who sells flowers in order to support herself and her family. With music as the catalyst, the center piece of the entire show, Guy and Girl and embark on a brief, powerful, and transformative journey featuring Academy-Award Winning Best Song “Falling Slowly”.
In just a few days their love is a complicated romance that’s developed mostly through raw emotion from the songs they have collaborated together. This is such a different musical like no other you have probably seen. This adaptation is brought to the stage by an award-winning team of visionary artists and an ensemble cast all of talented actor/musicians.
Everyone on stage plays an instrument; in fact there is no orchestra, the pit is even covered up. Instead the audience is treated to new experience. Upon arrival it is quick to see that this will be something new and invigorating. The curtain is already drawn when you enter the theater; there are people on stage mingling around. After further inspection it’s apparent the people on stage on are just theater-going patrons.
With so much activity it’s tough to not be curious. You may want to bring some cash and arrive early as you may actually purchase a beer on stage prior to the show and even bringing drinks for the lobby into the theater. As we get closer to showtime several people on stage clear the center and begin playing beautiful Irish music. In that instant, you are transported to an Irish pub. Everything feels so natural, patrons still talk amongst each other perhaps not realizing the band on stage is the cast of the show!
The band continues to play and the audience begins to become more engaged. The lights fade slowly almost unnoticeable and before you know it, the show has begun. The bar on stage is dimmed and this will be the backdrop for night. There are no set changes, no costume changes, just the soul of the performers and their music.
It’s a very organic feel, something playwright and screenwriter Enda Walsh (Penelope, Hunger, The New Electric Ballroom) wanted from the start. Fans of the movie may wonder how they could bring such a quiet, gritty film to Broadway, but it was that challenge that made Walsh and director John Tiffany want to do it even more.
Originally they both thought it was a terrible idea. When approached about Once, Tiffany hadn’t even seen the film yet, but was told by his best friend that he will love the music. He downloaded the soundtrack and fell in love. He had never heard music like that and that’s what made him want to do the show. It wasn’t just the music though, ”but the fact that it’s a story about creating music, a story about the healing power of music.”
“We’re going to be able to see actors create the music in front us.”
The show begins with practically the entire cast in front of us. After several Irish folk songs, the cast moves around and the lights adjust slightly letting the audience know the scene has changed. Guy begins the infamous first song of the film “Leave” and Girl is quickly introduced.
The role of Guy and several key characters may change often during the run of Once. It should be notated that the billed cast member for Guy for this production is Stuart Ward, however at Segerstrom the role will be alternating between Alex Knee (American Idiot, Rent, Spring Awakening) and Ryan Link (Wonderland, Hair, Rent). Opening saw Knee performing the role.
For stage I would imagine that the accents may have not been able to be as thick, as the accents are a bit tamed for the show. Girl is played by the talented Dani de Waal (Picnic, Mamma Mia!) and whilst still cute and sweet, the role is a bit different. Both Guy and Girl and basically exaggerated versions of themselves, which I believe plays better on stage. It makes sense as to why the direction went this route, but I found Guy’s role to be a little harsher and slightly mean. His character is rightfully justified to be this way, but I felt the charm was a bit lacking.
This isn’t to say his performance wasn’t out of this role. Alex Knee sang beautifully and just as powerful as seen in the film. Both Guy and Girl brought justice to the known songs and performed the new ones magnificently.
Girl is a little bit more confident in herself than the role in the movie, but perhaps this was due to the fact her little nuances wouldn’t been seen on stage. There are still plenty of similarities between their on screen counterparts, but these slight changes are worth mentioning.
All the characters are strong and as mentioned before are always on stage. If not featured in the scene they sit quietly on the sides, reminiscent of Chicago, and sometimes play their instruments as part of the orchestra for the show. This lends to some creative choreography and staging for several songs.
Even “Falling Slowly” feels larger and grander. In the movie there were only 5 instruments playing at any given moment whereas here there are 12 on stage. It was definitely incredible to see such talent in all the performers as everyone had to not only act well, but sing and play at the same time. Casting seems like a difficult challenge.
The musical follows the same crescendo as the film with a couple new scenes for music additions. The heart and feel is still there. There are small items that I missed like Girl wondering the streets selling her flowers, but with the staging it just wouldn’t have worked.
Once is a fantastic escape. Let the music transport you into their lives. If you haven’t seen the movie, it is still an incredibly romantic night out that will leave you wanting the soundtrack as soon as you enter your car. This is a show about life and love and remains honest keeping it’s originality from the film. It’s a night you won’t forget.
ONCE is now playing at Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Segerstrom Hall
It does feature adult language
August 19th – 31st, 2014 Tuesday – Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.
The 2 p.m. performance on Saturday, August 30th will include audio description, open captioning and sign-language interpretation.
Tickets are now on sale for “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood as Southern California’s leading Halloween event becomes “More Dead Than Ever,” expanding to 22 select nights with more mazes than ever, from Friday, September 19 through Sunday, November 2, 2014.
Tickets to this year’s event are available for purchase at HalloweenHorrorNights.com/hollywood, including a Front of Line ticket option that enables guests to enjoy priority access at each “Halloween Horror Nights” maze, Terror Tram and theme park attraction. Advance purchase is recommended as event nights will sell out.
“As the movie studio that invented the horror film genre, we hold ourselves to a very high standard in producing the best and most terrifying Halloween experience,” said John Murdy, Creative Director at Universal Studios Hollywood and Executive Producer of “Halloween Horror Nights.” “Our ongoing collaboration with today’s most influential filmmakers and musicians, and movie and television horror properties, contributes to the authenticity of ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ and delivers one of the scariest, most compelling experiences anywhere. This year will be ‘More Dead Than Ever’ with more event nights and even more mazes, and we can’t wait.”
“Halloween Horror Nights” 2014 will feature a slate of all-new haunted attractions including, “The Walking Dead: The End of the Line,” inspired by Season 4 of AMC’s Golden Globe®-nominated and Emmy® Award-winning TV series. The bone-chilling maze will place guests at the heart of a harrowing journey to seek sanctuary at Terminus, an elusive destination that promises community for all. Mirroring the terror that befell the residents of the West Georgia Correctional Facility, now overrun by savage walkers, the experience will send guests fleeing from the fallen prison into unknown territory as they stage a desperate battle for survival against flesh-eating walkers and ruthless humans.
The engrossing television series will seep into other parts of Universal’s backlot with predatory walkers prowling the secluded wooded areas of the movie studio. “Terror Tram: Invaded by the Walking Dead” will take guests down the daunting path to Terminus, interspersed with landmarks and walkers from Season 4, including the “burned moonshine cabin,” “charred walkers” and “mud walkers.”
Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez’s cult film and El Rey network’s acclaimed supernatural TV series, “From Dusk Till Dawn,” will debut at this year’s event in a new maze designed to thrust guests into its deviant world where they will encounter sordid mythological creatures known as “Culebras,” serpent-like vampires who have tormented the Earth for centuries.
Celebrated Grammy® Award-winning musician, SLASH, hailed as one of the 10 best electric guitar players of all time by Time magazine, is joining forces with Universal Studios Hollywood to compose the first-ever original score for the theme park’s hypnotizing new 3D maze, “Clowns 3D Music by SLASH.”
Other marquee mazes will include, “Dracula Untold: Reign of Blood,” a terrifying new haunted attraction based on Universal Pictures’ upcoming epic action-adventure; “AVP: Alien vs. Predator,” bringing together the most deadly species spawned from two blockbuster films; “An American Werewolf in London,” inspired by Universal Pictures’ Academy Award®-winning film, and “Face Off: In the Flesh,” featuring gruesome characters from Syfy’s hit TV series.
A series of unnerving scare zones will also infiltrate “Halloween Horror Nights,” terrorizing guests as they navigate the darkness from one terrifying maze to another, beginning with “The Purge: Anarchy,” inspired by Universal Pictures’ disturbing blockbuster thriller. “The Walking Dead: Welcome to Terminus” will awaken swarms of predatory walkers in a gruesome scare zone situated adjacent to the new “The Walking Dead” maze.
Additional scare zones will include, “Mask-a-Raid,” featuring hordes of blood thirsty cannibals masquerading as French aristocrats; “Dark Christmas,” a Pagan-themed area where demonic creatures hunt disobedient children and drag them to hell; and “Skullz,” based on the Native American legend of Wendigo, a malevolent supernatural half-beast monster with an insatiable appetite for human flesh.
As a complement to the nighttime event, Universal’s most popular rides and attractions will also be open to guests, including” Transformers: The Ride-3D,” “Jurassic Park—In the Dark,” “The Simpsons Ride” and “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride.”
Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood are available online at HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Hollywood
