Patina Restaurant Group is pleased to announce the introduction of Tiendita, the third and final concept from Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. In addition to Paseo and Céntrico, Tiendita will offer Chef Gaytán’s heritage flavors on the go, with quick service Mexican street-food staples.
Celebrating Chef Gaytán’s reverence for his Mexican roots, the transformed culinary outlet will be a reflection of his heritage and a tribute to his passion for being an ambassador of Mexican cuisine. Tiendita will include elements of the elevated dishes that can be expected at Paseo and Céntrico but will also serve as a convenient and family-friendly option where guests can still enjoy a memorable experience.
“Tiendita is the perfect accompaniment to the previously announced Paseo and Céntrico by Chef Carlos Gaytán. This final piece completes his vision for bringing his Mexican influence and vibrant flavors to Orange County and the Downtown Disney District,” said Frank Moreno, vice president of operations at Patina Restaurant Group. “Mexican culture embraces spending time with family and friends and sharing a delicious meal. Tiendita will offer guests an expedited dining choice, while the experience remains true to this ethos and authenticity.”
The menu will take cues from traditional Mexican flavors, featuring plates that honor the past as well as offering a modern take on cherished classics. Highlights include esquites, a beloved street food made with roasted corn, and tacos al pastor, which includes thin slices of flavorful pork, pineapple juices and is topped with roasted onions, cilantro and salsa. For dessert, Tiendita will offer creamy arroz con leche featuring aromatic flavors of cinnamon and vanilla and topped with raisins, an elevated twist on this nostalgic treat from Chef Gaytán’s childhood.
With Paseo, Céntrico and Tiendita carrying the torch, the iconic Tortilla Jo’s, beloved by park goers and locals alike for its tableside guacamole and fresh margaritas, will be closing after 20 years of dedicated service to the Downtown Disney District. As a celebration of their vicennial residency, the restaurant will offer promotions on guest favorites and specials for Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day to commemorate the magical memories shared since 2004 and offer fans a celebratory final experience. Reservations through March 25 can be booked on the Disneyland app, subject to availability, followed by walk-in availability ahead of the restaurant’s final day of service on March 31, 2024.
Paseo, Céntrico and Tiendita are scheduled to open in spring 2024.
Forget the slice, you’ll want the whole “Mystic Pizza” pie at La Mirada Theatre. Based on the 1988 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture, the West Coast premiere of the brand-new musical will satisfy all your taste buds. Story and characters by Amy Holden Jones. Book by Sandy Rustin (Clue, The Cottage). Arrangements and orchestrations by Carmel Dean (Funny Girl, American Idiot). Choreography by Connor Gallagher (Beetlejuice, Beauty and the Beast). Musical direction by Kristin Stowell (Songbird). Direction by Casey Hushion (Mean Girls, Clue).
“Mystic Pizza” is a tasty jukebox musical that follows three working-class girls who navigate the complexities of life, love, and family in a small-town pizza joint in Connecticut. The infectious score features mega-hits of the ’80s and ’90s. Hot out of the oven comes delicious musical slices of the era including “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”, “Addicted to Love”, “Take My Breath Away”, “The Power of Love”, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot”, “Never Gonna Give You Up”, and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now”. Mouth-watering appetizers and fragrant explosions of popping flavors await. Heavenly vocals and saucy dances give “Mystic Pizza” that extra kick! Service please!
These leading ladies push together and pull apart their loyal bond for one another with a modern opti-“mystic” twist. Panic-stricken Josephina “JoJo” Barboza (Gianna Yanelli) gets cold feet when it comes to the hot idea of marriage to her patiently passionate fiancé, musician Bill Montijo (Jordan Friend). Cheery Katherine “Kat” Arujo (Kyra Kennedy) sets her eyes on building a teetering foundation with her handy tenant Tim Travers (Chris Cardozo). Hot-blooded Daisy Arujo (Krystina Alabado) shares both an emotional and intellectual attraction with seemingly pompous Charles Gordon “Charlie” Windsor, Jr. (Michael Thomas Grant). The fourth musketeer of the sisterhood easily goes to the Mystic Pizza owner and operator, spicy Leona Silvia (Rayanne Gonzales).
This is as close to a New York Broadway premiere as you’re going to get on the West Coast. Pick up your order of “Mystic Pizza”. Performances on select evenings now until Sunday, February 11, 2024, at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada. Parking is free. Tickets range from $19 – $90 (prices subject to change) and can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website at www.LaMiradaTheatre.com or by calling the La Mirada Theatre Box Office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Group, military, and student discounts are available. Children under 3 will not be admitted into the theatre.
Mystic Pizza will then perform from February 15 – February 25 at Center Repertory Company at Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek, California, and will also perform from February 28 – March 3 at the Harris Center, 10 College Parkway in Folsom, California.
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ collaboration with Pan-African entertainment company Kugali has culminated in the all-new six-part series “Iwájú,” streams exclusively on Disney+ beginning Feb. 28, 2024.
“Iwájú” is an original animated series set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria. The exciting coming-of-age story follows Tola, a young girl from a wealthy island, and her best friend, Kole, a self-taught tech expert, as they discover the secrets and dangers hidden in their different worlds.
Kugali filmmakers—including director Olufikayo Ziki Adeola, production designer Hamid Ibrahim, and cultural consultant Toluwalakin Olowofoyeku—take viewers on a unique journey into the world of “Iwájú,” bursting with unique visual elements and technological advancements inspired by the spirit of Lagos. The series is produced by Disney Animation’s Christina Chen with a screenplay by Adeola and Halima Hudson. “Iwájú” features the voices of Simisola Gbadamosi, Dayo Okeniyi, Femi Branch, Siji Soetan, and Weruche Opia.
Said Adeola, “Crafting the narrative of ‘Iwájú’ has been a journey of creative alchemy, blending the rich cultural tapestry of Lagos with imaginative leaps into the future. Collaborating with my Kugali co-founders and the visionary artists at Walt Disney Animation Studios has been nothing short of magical. The heartbeat of my hometown resonates through every scene, and I am thrilled for the world to experience this unique fusion of tradition and futurism.”
Also debuting Feb. 28 on Disney+ is “Iwájú: A Day Ahead,” a documentary special filmed across three continents that shares the story of the founders of the Pan-African entertainment company, Kugali, who made their dream a reality creating an original animation series with Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Created by the ABC News Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios team that brought you “Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2,” the documentary shows anything is possible when talent meets opportunity. “Iwájú: A Day Ahead” is directed by Megan Harding and executive produced by Amy Astley and Beth Hoppe.
While the series debuts on Feb. 28 in the US, release timing and distribution platform for select regions, including Nigeria, will be announced shortly.
Disney+ has released the highly anticipated trailer and teaser poster for the final season of the acclaimed Lucasfilm Animation series “Star Wars: The Bad Batch.” This is the third season of the critically acclaimed animated series, which is a fan-favorite spinoff from the Emmy award-winning series “Star Wars: The Clone Wars.”
In the epic final season of “Star Wars: The Bad Batch,” the Batch will have their limits tested in the fight to reunite with Omega as she faces challenges of her own inside a remote Imperial science lab. With the group fractured and facing threats from all directions, they will have to seek out unexpected allies, embark on dangerous missions, and muster everything they have learned to free themselves from the Empire.
“Star Wars: The Bad Batch” showcases a talented voice cast, including Dee Bradley Baker (“American Dad!”), Michelle Ang (“Fear the Walking Dead: Flight 462”), Keisha Castle-Hughes (“Whale Rider”), Jimmi Simpson (“Westworld”), Noshir Dalal (“It’s Pony”) and Wanda Sykes (“The Upshaws”).
“Star Wars: The Bad Batch” is executive produced by Dave Filoni (“Ahsoka,” “The Mandalorian”), Athena Portillo (“Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” “Star Wars Rebels”), Brad Rau (“Star Wars Rebels,” “Star Wars Resistance”), Jennifer Corbett (“Star Wars Resistance,” “NCIS”) and Carrie Beck (“Ahsoka,” “The Mandalorian”), with Josh Rimes (“Star Wars Resistance,” “Star Wars: Visions”) as co-executive producer and Alex Spotswood (“Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” “Star Wars Rebels”) as senior producer. Rau is also serving as supervising director with Corbett as head writer.
“Star Wars: The Bad Batch” debuts with the first three episodes on Wednesday, February 21, exclusively on Disney+.
Lunar New Year is almost here at the Disneyland Resort! This year is the Year of the Dragon and the culinary teams have brought out the creativity to bring delicious delights inspired by the traditions and cuisines of Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures. From Jan. 23 through Feb. 18, the Lunar New Year Festival will transform Disney California Adventure Park into a vibrant celebration with characters, entertainment, festive décor, merchandise, and, of course, food!
For more information and to book a Disneyland Resort vacation package, fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.
From returning favorites, like the Mickey-shaped Hot Dog Bun and Garlic Noodles, to can’t-miss new additions, such as the Fried Lemongrass Chicken Dumplings and Peach Basil Collins, guests will be satisfied (and full) by the end of their foodie outing. But that’s not all. There are bites and sips beyond just the festival offerings for guests to indulge in.
Guests can purchase the Sip and Savor Pass, which provides six coupons, redeemable for select food and non-alcoholic beverages at participating Lunar New Year Marketplaces and dining locations in Disney California Adventure Park. This year, there is a new way to redeem coupons. Simply present a physical Sip and Savor Pass to a cast member at the location to scan. Then, enter the 4-digit code located on the pass at checkout.
Lunar New Year Festival Marketplaces
Bamboo Blessings (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Strawberry Milk Tea Macaron: Strawberry buttercream with milk tea center (New)
Mickey-shaped Hot Dog Bun: Brioche-style Mickey-shaped bun stuffed with hot dog and finished with sesame seeds and scallions
Taro Vietnamese-style Iced Coffee: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Vietnamese-style Coffee, cocoa powder, and condensed milk garnished with a taro chocolate sweet cream (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Lunar New Year Punch: Mango nectar, tangerine and grapefruit juices, and banana and coconut syrups garnished with mango jellies (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Lunar Punch Cocktail: Coconut rum, mango nectar, tangerine and grapefruit juices, and banana and coconut syrups garnished with a purple orchid (New)
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Longevity Noodle Co. (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Shrimp Lo Mein Noodles: Pan-fried lo mein noodles with sautéed shrimp garnished with green onions (New)
Garlic Noodles: Long noodles tossed in zesty garlic butter with parmesan
Dragon Cocktail: Dragonberry rum, white rum, lychee nectar, dragon fruit and Chinese five-spice syrups, lime juice, and house-made coriander tea garnished with a dried dragon fruit wheel
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lucky 8 Lantern (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Quesabirria Eggroll with guajillo pepper consomé
Mandarin Orange Mousse Cake: Layers of mandarin mousse with vanilla cake and clementine compote finished with white chocolate crunch balls and a tangerine glaze
Hibiscus Apple Soju-rita: Blanco tequila, grapefruit liqueur, soju, green apple and hibiscus syrups, house-made hibiscus tea, and lemon juice garnished with a dried apple chip (New)
Mango Melon Cocktail: Overproof rum, baijiu, allspice liqueur, mango nectar, rock melon syrup, and lime juice topped with grapefruit soda and garnished with a lime wheel (New)
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Prosperity Bao & Buns (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Kung Pao Bao with chicken, toasted peanuts, and scallions (New)
BBQ Pork Bun with kimchi mayo and garlic chile crunch (New)
Brewery X Grapefruit Panda Pool Party Bamboo Rice Lager (New)
Harland Brewing Co. Tangerine Dragon Fruit Hefeweizen (New)
Stereo Brewing Co. Jasmine Tea Lager (New)
Eagle Rock Brewery Lychee IPA (New)
Dragon Beer Flight (New)
Tsingtao with Frozen Mango Beer Foam
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Red Dragon Spice Traders (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Spicy Fried Rice with tofu and crispy peas (New)
Red Spice Fried Chicken Bites: Fried chicken chicharrones in spicy red chile sauce
Peach Basil Collins: Gin, ginger liqueur, white peach purée, lemon juice, and house-made Thai basil syrup topped with Topo Chico and garnished with a purple pansy (New)
Guava Whiskey Cocktail: Whiskey, ginger liqueur, guava nectar, coconut cream, and lime juice garnished with a lime wheel
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Wrapped with Love (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Fried Lemongrass Chicken Dumplings with plum sauce (New)
Steamed Pork & Vegetable Dumplings with black garlic sauce (New)
Yuja-Pineapple Cooler: Pineapple juice, yuja purée, rice milk, and condensed milk garnished with a cherry and coconut foam (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Raspberry Oat Milk Tea: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Ceylon Tea, raspberry and demerara syrups, and oat milk garnished with skewered raspberries (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Throughout Disney California Adventure Park
Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
Bulgogi Pizza: Marinated beef and spicy corn, cheese sauce topped with green onion (Available by slice or whole pie) (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29)
Milk Tea Taro Cheesecake: Milk tea cheesecake with a taro mousse (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Cappuccino Cart (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Dalgona Coffee Bundt Cake: Coffee Bundt cake filled with sweet milk and topped with Dalgona foam
Green Tea Horchata (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Blood Orange Cocktail: Baijiu, orange liquor, yuja purée and blood orange syrup, with a spicy sugar rim
Lamplight Lounge (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Spicy Dandan Noodles: Crispy pork belly and noodles tossed in spicy Szechuan sauce paired with carrots, cucumber, and crispy shallots garnished with green onions and micro cilantro (New)
Milk Tea and Taro Donuts: Warm, fluffy donuts dipped in milk tea, drizzled with taro icing, garnished with boba with milk tea dipping sauce (New)
Lunar New Year Cocktail: Han Soju, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, dragon fruit syrup, lemon juice, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, and firewater bitters with mint garnish (New)
Kung Pao Bao: Kung pao-glazed crispy pork belly, soft bao bun, red peppers, toasted peanuts, and green onions
Lunar New Year Cocktail: Han Soju, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, dragon fruit syrup, lemon juice, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, and firewater bitters with mint garnish (New)
Paradise Garden Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Bulgogi Fried Rice with kimchi, egg, pickled cucumber, green onion, and sesame seeds (New) (Plant-based)
Whole Fish with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and black vinegar and soy sauce with sugar, garlic, and red Fresno chile (Served family-style for sharing for two) (New)
Shrimp Lo Mein: Lo mein noodles tossed with shrimp, mushrooms, cabbage, corn, and bell pepper (New)
Pork Banh Mi Sandwich: Grilled pork belly with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, and jalapeño with spicy mayo
Korean-style BBQ Chicken served with steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled cucumber
Korean-style Chicken: Marinated chicken served with steamed rice and broccoli (Disney Check Kids Meal)
Mango Pudding with a hint of coconut milk topped with mango and a chocolate décor
Tiger Milk Boba Tea with Brown Sugar Boba (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Yuja Makgeolli Cocktail: Citrus-flavored rice wine, soju, and a splash of Sprite
Four Sons Brewing Lucky Dragon IPA
Pym Test Kitchen (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Almond Cold Brew: Almond cold brew, almond milk, and red foam with blue and gold sugar (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Sonoma Terrace (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Gochugaru Shrimp Roll: Gochugaru-marinated shrimp on a potato roll with kimchi slaw, gochujang mayonnaise, spicy pickle spear (New)
Studio Catering Co. and Hollywood Lounge (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available at Studio Catering Co. only)
Char Siu-style Ribs: Char siu-braised pork ribs with Asian-inspired glaze topped with roasted peanuts and scallions (New)
Terran Treats (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Strawberry Green Tea Churro: Green tea-cinnamon sugar dusted churro with strawberry cream sauce topped with freeze-dried strawberries (New)
Select Outdoor Vending Carts (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Chicken Bao: Steamed bao with chicken, butternut squash, and makrut lime served with Vietnamese sweet tangy dipping sauce
Baked Brown Sugar Nian Gao: Baked sticky rice cake topped with brown sugar (New)
Char Siu Turkey Leg (New)
Cantaritos Mandarin (New)
Harland Brewing Co. Lunar Maps Hazy IPA (New)
Churros near Goofy’s Sky School (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Almond Cookie Churro: Coated in almond cookie crumble and topped with roasted almonds and almond icing
Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Orange-Ginger Churro: Churro rolled in ginger sugar topped with orange sauce, candied ginger, and black and white sesame seeds (New)
Willie’s Churros (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Dragon Fruit Churro: Churro rolled in a coconut-dragon fruit sugar topped with a dragon fruit icing (New)
Novelties Available Across Disneyland Resort
Lunar New Year Stainless Steel Tumbler: Includes choice of fountain beverage at time of purchase (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure park: Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, select outdoor vending carts, Paradise Garden Grill, Smokejumpers Grill, Studio Catering Co.
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure park: Bayside Brews, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Hollywood Lounge, select outdoor vending carts, Paradise Garden Grill
At Disneyland park: Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Little Red Wagon, and Refreshment Corner
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (Available starting Jan. 23; limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure park: Corn Dog Castle, Mortimers Market, Outdoor Vending Carts, Paradise Garden Grill, Schmoozies!, select outdoor vending, Smokejumpers Grill
Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
GCH Craftsman Bar (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29)
Pork Dandan Noodles: Crispy pork with egg noodles, sweet chili sauce, peanuts, and scallions (New)
Goofy’s Kitchen (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Shrimp Stir Fry with noodles, garlic, and ginger (New)
Pork Bao Bun (New)
Chicken Dumpling Soup (New)
Garlic Rice with soy sauce and scallions (New) (Plant-based)
Downtown Disney District
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Lucky Dragon: Vodka, lemon juice, egg white, and dragon fruit syrup (New)
Kayla’s Cake (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Milk Tea Mochi Egg Tart: Milk tea infused cream topped with mochi on a caramelized custard tart (New)
Korean Injeolmi Macarons: Sweet Injeolmi buttercream filling finished with roasted soybean powder (New)
Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Banh Mi Pizza: Neapolitan dough, mozzarella cheese, marinated pork, pickled carrot and daikon radish, raw jalapeño, cilantro, and drizzles of Vietnamese mayonnaise and chili sauce (New)
Dragon Eye Punch Mocktail: Beet juice, strawberry, grenadine, blood orange syrups, and dragon eye fruit (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Dragon’s Breath Cocktail: Whiskey, elderflower liqueur, triple sec, and simple syrup garnished with a tangerine peel and a smoke top finish (New)
Splitsville Luxury Lanes (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Walnut Shrimp: Lightly fried shrimp with a crispy texture and tossed in a sweet lemon glaze and served with sautéed broccoli on a bed of rice and garnished with candied walnuts and scallions (New)
Tortilla Jo’s (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Sweet and Sour Ribs: Sweet and sour ribs served with white rice and Napa cabbage slaw (New)
Dragontail Mocktail: Non-alcoholic organic margarita mix, pineapple juice, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine garnished with a paper dragon flag with two cherries and an orange wedge (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Breathing Fire Cocktail: Peach schnapps, peppermint schnapps, melon liqueur, orange juice, pineapple, and a splash of grenadine garnished with three cherries (New)
Wetzel’s Pretzels (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Lucky Red Envelope with Special Wetzel’s Pretzels Offering: Receive a lucky red envelope with a special in-app offer with any purchase (Available while supplies last)
Happy Lunar New Year!
(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)
Love is in the air because Valentine’s Day is nearly here. To celebrate this love-inducing celebration on Feb. 14, the Disney culinary teams and mixologists have put their passion to the plate and created some truly decadent delights and sips for guests to indulge in.
This year, there are plenty of beloved returns, like the Zebra Mousse Cake from The Mara and the Strawberry-Red Velvet Whoopie Pie from The Trolley Car Cafe, as well as lovely new additions worthy of your Valentine, including the Valentine’s Day Sundae from Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream and the Puppy Love Chocolate Piñata at The Ganachery. Guests will soon be on cloud nine, one bite at a time.
For more information and to book a Disney vacation package, fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.
Here’s this year’s Disney Parks Foodie Guide to Valentine’s Day!
Disneyland Resort
Disney California Adventure Park
Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream (Available Feb. 9 through 14; mobile order available)
Ice Cream Mickey Ear Hat Bowl with Valentine’s Day Sundae: Chocolate and strawberry ice cream topped with strawberry sauce, whipped cream, chocolate-dipped strawberry, and seasonal sprinkles in a waffle cup (New)
Valentine’s Day Sundae: Chocolate and strawberry ice cream topped with strawberry sauce, whipped cream, chocolate-dipped strawberry, and seasonal sprinkles in a waffle cup
The Flame: Bacardi Raspberry Rum, peach schnapps, mango purée, raspberry purée, lime juice, Sprite, and Firewater Bitters with a chile-lime rim
Sour Blackberry Vodka lemonade: Absolut Citron Vodka, Angostura Bitters, blackberries, lemonade, agave nectar, and lemon juice
The Love That Lasts a Lifetime: Bacardi Raspberry Rum, , orgeat syrup, raspberry purée, pineapple juice, and Sprite
A Toast to Love Flight: Three miniature cocktails featuring a spicy cocktail, a bitter cocktail, and a sweet cocktail
Novelties Available Across the Disneyland Resort
Polka Dot Valentine Mickey-shaped Balloon Bucket: (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure Park: Popcorn near Carthay Circle Restaurant, Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield, Popcorn at Pixar Pier
At Disneyland Park: Popcorn near Central Plaza, Popcorn at small world Promenade, Popcorn near Fantasyland Theatre, Popcorn near Star Trader, Popcorn near Mark Twain Riverboat, Popcorn near Haunted Mansion
Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Grand Californian Great Hall Cart (Available Jan. 26 through Feb. 18)
Valentine’s Day Linzer Cookie
Mickey-shaped Valentine’s Day Cookie
Valentine’s Day Strawberries
Valentine’s Day Assorted Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot with Milk
Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot with Liqueur
Red Velvet Cookie Shot with Milk
Red Velvet Cookie Shot with Liqueur
GCH Craftsman Grill (Available Jan. 26 through Feb. 18)
Valentine’s Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake with buttercream icing and chocolate ganache
Valentine’s Donut: White chocolate or chocolate coated donut with candy pearls
Disneyland After Dark: Sweetheart’s Nite (SOLD OUT)
For those of you attending the sold-out Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite events, you’ll want to bring your appetite because there are plenty of beautiful bites to try! With one look, you and your stomach will fall in love with these delicious options like the Chocolate Strawberry Sundae at Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor or the Burning Love Beignets at Hungry Bear Restaurant. For a bit of a savory moment, indulge in dishes like the Fried Heart-shaped Ravioli at Cafe Daisy or the Amordita Tacos for Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante. And if that’s not enough, for a sweet finish, treat yourself to the Me & U-Bae Beignets from Mint Julep Bar. For those looking for an extra exciting (and tasty) evening, there’s multiple dining packages you can choose from at locations like Plaza Inn, Carnation Cafe, River Belle Terrace, and Cafe Orleans. Reservations are recommended but you can also check day-of for any walk-up availability.
Downtown Disney District
Ballast Point Brewing Co. (Available Feb. 14 only)
Raspberry Panna Cotta: Vanilla bean panna cotta topped with raspberry compote and mint garnish
Beignets Expressed (Currently available through Feb. 19)
Strawberry Shortcake Glazed Beignets: Strawberry icing dusted with strawberry sugar served with vanilla bean creme anglaise
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes (Available Feb. 1 through 29)
Mocha Tamarind Chile Shake: Chocolate-frosted rim with crushed, puffed-chocolate cereal topped with fried churros, chocolate fudge pop, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle
Kayla’s Cake (Available Feb. 1 through 14)
Valentine’s Day Gift Box featuring rose champagne, raspberry cream, Belgian dark chocolate, red velvet, salted caramel, and pistachio raspberry macarons
Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available Jan. 26 through Feb. 29)
Tiramisu for Two: Mascarpone cream, espresso coffee, and cocoa garnished with a cocoa heart
Scarlett Heart Martini: Rum, peach schnapps, vodka, and cranberry juice with a sugar rim and garnished with a strawberry
Salt & Straw (Available Feb. 1 through 29)
The Chocolatiers Series featuring Fran’s Chocolate Almond Gold Bar, Cloudforest’s Cocoa Hazelnut Magic Sauce, Dandelion’s Chocolate Nibs & Frangipane, Compartés’ Cake Batter Chocolate Fudge, and Exquisito Chocolate’s Passionfruit Truffles
Splitsville Luxury Lanes (Available Feb. 13 through 15)
Valentine’s Day Package for Two: Enjoy one hour of bowling with shoe rentals for two, one bottle of house wine, two entrees with the choice of Surf & Turf or Chicken Parmesan, and one dessert (Reservations Required)
Surf & Turf: 8 oz sirloin steak and six blackened shrimp served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli
Chicken Parmesan: Linguini pasta with two fried chicken parmesan cutlets topped with marinara sauce and a blanket of shredded mozzarella accompanied with two slices of garlic bread
Tortilla Jo’s (Available Jan. 26 through Feb. 29)
Tacos Enamorados: Three tacos filled with New York steak, white Mexican shrimp, queso chihuahua, avocado, pico de gallo, and salsa enamoradita
Cupid’s Corazon Margarita for Two: Tequila, pomegranate liqueur, organic margarita mix, and cranberry juice garnished with sugar rim, marshmallows, candy hearts, and a cherry
Wetzel’s Pretzels (Available Jan. 29 through March 3)
Strawberry Funnel Cake Bitz: Original Bitz topped with powdered sugar and drizzled with strawberry sauce
Available at Various Candy Locations Around Disneyland Resort Including Marceline’s Confectionery, Trolley Treats, Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff, Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen, and Pooh Corner (Available Jan. 19 through Feb. 14)
Minnie Strawberry Cheesecake Apple: Granny smith apple dipped in caramel with two Minnie Marshmallow ears, enrobed in strawberry-flavored, pink-colored white chocolate, and red-colored white chocolate drizzle with a graham cracker and strawberry crisp mix, white polka-dotted, pink-colored white chocolate bow, and topped with Valentine’s sprinkles (New)
Mickey Valentine’s Apple: Granny smith apple dipped in caramel with two Mickey marshmallow ears, enrobed in white chocolate, and red sanding sugar embellished with two white M&Ms (New)
Conversation Heart Cereal Treat: Heart shaped cereal treat dipped in colored white chocolate with colored sanding sugar and white chocolate words (New)
White Chocolate Dipped Strawberry: Long-stemmed strawberry dipped in white chocolate and drizzled in pink-colored white chocolate (New)
Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberry: Long-stemmed strawberry dipped in dark chocolate and drizzled with pink-colored white chocolate and white chocolate (New)
Dark Chocolate Marshmallow Wand: Three marshmallows on a stick dipped in caramel and dark chocolate and drizzled in pink-colored and red-colored white chocolate
Strawberry Mickey Cake Pop: Flat chocolate cake pop with Mickey marshmallow ears and dipped in strawberry-flavored, pink-colored white chocolate and drizzled with red-colored white chocolate
Pink Bow Minnie Cake Pop: Round chocolate cake pop enrobed in milk chocolate and adorned with a white polka-dotted pink-white chocolate bow
Pink Minnie Apple: Granny smith apple dipped in caramel with two Minnie marshmallow ears, enrobed in milk chocolate, pink sanding sugar dress, and white M&Ms and a white polka-dotted, pink-white chocolate bow.
Pink Minnie Cereal Treat: Cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate with pink sanding sugar, white M&Ms chocolate candies, and a white polka-dotted, pink-white chocolate bow
Walt Disney World Resort
Disney Springs
Amorette’s Patisserie (Available Feb. 1 through 17; mobile order available)
Chocolate-covered Strawberries
Strawberry Cheesecake
The Ganachery
Puppy Love Chocolate Piñata filled with hazelnut truffle treats and crisp pearls (New) (Available Feb. 1 through 15)
Mickey Chocolate Bites: Milk chocolate with caramel crisp pearls, solid 65% dark chocolate custom blend, and solid milk chocolate (New) (Currently available through Feb. 29)
Champagne-Strawberry Ganache Square: Strawberry ganache blended with champagne enrobed in dark 65% chocolate (Available Feb. 1 through 18)
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (Available Feb. 1 through 17)
Berry Lovely: Bacardí Dragonberry Rum with orange juice, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, watermelon syrup, and splash of soda garnished with a strawberry (New)
Vivoli il Gelato (Currently available through Feb. 29)
Love Potion: Vanilla gelato, Fanta Strawberry, and whipped cream
Cupid’s Bombashake: Strawberry cheesecake shake topped with a cheesecake-filled Bomboloni
Outdoor Vending at West Side – Landing (Available Feb. 1 through 17)
Beautiful Rose: Herradura Silver Tequila, Cointreau liqueur, rose syrup, lime juice, lemon juice, and red cranberry juice garnished with a lime wedge (New)
WDW Disney Resort Hotels
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Mara (Available Feb. 1 through 14; mobile order available)
Zebra Mousse Cake: Amarula mousse and chocolate sponge inspired by the iconic Zebra Domes
Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Beach Club Marketplace and The Market at Ale & Compass (Available Feb. 1 through 14; mobile order available)
BoardWalk Deli (Available Feb. 1 through 14; mobile order available)
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie: Rich brownie topped with strawberry cheesecake garnished with chocolate whipped cream, pink crisp pearls, and pink chocolate hearts
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Contempo Café (Available Feb. 4 through 29; mobile order available)
Sweet Heart Cookie: Sugar cookie with heart sprinkles topped with cream cheese buttercream, red velvet cake pieces and heart, and a drizzle of dark chocolate (New)
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Gasparilla Island Grill (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)
Raspberry Macaron Heart: Macaron filled with raspberry cream and a passion fruit curd (New)
Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available Feb. 1 through 14; mobile order available at The Artist’s Palette only)
Love Letter Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake with strawberry pastry cream, white chocolate mousse, and buttercream flowers
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Kona Island (Available Feb. 1 through 14)
Stitch and Angel Date Night Cupcakes: Vanilla cupcakes with fillings inspired by classic pairings: chocolate and peanut butter mousse filling and peanut butter mousse and jelly filling
Pineapple Lanai (Available Feb. 1 through 14)
Valentine Float: DOLE Whip Raspberry with Rosa Regale Sparkling Red topped with raspberries and strawberries
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Le Petit Café (Available Feb. 1 through 14)
Trois Macarons: Raspberry ganache, strawberry jam, and milk chocolate ganache
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Roaring Fork (Available Feb. 1 through 14; mobile order available)
Love Bug Marshmallow: Strawberry marshmallow with a ganache center on a graham cracker cookie
Available at Various Disney Resort Hotel Quick-Service Restaurants (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)
My (Plant-based) Sweetheart Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake with a love-ly swirl of vanilla buttercream and heart sprinkles (Plant-based); Available at the following locations:
World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Magic Kingdom Park
Sunshine Tree Terrace (Currently available; mobile order available)
I Lava You Float: Fanta Strawberry and passion fruit flavor served with DOLE Whip Orange and topped with popping candy (Plant-based)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The Hollywood Brown Derby (Available Feb. 1 through 14)
Red Velvet-White Chocolate Mousse atop a chocolate cookie
The Trolley Car Café (Available Feb. 1 through 14)
Strawberry-Red Velvet Whoopie Pie: Red velvet cake filled with cream cheese buttercream topped with strawberry buttercream
EPCOT
Connections Café (Available Feb. 14 only)
Valentine’s Day Baumkuchen with chocolate and strawberry layers (New)
Connections Eatery (Available Feb. 9 through 14; mobile order available)
Valentine’s Day Milk Shake: Vanilla milk shake with strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and chocolate garnish (New)
Loungefly has revealed a new Mickey & Minnie Disney collection inspired by the Old West. Available on Loungefly.com and select retailers in February, fans can wrangle the frontier with new accessories, apparel, and more to complete a full Western look.
In true Western fashion, the collection features embroidered denim designs, including Loungefly’s signature mini backpack (MSRP: $80), a fringed crossbody bag (MSRP: $70), a matching zip-around wallet (MSRP: $40) and a canvas tote bag (MSRP: $30).
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A hoodie (MSRP: $70 and tee (MSRP: $35), plush journal (MSRP: $30), vegan leather journal (MSRP: $20), pencil case (MSRP: $25), and belt buckle pin (MSRP: $20) round out the full collection.
Loungefly intricately designs its backpacks, wallets, crossbody bags, apparel, and small accessories to tell wearable stories inspired by the most beloved franchises in the world. Crafted with care and precision, Loungefly leaves no detail overlooked, so fans can find value in every stitch. From detailed zipper charms to custom-themed linings, Loungefly’s accessories showcase an authentic passion for the fandom that collectors proudly wear.
Visit Loungefly.com to be notified when the Disney Western Mickey & Minnie Collection launches, and stay up-to-date with the latest Loungefly products and trends.
Inside Look is returning to SeaWorld San Diego on Saturday, January 13, and continuing on select dates through Sunday, January 21. During the event, which is included with park admission, park visitors will have special access to areas of the park normally not open to general park guests, including the Rescue Center, as well as all-new opportunities to hear from animal care specialists about the park’s belugas and otters, see jellyfish up close, and learn about rescued animals.
“Inside Look is an awesome opportunity for our guests to learn about our incredible animals in new and unique ways as well as meet our zoological specialists as they share their passion for the animals they care for. Education and wildlife conservation have been the core of SeaWorld’s mission for 60 years, and we hope that guests will take home a little piece of inspiration to make a change in their daily lives that will help protect our planet’s wildlife” said Eric Otjen, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld San Diego. “We’re especially excited to share what we’re learning about jellies as we gear up for the opening of Jewels of the Sea, our new jelly exhibit opening this year.”
Guests can check the daily schedule to make sure they don’t miss any of the all-new and returning exclusive experiences, including:
All-New Aquarium Lab Jellyfish Tour: This paid upgrade allows guests to go behind the scenes at the Aquarium Lab to see and learn more about moon jellyfish, a species that will be featured in The Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience exhibit opening in 2024. Guests will have the opportunity to hear about and interact with archer fish and cleaner shrimp.
All-New Inside Look Dine with Animals: For the first time, guests can upgrade their day and have the exciting ability to enjoy a delicious meal while learning more about unique rescued animals for an additional fee. At Nautilus Pavilion, guests will listen to the powerful stories of these incredible rescued marsupials, primates, and reptiles while enjoying a delicious chef-curated buffet meal.
Animal Care Inside Look: In addition to daily animal presentations, SeaWorld Animal Care Specialists will be hosting special Trainer Talks where guests can learn about animal behaviors, feeding, and husbandry. These 20-minute presentations will be offered daily at Orca Encounter, Dolphin Point, Sea Lion & Otter Stadium, Penguin Encounter, and for the first time, Wild Arctic Beluga Viewing Area and Otter Outlook.
Inside Orca Care Program: During this paid upgrade, visitors will meet and hear from the dedicated animal care specialists who safeguard the health and well-being of our killer whales. Park guests will view a learning and training session between the orcas and their animal care team to better understand the dynamics of caring for SeaWorld’s largest residents.
Inside the SeaWorld Rescue Center: Guests will have a special opportunity to tour areas of SeaWorld Rescue Center, a back area of the park where the Rescue Team brings hundreds of rescued animals each year for rehabilitation. During this experience, members of the SeaWorld Rescue team will share stories about recent rescues and tour guests through the Rescue Center showing the animal care hospital and rehabilitation areas. In addition, guests will get an up-close look at the rescue truck and inflatable boat used in rescues.
Inside and Underwater at Turtle Reef: At the Turtle Reef exhibit, guests will be able to watch zoological scuba divers interact with the turtles in the reef and play games with guests while educators share information and answer questions.
Meet Animal Conservation Ambassadors: Guests can learn and see a variety of unique rescued animals during the Feathers, Scales, and Furry Rescue Tails presentation located at Nautilus Amphitheater. This fun and educational presentation at Mission Bay Theater shares the story of Conservation Ambassadors, animal care, and rescue. Guests will meet many incredible rescued animals, such as marsupials, primates, and reptiles, and learn about their unique stories.
Connections with Conservation Partners: Inside Look will spotlight conservation organizations in the local community that SeaWorld partners with as a part of “Inside Look Connections” on Skytower Lawn. Organizations such as Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, Living Coast Discovery Center, Project Wildlife, Helen Woodward Animal Center, Surfrider Foundation, as well as SeaWorld Rescue, will have booths where guests can ask questions and learn about their important work.
To further enhance their Inside Look experience, guests can pick up an Inside Look passport and visit certain Inside Look locations for a special stamp. Inside Look is included with park admission. Event times are subject to change or cancellation without notice. See seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours for the daily schedule.
A FREE dining plan will be available exclusively for Disney+ subscribers when purchasing select vacation packages to Walt Disney World.
Dining Plan Offer for Disney+ Subscribers at Disney World in 2024
Starting Jan. 3, 2024, Disney+ subscribers can get a FREE dining plan when purchasing a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes a room at a select Disney Resort hotel and theme park ticket with a Park Hopper option. This offer is valid for arrivals most nights July 1 through Sept. 30, 2024. Visit the Featured Offers page beginning Jan. 3 for additional offer details!* And, to learn more about other perks available to Disney+ subscribers, click here.
For more information and to book a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package, fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Dining Plan
The Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan – are a great option for families. Each plan includes a certain number of meals and snacks based on the number of nights of their stay, and there are over 200 dining locations to choose from across all of Disney World!
For example, if you are eager to head to the parks early, you can grab a quick breakfast at the Disney Resort hotel. For lunch, quick bites can be found at locations around all four parks, like PizzeRizzo at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a personal pizza or Regal Eagle Smokehouse at EPCOT for a beef brisket sandwich. And for those with the Disney Dining Plan, you may end your day at a table-service restaurant like the all-you-care-to-enjoy Polynesian-inspired dinner at ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (with special options kids will love, too) … and don’t forget to save room for the legendary ‘Ohana bread pudding.
These are just a few of the many ways guests can use their dining plans. Please note that reservations are subject to availability. And yes, you can use those snack credits on DOLE Whip or a Mickey ice cream bar.
Bonus Tip: On DisneyWorld.com and the My Disney Experience app, guests can also easily view all available reservations for their selected date, and reservations are sorted by morning, afternoon, and evening, so they can tell which menu will be served.
More 2024 Deals
There are even more offers available for those looking to book their Walt Disney World vacation. Guests can save up to 35% at select Disney Resort hotels when you stay 5 nights or longer most nights March 25 through Oct. 3, 2024.
For more information and to book a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package, fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.
Disney Resort Benefits
Disney Resort hotel guests can receive great benefits, including complimentary transportation and early theme park entry every day.*** And with a Disney Resort hotel reservation, guests will be able to make dining reservations for their entire length of stay (for up to a 10-night stay) up to 60 days in advance of their arrival! This helps simplify their vacation planning, since they can make all their reservations on the same day, rather than checking availability day after day.
At select Disney Resort hotels, guests can also catch an outdoor Movie Under the Stars or take part in fun recreational activities. Guests may even get a surprise visit from a Disney character or two!
*Must be 18+ to subscribe to Disney+.
**Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room.
***30-minute early theme park entry requires valid theme park admission, a Disney MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile pass or card, and may require a park reservation depending on the type of admission and the date of visit. Visit DisneyWorld.com/stayinthemagic to learn more.
Celebrate the new year big with a rip-roaring stampede across the Southern California area with Jurassic Quest. This interactive dinosaur tour, designed for families with young children, makes frequent but brief pit stops visiting different cities traveling across the country. At reasonable price ranges, this is a cost-effective family outing compared to the rising expenses of major amusement park destinations—a plus for anyone in your family dynamic who has an affection for dinosaur knowledge and discovery.
The first part of your experience begins with a multitude of static and limited movement life-size dinosaur figures doused in colorful lights. They’re accompanied by informative signage describing the nearby species as well as video monitors of dinosaur guides sharing fun facts.
The next display showcases fossils and other artifacts related to findings made at dig sites. A plethora of real-life methods to learn more about these long-extinct creatures. Just across the way is a dig site for families to uncover their dinosaur bones. There are four separate sandboxes so many family members can take turns using the provided brushes or just use their hands.
You’ll need transportation to get you to and from the work site. Little ones can choose to drive their battery-powered jeep in their size. Or saddle up and ride on the back of a dinosaur. The Jeep trek is just a circle with all corners open for viewing the driver’s skills. The dinosaur rides range in size but are limited in movement. It is more of a photo opportunity and delivers less on thrills. Cherish those family memories with a green screen photo with different backgrounds to choose from.
For the more physically active, there are a few selections to burn off that extra energy. Giant inflatables provide jungle obstacles and slide out from the mouth of a dinosaur. Even dinosaurs can get into sports with targets for football, basketball, and soccer. Try your aim at roping dinosaurs—race like a dinosaur with members of your family at a timed running trek. There’s even a plastic playground for toddlers.
Artistic handlers will have an eye and hand for arts and crafts activity centers. Show off your enthusiasm for dinosaur love with face painting. A dinosaur encounter show occurs every hour with a walking and chomping dinosaur. There’s even a baby dinosaur cuddled up in the arms of a trainer. Both are ready for their close-ups. But not too close with those smiling sharp teeth. The gift shop is open with memorabilia to take home from the dinosaur adventure.
Jurassic Quest is only in Anaheim from December 28, 2023, to January 1, 2024, at the Anaheim Convention Center. Not to worry as there are more tour dates across the southern California region in the coming months. Some local locations include San Diego (January 19 – 21, 2024) at Del Mar Fairgrounds, Ventura (February 2 – 4, 2024) at Ventura County Fairgrounds, Pomona (February 9 – 11, 2024) at Fairplex, Monterey (February 16 – 19, 2024) at Montreal County Fairgrounds, and Costa Mesa (February 23 – 25, 2024) at OC Fair and Event Center.
Jurassic Quest will appeal more for families with young children 10 years of age and younger. There are wide spaces to roam and accommodate strollers. Go at your own leisure and at your own pace. Groups can expect to spend about an hour or two to occupy your time. Check the website for more information about tour dates and prices at www.jurassicquest.com
“MJ” is the most incredible biographical musical ever put on stage. It’s more than just a faithful tribute with flashy costumes and imitations set to a recorded soundtrack, it’s an emotional concert that strikes a heart-pounding chord. Full of heart, soul, and irresistible charm. You can’t beat it—the best and only Michael Jackson experience you’ll ever need or find.
As Michael Jackson recounts his past, it overwhelms his emotions and creative process while at the dance studio against his well-being with his physical and emotional health at the concern of everyone around him. Not to mention the plague of risky financial decisions to make his seemingly untenable vision a plausible reality. The MTV interview crew of inquisitive Rachel (Mary Kate Moore) and fanboy cameraman Alejandro (Da’von T. Moody) bring to light the viewpoint of the media and consumer perspective that dives into the King of Pop’s personal life. Michael’s manager Rob (Devin Bowles) juggles between the access of the camera and looking after Michael’s creative endeavours.
The controversy that surrounds his legacy is softly addressed but does not overshadow the entertainment value. In many ways, the tribulations draw delicate balance into the powerful performances. The song and dance selections cleverly weave and correlate with the flashbacks of the rising star from an overworked child performer to his unstable trauma with rigid father Joseph (Devin Bowles in a commendable duel role).
“MJ” is only as good as its equally solid supporting cast and ensemble. As uncanny as Roman Banks (Alternate: Jamaal Fields-Green) is as Michael Jackson, the other ages that play the artist’s career (Brandon Lee Harris, Josiah Benson, Ethan Joseph) are well-casted in their stunningly impressionable roles. They all truly bring back a nearly lost art to a modern audience. Pitch perfect on all fronts. The choice blending of iconic songs into the story between memory, dance rehearsal, and highlighting real-life moments in the artist’s career is nothing short of creative brilliance. The high-kicking dances and soulful punches can not be beaten.
Near the beginning of Act One, Michael recalls what influenced his vocal style from watching Motown artists on a small television screen. At the beginning of act two, Michael dances alongside his role models in a heartwarming throwback to yesteryear. In turn, many aspiring artists today share that same sentiment. Inspiration can come from anywhere and anyone.
The video media, strip lights, and spotlights alongside physical set pieces, like standalone mirrors, visually enhance the onstage performance rather than detract. The scenery transitions from a dance studio, shattered reflections, multiplying dance groups, to a stadium full of cheering fans, and much more. One of many awe-struck moments has the dancers of Michael’s past surface and cross into his rehearsal for an upcoming charity concert, the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. A visual play at a overwhelming lapse into Michael’s mind. Easily conceivable to believe the Tony award-winning production included best choreography, lighting, and sound design.
No mere mortal can resist the urge to give well-deserved standing ovations to every showstopping number. Hats off, and glove, to “MJ” as an inspiring time capsule for all generations. A crime against human nature to skip this show. Authentic, faithful, and respectful ode to the life and times of a cherished artist. Impossible not to have one of the greatest time of your life.
MJ will play the Hollywood Pantages Theatre for a limited six-week engagement this holiday season from December 20, 2023 – January 28, 2024. Ticket prices start at $39. Additional ticket information at www.BroadwayInHollywood.com.
The Warner Bros. Studio Hollywood Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for movie enthusiasts to step behind the scenes and into the heart of the entertainment industry. As one of the most iconic studios in Hollywood, Warner Bros. has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of cinema. The studio tour promises an immersive and enlightening experience, providing visitors with a glimpse into the magic that brings their favorite films and television shows to life.
This year Celebrate the holiday season at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood which started on December 22. There will be enchanting holiday photo opportunities that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. From beautifully adorned Christmas trees to whimsical holiday displays, holiday magic at Luke’s Diner, and the Gazebo from Gilmore Girls. Whether you’re seeking a family-fun photo, a romantic couple’s shot, or a group photo with friends, WB has talented photographers who will be on hand to ensure you capture the joy and excitement with that picture-perfect moment.
Holiday costumes from some of your favorite television shows and movies are currently on exhibit at Stage 48: Script to Screen. You won’t want to miss any of these.
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The Jack Frost Snowman from Jack Frost
The Ice Princess costume from Batman Returns worn by Cristi Conaway.
The Papa Elf costume from Elf worn by Bob Newhart.
Costumes from A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas worn by Neil Patrick Harris playing himself, and Danny Trejo as Mr. Perez.
Costumes from Gilmore Girls worn by Lauren Graham as Lorelai Gilmore, Alexis Bledel as Rory Gilmore, and Scott Patterson as Luke Danes. Including Christmas stockings for Lorelai Gilmore and Rory Gilmore.
Puppets from A Miser Brothers’ Christmas
The Friends Boutique is festively decorated for the holidays and offers Friends-themed items exclusive to the store. This holiday season on display is the Holiday Armadillo costume worn by David Schwimmer as Ross Geller in “The One with the Holiday Armadillo.”
While the outdoor sets and exhibits are ever-changing and WB cannot always guarantee the availability of specific exhibits, they are committed to creating a festive and enjoyable experience for guests. As a result, with unpredictable weather conditions and production, there may be changes and closures.
Indulge in Holiday Shopping
The holiday experience isn’t complete without a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Store, a treasure trove of exclusive merchandise inspired by your favorite TV shows and movies. Discover a wide array of gifts and collectibles, perfect for finding that special something for everyone on your list. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to personalize select items for a truly unique and memorable keepsake.
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Now’s the perfect time to start your holiday tradition at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. Book your visit today at wbstudiotour.com.
The Warner Bros. Studio Hollywood Studio Tour is a captivating journey into the heart of Hollywood’s magic. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV show enthusiast, or simply curious about the inner workings of the entertainment industry, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art and craft of filmmaking.
