The Jim Henson Company is back in the studio with Disney, with an exciting new show with a cast of characters that haven’t taken center stage on a project till now, that is to say, they aren’t unfamiliar with the stage, they are Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. The group is the star of a new Muppets-centric show on Disney + “The Muppets Mayhem”.
The series follows the band’s journey to making a record in a struggling music industry that should be an insider, but actually an outsider of the industry “Nora” played by Lily Singh. Filling out the cast are notable character actors including Tahj Mowry as a groupie from the band but ultimately friend that is his character “Moog”.
The show makes good use of some familiar character actors from some of your favorite tv sitcoms and comedies, as well as the ever-reliable staple from the franchise of having some of the most choice cameos time and time again.
The format of the show integrates many show styles that have become popular on the small screen over the last twenty years, seamlessly recapping certain parts of the larger story in a unique, yet familiar way to those television lovers may be familiar with. After each episode, you’ll be left wanting more Muppets and all the mayhem they can offer.
Each episode continues its own self-contained story that moves the larger story forward but with enough tight modern storytelling and with that sensibility that it can be expected for viewers to want to see what happens next episode as soon as they are able to. Binge-watching the series can be done effortlessly but to appreciate all the nuggets throughout the series such as those famous cameos, it might be suggested to enjoy it at a slower pace.
The ridiculous situations in which our human players find themselves usually because of the equally ridiculous Muppets, who are front and center in the show, and the other Muppet franchise elements, might leave some newer Muppets viewers confused, but those familiar with Muppets fare will find they are all just apart of the fun that these characters are known for bringing to the screen. The heartwarming moments that the Muppets perform that tug on the hearts strings are a large part of this show and are earned as they play out across the season.
The series follows a similar formula to other Muppet projects from the past, and is a formula that has worked time and time again. The root of the story is that of the underdog.
The human characters and The Muppets typically have to work together to help each other to find success or both typically in these stories are at risk of losing everything. Muppets projects are at their best when there are some stakes involved, even if they are Muppet-level stakes, it is this storytelling that has made for some of the best moments in their franchise. People like The Muppets for the talent they portray on screen but they love them for their seemingly amazing ways of overcoming amazing obstacles together with their cast of characters and friends to save the day.
The familiar formula the show brings is comforting in a sea of many Disney+ projects that seemingly desire to revive franchises with great fervor all while forgetting why people loved watching those franchises in the first place, you’ll be glad to hear the rich formula that made this franchise successful is not lost on “Muppets Mayhem”.
The long rich history in Muppets lore is not forgotten here, this is not some ill attempt at a reboot, the show simply hopes to pick up where the story of the Electric Mayhem might have left off since we last saw them on screen.
Music-centric driven storytelling that The Muppets have used since its inception is front and center in this show about Electric Mayhem, keep an eye out and an ear open to all the different music that is on full display or talked about, sprinkled throughout the show.
Time and time again these puppets known as The Muppets have made for very human storytelling for the last few decades across their library of projects. It seemed it was time that whatever cast of characters the Henson company could bring together to bring The Muppets back to the cultural conversation should be done with care. Not only is this project done with care but with fun.
The music and song heritage of The Muppets is integrated into this show about Muppets making music while also honoring the music it has become legendary alongside, music from the era of the ’70s all the way till today.
As a matter of fact, the attention to detail here for the music industry makes a greater experience for music fans across the board, no matter what you vibe with, as the electric mayhem would say. So get ready to get to know again fan favorite Animal, along with the band’s leader Dr. Teeth, with Floyd, Janice, Lips, and the Zoot in a way that you’ve never seen them before.
“Muppets Mayhem” is a reunion that we didn’t ask for but till now never knew we needed, like a reunion from your favorite group that came back into the limelight, just in time for you to introduce them to your kids. This is an experience that can be enjoyed by the entire family, and one that hopes Muppets fans new and old will enjoy while discovering or rediscovering what makes these characters so beloved. The Muppets are truly back and they are here to stay!
“The Muppets Mayhem” premieres on Disney+ on May 10, 2023!
For the first time since 2019, the popular fundraiser “CHOC Walk in the Park,” presented by Disneyland Resort, returns as an in-park 5K to raise funds for Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), a pediatric healthcare system serving children and families in Orange County and beyond. The event, now in its 33rd year, officially returns in the early morning hours of Sunday, August 20, 2023, when enthusiastic fundraisers will begin their approximate three-mile course, starting on Main Street, U.S.A.
From there, they will continue through Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, encountering fun, delightful, and whimsical surprises along the way, all culminating in a festive finale before the parks open to the public.
“We’ve been involved with ‘CHOC Walk in the Park’ for 33 years, and we are excited to bring it back as a magical 5K experience inside the parks,” said Ken Potrock, president of Disneyland Resort. “Over the decades, we have helped raise $42 million to help CHOC support children and families in our community. We are proud to welcome back this highly anticipated event and to continue Walt Disney’s legacy of being an active, supportive, and caring neighbor.”
The 5k walk is the most unique and magical pediatric fundraiser in the nation and brings the community together for one single goal – to raise funds for healthcare programs, education, and research benefitting Southern California children and families. Based on previous CHOC Walks, this year’s event is estimated to feature around 350-400 teams, including participants from across the U.S., plus Canada, Mexico, Australia, and Japan. Monies raised will support CHOC programs and services in the greatest need.
“CHOC Walk in the Park is a beloved tradition for our community, and we’re grateful to the Disneyland Resort and its Cast Members for creating such a unique experience for everyone who attends. It’s heartwarming to see thousands of people join CHOC on our mission to advance pediatric healthcare. Together, we are literally taking steps to keep children happy and healthy,” said CHOC President and CEO Kimberly Chavalas Cripe.
Event information, registration specifics, and information on joining or forming a team can be found at www.chocwalk.org. Real-time event information can also be found via “Choc Walk” on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
To celebrate Mother’s Day 2023, BoxLunch, the pop culture retailer specializing in fan-favorite merchandise, has announced a new Disney team-up offering a collection of gifts for every mom featuring Disney Princesses and Star Wars-inspired merchandise.
Celebrate mom in style with matching Disney Princess outfits featuring Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Mulan, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Tiana, and Jasmine. The Star Wars themed offerings showcase fan-favorite characters like Princess Leia and Darth Vader.
In addition, three new vibrant maxi dresses celebrate Princess sidekicks, including Mulan’s Mushu, Cinderella’s Jaq & Gus, and Tangled’s Pascal.
The collection also includes a variety of home goods and accessories, perfect for fans looking to add a touch of magic to their space. Mugs, tumblers, spatula sets, and an adorable Winnie the Pooh succulent set will make any Disney-loving mom feel like they’re living a fairytale.
“We are beyond excited to launch this magical Mother’s Day collection,” said Rick Vargas, Senior Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing, “These franchises are so beloved, and we’re thrilled for moms to share their passion with their loved ones with this new line of merchandise.”
The collection is NOW available exclusively in BoxLunch stores and on BoxLunch.com.
Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is now in theaters, and will be the last time audiences see the Guardians as they have come to know them. ”Vol. 3” is the final film in director/writer James Gunn’s wildly popular “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy.
During the global virtual press conference we heard from the filmmakers and cast to discuss this final film. Chris Pratt (Peter Quill), Pom Klementieff (Mantis), Karen Gillan (Nebula), Sean Gunn (Kraglin), Will Poulter (Adam Warlock), Chukwudi Iwuji (The High Evolutionary), Maria Bakalova (Cosmo), James Gunn (Writer & Director) and Kevin Feige (Executive Producer) were in attendance with Nathan Fillion (Master Orgosentry Karja) moderating the discussion.
When Gunn first envisioned the trilogy, he knew one thing. “There were a lot of things that I guessed, and there were a lot of things I didn’t know,” he explains, “but I knew that the core of the story, for me, was Rocket and his story, where he came from, and who he was. It was very important for me to tell that story.”
And in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” it is Rocket’s story that does drive the narrative. When the film opens, our beloved band of misfits is settling into life on Knowhere. But it isn’t long before their lives are upended by the echoes of Rocket’s turbulent past. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him on a dangerous mission to save Rocket’s life, a mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians.
In creating the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy Gunn highlighted his thoughts on the films that started over a decade ago. “I felt really good about it from the beginning. I felt like we were doing something different. I felt like, you know, the world kind of needed a space fantasy that was different from ones we had seen before. So, I was very pleasantly surprised when my greatest hopes did come true. But I think in terms of the story that we were told over the three movies, I think that I did have sort of a sense of how it was gonna go from the beginning.”
Q: Are you gonna miss these characters?
Gunn: “I’m gonna miss the characters. That’s the saddest part for me, is I really, truly love these characters. I love all of them. I think there are certain ones that I have a special fondness for, especially Rocket. And yeah, the saddest part of all of this. I’m gonna see all these people again. They’re all friends of mine.”
Chris Pratt returns as Peter Quill/Star-Lord, who is trying to cope with the idea that Gamora is alive but doesn’t know who he is. Quill struggles to move on, which leaves the Guardians vulnerable to attack. Quill must make up for his mistakes in order to protect one of his own.
Q: Peter Quill, Star-Lord, he’s been through it. He’s already saved the universe a couple of times. Is he sad?
Pratt: “He’s a guy and there’s a wonderful monologue that Batista gives that, you know, comes from Mantis that Quill is a guy who needs to learn how to swim. He’s been hopping from lily pad to lily pad, woman to woman, and relationship to relationship.”
“I think that’s a pretty human condition. I think, oftentimes, we find ourselves in our relationships or in the affiliations we have with a team or a family or whatever. And he has been lost. So, yeah, in the beginning, he was running away from the death of his mother, but he got to pretend to be this character based on these pop culture icons of his childhood of the late-’80s. And so, he was dancing around, but all of that was really, he had found himself there. And then he found himself with the Guardians of the Galaxy. And then he thought he could find himself with who his father was.”
Karen Gillan is Nebula, who has settled into her role with the Guardians of the Galaxy. Now that they have bought Knowhere from The Collector, she is dedicated to making it the home she never had.
Q: Here’s another journey, of Nebula. She’s probably had one of the more different, probably the longest journey. She’s really flipped the coin. In this, is she nicer? Is she kinder? Is she coming around? Where is she now on this journey?
Gillan: “I think, you know, post-Thanos being eliminated from her life, she’s starting to flourish a little bit more and she’s starting to have a lighter personality and she’s a little more willing to show vulnerability.”
“I love these characters. Mantis and, like, Kraglin and Rocket, and Star-Lord. Everyone. It’s like, it’s just so lovely to come together and see everyone as human beings. But then also, to play these characters, as well, it feels really familiar. It feels like two families or something.”
Q: What’s changed for you since the beginning?
Gillan: “Definitely my understanding of what it’s like to be a scapegoat sibling. That’s interesting. I’m an only child. Yeah. Because Nebula was definitely that. She was never the golden child. And so, I never understood that because I’m an only child. And so, that was a really sort of interesting exploration for me. So, now I just have so much respect for people that have gone through that.”
Pom Klementieff returns as Mantis. After fighting many battles with the Guardians of the Galaxy, Mantis has begun to embrace her powers, find her voice and become confident in her role with the Guardians—all of which will be needed to help protect her family from new dangers.
Q: Mantis is a fan favorite, to say the least. You really landed on something incredibly pure and sincere. What has Mantis brought to you, both as an actress playing the role and as a real-life person actually walking down the street?
Klementieff: “I mean, for me, it’s not Mantis. It’s like, Mantis and James Gunn. James changed my life. And get to play Mantis, I got, I mean, you know, she’s an empath, you know? So, you have to have a deeper connection with everything and everyone. So, it’s, like, beautiful to tap in and [create?] deep, profound, and layered emotions, you know? And yeah. And then I got to be super weird, which is really fun to do, too.”
“I love playing this character and I’m so grateful for James to have, you know, given me this opportunity. And to get to play with all these incredible actors. And I think each character, they complete each other, too, you know? And I remember James telling me that Mantis was kind of like the glue that kept the Guardians together in some ways, you know?”
Sean Gunn brings Kraglin to life again. The former first mate of the Ravager Yondu, Kraglin fought alongside the Avengers against Thanos. Now an official member of the Guardians, he must master the Yaka arrow in order to fulfill his potential.
Q: Kraglin started out as plucky comic relief but is now a pillar, a foundation of support, and the guy you call when you need something. What’s brought him from that to this?
Sean Gunn: “You know, I think that, just like all the Guardians, Kraglin had to kind of figure out what his place in the family was. And one thing that really impresses me about the movies is how I do feel like, in a way, that the journey of the cast has mirrored the journey of the characters, in a way.”
“And that, like, for me, being there in the first movie and feeling like, oh, I’m the director’s brother and I’m here and I’m kind of on the outside. And Kraglin is just kind of on the peripheral and he comes in and says his things here and there. And then learning that, over the course of the movies, that I felt as much at home with all these people, you know, that I felt fully accepted and, like, a full member of the cast and of the group.”
“I loved watching how other characters lean on him more and more and rely on him more and more as a responsible, go-to guy. It’s been really nice watching that.”
Some exciting new faces join the action, including Chukwudi Iwuji, who plays the villain, The High Evolutionary; Will Poulter, who brings comic-book character Adam Warlock to life for the first time in the MCU; and Maria Bakalova who voices Cosmo, the space dog, who was sent into space by the Soviets and wound up with the Collector.
Q: All right, Chukwudi, your character was so righteous. James Gunn calls you And says, “I want you to be in the new Guardians movie.” Your reaction is?
Iwuji: “Homer Simpson, the blink. You know, when Homer doesn’t know what to say and doesn’t understand what you just said. And the camera stays on him and he keeps doing that. That’s what it was.”
“Yeah. So, I just sort of blinked for a while and mumbled something. And he said, “It’s great. I’ve already spoken to Kevin about it. We’ll get together at my place or something. We’ll put something on camera and send it to them.” And I thought that was gonna happen in the next few days. I think it was, like, six weeks or five weeks before I actually got the screen test done, right?”
Q: The High Evolutionary is one of the best villains she’s ever seen on screen. High praise. How was it getting into the mindset of a character who is an unhinged genius who experiments on living creatures in the name of science?
Iwuji: “It was very dark. It’s like, how do I bring this guy into the room? Because I knew that would be taken care of in the script, the motivations and the moments and stuff are impeccably written. Because he deals with character. So, it was about, who is this guy before he turns up on the set, you know?”
“He’s a Villain with a God complex. Who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.”
Q: Will, you were the new kid. These were established, people. How’d they treat you?
Poulter: “Oh, my gosh. I couldn’t have been, like, made to feel more welcome by everybody. I think because I was a really big fan of the Guardians movies. And within the Marvel universe, this was the trilogy, as it now is, of films that I was kind of the biggest admirer of. And so, you look at something as a fan, and you think, that’s cool, to be able to appreciate that as a fan, you know, for what it is. And that’s what it will always be. You don’t imagine yourself being a part of it. So, that in itself was exciting. And then to have, you know, an experience characterized by all of these lovely people making me feel so welcome.”
Q: Maria. You get a call. You’re gonna be in a James Gunn movie. You’re super excited. Then you find out it’s a dog. Are you still excited?
Bakalova: “Even more. When I was auditioning for the part, I was like, “How can I play this?” And it was so interesting because you can be a little bit more over the top, ’cause she’s a puppy and she has more energy.”
“And then, when I found out that I can be on set, actually, and work with a mo-cap suit, and imagine that I’m a child again and use my imagination to be like, “Okay, today I’m going to be a dog. Tomorrow I will be a flower. The next day, I’m going to be a butterfly.” It’s interesting, we tend to forget about imagination when we grow up. And it’s been just incredible.”
To wrap up the Press Conference Kevin Feige highlighted how it was working with the team and his thoughts on the end of this trilogy.
Q: What has this trilogy impressed upon you? Working with James, seeing his vision, watching this come to fruition, and the fan’s reaction.
Feige: “You know, we’ve had trilogies before. We’ve had a number of them, actually. And I was thinking, why does this feel so different and so much of a passage of some sort? And it’s because Guardians really was the first movie that was completely outside of the realm. It tied in with Thanos and Infinity Stones. But The Avengers were not in it. And we weren’t setting up Tony Stark’s next adventure, or Captain America. And it was really our attempt of saying, we don’t wanna just do superhero movies.”
“We don’t want to just do Iron Man movies or Avengers movies. And we wanted to do, as James said earlier, a big space movie. And it worked in a crazy way. It worked entirely because of James Gunn. So, it just feels like this trilogy, and James writing and directing all three of them, it represents something unique within the pantheon of the MCU, that I’m very proud of.”
Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is full of surprises and will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. This last film in James Gunn’s trilogy combines deep emotion, the director’s special brand of humor, cinematic artistry, and action-packed moments—all leading to an outcome that no one will expect.
Chris Pratt comments, “This film is similar in tone to what you’ve come to expect from James in ‘The Guardians of the Galaxy.’ It’s wild, it’s extraordinary, it pushes the boundaries, it’s fun and funny. It focuses on uniqueness and heart and compassion, imagination, music, humor, vibrant colors, beautiful imagery, and ingenious alternate universes. It’s the final installment of ‘The Guardians of the Galaxy’ and wraps it up in a way that really only James could.”
Says Gunn of his last cinematic journey with the Guardians in the MCU, “I just wanted to make the coolest movie that I could possibly make. It’s really been rewarding for me to make this movie, which is such a personal statement because Rocket is me and this is about me. To see people react to it in the way that they have so far is a good feeling.”
An out-of-this-world celebration was underway on May 4, in Hollywood where friends, family, and fans gathered to witness the unveiling of Carrie Fisher’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In attendance at this Hollywood Chamber of Commerce event were many colleagues from Lucasfilm including, President of Lucasfilm Kathleen Kennedy, Writer and Director of Star Wars: Episodes 7 and 9 J.J. Abrams, The Last Jedi Producer Ram Bergman, and her on-screen brother Luke Skywalker himself Mark Hamill. Hamill and Fisher’s daughter Billy Lourde spoke during the ceremonies hosted by radio DJ Ellen K.
Ellen K came out to a crowd of adoring Carrie Fisher fans, who were ready for ceremonies to commence honoring the actress. Known as a princess in A Galaxy Far Far Away, she meant so much to the Star Wars fans who lined up Hollywood Blvd and her family who were there to join daughter Billie in accepting the honor on her mother’s behalf. This honor was given to Fisher posthumously who passed away in late 2015.
Both Hamill and Lourde spoke about what Carrie meant to Star Wars fans on and off the screen. The speakers both emphasized how much she loved her fans. Billie recalled her mother’s tendency to “be the last one to leave at conventions”, her dedication to her fan base was real and authentic.
While Hamill spoke about his relationship with his “sister” and his own adoration of her and their own special bond, it was Lourde who spoke about this amazing woman as only a daughter could. She recalled how her mom ” Growing up like any other kid, I thought my mom was a little bit ok, but a lot embarrassing.” She went on time to recall anecdotes about her mother and what it meant to be her daughter, including recalling her first time watching Star Wars which she knew she was in because Fisher would try to get young Billie to watch it several times growing up.
Billie now a “Star Wars” star in her own right (she starred in all three of Disney’s era new trilogy of films), touched upon her mother’s own words on her more difficult life and times ” her candor about her mental illness and drug abuse, has inspired people from around world to speak about their struggles, it’s one of the things about her I’m most proud of…One of my favorite quotes from hers is Take your broken heart and make it into art”.
Both of these important takeaways from her life, resonate with Star Wars fans everywhere who got to know Fisher better from her convention appearances to her tweets where she shared her honest and humorous anecdotes on life.
Billie’s closing remarks also included a “thank you to the droids” in attendance. C3-PO & R2-D2. The droids poised for pictures with members from past Lucas film projects and members of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce as the star was unveiled. The star which is just a few feet from the marquee of Disney’s own El Captain theater will be there to remind fans of the legacy of Fisher and where so many of her beloved movies year after year.
There was no better way today to celebrate May the 4th than to celebrate the Princess who started it all. She has left a strong Star Wars legacy with her daughter, as well whom Billie thanked for coming out, her beloved Space Uncle, addressing Mark Hamill as her space uncle, she told him at the end of the ceremonies “Thank you so much, I love you so much.”
The bond with these people who have brought us a galaxy far far away is real and was celebrated. It is like Luke Skywalker’s line in the “Last Jedi” where he tells Leia, “No one is ever really gone.” Well Carrie Fisher is not gone, she lives in the hearts and minds of her family and fans. Her legacy is now truly cemented this day on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The saga continues as award-winning filmmaker Denis Villeneuve embarks on “Dune: Part Two,” the next chapter of Frank Herbert’s celebrated novel Dune, with an expanded all-star international ensemble cast. The film, from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures, is the highly anticipated follow-up to 2021’s six-time Academy Award-winning “Dune.”
The big-screen epic continues the adaptation of Frank Herbert’s acclaimed bestseller Dune with returning and new stars, including Oscar nominee Timothée Chalamet (“Wonka,” “Call Me by Your Name”), Zendaya (“Spider-Man: No Way Home,” “Malcolm & Marie,” “Euphoria”), Rebecca Ferguson (“Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning”), Oscar nominee Josh Brolin (“Avengers: End Game,” “Milk”), Oscar nominee Austin Butler (“Elvis,” “Once Upon A Time…In Hollywood”), Oscar nominee Florence Pugh (“Black Widow,” “Little Women”), Dave Bautista (the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, “Thor: Love and Thunder”), Oscar winner Christopher Walken (“The Deer Hunter,” “Hairspray”), Stephen McKinley Henderson (“Fences,” “Lady Bird”), Léa Seydoux (the “James Bond” franchise and “Crimes of the Future”), with Stellan Skarsgård (the “Mamma Mia!” films, “Avengers: Age of Ultron”), with Oscar nominee Charlotte Rampling (“45 Years,” “Assassin’s Creed”), and Oscar winner Javier Bardem (“No Country for Old Men,” “Being the Ricardos”).
“Dune: Part Two” will explore the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.
Villeneuve directed from a screenplay he co-wrote with Jon Spaihts based on Herbert’s novel. The film is produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe and Patrick McCormick. The executive producers are Josh Grode, Herbert W. Gains, Jon Spaihts, Thomas Tull, Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt, Kim Herbert, with Kevin J. Anderson serving as creative consultant.
Villeneuve is again collaborating with his “Dune” creatives: Oscar-winning director of photography Greig Fraser; Oscar-winning production designer Patrice Vermette; Oscar-winning editor Joe Walker; Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Paul Lambert; Oscar-nominated costume designer Jacqueline West. Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer is again on hand to create the score.
“Dune: Part Two” was filmed on location in Budapest, Abu Dhabi, Jordan and Italy. The film is slated for a November 3, 2023 worldwide release from Warner Bros. Pictures.
Can you hear the bells? Step out for an iconic night in Hollywood to see Hairspray at the Dolby Theatre and you’ll be so glad you did! Hairspray is a timeless musical, set in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1962. Teenager Tracy Turnblad has a dream to be on the Corny Collins Show, a local dance show that features many of the popular students at her high school, including her crush, Link Larkin, and his obnoxious girlfriend Amber Von Tussle.
Her parents try hard to support her dreams, but her mother Edna, who is also on the large side, worries about what people might say about her if she tries to become famous. During detention, Tracy meets Seaweed, a black classmate and participant in the Corny Collins Show’s once-a-month “Negro Day” and learns some new dance moves from him and his friends. She finally gets a chance to audition for the Corny Collins Show but is denied outright by Amber and her mother Velma Von Tussle (the show’s producer) due to her being overweight. Corny Collins, seeing her innate dance talents, decides to cast her anyway, making her an overnight star.
Tracy uses her newfound platform to fight against segregation to the chagrin of Velma who hates anyone who isn’t white and thin. Tracy, her best friend Penny, and some unlikely allies partner with Seaweed and his family to try and integrate the Corny Collins Show. Everyone learns about themselves and their values and discovers that it’s important to stand up for what is right, even in the face of consequences.
This performance was high-energy and fun! An absolute mood booster! There were quite a few standout performers on this tour. Ryahn Evers (Amber Von Tussle) did a great job getting you to quickly hate her character, She was so perfectly obnoxious, it was impressive. Addison Garner (Velma Von Tussle) is so insanely talented in singing, dancing, acting, and…baton twirling? Amazing.
Her performance of “(The Legend of) Miss Baltimore Crabs” was perfection. Sandie Lee (Motormouth Maybelle) did an amazing job as Seaweed’s mother and as the voice of a generation of people. Her performance in “Big, Blonde, and Beautiful” was fantastic, while “I Know Where I’ve Been” was so soulful and poignant, I was completely taken by the pain in her voice.
Of course, Andrew Levitt (Edna Turnblad) who is also known for his drag persona, Nina West, is a total star. Those unfamiliar with Levitt may worry that the persona could overtake the character, but it doesn’t at all. While Levitt was very funny at the points the character needed to be, the serious and emotional performances were perfect, and I was blown away by his singing and physicality through dance numbers. “(You’re) Timeless To Me” was just a hilarious and heartwarming delight, with Ralph Prentice Daniel (Wilbur Turnblad) keeping up the heartwarming and silly energy needed to match that of Levitt’s Edna.
Niki Metcalf (Tracy Turnblad) also did an amazing job with fantastic vocals. Her energy was infectious. Having never seen the stage version of Hairspray, I was blown away by how quickly you feel like you’re at a party at times. I was still singing “You Can’t Stop the Beat” the entire way home. The show was such a delight, I can’t recommend seeing this show enough, especially since its themes are still very relevant in 2023. The pacing for the show was perfect, with no period that felt long or like it didn’t belong. If you’re into a happy ending, this is for you!
The set design was simple, using a digital backdrop that could easily change with every scene, and some basic practical sets that used forced perspective allowing them to be small and easily movable. The music was expertly performed, with the conductor, Charlie Yokom, even popping out to have some fun with the audience. Speaking of fun with the audience, I know traffic in Hollywood can be less-than-ideal but consider staying all the way through because it’s fun until the lights come up.
This show is truly enchanting, and absolutely can’t be missed! Grab your hairspray and join the nicest kids in town to see Hairspray at the Dolby Theatre.
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures which premieres on Disney+ and Disney Jr. on May 4th is one of the newest collaborations outside the Disney Parks & Disney+ to bring together creative teams from Lucasfilm and Disney Entertainment together to create a new entertainment offering for Disney fans who have yet to know “the power of the force”. The Disney fans who this collaboration is hoping to introduce to the wider world of Star Wars this time around are, kids!
The new show will be the first of its kind to premiere as a program on two different branches of the Disney entertainment market. The hope to is reach a greater audience across two different program channels to celebrate May the 4th, better known as Star Wars Day. Star Wars fans everywhere in the lead-up to the show’s premiere have caught a glimpse of these new “Young Jedis” across social media and other forms of marketing, but yet little is known about them.
As Star Wars fans hope to get to know these new characters, as they have with their other favorites in the many Lucasfilm Disney+ projects they know, well then, are sure to be in for quite an unexpected surprise when they sit down to watch this new series. The show is produced as a children’s program for the Disney Jr. audience while being handled by Lucasfilm with the same care and attention to continuity as any other Star Wars project makes for a very interesting series that could quickly develop a fan base with Star Wars audiences beyond its intended one.
“Young Jedi Adventures” follows a group of just that, young Jedi on their different adventures out in their part of a Galaxy Far Far Away on an outpost on the outer rim. The characters the show follows through its 7-episode run are Kai, Lys, and Nubs, and their friends Nash and RJ-83 on planet Tenoo. Tenoo is home to a Jedi Temple in which Kai, Lys, and Nubs are training with their Master to learn what it means to be a Jedi. Nash and RJ-83 are the smugglers and provide a means of transport for the Jedi as they have adventures in their new homes.
It is through these characters and their paths to becoming Jedi that viewers are taught what it means to learn the ways of the Jedi. The format of the show being developed for kids and containing a storied lesson by episode end pairs well with this kind of Star Wars storytelling. That is what this show fully intends to do, introduce Star Wars to the next generation. George Lucas’s original vision for making the original Star Wars film was to inspire the next generation to do the right thing in their own everyday lives. This show takes that vision and brings all the best of the Star Wars franchise to inspire the next generation. This show is a great way to introduce kids to what “Star Wars” truly means.
In the series opener these characters are commissioned by Jedi Master Yoda to go to the outer rim in order to complete their training, Yoda tells these Young Jedi, that He is “Sending you to other outpost temples, I am”, as he begins a short monologue. The care and attention to a legacy character in Star Wars not only with his famous dialogue but also in keeping with the character as one who empowers other Jedi at the start of this show.
Familiar words like “the outer rim”, “Jedi”, “bounty hunter” and more are used freely in different episodes across this first season, to help make for a convincing and well-scripted project no matter how unlikely, that sets up adventures.
The structure of the show is not unlike other animated shows that are part of this type of programming with a familiar setting and repeat cast of characters to drive different important points home for the audience to learn from episode to episode. However, the fact that the Star Wars franchise could be translated into this storytelling and this medium shows that Star Wars is for everyone. Even if this show is not enjoyed by everyone, the lessons it wants to teach, while respecting the lore and canon which has been established for Star Wars in the last decade make for a convincing case to watch at least one episode to celebrate that Star Wars lives on.
Understanding that Star Wars belongs to everyone along with its power for inspiration, makes this show worth watching even casually with loved ones as well as other Star Wars fans. This is not a crash course but a show that embodies the values of the franchise. So whether you have been waiting for the right time to introduce that little one in the family to A Galaxy Far, Far, Away or want to learn why Yoda believes these Young Jedi are capable of becoming great watch an episode of “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” and remember that the Force is what binds and brings us all together.
Bring the excitement of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 home with shopDisney and Marvel Studios’ latest collection in honor of our favorite band of intergalactic misfits. These new items can be found in Disney Parks as well as at shopDisney.com, featuring outwear, collectibles, and stylish graphic tees for all ages.
Fans of all ages can enjoy an expansive assortment of toys, as well as fashion and lifestyle products from Hasbro, Funko, The LEGO Group, BoxLunch, Loungefly, DIFF Eyewear, shopDisney, and more!
Right off the bat, this collection takes it to the next level with this adorable Baby Rocket and Cosmo plush set. Both of these companions are ready to save the galaxy and break a few rules along the way.
Funko fanatics can also bring home a brand new set of Pop! figures, featuring the ever-mysterious and powerful, Adam Warlock, as well as the iconic duo of Rocket and Groot.
Fans can gear up in their own ravager garb with plenty of Guardians of the Galaxy-themed tees, baseball caps, and fiery hoodies. These items are perfect for your next trip to Avengers Campus. Just make sure to not let them fall into Tivan’s collection before you get a chance the new film on the big screen for yourself!
Hasbro: Marvel Legends Series Star-Lord
Peter Quill must do whatever it takes to save a friend whose life is in danger. Celebrate the Marvel Universe with this Marvel Legends Series Star-Lord figure. This quality 6-inch scale Star-Lord figure is inspired by the character in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
Hasbro: Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Groot Talking Role Play Mask
Kids can play the role of a Super Hero with this Groot Talking Mask, inspired by Groot from Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Create epic space adventures with Groot and the Guardians with this awesome role play mask, that features a chin activated jaw that kids can pull down on to hear 15 variations of “I Am Groot.”
The LEGO Group: The New Guardians’ Ship
Made for play and display, this buildable spaceship features an open cockpit with room for three minifigures, a secret compartment for another minifigure, storage spaces for props and accessories, and two small spaceships detachable from the mothership. This set comes with five minifigures from the movie: Mantis, Drax, Star-Lord, Nebula and Adam Warlock. The spaceship can easily be picked up and ‘whooshed’ through space, and when the day’s action is over, it looks awesome and displayed on its stand.
BoxLunch: Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy Star-Lord Baseball Jersey & Our Universe Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy Rocket Youth Soccer Jersey
Rep the best crew of intergalactic misfits with these Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired jerseys featuring “Guardians of the Galaxy” lettering on the front and “Star-Lord” or “Rocket” lettering on the back.
Loungefly: Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Ravager Badge Mini Backpack
Tackle your next mission with the Loungefly Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Ravager Badge Mini Backpack. Inspired by the uniforms worn by the Guardians, this interstellar accessory displays a debossed motif of the Ravager symbol against a navy-blue background. The front zipper pocket takes the shape of the Ravager badge, featuring metallic and debossed details to stand out. Perfect for venturing into the unknown, this heroic accessory will keep your belongings safe on any journey.
DIFF Eyewear: Team Suit Polarized Sunglasses
Inspired by the retro-futurism and metallic aesthetics of the Guardians of the Galaxy and their team suit, these rad shield shades are always cool in any galaxy. Featuring mirrored lenses and metallic frames, the edgy energy of the ’80s is reimagined with a modern, iconic twist.
On Monday, May 1st, “Andor” series star Andy Serkis & executive producer Sanne Wohlenberg attended a fan screening of the popular series on the Disney Studios Backlot. The screening featured three episodes from the hit Disney+ Star Wars series, bringing the intense story arc of Narkina 5 front and center along with an exclusive Q&A hosted by Collider’s Steven Weintraub.
Most viewers will remember the time Cassian Andor goes to Star Wars prison. It was this arc from the show which featured Andy Serkis as a fan favorite and a main player in the show’s larger story. The series’ story follows Cassian Andor’s journey to ultimately becoming a spy for the rebel alliance as told in the 2016 Star Wars film “Rogue One”. Before we meet Andor’s character in that film, showrunner Tony Gilroy, along with executive producers Sanne Wohlenberg, and series star Diego Luna wanted audiences to follow the character’s journey from an ordinary man to a hero of the rebellion all in a galaxy far far away.
A major part of the “Andor” series and one which lends to heavy character development for its series lead is the introduction of Andy Serkis, “Kino Loy”, whom Andor meets when he arrives at a strange prison located on “Narkina 5″. It was this performance from Serkis as Kino which lead him to become a Star Wars fan favorite almost instantly. Serkis is no stranger to a galaxy far far away (he previously captured a mo-cap performance for Supreme Leader Snoke in the Star Wars sequel trilogy). When asked about joining the series, he was apprehensive about becoming a part of the Star Wars universe once again.
“When I was approached (about the series) I was quite trepidatious,” Serkis remarked. As he spoke about his hesitations, it was clear his caution to joining the series lay with fans who might think “Kino Loy was associated with Snoke!” If you remember during the last Star Wars trilogy release, Snoke theories were all the rage, it seems Serkis did not want to add more fuel to that fire with his casting in this show.
Ultimately, Serkis shared he had joined the show because of “his respect for Tony Gilroy”, whom “he had respected already as a writer, director”, even before he approached him for the part. It was because of this respect when asked about when he ultimately made the decision to join the show he answered, ” I pretty much knew when I first talked to Tony about being a part of it (the series) “. After discussing his time before and then actually agreeing to join the production, Serkis began to share with the audience in attendance some of his experience on the set of Narkina 5.
Serkis spoke about how acting on the special prison set made for its own unique challenges. “There was nowhere to hide on the set, (there were) bright glaring lights (everywhere)… we were wearing paper clothes… those uniforms were so demoralizing” he humorlessly quipped, he elaborated how the mixture of the unique set and his costume helped him to better play the role in the way he needed to. “It mucked your head around, and really got you into character”, Serkis added.
When asked whether or not he took his costume home from the set he responded, “I use them as my pajamas”, to which he then truthful told about the condition of his costume once production wrapped, as being not being something you would want to take home with you.
The anecdote he appeared most assumed to share was his experience in finding his “sliders” after each take, with the cast working barefoot throughout their scenes, he created a picture of how “after each takes it was fifty people going for their sliders, and out of the fifty trying to remember which ones were yours”
One curious fan asked Serkis about his “headcanon” for what happened to Serkis’s character after his final tragic appearance in the series; this was asked shortly after the moderator asked a similar question about his character’s swimming abilities that could lend to his escape in which Serkis replied, “There is a scene (we haven’t seen) of Kino in his own cell practicing his crawl and the breath stroke”, with this obvious humorous reply being met by laughter from the audience.
In response to the actor’s own Headcanon, he gave a few short sentences about what he thinks Kino did to survive if he could not escape, “He would’ve found other survivors and others who weren’t able to make it out,He would’ve stayed and galvanized everyone together…Other survivors would have had to be there… He would have done all manner of means to gather everyone together to survive.”
Speaking to his own assessment of his character and how these actions would lend over to Kino, Serkis spoke about he viewed Kino’s life before his prison sentence, ” Prior to being in (prison ) he would’ve been someone with a great heart. He elaborated that he would’ve been a family man and a community leader which lent to his actions in helping others on Narkina 5.
With no clear indication of Serkis’s return in season two, he was able to speak further to the end of his character’s story for now along with Wohlenberg, when they spoke about the infamous “I can’t swim scene” being the last scene shot on season one. When they spoke about the final day of filming they both recalled “The diving scene was the end of it, after that, that was the wrap.”
Speaking of episode director Tobey Haynes, Serkis shared that ” he was interested in the nuance of the performance, (for this scene) “. Fans can now know such a heartfelt scene and some of the arguably best acted of the season were given the time and attention that can so clearly be felt on screen. We will have to wait until Season two of “Andor” to see if he survived his tragic fate that we last saw him face.
Executive producer Sanne Wohlenberg also spoke about the set which ultimately became the setting for the prison, Wohlenberg about the set had said how it was “cleverly used and reused” to cut down on the cost of the series. She went on to speak about the budget of the Disney+ show and its unique complications with filming on location.
When later asked about any consideration of the use of “the volume ” in “Andors'” production she replied, “Tony’s writing doesn’t lend itself to being used in the volume…His writing simply doesn’t cater to it”. With other Star Wars Disney+ productions making use of “the volume” in their productions, what seems to set this show apart is not only known for its unique storytelling but its filming location that seems to set it apart from its predecessors.
From its acting to its production design, Andor has set itself apart from the other current Star Wars shows. With the show going into award season with hopefully Emmy nominations on the horizon, one can’t help but think it will be heartfelt conversations like these from Serkis, during this for your consideration season and insight from its executive producer that will exhibit how game-changing this series is for Star Wars.
In the now infamous chant from Kino Loy, there is only “one way out” for “Andor” this award season, that is as a winner in its categories. It was only fitting than at the end of the evening Serkis on his way out of the theater, chanted with fans “one way out, One way out, one way out”
Now live on shopDisney and at select retail locations in Disney Parks is Mickey & Co. by Outdoor Voices! This all-new collaboration brings to life a world of comfort and style through transforming favorite Disney characters onto athletic clothing; creating the new go-to outfit for a day at a Disney Park, runDisney race, the local yoga studio, and beyond.
Feeling a bit Goofy? Be classically styled with the Goofy SolarCool Tourist Shirt featuring UPF 50 protection and Goofy High Stride Shorts with built-in shorts liner, or take on adventures with the Goofy Exercise Dress and moisture-wicking Goofy Snacks Sports Bra.
For all-day comfort featuring the main Mouse, try the Mickey Mouse Snacks Sports Bra with matching Mickey Mouse Snacks Short – both of which feature pockets convenient for holding phones.
Calling all Star Wars Fans May the 4th is coming soon! The best celebration of A Galaxy Far Far Away in Southern California is coming to the Academy Museum in the City of Angels. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures which opened to the public over two years ago, is an essential arm of The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. This museum exists to educate film lovers and those from around the world to learn about the importance of motion pictures, their impact on culture, and the preservation of all that goes into making films as filmmaking evolves throughout time.
This Thursday, May the 4th is no different! The Museum will be celebrating the Star Wars film franchise as it pertains to its cultural significance and importance to the film industry. When Star Wars Episode IV was released in theaters forty-five years ago, it changed the way films were made. Thursday at the Academy celebrates that film franchise and the last 40-plus years it has made on our culture collectively. The hours will be 1:30-9:45 pm.
The day will culminate with a special screening that can only be enjoyed at the Museum, for this one night only. The Academy will be showing a print from their archives of the finale to the original Star Wars trilogy, “Return of the Jedi.”
In addition to the National Film Registry and its recognition from Star Wars fans worldwide, this screening is sure to remind us of its importance to movie-making since its inception and the impact it has had on fans and has made us want to visit it time and time again.
The Academy Museum is also offering a few ways to celebrate throughout the day. Whether you plan to bring the little ones for a family affair on Star Wars Day or looking for a low-key way to celebrate this big day, here are a few options.
The exciting event will include photo ops with R2-D2, hands-on activities related to the Star Wars universe, a 15% discount on select Star Wars merchandise at the Academy Museum Store (in-store only), and a special 40th-anniversary screening of Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi.
In addition, there will be two book signings, one with Paul Hirsch, Oscar-winning film editor of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope(1977) and Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980), and Howard Kazanjian, producer of Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983).
For a more detailed listing of the event schedule read below or visit the Academy website for more details.
This event includes photo ops, art-making activities, and book signings. It will conclude with a movie screening in the museum’s David Geffen Theater. Tickets to the book signings and screening are sold separately.
1:30–3:30 pm Photos with R2-D2! | Sidney Poitier Grand Lobby
1:30–5:30 pm May the 4th Art-Making Activities | Shirley Temple Education Studio
4:30–6:30 pm Photos with R2-D2! | Sidney Poitier Grand Lobby
5–7 pm Book Signings | Sidney Poitier Grand Lobby
7:30 pm Screening of Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi | David Geffen Theater
Tickets to the Academy Museum are available only through advance online reservations via the Academy Museum’s website and mobile app.
Access to the R2-D2 photo opportunities and educational activities is complimentary with the purchase of general admission; tickets are $25 for adults, $19 for seniors (age 62+), and $15 for students. Admission for visitors ages 17 and younger, and for California residents with an EBT card is free. General admission tickets include access to R2-D2 and education studio activities.
Book Signings: Tickets are $30 for each book separately; $55 for both. Tickets include access to the event and a signed copy of the book(s). You must have a ticket to attend the book signing.
Film Screenings: Film screening tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors (age 62+), and $5 for students and children (age 17-). Ticket prices for Academy Museum Members are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for students and children.
Fans are also encouraged to come dressed up in their favorite Star Wars themed costumes but be aware of the costume policy.
The following are not allowed when dressing in costume at the Academy Museum: body paint, props and toy weapons, and/or full-face coverings. Guests in costume are subject to search at the discretion of Academy Museum staff at any time, and we reserve the right to refuse entry for any reason.
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is located at 6067 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles.
Header image credit: Still from Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)
This Father's Day, soar to new heights of gift-giving with an incredible collection of DreamWorks How to Train Your Dragon treasures from BoxLunch! On...
