The surprises didn’t stop there, as Funko brought the house down with Pop! Talk Live at WonderCon 2023. The night was filled with giveaways, celebrity guests, and a celebration of Funko’s 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, founders Brian Mariotti and Mike Becker even brought out Disney Legend and Imagineer Bob Gurr, who was inducted as Funko’s first-ever hall of fame inductee.
Becker and Mariotti also dived into some new Funko product designs, as well as pulled the curtain back on some exclusive Loungefly Designs, including some chillingly perfect Haunted Mansion accessories that are sure to find well more than 999 happy haunts wanting to take them home!
Details were also shared on a brand new cross-country tour, appropriately titled, Fun on the Run.
Fans get excited as Funko reveals the Fun on the Run Road Tour
Funko will be taking to the road in 2023 across the united states, all featuring exclusive stickers and posters commemorating each stop as they make their way toward San Diego Comic-Con.
Funko also gave fans a look at some of the Fun On the Run exclusives, which will include a Box of Fun celebration of 25 years of Funko history, a 4-pin set, a Space Ghost Soda, a Freddy Funko as Batman Pop!, and so much more. We can’t wait to experience the tour.
As the panel came to a close, attendees were given a limited edition Freddy Funko Arena Pop! figure, featuring Freddy as the classic Disney character, Peter Pan. The figure is a WonderCon and panel attendee-only exclusive, sure to catch the eyes of the most hardcore Funko fanatics.
Ashley Eckstein and the Her Universe Team at WonderCon
Ashley Eckstein and the Her Universe team once again returned to the stage to share the latest coming for all those obsessed with geek couture. Fans were given a first look at the latest collection, designed by Her Universe 2022 Fashion Show Winners, Cindy Guillermo Heselton and Michael Burson.
The new Hot Topic collaboration is inspired by the upcoming Marvel Studios’ film, The Marvels, and though many of the designs are under lock and key, we were able to preview three specific designs, all featuring iconic looks for our three central heroines.
Eckstein also led the conversation on what to expect going into the 2023 Her Universe Fashion show, which will be sponsored by Disney. As Eckstein revealed, this will be the very first show fully sponsored by a studio, and promised it will be full of surprises. “This is going to be our biggest show yet”, Eckstein proudly shared.
We cannot wait, as the sky is the limit with the design opportunities and creative ideas that are yet to be shared with the world. As seen in previous shows, the Her Universe Fashion Show has become a staple of San Diego Comic-Con and has brought forth a never-ending supply of imagination and creativity front and center.
For this year’s WonderCon, excited film, television, and video game fans dove into the world of entertainment at Impact24 PR’s Panel Superblock Series, the ultimate destination for a behind-the-scenes look at projects like “The Last of Us,” “Outer Banks,” “Ms. Marvel,” “Daisy Jones and the Six,” “Doom Patrol,” and more!
The “Scene Breakdown: Behind the Camera of Film and TV Shows” panel gave attendees a look at what it takes to bring a project to life. The panel featured showrunner/ executive producer Anthony Sparks (Queen Sugar, Bel-Air), VFX Supervisor at FuseFX Art Codron (Outer Banks), editor S. Robyn Wilson (A Black Lady Sketch Show), production designer Cabot McMullen (Shrinking), executive producer Rachel Watanabe-Batton (Sneakerella), composer Andrew Morgan Smith (The Old Way, The Owl House), and was moderated by actor Chris Villain (Mystery Incorporated).
“All you need is a piece of paper, an idea, and a pen or pencil. You can change your world or the world that way. Writers often think they need to come up with something that they’ve never seen,” explained showrunner Anthony Sparks. “That can be a great idea, but what tends to get you some new traction as a new writer is writing about something you’ve been running away from or are scared of. Put your experience and stories on paper.”
The “3rd Annual “It’s Alive!”: Designing Sci-Fi, Horror, and Comic Book Genre Film and TV” panel saw entertainment creatives give insight into bringing thrilling and often chilling words to the screen. The panel featured production designer John Paino (The Last of Us), cinematographer Jules O’Loughlin, ASC ACS (Ms. Marvel Episodes 4 and 5), editor Tayor Joy Mason (Dahmer: Monster, The Jeffrey Dahmer Story), executive producer/ co-creator Elle León Nostas (Mark of Death), composer Stefan L. Smith (Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham), and producer Christopher Kaminski (Cobalt Knight), and was moderated by voiceover artist and actor Queen Noveen (Redfall).
“They’re making the path and we’re making environments. All of this has to be developed with the game in mind,” said “The Last of Us” production designer John Paino about his work in the series. “We always went back to concept art.”
The final panel in the Superblock Series, “All in the Details: Costume, Makeup, Hair, and Production Design for Film and TV,” focused on the magic of transforming actors and sets for entertainment. The panel featured makeup department head Rebecca Wachtel (Daisy Jones and the Six), hairstylist/ wig maker Justi Embree (Missing), costume designer Jennifer May Nickel (Gotham Knights), production designer James Bolenaugh (Kevin Can F**k Himself), and costume designer Carrie Grace (Doom Patrol, The Boys Episodes 1 and 2), and was moderated by voiceover artist and actor Queen Noveen (Redfall).
“When you read a book, you kind of imagine the characters in your head,” said “Daisy Jones & the Six” makeup department head Rebecca Wachtel on starting the series. “Once I knew who was cast, I couldn’t wait to bring the characters to life.”
The Impact24 PR Panel Superblock Series at WonderCon 2023 provided an unparalleled behind-the-scenes experience for attendees as industry professionals from various departments gave them an exclusive insight into the making of popular films and television shows. Attendees left with a newfound appreciation for the artistry that goes into their favorite projects.
The Official Walt Disney Quote Book is a delightful compilation of memorable quotes from the visionary Walt Disney. This enchanting book pays tribute to the legendary figure who forever changed the landscape of animation and entertainment. This quote book is an essential addition to any Disney lover’s collection, featuring a treasure trove of inspiring words and charming illustrations.
Wisdom and Inspiration from Walt Disney
The Official Walt Disney Quote Book is a carefully curated collection of quotes that showcase the wit, wisdom, and creativity of the man behind the magic. Readers will find a wide range of thought-provoking themes, including imagination, perseverance, dreams, and leadership. Some quotes are accompanied by a fitting illustration, highlighting the indelible impact of Disney’s iconic characters and stories.
Walt Disney’s words continue to resonate today, inspiring people of all ages to dream big and believe in the power of creativity. This quote book provides a unique opportunity for fans to connect with Disney’s legacy, reminding them of the importance of imagination, determination, and hard work in achieving one’s goals.
A Beautifully Illustrated Collection
The Official Walt Disney Quote Book is as visually appealing as it is inspiring. Each page features stunning illustrations that perfectly complement the quotes, immersing readers in the whimsical world of Disney. The book’s design is elegant and playful, making it an ideal keepsake or conversation piece for Disney enthusiasts.
The illustrations include a mix of classic and modern Disney characters, ensuring that fans of all generations will find something to love. From Mickey Mouse and Cinderella to Moana and Elsa, the book pays homage to the diverse range of characters and stories that have made Disney a beloved household name.
An Ideal Gift for Disney Fans
The Official Walt Disney Quote Book makes an excellent gift for Disney fans of all ages. Its blend of inspiring quotes and captivating illustrations creates a unique reading experience that will be treasured for years to come. The book serves as a heartfelt reminder of the magic that has defined Disney for over a century, and it is sure to delight and inspire anyone who cherishes the legacy of Walt Disney.
The Official Walt Disney Quote Book is a remarkable celebration of the man whose imagination, creativity, and determination have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With a collection of 100 inspiring quotes and beautiful illustrations, this book offers a poignant tribute to the enduring magic of Disney. It is a must-have for fans who wish to delve into the wisdom of Walt Disney and embrace the power of dreams and imagination.
Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles is thrilled to celebrate LGBT Pride Month with the Los Angeles premiere of Disney PRIDE in Concert, a show that features 200 Chorus members performing nearly 50 classic Disney songs with a 25-piece orchestra and stunning video projections. This amazing extravaganza will be conducted by GMCLA’s Music Director & Conductor Ernest H. Harrison and will conclude GMCLA’s Season 44. The Chorus will perform Disney PRIDE in Concert for two concerts only – Saturday, June 24, 2023, and Sunday, June 25, 2023, at the extraordinary and world-class venue, Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles. Tickets are now on sale at GMCLA.org.
Disney PRIDE in Concert marks Disney Concerts’ first-ever choral production. Disney’s beloved songs will be reimagined in a celebration of Pride. GMCLA will perform the music of iconic films like The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Mary Poppins, as well as modern classics like Coco, Zootopia, Wreck-It Ralph, and many more. The magical music of Disney Parks will round out this multimedia event. Solos and personal stories will add a connection to Disney’s timeless and universal stories making this a truly magical experience for all ages.
“It’s so exciting that The Walt Disney Company celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. We have wanted to celebrate the Disney canon for years, and it’s finally happening. I was lucky to attend the concert premiere by the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus at Boston Symphony Hall last June, and it’s simply stunning. The audience leaped to their feet for both sold-out shows,” said Lou Spisto, Executive Director & Producer of Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles.
“To say this is a once-in-a-lifetime event is not an overstatement: 200 singers, a 25-piece orchestra – the largest we have ever had – nearly 50 songs from 24 films (and the Parks), and projections above the Chorus on a large-scale screen! We can’t wait for everyone to experience this concert, and we welcome one and all, dressed in Disney or whatever they feel comfortable in! Other choruses will do Disney PRIDE in Concert, but only GMCLA will perform it at Walt Disney Concert Hall. To think Disney Concerts created its first-ever choral show and started with the gay chorus community is simply amazing!”
Disney PRIDE in Concert will have a limited engagement of two concerts only on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 25, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. The concerts will be held at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles, 111 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Tickets prices range from $50 to $130 and are available online at GMCLA.org/disneypride or musiccenter.org; by phone at 323.850.2000 or 424.453.3987; or at the Walt Disney Concert Hall Box Office (Tuesday – Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.).
Anime fans rejoice, as the hit series, Attack on Titan, has joined forces with Hello Kitty and Friends at Sanrio to create a one-of-a-kind collection now available exclusively at BoxLunch!
A quick look at some of the newest items in the Sanrio – Attack on Titan Collection!
To kick off the festivities, Kitty White and Pochacco greeted guests at the BoxLunch store at the Irvine Spectrum in Orange County, snapping pictures and welcoming eager fans into the store to get their first glimpse at the collection.
The series features a wide array of accessories and clothing items fit for any style and connects Attack on Titan characters with key Sanrio characters for a fun mashup. We had a chance to see some of the graphic tee options, mini backpacks, and other stylish add-ons that create a wonderful geeky and kawaii ensemble.
These mashup graphic tees are everything!It’s all in the details. The iconic Kitty bow on this mini backpack really adds a nice finishing touch
Sanrio fans can also take home some other wonderful collectibles, fully stocked at BoxLunch, including Squishmallows, keychains, tees, and more! We even discovered some Tuxedo Sam merchandise, which is not as easy to find for your dapper friends out there.
How cute is this Tuxedo Sam Squishmallow?!?
You can check out the full collaboration right now at your local BoxLunch store, as well as order online directly from the BoxLunch site. For those who prefer to see items up close and in person, local stores can assist you with ship-to-store options, which will allow you to find the perfect fit and match for your personal style.
Make sure to check out BoxLunch for even more exciting styles, items, and exclusive collections!
The world of anime and superheroes collided at WonderCon 2023 with the world premiere of the highly anticipated release of Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes & Huntsmen, Part One. The collaboration comes as the RWBYfranchise comes close to celebrating the tenth anniversary of its Rooster Teeth debut in 2013.
SocalThrills had an opportunity to connect with the cast and creative team behind the new mashup with DC and Warner Bros. WonderCon attendees also got a chance to get an exclusive first look at Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes & Huntsmen, Part One before it debuts to the general public on Blu-ray and digital on April 25th. An encore presentation of the premiere will also be streamed to close out WonderCon’s programming on March 26th.
You can catch our entire interview of the RWBY Cast below, including Ruby Rose herself, Lindsay Jones.
Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes & Huntsmen, Part One is the first installment of the two-part story, bringing the legendary heroes of the Justice League into a world unknown, with the likes of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Cyborg, Green Lantern, Flash, and Vixen mysteriously arriving in the world of Remnant, home to the beloved Team RWBY. Led by the charismatic Ruby Rose, both teams will have to work together to save both their worlds from a superpowered threat that’s unlike any threat they’ve ever experienced before.
The new film, adapted from the popular 14-part comic series RWBY x Justice League, is filled with fun surprises, and fresh takes on your favorite superheroes and heroines, as well as acts as a perfect sync between both tentpole franchises. Hearing from the creative team, as well as the wonderful ensemble cast really has us excited for the public to get a chance to jump into this first installment. If you love action, great stories, as well as classic quips, and quick humor, this is definitely something you won’t want to miss!
Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes & Huntsmen, Part One is out on April 25, 2023. Order your copy here: https://amzn.to/3KaAh5l
Star Trek fans beamed down to Scum and Villainy Cantina in Hollywood this weekend to celebrate the release of the hit series, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds on Blu-ray. The event featured a trivia night, unique beverage offerings, festive Starfleet-themed décor, and a first look at some of the exclusive bonus content contained in the Blu-ray series set.
Fans were also surprised by a visit from astrophysicist, Doctor Erin Macdonald, who acted as host for the evening’s festivities. Macdonald led the trivia portion of the evening, as well as hosted a special Q&A session, giving fans a closer look into the fascinating balance between science fiction and real-world science throughout the Star Trek universe.
Astro Physicist, Erin Macdonald answers fan questions at Scum and Villainy Cantina in Hollywood
As an official consultant, Macdonald has had the opportunity to work directly with the creative minds behind Strange New Worlds and other Star Trek series, providing input and direction on some of the franchise’s biggest moments.
During the night’s celebration, fans also had the opportunity to experience a special drink menu, highlighting some of the best Star Trek Wines have to offer, including the prestigious Chateau Picard, inspired directly from the new Paramount+ series, Star Trek: Picard.
Fans that visited Scum and Villainy could experience exclusive Star Trek-themed drinks, including Star Trek Wine’s own Chateau Picard
While at the celebration, we took a closer look at the season one series set, which includes some fun hidden gems and features you will want to dive in and see for yourself. Here’s a quick look below:
Documentary Features
Pike’s Peak- Captain Pike himself, Anson Mount, takes fans through his journey returning to the captain’s chair for the first season of Strange New Worlds. The mini-documentary features personal phone camera footage from Mount’s quarantine leading into the new show, physical training and horse riding antics, as well as the crew’s first day on the bridge set.
World Building- Anson Mount gives fans a tour of the AR Volume, set up to show the snowy environment of episode 109- All Those Who Wonder. Production Designer, Jonathan Lee, discusses the show design for the AR Wall, also used in hit shows like The Mandalorian on Disney+. This featurette also includes interviews with the cast, crew, and production teams on how this cutting-edge technology was used to help bring Strange New Worlds to life.
Exploring New Worlds– This feature takes fans into the depths of the creative process and creation of the first season of Strange New Worlds and includes exclusive interviews with the cast and crew.
The disc also includes a collection of deleted scenes, with five episodes of the season having deleted or extended scenes available with each episode that are not currently available with the standard episode streams on Paramount+.
A special gift featuring the first season of Strange New Worlds on Blu-Ray!
Last, but certainly not least, the set includes a blooper reel that follows the fun and goofy adventures of the Enterprise crew throughout the first season. We can’t wait to “hit it” and catch up on each episode as we wait to hear more news about what’s to come for season two of Strange New Worlds.
WonderCon 2023 is now underway at the Anaheim Convention Center, with fans of every fandom gathering together to celebrate their favorite series, stories, costume designs, and so much more! Though some of the convention’s biggest moments are yet to come, there was still plenty to see from cosplay to exhibitors, and unique artists.
Star Trek Cosplayers Converge at WonderCon
SoCalThrills was on the show floor, taking in the sights, the scenes, and the wonderful array of offerings. To kick things off, Funko has returned, bringing a funhouse full of convention exclusives to the floor including a Fun House Clown Freddy Funko, Evil Queen Soda figurine from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, as well as Flik from the Disney-Pixar favorite, A Bug’s Life. Mini sodas are also available featuring Bugs Bunny, Valkyrie, and Snagglepuss.
A look at some of the convention-exclusive soda releases from Funko
The fun house is invite-only, with a limited number of tickets available each day. If you are a Funko collector, make sure to beeline it to the Funko Booth if you want your chance to bring home one of these exclusives for yourself! You may even catch a glimpse of Funko founder himself, Mike Becker!
A Goofy Movie Loungefly and WonderCon exclusive
Speaking of exclusives, Loungefly was also on-site, giving fans a glimpse at some of their latest, including a special WonderCon exclusive A Goofy Movie-themed mini-backpack. The bag, featuring Max, Goofy, and Powerline, is sure to be an instant classic with fans of all ages.
Though, there is much more to be discovered on the WonderCon floor, including the likes of Bandai-Namco, bringing the best of anime and pop culture front and center with exclusive figures, unique model kits, and adorable feline twists on your favorite fandoms.
A look at some of Bandai’s Ultra Man S Figarts Collection!
This year brings a limited run of figures that include Figuarts Zero (Extra Battle) Charlotte Katakuri – Mochitsuki in Special Color Edition, Ultraman from the Rise of Ultraman, RX-78-2from the hit series Gundam, as well as another Figuarts Zero figure for Monkey D. Luffy Gear 4 w/LED Bazooka.
Nanoblocks feature a wide array of characters and designs, including Pokemon, MegaMan, Kirby, and Pac-Man
We also got a chance to take a closer look at one of their latest products, Nanoblocks, which allows builders of all ages to recreate their favorite characters and items in miniature block formations. Pokemon was the biggest name on display, with many of the hit anime series characters available on display from Pikachu to Articuno. Similar to LEGO, these kits are customizable and come loaded with impressive details that add a very special touch for those wanting to continue to find new ways to experience their favorite fandoms.
These feline figures are a smash hit with fans!
Cat figurines were also a show stopper, featuring special kitty mew versions of your favorites including Naruto, Sailor Moon, and Gundam. Sailor Mewn, which can be seen in the photo above, is part of Bandai’s Megahouse Mega Cat Project, and is a crowd favorite, along with many other figurines on display at WonderCon.
Bandai also features a plethora of build-it-yourself snap kits, allowing you to craft your own vehicles, figures, and more. Kits include the Millennium Falcon, several Gundam mechas, and more! As you can see from the image below, kits come in all sizes and skill levels, giving you the experience you feel most comfortable with and a figure that works great for whatever size collection you wish to bring to life.
From small to mega-sized, here’s a look at some of Bandai’s build kits for the Gundam series
For anyone looking to support more small and independent artists, look no further than Artist Alley, which will bring countless numbers of wonderful designs and products front and center. We had the opportunity to visit quite a few, and while we just scratched the surface, want to share some of the fun with you with the featured artists below.
Our first featured artist is Joey Quintin, bringing a magical twist of whimsy and creativity in a number of special crossover pieces which include Star Wars and Disney Princesses, Harry Potter, and Studio Ghibli, as well as DC and Marvel-inspired designs. From prints to buttons, we were thrilled to get a chance to see some of his latest work.
Artist Joey Quintin was one of the amazing artists we had a chance to meet during our time on the WonderCon show floor.
Our second featured artist is Megan Withey, who specializes in fantasy and pop culture watercolor prints. Native to Florida, Megan’s work includes Disney, Sailor Moon, Naruto, and other cultural icons such as Selena. As you can see from her booth, there is plenty to see for any WonderCon visitors this weekend.
A look at some of the incredible watercolor designs of Megan Withey
Our final featured artist brings the feline edge to all of their work, mixing the genres of fantasy, horror, and pop culture to create unique cat pieces that will make you smile in awe. Braden Duncan, who is the creative artist behind Clockwork Art, features prints, pins, and other specialty items for feline fans of all ages.
A look at some of Clockwork Art’s unique feline art pieces!
We can’t wait to share more of the fun with you as WonderCon weekend kicks off into full swing. Make sure to stay tuned for all the excitement to come!
The Walt Disney Archives has opened its vaults to mark 100 historic years of making magic! In honor of this global celebration of a century of Disney storytelling, the ABC Owned Television Stations will present a 30-minute special, “Disney100: The Exhibition — Making the Magic,” hosted by Alicia Vitarelli and TaRhonda Thomas of 6abc/WPVI-TV Philadelphia. The special will debut March 23 (7:30 p.m. EDT) on 6abc and across the ABC Owned Television Stations on linear, digital, and streaming platforms, and will be available on the Localish network and for Hulu subscribers. For participating stations, viewers can check local listings.
The special goes behind the scenes of Disney100: The Exhibition, which debuted at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on Feb. 18, 2023. Created for the 100-year celebration of The Walt Disney Company, the exhibit, which is open to the public and where people can see many rare Disney artifacts for the very first time, runs through Aug. 27, 2023, before it travels to other destinations across the United States. A second unit of the exhibition opens in Munich in April.
“Disney100: The Exhibition — Making the Magic” is a dazzling journey through this immersive exhibit, featuring more than 250 artifacts and works of art, costumes and props, and memorabilia from the Walt Disney Archives’ vault of treasures, including many of its “crown jewels,” such as the following:
Disneyland Employee Badge No. 1, issued in 1955 to Walt Disney
Costumes from “Black Panther,” “Jungle Cruise,” “Cruella,” “Enchanted” and more
Prop storybooks featured in “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Sleeping Beauty”
Skywalker Lightsaber Hilt from “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” used by Daisy Ridley
Attraction vehicles from Matterhorn Bobsleds and Peter Pan’s Flight at Disneyland Park
Viewers will pay a visit to the Walt Disney Archives in Burbank to see how this incredible 15,000-square-foot exhibition was produced and will have an insider’s look into how Disney has created some of its most popular characters, films, shows, and attractions—from Disneyland to Walt Disney World and beyond.
It will also document for the viewer how the Walt Disney Archives crafted the 10 magnificent and imaginatively themed galleries at The Franklin Institute, featuring moving stories, unique interactive installations, and exciting insider details, which take guests on a virtual journey through 100 years of The Walt Disney Company, celebrating the classics from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” to the upcoming “Peter Pan & Wendy” as well as the latest members of the Disney family—Pixar, Lucasfilm, Marvel, and National Geographic.
“Disney100: The Exhibition — Making the Magic” will reveal how the philosophies of visionary filmmaker and innovator Walt Disney laid the foundation for The Walt Disney Company. From the contract that established the company and the creation of Mickey Mouse to immersive theme parks and blockbuster films such as “Frozen” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl,” viewers will experience incredible moments from Disney’s rich legacy.
Easter is almost here and it’s time to start filling your Easter baskets with the latest Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars goodies sure to have you hopping with excitement!
Everyone’s favorite seasonal plushies are back with the Disney 2023 Easter Bunny Plush, featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, and Stitch colorfully dressed as cuddly bunnies.
Embrace your own inner bunny by donning the Minnie Mouse Reigning Rabbits Ear Headband while sipping on your favorite spring drink from this cheerful mug covered in art of the White Rabbit and singing flowers from “Alice in Wonderland.”
Spring and style go hand in hand with the Disney100 Classics Collection by Vera Bradley, which includes a plethora of bags and accessories decorated in an allover floral design featuring many of Disney’s classic characters like Alice, Bambi, and Winnie the Pooh.
You can opt for a sweeter look in this vintage-style Lotso Dress paired with the strawberry-scented Lotso Plush Loungefly Handbag. Whatever your style, just don’t forget to prepare for sudden spring showers with rain jackets and accessories for both adults and kids from the shopDisney Rain Shop!
This is just a small sample of Easter gift ideas available. Check out ShopDisney’s Easter section for more. Hope you have a wonderful Easter holiday with your family and loved ones.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts and MB Artists, Inc. present a special world premiere of the “beatnik” horror comedy musical, Did You See What Walter Paisley Did Today? This limited engagement will run on select days now through Sunday, April 2, 2023. There will be a talkback with the cast and creative team on Thursday, March 30 at 7:30 pm.
Stepping off into San Francisco in 1958, an unsuspecting jazz cafe encourages creative outlets of live poetry and jazz invigorating the art scene. Walter Paisley desperately wants to make a name for himself in the art community. But he hasn’t quite struck a chord yet as a struggling artist working as a subservient server. But when this down-on-his-luck sculptor stumbles upon a new style of art, his life takes a spinning turn into fame and glory. But the trouble is merely a stone’s throw away as the secret to his success smears into view and possibly crumbles his potential future.
“Did You See What Walter Paisley Did Today?” is an uproarious ode to the best of horror comedy musicals. A love letter complimenting such memorable and energetic successes as “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Evil Dead: The Musical”. Walter Paisley is surrounded by an ensemble cast of a beautiful love interest, an entitled competitor, a prospective manager, a suspicious neighbor, and a nosy detective. Has the questionable sculptor discovered a new art style the world is ready to embrace? Or has the mad artist gone too far into the whirlwind of what is and is not art? You’ll have to see and hear it to judge for yourself.
With Broadway talent both on and off the stage, this jazzy musical molds a well-sculpted centerpiece chiseled with a macabre finish. The high-energy title song will have you wagging your finger and grooving your body to the beat of the catchy melody and lyrics. A delightful earworm to the musical art community. Be drawn to the birth of the newest and best off-Broadway show in Southern California this season.
The smoothest cast that has graced the La Mirada stage comes from a wide variety of theatre and musical backgrounds. Here’s just a taste of the talent that will tap and snap their way from the stage and into your heart. Steven Booth (Broadway’s School of Rock) as “Walter Paisley”. Kingsley Leggs (Broadway’s Sister Act) as “Leonard DeSantis”. Kathy Fitzgerald (Broadway’s Wicked and The Producers) as “Mrs. Swickert”. Ashley Moniz (Broadway’s Kinky Boots and Legally Blonde) as “Beatnik Girl”.
Consisting of an award-winning creative team of professionals in their respective lines of work in Broadway, television, and animation. Book, music, and lyrics by Randy Rogel (Animaniacs, Batman, Monsters, Inc). Musical direction by Andrew Orbison (Hairspray, Sister Act). Musical supervision by Kimberly Grigsby (Broadway’s Amélie, Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, The Full Monty). Orchestrations by Larry Hochman. Choreography by Connor Gallagher (Broadway’s Beetlejuice, Disney Cruise Line’s Beauty & the Beast, and Tangled). Developed and directed by BT McNicholl (Broadway’s Billy Elliot, Cabaret, and Spamalot). With a creative collaboration of this magnitude, the audience is bound to have a side-splitting treat for the eyes and ears.
Don’t miss your chance to be amongst the first audience member to witness the rise of a new off-Broadway classic. By the end of the show, you’ll be asking your friends and neighbors “Did You See What Walter Paisley Did Today?”
Performances are Thursdays at 7:30 pm; Fridays at 8 pm; Saturdays at 2 pm & 8 pm; and Sundays at 1:30 pm & 6:30 pm. Tickets range from $28 – $40 (prices subject to change) and can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website lamiradatheatre.com or by calling the box office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Group and military discounts are available. $14 student tickets are available as well. Children under 3 will NOT be admitted into the theatre. La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts is located at 14900 La Mirada Boulevard in La Mirada. Parking is FREE.
Get ready for more fun with Mickey and friends! "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+," the exciting continuation of the beloved Disney Jr. series, premieres Monday, July...
