Disney+, Disney Junior, and Lucasfilm announced that “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will premiere on Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4, 2023. Set during The High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi younglings as they study the ways of the Force, explore the galaxy, help citizens and creatures in need, and learn valuable skills needed to become Jedi along the way.
Disney+ and Lucasfilm also released two stills from the series, which include Master Yoda, Jedi younglings Kai, Lys, and Nubs, and their friends Nash and RJ-83 on planet Tenoo. The second image shows Lys, Kai, and Nubs during a training sequence.
Produced by Lucasfilm for Disney+ and Disney Junior, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes. Michael Olson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is showrunner and executive producer; Elliot M. Bour (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director and co-producer; Jeannine Hodson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is producer; and Lamont Magee (“Black Lightning”) is consulting producer.
“‘Star Wars’ transcends generations; fans of all ages deeply connect with its imaginative worlds, mythic stories, and unique characters,” says James Waugh, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” executive producer and Senior Vice President Franchise Content & Strategy at Lucasfilm. “When developing ‘Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,’ the first ‘Star Wars’ series created for preschoolers, the creative team never stopped thinking about how this show may be a ‘youngling’s’ first step into a larger world and their first time experiencing the limitless potential of the ‘Star Wars’ galaxy.
The show’s characters, tone, and the life lessons woven throughout each episode were written just for them, and our talented team was committed to honoring the cinematic legacy while staying true to the expectations of parents for the youngest of audiences.”
Alyssa Sapire, Senior Vice President, Development, Series, Strategy, Disney Junior: “Our collaboration with Lucasfilm on this series is an amazing opportunity to introduce this universally cherished franchise to a younger generation. As an early entry point into ‘Star Wars,’ we have created a series with exciting new and familiar characters and storylines that highlight the values of compassion, teamwork, and friendship, which are important elements for all of our Disney Junior programming.”
“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” stars Jamaal Avery, Jr. as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Jonathan Lipow as RJ-83, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda.
“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will debut on Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4, 2023.
When SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on Friday, February 17, 2023, the innovative, immersive and highly-themed land will invite guests to enjoy a taste of the many exciting elements it has to offer, including Toadstool Cafe™ and 1-UP Factory™ retail store.
With a giant red-capped mushroom exterior and a lavish interior adorned with an array of larger-than-life mushroom décor and iconic green pipes, Toadstool Cafe is the land’s signature restaurant helmed by Chef Toad himself. This all-original restaurant will feature a carefully curated and eclectic menu perfected and prepared fresh daily by Chef Toad.
The full course menu begins with Starters and Salads and includes such delicacies as:
Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots
Super Mushroom Soup
Tomato Soup in Super Mushroom Bowl
Piranha Plant Caprese
Yoshi’s Favorite Fruit & Veggie Salad
Super Star Chicken Salad
For the Main Course, mouth-watering entrees include:
Mario Burger (Bacon, Mushroom & Cheese)
Luigi Burger (Pesto Grilled Chicken)
Fire Flower Spaghetti & Meatballs
Chef Toad Short Rib Special
For kids, ages 9 and under, a special Kids Meal menu includes:
Mario Mini Burger Adventure Set
Power-Up Spaghetti Marinara
Of course, no meal is complete without delectable desserts and Toadstool Cafe has several sweet tooth options from which to choose:
? Block Tiramisu
Mt. Beanpole Cake
Princess Peach Cupcake
Beverages include the Super Star Lemon Squash signature drink, in addition to juice, hot tea, fountain soda, premium bottled water, milk and freshly brewed coffee. Collectible drink sippers are also available for purchase.
The 1-UP Factory retail store offers an array of themed apparel, souvenirs and collectible merchandise created exclusively for the exciting launch of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. These coveted limited-edition pieces were designed using specialty Grand Opening artwork and will only be available for purchase while quantities last.
Additional merchandise includes an extensive selection of themed attire, headwear and candy along with a selection of iconic character plush and toys, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Princess Peach and Bowser.
The SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Power-Up Band™ is available for purchase in six recognizable character designs, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad and Princess Daisy. Choosing a particular character defines the Team guests will be a part of during their experience. These wearable wristbands sync with the free official Universal Studios Hollywood downloadable app and function as a complement to the land’s many interactive elements.
With the use of a Power-Up Band, guests can elevate the overall experience by competing against other teams to achieve the highest score throughout the day by collecting the most digital coins. To see who’s in the lead, guests can check their personal and team scores by linking the Power-Up Band to the app or by referring to the Checkpoint Screens located within the land.
The February 17 grand opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD marks its official arrival to the United States. The all-new land debuts as a visual spectacle of vibrant colors and architectural ingenuity located within a newly expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will feature the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many thrilling and interactive activities designed to engage the family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom. Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be an inspiring addition to the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo® and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.
The Garden Grove Strawberry Festival is proud to announce that it will be returning to the city once again, Memorial Day weekend, May 26th-May 29th, 2023. This annual event, which has been a favorite of residents and visitors for over 60 years, celebrates the city’s rich agricultural history and heritage, and it is dedicated to the strawberry.
The festival, which is organized by the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Association, will feature a wide variety of activities, including a VIP pancake breakfast, live music, contests, vendors, a festive parade, and a Cake Cutting Ceremony. Visitors will also be able to enjoy carnival rides and attractions for all ages and much more.
This year, the festivals theme will be centered around kindness. The Strawberry Festival Association wanted to focus on the kindness people show one another. The festivals goal this year is to show that by embracing kindness, connection and togetherness can be fostered in order to build up our local communities.
An annual highlight of the festival, the Strawberry Festival Parade, will take place on Saturday, May 27th, and will feature Celebrities, Elected Officials, GGUSD and visiting bands, equestrian units and much more.
The Strawberry Festival Board is made up of a multitude of volunteers who are dedicated to providing the City of Garden Grove the best Festival yet.
2023 GGSFA Elected Officers include:
– Andrea Perez, Festival Association President with Taylor Perez as Associate
– Mark Mahoney, President Elect, Games/Permits/Carnival/Food/Nominations Chair; with Miles Mahoney as Associate;
– George Skelton, Treasurer, Donations Committee with Suki Carter serving as Associate
– Heidi Levesque, Secretary, Contests with Nicole Sate as Associate.
2023 GGSFA Directors and Associates include:
– Pat Catlin, Immediate Past President, Tents and Electrical, with Billy Catlin as Associate
– Dr. Dawn Miller, Special Childrens Day, with Denise Webster as Associate
– Laura Neuschafer, Opening Ceremony/Cake Cutting with Malu Mendoza as Associate
– Fred Ramirez, Office with Frederico Ramirez as Associate
– Debbie Mahoney, Scholarships, Associate TBD
– Sherri Larson, VIP Breakfast, Associate, TBD
– Sue Catlin, VIP Lunch with Joyce Claussen as Associate
– Ben Santos, Environmental (Grounds/Sanitation), with Tony Lopez as Associate
– Jeff Sanders, Parade Coordinator, with Kim Sanders as Associate
– Bill Gutaskus, Rentals/Carts/ATMs with Sue Gutaskus as Associate
– Patti Catlin, Commercial Vendor Booths, with Susanne Rangel as Associate
– Josh Lindsay, Staged Events, Associate, TBD
– Steve Sanders, Rides and Grounds with Ryan Sanders as Associate
– Scott Weimer, Parking/Fencing with Marilyn Tortolano as Associate
– Christine Ball, Insurance, with Robin Suarez serving as Associate
– Randy Arbgast, Civic Food Booths/Permits, with Donald Schlensker as Associate
“We are excited to host the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival again this May, over Memorial Day Weekend,” said Perez, “Our festival is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to come together to celebrate this long standing family tradition as well as the city’s rich agricultural heritage, which is such an important part of our history and community.”
Admission to the festival is FREE and open to the public. The festival will take place Memorial Day weekend, May 26th-29th, 2023 at the Village Green Park, located at the Village Green Park, at the corner of Euclid and Main Street, Garden Grove, 92840.
For more information on the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival, please visit the official website at www.strawberryfestival.org.
Embark on a brand-new adventure with Disney Mickey Mouse’s triumphant return to video games – and this time he’s bringing a few friends! Today, Disney, in collaboration with developer Dlala Studios, revealed that Disney Illusion Island, an upcoming local cooperative 2D platform adventure video game for up to four players, will debut exclusively for Nintendo Switch on July 28, 2023. Additionally, pre-orders for Disney Illusion Island are available for $39.99 in Nintendo eShop and at retail, beginning today.
Fans are in for a treat with the upcoming launch of the whimsical cartoon-like experience offered by Disney Illusion Island,” said Luigi Priore, VP, Disney, Pixar and 20th Century Games. “We’re thrilled to work with developer Dlala Studios as they expand upon the Mickey & Friends world with a new and original storyline, engaging gameplay and delightful hand-drawn art style.
Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy and set off on a perilous quest to explore the colorfully hand-crafted and yet mysterious island of Monoth in an escapade to recover three magical Tomes – powerful books used to protect the island.
Featuring the voice actors of Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy and an original orchestral score, players can immerse themselves in a solo adventure or team up with up to three friends in local co-op to use special team skills such as Rope Drop, Leap Frog, and a heart gifting Hug to save the island. Discover rich biomes and never-before-seen environments, meet strange yet intriguing characters, and uncover hidden secrets galore!
But the journey will not be easy, and with intrigue afoot, not everything is what it seems on “Illusion Island”.
“Words cannot express how excited we are for players to embrace the Dlala-spin on this brand-new experience for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy,” said AJ Grand-Scrutton, Lead Developer, Dlala Studios. “It has been an incredible honor working on this title and we hope that Nintendo Switch players and Disney fans worldwide love playing it as much as we’ve loved creating it.”
On Sunday, February 12th, Knott’s is celebrating Good Ol’ Charlie Brown by hosting a Charlie Brown Day during their PEANUTS Celebration. The park invites guests during this special time of year to join in on all the excitement as the PEANUTS gang takes over.
To show everyone’s favorite underdog just how special he is, attendees will be encouraged to pay homage to Charlie Brown by sporting his signature bright yellow zig-zag striped tee, black shorts, and red baseball cap outfit.
At 12:30pm on the Calico Mine Stage, the PEANUTS characters will perform the musical game show It’s Your Life, Charlie Brown, with the loveable title character getting the surprise of his life. After the show, all guests dressed as Charlie Brown will be invited to gather around the stage for a photo opportunity posing alongside the boy of the hour.
All guests in attendance will also receive a button commemorating Charlie Brown Day, while supplies last. Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration takes place daily January 28 through February 26.
Here are all the details:
Sunday, February 12th, with a special photo opportunity occurring after the 12:30pm Calico Mine Stage show.
Knott’s Berry Farm – 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
In celebration of its 25th anniversary, a remastered version of James Cameron’s multi-Academy Award-winning “Titanic” will be re-released to theaters in 3D 4K HDR and high-frame rate. With a cast headed by Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, the film is an epic, action-packed romance set against the ill-fated maiden voyage of the “unsinkable” Titanic, at the time, the largest moving object ever built.
FILM OPENS IN THEATERS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10
“Titanic” won a record 11 Academy Awards® including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Art Direction-Set Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Original Dramatic Score, Best Original Song, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing and Best Visual Effects. Upon its initial release in 1997, the film became the #1 all-time global box office champ and is currently the third highest grossing film worldwide.
Watch the new Featurette:
Paramount Pictures and 20th Century Studios present A Lightstorm Entertainment Production, “Titanic,” starringLeonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates, Frances Fisher, Bernard Hill, Jonathan Hyde, Danny Nucci, Gloria Stuart, David Warner, Victor Garber and Bill Paxton. Written and Directed by James Cameron, the film was Produced by Cameron and Jon Landau, with Rae Sanchini serving as Executive Producer.
Whether you’re a seasoned home gourmet or simply eager to glean pro tips and tricks, the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival serves up heaping helpings of culinary fun for all. Here’s a look at highlights for this year’s festivities:
Festival Experiences
Festival Marketplaces – Outdoor kiosks offer an assortment of mouthwatering bites, wine, beer and specialty beverages. See the list of booths here.
Culinary Demonstrations – Local, visiting and Disney chefs prepare a few of their favorite recipes on stage––available Friday through Sunday!
Cocktails @ Sonoma Terrace hosted by CORKCICLE® – Enjoy an expanded menu of craft brews, signature cocktails, savory snacks and more.
Family Programming – Throughout the duration of the festival, find something fun for everyone in the family including special activity zones and demonstrations.
Live Music – Groove to toe-tappin’ musical performances presenting the perfect side dish to complement the bon viveur vibe.
Soarin’ Over California – See the state’s natural and manmade wonders as this California classic returns for a limited time!
Bookable Experiences
Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions – Enjoy hand-selected California wines, masterfully paired with an array of small plates.
GoGi Wines (with Kurt Russell)
Friday, March 10, 2023
6:30 PM
$150 per person—plus tax and gratuitiesMcBride Sisters Wine Co. (with Nicole Rabago & Amy Butler)
Friday, March 31, 2023
6:30 PM
$150 per person—plus tax and gratuitiesFess Parker Winery
Friday, April 14, 2023
6:30 PM
$150 per person—plus tax and gratuities
Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars – Discover something special when sommeliers, brew masters and mixologists divulge their industry expertise during these fascinating 45-minute sessions. See the full list and dates here.
Hotels Education and Tasting Seminars, Winemaker Reception & Mixology Class Experiences – Enjoy special tasting seminars, a Winemaker Reception and Trader Sam’s Tiki Mixology Class.
Trader Sam’s Tiki Mixology Seminar
Learn to make the HippopotoMai-Tai, one of the legendary libations served at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. Then, sample sweet-and-spicy snacks around the outdoor fireplace. Be sure to take home a tiki mug as a souvenir of your adventure!Disneyland Hotel
Monday, March 6 & Monday, April 10
$159 per person—plus tax and gratuitiesDisney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Food and Wine Experience
Meet the chefs, sommeliers and art historians from Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa as you sip wines paired with specially crafted plates at the venerable Hearthstone Lounge— featuring selections and experts from Laurent-Perrier, Stag’s Leap Winery, Miner Family Wines, Darioush, Clos Du Val, Heitz Cellars and ZD Wines.Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Friday, April 21
$225 per person—plus tax and gratuities
Festival Shopping
Festival Merchandise – Select shops and kiosks feature apparel, gifts, souvenirs, signed art and Festival Gift Cards.
The foodie fun doesn’t end when you leave Disney California Adventure Park! Enjoy special crafts, artist signings and more at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort and the Downtown Disney District.
In celebration of Disney+ and Lucasfilm’s highly anticipated return to Mandalore, The Walt Disney Company will offer viewers the opportunity to experience the episode that started it all, when the series premiere of “Star Wars: The Mandalorian” makes its broadcast debut simultaneously across ABC, Freeform and FX. The three networks will air “Chapter 1: The Mandalorian” on Feb. 24 (8:00-9:00 p.m. EST/PST).
“Chapter 1: The Mandalorian”
In the lawless aftermath of the collapse of the Galactic Empire, an armored bounty hunter known only as the Mandalorian takes on a well-paying yet cryptic assignment.
Available to stream now. Season three is available to stream beginning Wednesday, March 1.
About “Star Wars: The Mandalorian”
After the stories of Jango and Boba Fett, another warrior emerges in the Star Wars universe. “The Mandalorian” is set after the fall of the Empire and before the emergence of the First Order. We follow the travails of a lone gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic.
About “Star Wars: The Mandalorian” Season Three
The journeys of the Mandalorian through the Star Wars galaxy continue. Once a lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin has reunited with Grogu. Meanwhile, the New Republic struggles to lead the galaxy away from its dark history. The Mandalorian will cross paths with old allies and make new enemies as he and Grogu continue their journey together.
The series stars Pedro Pascal, Katee Sackhoff, Carl Weathers, Amy Sedaris, Emily Swallow and Giancarlo Esposito.
The directors of the eight-episode season three include Rick Famuyiwa, Rachel Morrison, Lee Isaac Chung, Carl Weathers, Peter Ramsey and Bryce Dallas Howard.
Jon Favreau is the showrunner/head writer and serves as an executive producer along with Dave Filoni, Rick Famuyiwa, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson. Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck are co-executive producers.
The Lion King returning home to the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, CA feels like a welcoming with open arms and grateful tears as the pinnacle Disney theatrical production celebrates 25 years since its initial debut. While the company is internal turmoil, the show is a glimmering example of it’s heyday as a flagship entertainment giant.
A testament of longevity to it’s relevant story and masterful creativity as a cleanse from the company’s recent modernization to revitalize animated triumphs into live-action rehashing of proven successes. Much of the original animated version is preserved musically and visually in this fan-favorite retelling of the Shakespearean Hamlet about a prince growing into adult and finding redemption before becoming king.
Encased in a time capsule storytelling as depicted live on stage with live performers in vibrant costumes and intricate body movement. Refreshing lack of modern effects like digital projections that would have otherwise taken away from the show’s originality in design and execution.
Witnessing art coming to life in uninterrupted segments of transition in time and space. Interpreted with puppetry from shadows to small scale model figures lending itself the vast depiction of wide open landscapes. Shadow puppets now seen as a precursor to digital projections; simple, elegant, and profound.
But most importantly, story-driven. These moments may feel slow to an audience that are entertained by modern flashy and loud distractions of short attention spans. All the more appreciated with the costume headpieces of the main characters on display in the lobby. Seeing the performers manipulate their animal counterparts still leaves wonder behind in the show’s aftermath.
Crown jewels in songwriting hold very strong in numbers made exclusive to the show. “Endless Night” sees a son lost in time and turmoil over a childhood trauma that changes the trajectory of his life. “They Live in You” and its subsequent reprise “He Lives in You” sees our main character, Simba, coming to terms in a tear-jerking moment as a ghostly encounter bonding with his father spiritually speaking words of encouragement from beyond the grave.
These two highlights truly play into heart of the story. Meanwhile the power of “Circle of Life” with its grand opening number making its way through the audience seating and majesty of “One by One” with it’s celebration of life and heritage bring out the soul of the story and characters.
The Lion King is most certainly a multigenerational experience. Children will enjoy the carefree attitude of the African savannah, danger of the Elephant Graveyard, and stumble into the antics of friends like Timon, the meerkat, and Pumbaa, the wild boar. Adults, especially those who have grown up with the show, will find the second act more relevant and closer to home than ever before.
The humor relies more on the context of the world the show sets itself in rather than over-reliance on pop culture references which can become quickly stale until something new comes around drawing massive social media attention.
New and old audience members will want to flock, stampede, and share the moment in this main stable of Broadway before the shifting winds gracefully sends away this grand spectacle back into the wind. The Lion King at the Pantages Theatre is now playing on select dates and times until March 26, 2023.
“World of Color – ONE” is now performing at Disney California Adventure Park during the Disney100 anniversary celebration at the Disneyland Resort. This nighttime spectacular by Disney Live Entertainment tells the powerful story of how a single action – like a drop of water – creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. Paradise Bay is transformed with a dazzling array of fountains, lighting, lasers, fog and flame effects, harmonized with songs and stories of courageous, loving and inspiring characters who dared to be wavemakers and change the world.
Guests will discover that it only takes one action to make an impact on the people in our lives and the world around us, just as one man – Walt Disney – started the wave that has continued to grow and inspire people around the globe for 100 years.
Show times can be found on Disneyland.com and the Disneyland app. Guests will be able to access viewing areas for “World of Color – ONE” through the complimentary virtual queue** system available only via the Disneyland app. More information about the virtual queue system is available here. Joining the virtual queue is not required, but it is highly recommended as walk-up viewing options for each performance are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“We’re really grateful for all the creative and technical experts who have contributed to ’World of Color ONE.’ It is a beautiful show with an inspiring message that every single one of us can make a difference. We see it in characters like Remy, Moana, Mirabel and Luke Skywalker, and in the end, we leave our guests with a call to action: You can be the one.” said Wendy Ruth, Show Director at Disney Live Entertainment.
World of Color – ONE Details:
The nighttime spectacular celebrates the storytelling legacy begun by Walt Disney a century ago, bringing to spectacular life moments from favorite films including “Moana,” “Soul,” “Coco,” “Mulan” and others. This is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular to feature characters, music and stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers and Star Wars in the same production.
Moments from Star Wars and the Avengers are depicted in a graphic style. The bold, graphic approach to the Avengers portion of the show was inspired by end credit sequences in “Black Panther” and the Disney+ original series “Hawkeye.” The Star Wars segment uses a painterly style based on original production art for the films.
The score is composed of 18 musical compositions, including an original song “Start a Wave,” which was written by GRAMMY ® -nominated artist Cody Fry and features lead vocals performed by singer-songwriter and actress Loren Allred.
The 1,200 fountains in “World of Color – ONE” act as dancers, interpreting the various moments in the show. During the “Born to Play” sequence from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul,” the jazz tune appears to be “played” by the fountains.
The water screen used for digital projections is 380 feet wide, and the geyser fountains are capable of shooting water up to 200 feet in the air.
MagicBand+ interacts with and complements “World of Color – ONE” by glowing with color and pulsing with haptic vibrations.
“World of Color” provides Disney Live Entertainment designers with great flexibility and creativity. Since its debut in 2010, more than half a dozen different versions of the show have been presented on Paradise Bay.
**Virtual queues for showtimes are limited and subject to availability, and joining a virtual queue does not guarantee entrance to any show. Guests may only enter a virtual queue for “World of Color – ONE” once per day. Subject to other restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice.
It’s time to open up the gates and celebrate the grand debut of Disney Theatrical’s smash hit, Frozen, transforming Segerstrom Center for the Arts into the mystical and enchanted land of Arendelle for a three week limited engagement. Beginning Wednesday, February 1st, 2023 through Sunday, February 19th, Frozen will bring the beloved 2013 animated adventure to life in a way that will melt even the coldest of hearts.
Frozen is an absolute winner, earning its rightful place as one of Disney Theatrical’s greatest productions, rivaling that of Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, and the classic hit, The Lion King. Not a single detail is taken for granted and audiences of all ages will reap the rewards as Frozen brings the best that Broadway has to offer right into the heart of Orange County.
With 2023 being the tenth anniversary of the original film, it would be hard to imagine a world without Frozen, let alone a world where fans would not want to dive deeper into the world of Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sven and Kristoff.
Fortunately, Frozen’s Broadway adaptation is just the scratch for that itch, delivering plenty of favorites from the original story, including original songs like “Let It Go”, “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman?”, and the ever so charming ballad, “Reindeers are Better than People”, as well as a new plethora of musical numbers and surprises that have just the right amount of magic to bring something fresh and exciting to even the most hardcore of Frozen fans.
Every moment dazzles, bringing the audience right into the middle of the story that goes beyond simple spectacle. The sets are elaborate, filled with brilliantly composed backdrops, set pieces, and an endless tapestry of color. But, what makes them truly stand out from other Disney themed productions is the people that help fill the scenes and bring the sets to life that flow with a very similar energy to The Lion King.
It’s a very physical show, with waves of the ensemble morphing and transforming to fit the pace of the scene, creating a boundless series of moods that tap into a wide array of emotions. You can see the cast encapsulate the dangerous waves of the Dark Sea, bring the drama of the snowstorm separating Anna and Kristoff to life, and add a special touch to Wandering Oaken’s that will leave an instant smile on your face and more than a few laughs.
Every piece of the production works together, with the utmost precision, and when it all comes together, it’s a perfect pairing of stage work, lighting, music, and performance. Those performances are key, with so many notable moments and key players sharing the spotlight. Even the smallest of elements were noticed and appreciated, including the remarkable work done bringing Sven to life with the clever use of puppetry and ballet precision.
It was suave and highly impressive, really fooling you into believing the reindeer was really on stage and engaging with the rest of the cast, looking beyond the performer and presenting something that is reminiscent of Disney Parks; creating a magical experience that really makes you forget about the realities of what makes Sven and focus on the performance instead. That dedication is commendable and something that really makes a big difference, finding a way to meld reality and fantasy together in a way audiences of all ages can appreciate.
Not enough can be said about this entire cast, especially the chemistry between Elsa (Caroline Bowman) and Anna (Lauren Nicole Chapman). Both are exceptional, perfectly aligning themselves with the core essence of what Anna and Elsa are, mixing in plenty of laughter, heart, and powerful emotions. Chapman really channels the goofy and brash nature of Anna, filled with adventurous spirit and awkwardly timed spunk. Kristen Bell would be proud!
Bowman brings in the power, delivering the weight of Elsa’s strength, struggle, and sacrifice. Her connection to the character is something that has to be seen to believe, as she weaves such a brilliant performance that wows over and over, worthy of the highest of praise. Bringing the magic to life is no easy feat, and Bowman truly shows she is worthy of the title of Queen. Both Bowman and Chapman really are a pair worth melting for!
They are joined by an incredibly talented cast, including the fun styling of Jeremy Davis as Olaf, Will Savarese as the mischievous Prince Hans of the Southern Isles, and Dominic Dorset as Kristoff. There is no shortage of awe factor, and each one of these men really bring it all front and center.
We also can’t forget the youngest members of the cast, Aria Kane as Anna and Sydney Elise Russell. Both of these young actresses really bring in the charm, and match the chemistry of their adult counterparts perfectly.
Costa Mesa is one of 19 lucky cities in the US that will host Frozen through the year, with plenty of Disney veterans adding their magical touch to the production, which include the Oscar Winning songwriting pair of Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, as well as the shining powerhouse Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios, Jennifer Lee.
They are also joined by Tony and Olivier Award winner Michael Grandage, who acts as director for Frozen, as well as two-time Tony and Oliver Award winner Christopher Oram. Lighting Design is helmed by six-time Tony award winner, Natasha Katz, with sound being dialed in by none other than seven-time Tony nominee Peter Hylenski.
Two-time Tony Award winner Stephen Oremus is music supervisor and creates vocal,
incidental and dance arrangements. He is joined on the music team by Tony nominee
Dave Metzger in orchestrions, Christ Montan as executive music producer, David Chase for additional dance arrangements, and Faith Seetoo as music director.
Make sure to check out the full schedule below and get your tickets by visiting Segerstrom’s official site! VIP Ticket Packages, which include prime seat locations and a VIP Fan Pack, are also available. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling SCFTA Group (714) 755-0236.
Frozen Show Schedule: February 1 to 19, 2023 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday Evenings at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Special Matinee Thursday, February 2 at 2:00 p.m.
Claim Jumper’s signature Frozen inspired Long Island Iced Tea and tropical mocktail featuring tropical flavors and frozen sprinkles!
Before or after the show, make sure to venture over to South Coast Plaza, which will be host of two sets of specialty cocktails and mocktails, available at Claim Jumper as well as Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar. Both venues will feature two delicious, “Frozen” drinks each and will be available through February 19th.
Next year, Disney Cruise Line is bringing back Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea for even more opportunities to embark on extraordinary adventures during these one-of-a-kind experiences.
Setting sail January through early March from Florida home ports, these exclusive events combine the fun and relaxation of a Disney cruise vacation with one unforgettable day inspired by beloved stories, legendary films and fan-favorite characters.
Pixar Day at Sea
During Pixar Day at Sea, which debuted on the Disney Fantasy in January 2023, guests are immersed in the ever-unfolding stories of their favorite toys, monsters and supers.
The daylong celebration features one-of-a-kind entertainment that brings to life the beloved tales of Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo” and more. Families enjoy a rootin’ tootin’ breakfast, a totally awesome pool party, themed activities and treats, and character encounters around every corner throughout a fun-filled day at sea that ends with a Pixar Pals Celebration dance party and a deck show of incredible proportions.
Pixar Day at Sea will be offered on nine seven-night Caribbean cruises aboard the Disney Fantasy sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Departing Jan. 6, Jan. 20, Feb. 3, Feb. 17, and March 2, 2024, the eastern Caribbean itinerary includes Tortola, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay.
Departing Jan. 13, Jan. 27, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24, 2024, the western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.
Marvel Day at Sea
Marvel Day at Sea combines the thrills of renowned Marvel comics, films and animated series with the excitement of a Disney cruise to unlock the inner Super Heroes in lifelong Marvel fans and newcomers alike.
Occurring on one action-packed day during select Disney Dream cruises, Marvel Day at Sea offers all-day entertainment and encounters with the largest assembly of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains on land or at sea – including classic Avengers, sorcerors and Guardians of the Galaxy, plus Captain America Sam Wilson, Mighty Thor, Shuri, Okoye, Scarlet Witch and many more. Highlights include an extraordinary deck show spectacular with more than 30 characters from across the multiverse, a spellbinding theater show featuring masters of the Mystic Arts, family game shows, themed youth activities, and special merchandise and menus.
Marvel Day at Sea will be offered on 10 five-night Caribbean cruises sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Departing Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18 and March 3, 2024, the western Caribbean itinerary includes George Town, Grand Cayman, and Castaway Cay.
Departing Jan. 12, Jan. 26, Feb. 9, Feb. 23, and March 8, 2024, the western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico, and Castaway Cay.
