Last Minute Gifts! Funko Games for Under $10

December 16, 2022

Don’t know what to get someone for Christmas? Funko Games has some amazing gifts and stocking stuffers to spread a little extra cheer and keep a little extra change in your pocket.

Just in time for Christmas, three full-sized, festive games that typically retail for almost $20 are now 50% off for a limited time. Available exclusively at Target, Elf – Journey from the North Pole: Collector’s Edition, Disney Mickey’s Christmas Carol Game and National Lampoon’s Christmas Carol Game, are currently just $9.99 each—a great last minute add to any holiday celebration.

Consumers looking to top-off their stockings with something fun can make the visit a one-stop shop by picking up a game or two from the Funko Games line-up of pint-sized presents, also available for under $10. Game prices start at $8.99 and are available for purchase at Target and Amazon.

These sales are available while supplies last.

Elf – Journey from the North Pole Game: Collector’s Edition
Help Buddy the Elf find his dad by laying a loopy route from the North Pole to New York City. Play path cards to the board and move Buddy along its crazy curves. Lead him toward your secret goal landmarks along the way to score points. The player with the most points when Buddy the Elf finds his dad wins! This new, limited-edition collector’s edition of Funko Games’ classic Elf-inspired board game comes in a beautiful, embossed Collector’s Edition tin.

ON SALE for $9.99, MSRP $19.99, Ages 8+, 2-5 Players

Disney Mickey’s Christmas Carol Game
Work together to tell the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge! Draw puzzle pieces from the bag and put together scenes from Disney’s holiday classic. But draw too many and the clock may strike! Hurry to finish all the pictures before Scrooge wakes up!

ON SALE for $9.99, MSRP $19.99, Ages 4+, 2-4 Players

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Game
Gather round for the game of having the hap-hap-happiest Christmas! Roll the dice to dodge holiday havoc, from that sneaky squirrel to the larger-than-life Christmas tree. But with each roll, Cousin Eddie stays another day in the RV. You can risk another roll to avoid the craziest Christmas troubles.

ON SALE for $9.99, MSRP $19.99, Ages 8+, 2-5 Players

Disney Stitch: Merry Mischief Card Game
Stitch is ready to celebrate Christmas, but he can’t contain his excitement. With each uncontrollable outburst, Stitch unwraps more and more presents. Choose which presents to try to sneak past Stitch. Then roll to find out which gifts he unwraps. Save the most presents to win! Who can save the holiday from Stitch’s mischief?

MSRP $8.99, Ages 5+, 2-6 Players

Elf – Snowball Showdown Card Game
Join Buddy the Elf in a surprise snowball fight! “Throw” a set of like-colored snowball cards at another player and they can return fire! When you’re the target, roll the jumbo snowball dice to dodge the icy barrage. When you get hit, take a snowball “splat” card-three hits and you’re out. In this frigid fight, the last elf standing wins!

MSRP $6.99, Ages 6+, 3-6 Players

Dr. Seuss – Grinch Grow Your Heart Card Game
It’s Christmas in Who-ville! What trimmings will you choose? Oh no— the Grinch is taking the presents, the feast, and even the tree! But when the Whos celebrate anyway, the Grinch’s heart grows three sizes. Take turns playing as the Whos or the Grinch. Draw cards and choose which Christmas goodies to keep. The Grinch steals cards away to improve his score, but each turn his heart grows! Collect sets and then score your cards to try to get the most points!

MSRP $6.99, Ages 6+, 3-6 Players

Disney Kingdomania: Series 1 – Game Ball
Enter the digital game world of Disney Kingdomania! Each level features cherished Disney stories and characters, but troublesome Glitches are causing chaos and mixing up the levels! Patch the problems before they crash the game!

Each Game Ball contains everything you need to play, including two mystery characters and 10 unique level tiles. Combine multiple Game Balls for more players and expand the fun with dozens of figures to collect!

Ages 6+, MSRP $9.99, 1 Player per Ball, 2 Players per Game Pack

Marvel Battleworld: Series 4 – Rise of the Symbiotes Battle Ball
Pick your favorite Heroes, rescue your friends, and win battles to defeat Thanos! Battleworld is a revolutionary cooperative, expandable, collectible adventure game, featuring dozens of characters from across the Marvel Universe! As you play, crack open mysterious Thanostones to reveal the characters inside. Series 4 introduces brand new locations, battles, and exciting game mechanics that will continue to challenge players and test their strategies!

Ages 6+, $9.99 MSRP, 1-2 Players

Barbie Official Teaser Trailer and New Poster

Socalthrills Staff

December 16, 2022

Barbie is an upcoming American romantic comedy film based on the eponymous fashion doll line by Mattel and directed by Greta Gerwig, who co-wrote the screenplay with Noah Baumbach. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling lead an ensemble cast as Barbie and Ken, respectively. It serves as the franchise’s first live-action film adaptation after a number of computer-animated direct-to-video and streaming television films.

The film was originally announced in 2009 by Universal Pictures with Laurence Mark originally producing, but development began in April 2014, when Sony Pictures acquired its rights. Following multiple writer and director changes and the casting of two different actresses to play the titular character, Sony lost the rights and these were subsequently transferred to Warner Bros. Pictures. Robbie was cast in 2019 and also serves as a producer under her LuckyChap Entertainment banner alongside Mattel Films and Heyday Films.

Gerwig was confirmed as director and co-writer with Baumbach in 2021. Gosling and the rest of the cast were announced in early 2022, and filming began in March 2022 at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden in England, concluding in July.

Barbie is scheduled to be released in the United States and United Kingdom on July 21, 2023 by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Avatar: The Way of Water Review

Maverick Bohn

December 14, 2022

James Cameron is betting the farm and the clothes on the backs of everyone over at 20th Century Studios with the release of Avatar: The Way of Water, and with almost five years of production, a massive special effects budget, and an extreme level of patience, fans are finally getting the chance to return to the world of Pandora to discover for themselves if this “flight of passage” will be worth the price of admission, time, and waiting.

Avatar: The Way of Water comes in at a hefty three hours and ten minutes, at a time where cinema is lagging and the box office is hurting. A runtime of this scale, especially for a visually challenging science fiction fantasy film is a huge risk. Even after almost a year of recovery from the pandemic, the movie going experience has taken some major hits, with many viewers and studios headed to the couch in favor of streaming debuts and short form series over sequels and silver screen releases.

It doesn’t matter the IP, the marketing budget, or what superstars come onto a project. It has been increasingly difficult to succeed. DC’s Black Adam is a pillar of example, which had all three powerhouse forces and still failed to capture the success Hollywood was hoping for.

For tested cinema veterans like Cameron, The Way of Water is a challenge that is as intriguing as it is sobering, bringing forward the question on what the fate of cinema will be moving forward and if Hollywood is willing to invest in bigger budget productions versus smaller scaled concepts that are safer with returns.

Fortunately for Cameron, this long awaited sequel has not only met the expectations set, but has surpassed them tremendously. Avatar: The Way of Water is a triumph and one that scores a win for moviegoers everywhere in a time where Hollywood needs a firm reminder of the magic that only silver screen spectacle can provide.

The Way of Water makes leaps and bounds beyond its predecessor on all counts, with visuals that are so clear, crisp, and real, you actually believe Nicole Kidman’s AMC Theatres commercial whole heartedly. That indescribable feeling hits with every second of on screen visual, cutting the boundaries even thinner for what’s possible and making every cent of the film’s behemoth budget go to work ten times over.

With the original Avatar being so famously praised for its state of the art special effects and 3D prowess, it’s not exactly a surprise that The Way of Water follows in its footsteps, but all the same, it is truly remarkable how far computer graphics and special effects have come.

Straight from the halls of Industrial Light and Magic with the legendary works of films like Jurassic Park, Willow, and Terminator 2, this film once again takes risks and is a giant leap ahead for a medium that never ceases to amaze us again and again and again. The end result is a visually captivating kaleidoscope that tells its own story unapologetically while setting up a fun, but emotional ride that will keep you intrigued from start to finish.

It accomplishes by not making the visuals the primary drive of the film, and instead, uses them along with its two primary stories to paint a narrative that is cohesive, engaging, and worthy of the runtime. Both stories also contrast in pacing, creating an interesting flow and dynamic that is carefully crafted to keep the audience fully immersed in the world of Avatar.

The faster paced storyline focuses the ongoing battle between the “Sky People” and the native Na’Vi, with plenty of unsettled scores from the original Avatar finding their way back into the spotlight.

The second story vein dives deep into the family bonds of Sully and his family, bringing the pacing to an interesting rhythm, exploring the rich world of Pandora and its connections to the Na’Vi in ways that mirror the world building pacing that is very reminiscent of stories like Lord of the Rings.

It all blends together perfectly, giving fans a chance to get the epic CG battles sci-fi flicks are well known for with action packed fighting and high stakes moments, while at the same time, taking the time to focus on the more intimate moments that viewers can resonate with and connect to. It creates a genuine sense of reality in what otherwise would be pure fantasy, and that’s the key factor at what makes this film succeed.

It also uses the runtime to its advantage, bringing the story together in a way that gives viewers a chance to be fully introduced to every new element, character, and idea without feeling lost or bogged down and overloaded.

No one element overpowers, and each is carefully curated into a larger objective, which is what brings us all into the movie theater, excited and ready to see what comes next. There’s magic at the movies, and a future that still can be just as bright and gleaming as what’s come before.

SCREAM VI Coming to Theaters March 10, 2023!

Robbie Bulus

December 14, 2022

Scream is back! Following the latest Ghostface killings, the four survivors leave Woodsboro behind and start a fresh chapter.

In Scream VI, Melissa Barrera (“Sam Carpenter”), Jasmin Savoy Brown (“Mindy Meeks-Martin”), Mason Gooding (“Chad Meeks-Martin”), Jenna Ortega (“Tara Carpenter”), Hayden Panettiere (“Kirby Reed”) and Courteney Cox (“Gale Weathers”) return to their roles in the franchise alongside Jack Champion, Henry Czerny, Liana Liberato, Dermot Mulroney, Devyn Nekoda, Tony Revolori, Josh Segarra, and Samara Weaving.

Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group Present
A Project X Entertainment Production
A Radio Silence Film
“Scream VI”

Executive Producers Kevin Williamson, Gary Barber, Peter Oillataguerre, Chad Villella, Courteney Cox, Ron Lynch, Cathy Konrad, Marianne Maddalena

Produced by William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, Paul Neinstein

Based on Characters Created by Kevin Williamson

Written by James Vanderbilt & Guy Busick

Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin & Tyler Gillett

Super Nintendo World Opens at USH Feb 17, 2023!

Socalthrills Staff

December 14, 2022

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, the innovative, immersive and highly-anticipated themed land officially opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on Friday, February 17, 2023. So, get ready; this exciting debut marks SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s official arrival to the United States.

This all-new, dynamic land will be 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 entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom. Along with themed dining at the Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be an inspiring, game-changing addition to the world-famous theme park.

From the moment guests pass through the iconic green pipe, a journey filled with exploration, discovery and play awaits that is entirely unlike anything they’ve experienced before. Their journey begins as they enter Peach’s Castle before venturing further into the colorful Mushroom Kingdom.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will sweep guests into the 360-degree world of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach where they will become an integral part of their exhilarating universe. Plus, with purchase of a Power-Up Band™ – wearable, interactive wristbands – guests will be able to deepen their interactions across the land.

As the countdown to the grand opening begins, here’s a sneak peek of what to expect:

“Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge:” This all-new, technologically-advanced ride, inspired by the popular Mario Kart™ video game series, will seamlessly fuse cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces along a moving ride track. Set against a multi-sensory backdrop of color, sound and movement, guests will be seated in stadium-style, four-seat vehicles as they navigate familiar courses through the creative use and integration of head mounted AR goggles. This unique feature is a key point of differentiation that distinguishes this ride from other theme park attractions.

The premise of “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” is simple but equally inspiring and challenging, appealing to guests of all ages regardless of gaming experience. As part of Team Mario, guests will steer through underwater courses and courses in the clouds to compete for the Golden Cup while collecting coins to defeat Team Bowser and win. “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” raises the stakes for guests as an intriguing and repeatable ride with a variety of outcomes.

Mount Beanpole: This towering landmark sits at the heart of the land and also serves as the entry queue for “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.”

Bowser’s Castle: Adorned with a breathtaking sculpture of a large and powerful Bowser, this structure serves as a key centerpiece of the land, home to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s signature ride, “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” As guests navigate the winding corridors and pass through the hall of medallions and trophies of the ominous castle towards the “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, they will learn more about Bowser’s calculated plans to defeat Team Mario for the coveted Golden Cup.

Power-Up Band™: These wearable, state-of-the-art wristbands sync with Universal Studios Hollywood’s free downloadable app to level-up the guest experience within the land and enhance its many interactive elements. These include, but are not limited to, keeping individual and team scores, collecting digital coins and obtaining keys after winning challenges throughout the land. Power-Up Bands will also invite guests to enjoy extra-special interactions with Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. They will come in six design options with character themes and will be available for purchase both within the land and at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail shops located in the theme park and on CityWalk.

Interactive Gameplay: Within the land, guests will become fully engulfed in an engaging world of real-life gameplay, including punching ? Blocks to collect digital coins and a variety of interactives. They will discover a new dimension of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD via the interactive binoculars employing augmented reality technology positioned within the land. Guests can beat the four Key Challenges and collect keys from Goomba, Koopa Troopa, Piranha Plant and Thwomp interactive activities to ultimately allow access to the culminating boss battle with Bowser Jr. These energetic, familiar and fun interactive games will further enhance the entire kinetic experience within the land and immerse guests into the unique world of Super Mario.

Toadstool Cafe™: The land’s signature restaurant Toadstool Cafe will serve a gourmet menu perfected by Chef Toad where he will greet guests upon entry. Menu items prepared fresh daily include Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, ? Block Tiramisu and Princess Peach Cupcake.

1-UP Factory: What better way to commemorate a visit to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD than to visit the 1-UP Factory retail shop to purchase collectable memorabilia. The 1-UP Factory will offer an extensive selection of merchandise from Mario and Luigi themed apparel to iconic character hats and an array of plush characters, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi and Bowser.

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.

More information and details will be shared soon.

USPS Gets Festive With a Lunar New Year Stamp

Robbie Bulus

December 13, 2022

The Postal Service (USPS) will issue the latest Lunar New Year stamp celebrating the Year of the Rabbit. This stamp design calls to mind the elaborately decorated masks used in the dragon or lion dances often performed in Lunar New Year parades.

The unveiling will be in San Francisco on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023, at 11 a.m. PST. The first-day-of-issue event for the stamp is free and open to the public.

This three-dimensional mask depicting a rabbit is a contemporary take on the long tradition of paper-cut folk art crafts created during this auspicious time of year. The rabbit mask design incorporates colors and patterns with symbolic meaning.

Art director Antonio Alcalá designed the stamp and the pane with original art by Camille Chew.

The Year of the Rabbit stamp is being issued in panes of 20. It will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.

Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year for many Asian communities around the world and is primarily celebrated by people of Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tibetan, Mongolian, Malaysian and Filipino heritage. Across these varied cultures, many traditions exist for ringing in a new year of good luck and prosperity.

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide.

Limited Edition Ariel Doll Available Now on shopDisney

Robbie Bulus

December 13, 2022

The newest addition to The Disney Designer Collection Ultimate Princess Celebration is the Ariel Doll! Making waves and stepping onto the shore, Ariel has surfaced on shopDisney as the final doll in this illustrious collection.

Designer Rocío Cintrón discovered a personal resonance with the story of The Little Mermaid, finding a parallel with Ariel: the longing to be part of two different worlds, while celebrating Latinx culture as an American. This limited edition, carefully crafted doll was inspired by the very moment Ariel emerges from the sea, adorned with aquatic designs in a shimmering purple dress.

There are additional Disney Princesses available on shopDisney as well, each from very different kingdoms. The New Orleans-inspired Tiana doll by designer Cathy Clark-Ramirez is fused with bold art deco embellishments, a perfect match for Tiana’s determination.

Designer Richard Chan was inspired by nature when conceiving the woodland flower-themed dress for Sleeping Beauty’s forest maiden Briar Rose. Designer Heidi Ticehurst celebrates Belle’s Kindness and courage with a delicate sweeping dress, adorned in a deep red fierce enough to face any beast.

No need to wait until the last-minute or for the clock to strike midnight when choosing a Holiday gift with these brand-new, beautiful dolls – now available on shopDisney!

The Walt Disney Company Wins 16 Emmy Awards

Robbie Bulus

December 12, 2022

The Walt Disney Company has won 16 Emmy Awards at the inaugural Children’s & Family Emmy Awards which was held in December 2022 across its content brands and studios: Disney Branded Television, Disney Junior, Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television, Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Studios. Disney’s streaming platforms Disney+ and Hulu earned 13 wins and one, respectively.

A complete list of Disney’s Emmy Award wins follows:

Sneakerella (Disney+/Disney Branded Television)

4 wins

Outstanding Fiction Special
Outstanding Music Direction And Composition for a Live Action Program
Outstanding Editing for a Single Camera Program
Outstanding Choreography

The Mysterious Benedict Society (Disney+/20th Television/Disney Branded Television)

2 wins

Outstanding Directing for a Single Camera Program
Outstanding Costume Design/Styling

The Quest (Disney+/Disney Branded Television)

2 wins

Outstanding Directing for a Multiple Camera Program
Outstanding Special Effects Costumes, Makeup and Hairstyling for a Live Action Program

Better Nate Than Ever (Disney+/Walt Disney Studios)

1 win

Outstanding Cinematography for a Live Action Single Camera Program

Ciao Alberto (Disney+/ Pixar Animation Studios)

1 win

Outstanding Editing for an Animated Program

Endlings (Hulu)

1 win

Outstanding Visual Effects for a Live Action Program

Mickey and Minnie Wish Upon a Christmas (Disney Junior/Disney Branded Television)

1 win

Outstanding Voice Performance In A Preschool Animated Program – Daniel Ross

Monsters at Work (Disney+/Disney Branded Television/Disney Television Animation)

1 win – Juried Award

Individual Achievement in Animation – Character Design – Ron Tolentino Velasco

Muppet Babies (Disney Junior/Disney Branded Television)

1 win

Outstanding Writing for a Preschool Animated Program

Muppets Haunted Mansion (Disney+/Disney Branded Television)

1 win

Outstanding Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic Design (tie)

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder (Disney+ /Disney Branded Television)

1 win

Outstanding Casting for an Animated Program

Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special Animation Style

Robbie Bulus

December 9, 2022

As the Guardians in Marvel Studios’ The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special undertake a mission to create an unforgettable holiday for Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, animators at acclaimed Stoopid Buddy Stoodios brought their talents to the Marvel Studios’ Special Presentation to make it equally unforgettable for viewers.

In striking, hand-drawn sequences that bookend the wildly popular new The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, which debuted Nov. 25 exclusively on Disney+, animators at Stoopid Buddy helped create a previously unknown story in a style that echoes nostalgia for late-20th century pop-culture that’s a Guardians of the Galaxy hallmark.

“Right from the start, James Gunn said he hoped to emulate the Ralph Bakshi style that was popular in the 1960s and ’70s, and there was no way to cheat it – it had to be hand-drawn rotoscoping,” explains Mac Whiting, lead animation supervisor on The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special. “After seeing the animation test, Marvel arranged for us to be involved with the live-action shoot in Georgia. James and the Marvel team made the experience a real bucket-list item for any animator and fueled our desire to make the animation in this project as special as it deserved to be.”

Whiting and his Stoopid Buddy team used the live-action footage to draw each frame by hand – a feat they were able to achieve in just over two months.

While Stoopid Buddy is widely known for its stunning stop-motion animation work, which has included Marvel’s M.O.D.O.K. as well as its Emmy® Award-winning Robot Chicken series, traditional hand-drawn animation is a growing field for the company. Still, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special represented a singular challenge that Stoopid Buddy co-founder Matt Senreich says they couldn’t resist.

“James entrusted us with a tremendous vision,” Senreich says. “When we produced an initial eight seconds of test footage with Michael Rooker as Yondu, we knew we could match that vision, and, through animation, bring something entirely new to Guardians of the Galaxy. Stoopid Buddy is incredibly proud to be associated with it.”

Stoopid Buddy produced the animation for The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special in association with Victoria, Australia-based Studio Moshi, ensuring a round-the-clock production pipeline to meet the deadline that would get the special to Disney+ in time for a very special holiday for Marvel fans.

“This has been one of the most exciting and creatively challenging projects I’ve ever been a part of, especially due to the demanding nature and high volume of hand-drawn animation, but the results are more than worth it,” Whiting says. “Fans are going to be watching this holiday special for many years to come, like so many of the specials we grew up with.”

The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Disneyland After Dark Returns in 2023 with New Event

Socalthrills Staff

December 9, 2022

Disneyland After Dark events are returning to the Disneyland Resort in 2023! Love is in the air for the ultimate date night at a royal gathering with two specially themed, limited-time after-park hours events, Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite, and introducing for the very first time, Disneyland After Dark: Princess Nite! Magical entertainment, encounters with beloved Disney characters, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, scrumptious foods and drinks, collectible merchandise and more make these special celebrations guests won’t want to miss!

Disneyland After Dark begins with a three-hour pre-party mix-in from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. PT at Disneyland park, then the private party begins from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. PT, which also means guests may ride some popular attractions after regular park hours! Additionally, at each of these events, guests will receive unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party, plus commemorative keepsakes including a souvenir credential and event guide map.

Here are a few of the details:

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite

Jan. 31, Feb. 2, 5, 7, 9, 14, 16, 2023, at Disneyland Park

Sweethearts’ Nite will take place on seven different “date nights” in Disneyland park – the most ever for a Disneyland After Dark event:

Gaze up at a special themed fireworks show
Dance at the Royal Ball hosted by Aladdin and Jasmine near “it’s a small world”
Take a moonlit cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat with the sounds of a live jazz ensemble
Relax and unwind to the sounds of island music from a Polynesian trio drifting through the night air at The Tropical Hideaway
Delight in many deliciously themed menu items available for purchase, created just for the event
Capture your moment with photo opportunities with darling Disney couples and spots inspired by romantic scenes from Disney films such as “Lady and the Tramp” and “The Little Mermaid,” including unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the party
Enjoy pre-party mix-in admission to Disneyland park starting at 6 p.m., no theme park reservation required

Disneyland After Dark: Princess Nite

March 7 & 9, 2023, at Disneyland Park

Guests are invited to be royally fierce at Disneyland After Dark: Princess Nite! This all-new, first-ever event will be a celebration under the stars where adventurous heroines and aspirational hearts unite! Immerse in this empowering night at Disneyland park with iconic characters who light the world with kindness, courage, and a touch of magic. With shimmering décor, special photo opportunities, themed food and beverage offerings, commemorative keepsakes and characters galore, guests will be ready to step into their own adventure of bravery and grace.

Receive a royal welcome at the Disneyland Train Station featuring Princess Minnie Mouse and Princess Daisy Duck with fanfare trumpeters
Enjoy an inspiring musical concert celebrating heartwarming, adventurous heroines including Moana, Merida and more accompanied by live vocalists
Raise the royal roof and dance the night away at the high-energy, candy-themed dance party at Tomorrowland stage with Vanellope Von Schweetz
Revel in Tiana’s Southern hospitality and dance along to jazz music in New Orleans Square
Savor specialty menu items befitting royalty throughout Disneyland park, available for purchase
Picture yourself in photo backdrops inspired by Disney films like “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Princess Diaries” including unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the party
Have a ball with pre-party mix-in admission to Disneyland park starting at 6 p.m., no theme park reservation required

Tickets will be available on Disneyland.com beginning next week. On Dec. 12, 2022 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), a limited number of tickets for these Disneyland After Dark events go on pre-sale for Magic Key holders. On Dec. 14, 2022 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), tickets will go on sale to the general public and are subject to availability.*

*The number of tickets available for each event date are limited, and event tickets are valid only for the specific event date and hours. Parking fees are not included in the ticket price. Tickets must be purchased online and are not available on the day of the event. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date, and no discounts apply. Tickets not required for guests ages 2 and under.

Tickets are non-refundable and may not be resold or transferred for commercial purposes. Costumes are subject to Disney guidelines and should not be obstructive or offensive; please check special event costume guidelines at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/faq/parks/dress/ for restrictions. Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the Disney PhotoPass terms and expiration policy found at Disneyland.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Only select attractions, experiences, offerings, and services will be available during the event.

Event, event elements, and available offerings may be modified and limited in availability, and are subject to restrictions, change or cancellation without notice or liability. No refunds given for any changes or cancellations whether due to inclement weather or otherwise. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

A Review of ABT’s The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Maverick Bohn

December 8, 2022

Segerstrom Center of the Arts will once again be home to one of the most iconic holiday staples of the ages with the triumphant return of Tchaikovsky’s, The Nutcracker. A production as iconic and as beloved as the season itself, The Nutcracker sparks a wondrous sense of joy and cheer, giving audiences the perfect gift this holiday.

This limited engagement will mark the seventh time that the prestigious American Ballet Theatre troupe has brought the iconic story of The Nutcracker to Segerstrom, with this year’s production being one that’s impossible to ignore, breathing a new life into the timeless classic through the brilliant styling and magical musings of Alexei Ratmansky and his incredibly talented and diverse ensemble.

American Ballet Theatre’s rendition of The Nutcracker has an everlasting spirit, leaving the audience with a warm feeling of holiday magic that you will want to experience time and time over, making it so abundantly clear why this version of the holiday tale has become such an Orange County staple.

It all comes to a symphonic peak with an over abundance of sensory delights formed from a mix of Tchaikovsky’s powerful melodies, brilliant new costumes, and a dazzling dance of sets that are just as awe striking as the very dancers that float across the stage beneath them. The use of practical effects and transitions, tied with forced perspective and quick illusions makes the entire experience invigorating, generating a cinematic element that is sure to impress.

The Nutcracker’s technical prowess comes from Tony Award Winning designers in lighting through the talents of Jennifer Tipton, and the colorful and whimsical costume elements of Richard Hudson. It’s a perfect match that sets this production apart from its predecessors.

They are joined with the music of the Pacific Symphony, who deservedly received multiple rounds of roaring applause for their enchanting renditions of The Nutcracker’s classic score, being a core pillar of the production’s charm through every melody. Pacific Symphony really sets the tone, giving every opportunity for ABT’s ensemble to shine bright and clear.

Yet, the highest of praise has to come to the wonderful and spectacular duo of Devon Teuscher and Jon Won Ahn, who bring their all as the dream world counterparts to Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. Their chemistry is unmatched, loving, and joyous to behold, filled with a decadence that rivals that of the sugar plums they frolic through on their adventure through their dreamlike trance.

The Nutcracker will have 12 dedicated performances for guests of all ages between December 9th and December 18th in Segerstrom Hall. Tickets start as low as $29 and can be purchased through Segerstrom’s official site, or at the Segerstrom Box Office. Here’s a look at the full slate of performances below!

Friday, December 9 at 7 p.m. – Devon Teuscher, Joo Won Ahn

Saturday, December 10 at 2 p.m. – Isabella Boylston, James Whiteside

Saturday, December 10 at 7 p.m. – Catherine Hurlin, Aran Bell

Sunday, December 11 at 12:30 p.m. – Cassandra Trenary, Calvin Royal III

Sunday, December 11 at 5:30 p.m. – Christine Shevchenko, Thomas Forster

Wednesday, December 14 at 7 p.m. – Hee Seo, Cory Stearns

Thursday, December 15 at 7 p.m. – Skyler Brandt, Herman Cornejo

Friday, December 16 at 7 p.m. – Cassandra Trenary, Calvin Royal lll

Saturday, December 17 at 2 p.m. – Devon Teuscher, Joo Won Ahn

Saturday, December 17 at 7 p.m. – Skylar Brandt, Herman Cornejo

Sunday, December 18 at 12:30 p.m. – Catherine Hurlin, Aran Bell

Sunday, December 18 at 5:30 p.m. – Hee Seo, Cory Stearns

Segerstrom’s remaining holiday shows and concert schedules are also available; including ‘Tis the Season, Alton Brown Live Beyond the Eats- The Holiday Variant, and the Johnny Mathis Christmas Concert.

Make sure to take a look before the season flutters away!

D23 Announces Slate of Exciting Events in 2023

Socalthrills Staff

December 8, 2022

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is celebrating Disney fans across the country as Disney100 kicks off. Members of D23 will be able to enjoy exclusive experiences as Disney honors its remarkable past and looks to its bright future.

DESTINATION D23: D23 returns to The Most Magical Place on Earth for the biggest Disney fan event of 2023 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, September 8–10, to celebrate 100 years of The Walt Disney Company. Fans will be among the first to hear exciting announcements and see sneak peeks from the many worlds of Disney—and relive favorite memories with behind-the-scenes stories, special guests, and so much more at this epic event.

THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS OFFICIAL TOUR – PRESENTED BY D23: D23 welcomes guests to The Walt Disney Studios Lot, giving members the opportunity to visit the world-famous studio in Burbank, California. These tours offer fans a unique perspective on historic moments from Disney films, television series, and theme parks—along with the chance to look inside the Walt Disney Archives and draw inspiration from Walt Disney’s office suite.

FAN-FAVORITE MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES: D23 will celebrate several milestone anniversaries with in-person events in 2023 for fan-favorite films, including Finding Nemo (20th), Mulan (25th), and Who Framed Roger Rabbit (35th). D23 is excited to celebrate these iconic films with extra-special experiences and even more magic for D23 Members. And Halloween will return in phantom fashion, celebrating the anniversaries of monstrously major movies including Hocus Pocus (30th), Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (30th), and Halloweentown (25th).

WALT’S MARCELINE: Walt Disney frequently cited this charming Missouri town where he spent his early childhood as one of his greatest influences. It’s lovely main thoroughfare was an inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A. D23 Members will have a chance to return in June 2023 for a very special hometown event.

D23 NIGHTS WITH DISNEY THEATRICAL: D23 and the North American tours of Disney’s The Lion King and Disney’s Frozen are excited to offer D23 Members exclusive theatrical experiences, including special ticket packages and post-show Q&As with cast members. D23 will kick off these dazzling theatrical events in Los Angeles with The Lion King and in Costa Mesa, California, with Frozen, and offer an exclusive experience with the cast during the highly anticipated opening of Disney’s Hercules at the Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey.

SIGNATURE EVENTS: Fans can look forward to D23 Gold Member previews of Walt Disney Archives traveling exhibitions across the country. D23 Gold Members will enjoy advance and opening night screenings of new Disney films at locations across the country. Walt Disney Imagineering’s exclusive merchandise store, Mickey’s of Glendale, will open its doors to members with both online and in-person opportunities. Look out for the return of the holiday favorite Light Up the Season in December 2023 as part of a very merry D23 Holiday Celebration!

Dates, ticketing information, and more D23 events will be announced throughout the year. Full details on D23’s lineup of 2023 special events can be found on the fan club’s website at D23.com/Events. Additional dates will be posted soon. All events and dates are subject to change.

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