“Kim’s Convenience” sweeps up a wholesome wholesale of dramedy with family, life, dreams, and pursuit of happiness. It’s finally time to checkout more Asian stories be told on both screen and stage. Any customer of TV’s “Fresh Off the Boat” and cinema’s “Everything, Everywhere, All at Once”, should instantly buy into the market of “Kim’s Convenience”. The show focuses more on the drama which helps the audience relate to the characters more when the punchlines are given that releases the tension. This timeless and relatable story is worth the full price of admission for any audience with an immigration background.
Laguna Playhouse opens its 2022-2023 season with the California premiere of “Kim’s Convenience”, written by Ins Choi and directed by Jon Lawrence Rivera. The most successful new Canadian play of the last decade, “Kim’s Convenience” is an ode to generations of immigrants set in a family-run Korean convenience store. Mr. Kim is a first-generation Korean immigrant and the proud owner of Kim’s Convenience for the past 30 years. He runs the business with his church-going wife.
Now he’s trying desperately to grapple with both a changing neighborhood landscape and the chasm between him and his second-generation offspring. His daughter, Janet, pursues a career in photography while his estranged son, Jung, is unhappy working at a rental car company. Since its debut in 2011, the play has been a proud recipient of numerous Canadian theatre awards. “Kim’s Convenience” latter translated into the hit Canadian TV series and featured on Netflix program of the same name headed by the original writer.
Yong Kim as “Appa” establishes a character dependent on his genuine instincts to survive the real world with stubbornness and pride. Janet Song as “Umma” flowers grace and carries a bridge between father and son. Susane Lee as “Janet” struggles to keep her sanity in the tug of war between generations. Clinton Lowe in multiple roles as “Alex”, “Rich”, “Mr. Lee”, and “Mike” puts on display a rolling range of talent and harmony. And Gavin Kawin Lee as “Jung” respectively.
Mr. Kim receives an offer to buy out his store; enough to retire. He faces the potential of change and searches what actions to take. Options present themselves, but not without their own series of setbacks. The interaction between parent and child show the generational gap that strain relationships. “Appa” is from another country with traditional culture and background. He is superficial when it comes to profiling his customers and neighbors.
Janet is born and raised Canadian who has a love/hate view of her father. He does not see how mocking her dreams devalues her self-worth. She is reluctant to his advances of teaching her how to run the store. Even when it comes to taking out the trash. It was also a powerful and scary-accurate moment to witness on stage the difficulty a clueless parent has when it comes to exchanging words like “thank you”, “sorry”, and “I love you” to their child. The conversations with “Umma” is refreshingly spoken in Korean with English subtitles projected on an overhead wall for the audience.
Towards the end, closure takes a forward step with the children. Jung returns to the store after many years away. I thought for a moment the show would end right there, but thankfully there was more. “Appa” had Jung spouting Korean history. I thought maybe one puzzle was to be the year Jung was born, but that was not the case. Perhaps that would have been too cheesy? Janet’s story arch felt more wholesome and authentic. Jung’s story arch was askew and remains as such in the end.
There wasn’t enough draw to pull me in. Maybe I missed the point of Janet’s story having an affect on Mr. Kim’s attitude toward Jung. The one act stage play is presented with no intermission and runs about an hour and twenty minutes.
Playing now and ready for checkout at your earliest convenience until Sunday, October 9, 2022 at 1 pm at the Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Drive in Laguna Beach. Performances will be Wednesdays through Fridays at 7:30 pm; Saturdays at 2 pm & 7:30 pm; Sundays at 1 pm & 5:30 pm. There will be added performances on Thursday, September 29 at 2 pm and Tuesday, October 4 at 7:30 pm. There will no performance on Sunday, October 9 at 5:30 pm.
Tickets range from $50 – $75 and can be purchased online at www.lagunaplayhouse.com or by calling (949) 497-ARTS (2787). Group discounts are available by calling 949-497-2787 ext. 229. Prices subject to change.
The box office is open Mondays – Saturdays between 12 pm to 4 pm; Sundays open 2 hours prior to show time until 15 minutes after curtain. Open until showtime on all performance days.
Disney Music Group has teamed up with Tony Award®-winning Deaf West Theatre to release an American Sign Language (ASL) version of the Billboard chart-topping song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from Walt Disney Animation Studio’s Encanto, in celebration of International Day of Sign Languages, which was on September 23rd.
“The impact this film has on children cannot be dismissed. The majority of Deaf children are born to hearing families and sometimes the only exposure to the community and sign language is through videos like this. By working with Disney Music Group on expanding the access to one of their songs to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities brings us immense pride. We’ve previously collaborated with Disney Music Group on ASL videos for World Princess Week and Encanto’s ‘Surface Pressure,’ and are excited by our continued collaborative relationship advancing inclusion,” said DJ Kurs, Deaf West’s Artistic Director.
Featuring an all-Deaf Colombian and Latinx cast, this signed video adaptation of the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” utilizes both American Sign Language (ASL) and Colombian Sign Language (LSC, Lengua de Señas Colombiana) to add additional layers of authenticity and poetry to the song.
The sung English lyrics were translated into ASL and CSL by a team of Sign Language Choreographers who worked through the text to find the best and most accurate translation into sign and once complete it comes together into a seamless ballet of sign and music.
The video features Nataly Barahona (Pepa), Andres Otalora (Felix), Donna Valverde (Mirabel and Abuela), Jasmine Garcia (Isabela), Joseph Rocha (Camilo) and Andrea Rodriguez (Dolores). The principle creatives include Donna Valverde and Nataly Barahona (ASL Choreographers), Andres Otalora (Director of Photography), and Austin Balaich (Editor).
The Encanto Original Motion Picture Soundtrack features eight original songs by Academy Award-nominated, Tony® and Grammy®-winning songwriter/composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”) with an original score by Academy Award-nominated composer Germaine Franco.
The R.I.A.A. Platinum-certified soundtrack held the No. 1 position on the Billboard 200 album chart for 9 non-consecutive weeks and the R.I.A.A. 3x Platinum-certified song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” topped the Hot 100 chart for 5 weeks. The soundtrack and song held the No. 1 position on the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 simultaneously for five consecutive weeks.
Founded in Los Angeles in 1991, Tony Award®-winning Deaf West Theatre (Artistic Director, DJ Kurs), engages artists and audiences in unparalleled theater experiences inspired by Deaf culture and the expressive power of sign language, weaving American Sign Language (ASL) with spoken English to create a seamless ballet of movement and voice. Committed to innovation, collaboration, and training, Deaf West Theatre is the artistic bridge between the Deaf and hearing worlds and a trusted resource for authentic storytelling and casting in film, television, and video projects.
Projects include: A fresh and thrilling new adaptation of Oedipus at The Getty Villa, the groundbreaking production of Fidelio with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Gustavo Dudamel; The Solid of Life of Sugar Water by Jack Thorne; Our Town, in a co-production with the Pasadena Playhouse; Edward Albee’s At Home at the Zoo, in a co-production with the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts; Spring Awakening the Musical, which transferred from Inner-City Arts to the Wallis and then to Broadway (three Tony Award® nominations including Best Revival of a Musical).
American Buffalo (Los Angeles Times “Critic’s Choice”); Cyrano, a co-production with the Fountain Theatre (Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Production); Big River the Musical (Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle and Backstage Garland awards for Best Musical in its L.A. premiere, a Tony Award® nomination, and four Drama Desk Awards on Broadway); Pippin, produced at the Mark Taper Forum in a co-production with Center Theatre Group; Sleeping Beauty Wakes, also a co-production with Center Theatre Group, presented at the Kirk Douglas Theatre; Oliver! (Ovation Award for Best Musical) and A Streetcar Named Desire (Ovation Award for Best Play).
In 2005, Deaf West Theatre was selected to receive the Highest Recognition Award by the Secretary of Health and Human Services for its “distinguished contributions to improve and enrich the culture lives of Deaf and hard of hearing actors and theater patrons.
One of the many star-studded panels at D23 Expo this year was the joyful and very specifically named “A Celebration of Disney Animation’s Encanto — Technology Powered by AT&T 5G”
Hosted by Tamron Hall, this panel of filmmakers included choreographer Jamal Sims, Adassa (Dolores,) Clark Spencer (President, Walt Disney Animation,) Carolina Gaitán (Pepa,) Diane Guerrero (Isabela,) producer Yvett Merino, Mauro Castillo (Félix,) writer/director Jared Bush, and Wilmer Valderrama (Agustín.)
Highlights:
Sims on the process of choreographing “We Don’t Talk About Bruno:” “It started with conversations with our directors, producers…talking about the story. For me, that’s where I connect. I have to know what the story is and what story I’m telling through movement…I really wanted to make sure that if the words went away, the movement would tell the story, you know, and so that was really important to me.”
While songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda could not be there in person, he joined the panel virtually through the magic of AT&T 5G.
Miranda: “I’m trapped in Bruno’s tower…and if you remember, they never really explained how Mirabel got down from there?” Bush: “Shh! Shh!”
Asked how he got involved with the project, Miranda said he had heard “rumblings” about a Latin-themed Disney animation piece while he was working on Moana, and told anyone who would listen that it was something he had been preparing for all of his life–“put me in that room!”
After a brief discussion about the difficulties of making a film together but apart during COVID times, Miranda reflected on the influences of the time: “…to piggyback on what you said about making this during the pandemic. It’s not lost on me that the two biggest sort of chart hits were ‘Surface Pressure’ and ‘We Don’t Talk About Bruno.’ I wrote those in April and May of 2020, like at the height of this thing. I was living with my in-laws.‘Surface Pressure’ is about how do I keep my family safe? at the bottom of the day, and ‘We Don’t Talk About Bruno’ is about what are we allowed to talk about in front of your mother?…So I think some of that secret sauce is why that resonated with people. I think we all went through versions of those two questions, like how do we live with each other when we’re all under one roof? and how do we stay safe?“
Valderrama on seeing his character for the first time: “…You were in that room and your character pops up and it hits you in the heart so incredibly. It just goes wow that’s…that’s me, and that’s gonna be me forever. It’s a beautiful gift, and only Walt Disney Animation Studios has the capability to bring that magic to all those actors. And the memories that we remember growing up with, now we can provide to our kids. It’s unbelievable.”
The rest of the cast had similar emotional responses to their characters, and often found they shared goals and dreams with them. From Isabela’s need to let go of perfection, to Pepa’s ability to allow herself to feel whatever she feels in the moment, to Dolores’ soft-spoken, centered nature, they all found elements of themselves in the characters as well as aspirational traits they wished to take from the characters.
A special event was then announced: “ENCANTO AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL.” For two evenings, November 11 and 12, the Encanto cast will reunite to perform songs from the film in an immersive concert experience with a live orchestra and 50-person ensemble. The cast will include Stephanie Beatriz (Mirabel Madrigal), Carolina Gaitán (Pepa Madrigal), Olga Merediz (Abuela Alma Madrigal), Jessica Darrow (Luisa Madrigal), Diane Guerrero (Isabela Madrigal), Adassa (Dolores Madrigal), Angie Cepeda (Julieta Madrigal) and Mauro Castillo (Félix Madrigal.) Chris Howe and Jamal Sims will direct, and the orchestra will be conducted by Anthony Parnther.
Tickets go on sale at 10:00 a.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 23. American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Sept. 20 at 10:00 a.m. PT through Thursday, Sept. 22, at 10:00 p.m. PT.
The panel ended with a rousing sing-along of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” perhaps giving a taste of what lucky concert-goers will experience at the Hollywood Bowl in November.
Along with all the big announcements and the famous celebrities and the historical insight D23 Expo has to offer, one of its big draws has traditionally been the fabulous musical performances that often close out individual presentations or even the Expo itself. This year was no exception.
As one of the big closing acts of the 2022 D23 Expo, guests were treated to “Disney Princess–The Concert Live at D23!” a special, condensed version of the popular touring show, starring SyndeeWinters (Broadway’s ‘Nala’ in The Lion King, Hamilton,) IsabelleMcCalla (Broadway’s ‘Jasmine’ in Aladdin,) Anneliesevan der Pol (That’s So Raven, Raven’s Home,Broadway’s final ‘Belle’ in Beauty and The Beast,) and Susan Egan (Broadway’s original ‘Belle’ in Beauty and the Beast, ‘Meg’ in Disney’s animated feature Hercules) as the four Disney princesses.
Rounding out the cast were Music Director, Benjamin Rauhala (Fiddler on the Roof, The Secret Life of Bees) and performing the part of all the princes, Adam J. Levy (Moulin Rouge, Waitress.)
The group performed a wide range of Disney songs from classics such as Snow White to Beauty and the Beast to Moana to Frozen with huge animated backdrops, broken up with personal anecdotes about each woman’s experience as a Disney Broadway princess.
Even a non-Disney film got in there (still a princess.)
While each princess (and prince) got their own solo spots in the show, the real magic came from their group numbers of powerhouse harmonizing, particularly in their opening number “Starting Now” and “Into The Unknown.”
It was a magical hour of beautiful voices and glittery dresses that any fan of Disney music would enjoy.
MagicBands were one of the biggest pieces of Disneyland news was missing from this year’s Disney Parks and Resorts panel at the D23 Expo and it looks like we finally got the 411 on the future of MagicBands and MagicBand+ coming to the Disneyland Resort with this latest update from the Disney Parks Blog!
Though a definite release date has not yet been shared, the blog teases a fall release for the newly upgraded MagicBand+, which just recently debuted at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Disneyland Resort fans will soon get to enjoy the same perks as their Florida parkgoers, which allow them to access theme park tickets, Genie+ reservations, as well as give them the ability to get access to their Photopass photos with the flick of a wrist. Whether or not MagicBand+ will work with Disneyland Resort Hotel key access and park purchases are yet to be determined based on the report.
Though some other fun surprises await, including interactive features that will allow the wearer’s band to interact with the park, shows, and entertainment spectaculars, such as World of Color over at Disney California Adventure Park. A new interactive experience will also debut in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The Batuu Bounty Hunters interactive quest will guide visitors of Black Spire Outpost, finding virtual bounties across Batuu. When you find your bounty, you will be able to use an impressive augmented reality thermal viewer that guests can find in the Play Disney Parks App, revealing who’s hiding in the shadows. If you are successful in your quest, you will be able to visit local guild master Raga Bua to collect your bounty!
More interactive experiences have been teased, so stay tuned Disneyland fans! More news will come with an official release date, exclusive designs, as well as more activities guests can look forward to unlocking once MagicBand+ comes to Disney Parks. Exciting is hardly the word we would choose, as we cannot wait to welcome MagicBands to the Disneyland Resort. SoCalThrills will keep you updated as news develops!
As the leaves begin to change color and slowly fall to the ground, jackets and sweaters find their way out of the closet and back out in the chilly, open air, and the return of Halloween just days away, it’s safe to say the holiday season isn’t far behind.
The highly anticipated and ever popular series is back by Igloo Books, featuring 24 unique, inclusive, and special stories connecting to all corners of Disney’s most powerful and memorable tales. Each day, a new story will be unwrapped, giving fans of all ages a chance to let their imagination take flight and relive incredible adventures with their favorite Disney characters. We’ve had a chance to take a sneak peek into holiday future and can safely say you will not be disappointed in what’s to come!
Our favorite finds when opening our holiday presents were stories featuring new and iconic Disney characters from the latest popular releases like Raya and the Last Dragon, Luca, Onward, and Turning Red. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of Disney classics coming along for the ride. Mickey, Minnie, and the whole gang return in some wonderful yuletide tales and tagging along include the likes of Peter Pan, Dumbo, Pinocchio, and so many more!
Holiday Spoilers Below for those who want to see what’s inside this year’s collection!
This is Igloo Books’ fifth year of publishing the Storybook Collection Advent Calendar series, and in 2021 sold 950,000 copies (across the series) worldwide. For 2022 they are continuing the Disney, Disney Princess, and Marvel advents, and are introducing Disney Calendario de Adviento which is entirely in Spanish. Each calendar includes 24 mini storybooks to unwrap from December 1st through December 24th and are great reusable products which can be enjoyed year after year, making a fantastic holiday tradition for families to cherish together.
Disney’s Storybook Collection Advent Calendar 2022 Full List:
1. Mickey’s Christmas Memories
2. The Jungle Book: It Takes Two
3. Disney Bunnies: The Secret Clubhouse
4. Disney-Pixar Turning Red
5. Lady and the Tramp: Baking Up The Right Tree
6. Toy Story 4: Officer McDimples on Duty
7. Disney Villains: Coup at the Zoo
8. 101 Dalmatians: Fire Pup of the Day
9. Incredibles II: A Day Out with Mom
10. Winnie the Pooh: What Good Friends Do Part I
11. Winnie the Pooh: What Good Friends Do Part II
12. The Lion King: The Great Cub-House Search
13. Finding Dory: Who Needs a Hug?
14. Raya and the Last Dragon: Training Tuk Tuk
15. Dumbo: Timothy’s Big Day
16. Luca: A Gift for Giulia
17. Disney Villains: Fortune Teller Fiasco
18. Robin Hood: Castle Rescue
19. Disney Villains: Secret Potion Commotion
20. Inside Out: Hotheads
21. Peter Pan: An Adventure for Wendy
22. Onward: Mighty Mom
23. Pinocchio: Figaro’s Day Out
24. Mickey’s Christmas Magic
We cannot wait to dive into the pages of each of these books and are excited for the holiday fun ahead. Make sure to grab your very own copy before they fly off the shelves.
Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein electrifies the stage with shocking sets, sharp wit, and hair-raising talent. Breakneck pacing keeps the show on its toe-tapping dance shoes. A laugh a minute storm of hilarity that will have you in stitches and taking your breath away. La Mirada lifts the brainchild of one of America’s treasured icons to new stimulating heights. The musical is presented by La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment.
Frederick Frankenstein, grandson of the infamous inventor Doctor Frankenstein, reluctantly inherits the family estate in Transylvania. With help of a hunchbacked sidekick named Igor and a lab assistant Inga, Frederick finds himself following in the mad-scientist tradition of his ancestor, creating a monster for this century.
Emmy and Golden Globe winner Sally Struthers of “All in the Family” fame plays housekeeper “Frau Blücher” with stirring flashes of instinctive talent. It’s vividly clear that performing courses through her veins. A.J. Holmes as “Frederick Frankenstein” and Wesley Slade as “Igor” make the perfect duo with their chemistry igniting pristine comedic timing and flair. Maggie Ek as lab assistant “Inga” and Sarah Wolter as Dr. Frankenstein’s fiancé “Elizabeth” are bursting at the seams with credible accents, evocative movement, and rousing vocals.
Trent Mills brings “The Munster” to life from dangerous dim-wit to humble being. Gregory North plays the duo role of “Inspector Kemp & The Hermit”.
The original Broadway production did not have a long lifespan before ending its New York run. Thankfully the show went under the knife, and with a few switches, cuts, and new parts, resurrected with a fresh breath of life. Marginalized songs and dialogue disappeared, replaced, and reordered creating a tighter pace to keep the show flowing with little to no dead or wasted space thus drawing the story closer to the audience.
The Broadway version strayed away from what made the movie maintain its timelessness and into areas of the brain that went numb. This new London version triumphs and overpowers the original with boundless ease. With the switch flipped, the definitive version of the musical is now uncovered exposing its true glory.
The Southern California premiere of the revised London version of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, music and lyrics by Mel Brooks, original direction and choreography by Susan Stroman, choreography by James Gray, musical direction and conducted by Benet Braun and directed by Jeff Whiting. Many creative team members come from professional backgrounds, including the original Broadway production of this show.
Dig in to Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein playing on select days now until Sunday, October 9, 2022 at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada. There will be an open-captioned performance on Saturday, October 1 at 2 pm. Talkbacks with the cast and creative team will follow after performances on Thursday, September 22 at 7:30 pm and Thursday, October 6 at 7:30 pm. Please note: For mature audiences – with a sense of humor! Contains mature humor, adult language, and sexual innuendo and situations.
Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race‘s Nina West, this presentation celebrating the 30th anniversary of The Muppet Christmas Carol was one of the fan favorites of the entire Expo. The panel of artists present included Brian Henson, the director, Polly Smith, the costume designer, Paul Williams, songwriter, and Dave Goelz, puppeteer for Gonzo and many others in the Muppet pantheon.
Highlights:
The idea for The Muppet Christmas Carol actually came from Henson’s agent Bill Haber, founder of CAA.
It was initially developed as a TV movie for ABC, but Jeffrey Katzenberg read it and stole it from them to remake it into a feature film for Disney.
The film is often voted (particularly in Great Britain) as one of the most faithful of the Christmas Carol adaptations, partly because of their decision to include Gonzo as Dickens, which opened the door to including a lot of the book’s prose.
When Williams got the call from Henson to do the songs, he immediately felt a parallel between the redemptive story of Scrooge, who was addicted to greed, and his own struggle at that time to quit alcohol. “Talk about timing. This guy has gone through in literature 100 years or whatever, what I’m going through this month!”
One source of discontent with the film had always been the loss of the ballad “When Love Is Gone” (sung by Belle, Scrooge’s fiancee, at the point of dissolving their engagement.) Henson revealed that Katzenberg requested it be removed because during a test screening, he saw four children leave for the bathroom and decided it didn’t play well to them. After a long discussion, Henson agreed that it could be removed from the initial theatrical release, if it was re-inserted into every version afterwards, such as home video, etc.
When it came to replace the song, however, it was discovered that the negative for the footage had inexplicably been lost and despite searching for it for over two years, it was never found.
What has been found, however, is a copy very close to the negative which has been used to put the scene back together, and on December 11th, under the “Added Extras” section, viewers can watch the Full Length version streaming on Disney+.
As a special treat, Disney legend Jodi Benson made an appearance to sing “When Love Is Gone” for the occasion.
The entire film was shot indoors on a stage so that they could use forced perspective to make all the streets seem longer…which was a relief to Henson who had not had much prior experience filming on location.
Henson on discussing Scrooge with Michael Caine: “He said ‘I think the only way I can play this, is if I never react to anything with the Muppets as is there if anything out of the usual. I’m gonna play it like I’m playing opposite the Royal Shakespeare Company.'”
Goelz on his thoughts about the film: “Like Brian said, none of us knew if we could do this without Jim. But luckily, most of the team, like Jerry Juhl, had a huge part of this and we were able to carry on and do a wonderful, wonderful, heartfelt story that really celebrated the spirit of giving that was characteristic of Jim. We all knew him as a really incredibly generous person. Kind, high-spirited…The way we wanted the world to be. So in a way, for me anyway, this was making a movie about the way we want the world to be.”
You Oughta Know that I came into this a huge fan of Alanis Morissette’s catalog already, but honestly was unsure what to expect. I’ve loved her music since 1996 when I was too young to be able to comprehend any of her lyrics on a relatable level. How can you flawlessly combine Ms. Morissette’s lyrical heartbreak and hopefulness into one cohesive story? Well, they’ve done it. Diablo Cody has weaved Alanis Morissette’s amazing work into a relatable story for many people.
Jagged Little Pill the Musical, playing now at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, tells the story of an average American family who is dealing with life’s challenges that are more common than many are comfortable admitting: striving for a “perfect” social media image at all costs, addiction, racism, bisexuality, and sexual violence.
Mary Jane Healy (Heidi Blickenstaff) is, at face value, the cliché all-American TV mom. MJ is somewhat conservative, meets her friends for Soul Cycle, and sends a family Christmas letter every year highlighting everyone’s achievements. Her husband Steve has an amazing job where he spends perhaps too much time but can provide for them, and they have a biological white son, Nick (Dillon Klena), and an adopted Black daughter, Frankie (Lauren Chanel).
Though the image for social media is amazing, what lies beneath is Mary Jane’s struggle with addiction to painkillers after a car accident and unresolved personal trauma. Frankie is not only Black in a white suburban family, but also queer and trying to juggle her challenges with her mom who continues to see Frankie’s non-binary love interest Jo (Jade McLeod) as one of her platonic “girl friends” and “doesn’t see color”.
Nick got into a great college to his family’s delight, but it was more his mother’s dream school than his own. Things in their family begin to unravel as MJs addiction becomes harder and harder to hide and Nick witnesses his classmate Bella get sexual assaulted at his first high school party and does not have the emotional tools or life skills to stop it in the moment. Frankie, who was also at the party, finds Bella’s to be a cause worth fighting. MJ’s conflict avoidance in favor of the perfect image conflicts with Frankie’s strong values and willingness to stand up for what she believes in through protest.
Heidi Blickenstaff (Mary Jane) is an absolute legend. MJ’s internal struggles are demonstrated early on in her performance of “Smile” which was a hauntingly beautiful performance. “Forgiven” was visually and vocally amazing, but Uninvited was the most chillingly beautiful number Blickenstaff performed. Her vocal performances were both strong and vulnerable, truly embodying who MJ is. Dillon Klena’s performance of “Perfect” was heartbreaking.
His character’s pain under the pressure of his parents was truly felt. Lauren Chanel (Frankie Healy) has a fantastic singing voice and great comedic timing. But the true stand out for me, and I think everyone in the audience, was Jade McLeod (Jo). Their performance of “You Oughta Know” was so intense and raw that they received a mid-show standing ovation. Across every song they had, McLeod stood out as a passionate performer.
The sets, direction, and choreography in this show were stunning, and nothing like anything I’ve ever seen. The set is minimal, consisting of some neon lights, three moving video screens, and a few practical sets like chairs and benches, as well as multiple protest signs used throughout the show for causes like Black lives, women’s rights, etc. The chorus danced a lot in the background of scenes, but two core dancers seemed to come in focus as if to represent MJ’s addiction hovering over her.
This came to a head in one of the most interesting pieces I’ve ever seen in a musical, “Uninvited”. The lyrics were rewritten to make sense in the story, and the combination of Blickenstaff’s warm vocal performance and the choreography was mind-blowing. The number portrays MJ physically fighting with another version of herself which ultimately represents an opioid overdose. Between the consistent rock beat of the song, and the intensity of the choreography, this moment left me sitting with my mouth agape.
The band was set on stage, above the players on a riser. The lighting was designed in such a way that you could not always see them, and they could be highlighted when the music came to a crescendo. Conductor Matt Doebler did an amazing job maintaining the pace and accompanying the passionate vocal of the performers who seemed to favor the passion over the ideal cadence—not a bad thing at all.
Overall, this show is a message about a changing world, about empathy, and about being able to advocate for yourself and others. For some, the subject matter and opinions in this musical may be a bit upsetting, but it truly is an honest and raw look into the struggles many people are grappling with every day. It was beautiful, heartbreaking, and dark, yet also hopeful that people can grow and learn no matter their age or upbringing. Thank U to Alanis Morissette, Glen Ballard, and Diablo Cody for bringing this experience to all of us, I believe we are all better for it.
The Los Angeles premiere of the Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical Jagged Little Pill at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre is now performing until October 2, 2022. Tickets are available at www.BroadwayInHollywood.com.
Some destinations have a way of putting you in vacation mode the second you arrive. San Diego KOA Resort is one of these places. The moment we pulled into the campground, the sight of shimmering pool water, luxury cabins, rustic tent sites, and colorful RVs put me in a state of happy relaxation.
My recent getaway to the KOA began when we checked into a spacious Deluxe Cabin overlooking the pool. With enough room to sleep six people, the cabin came with a full bedroom, a small room with bunk beds, a loft with a bed, a bathroom with tub and shower, and full kitchen with fridge, microwave, coffee maker, stove and oven, pots and pans, silverware, and a small bar with chairs.
Cabins are spacious, well-equipped and make a great glamping experience (photo by Greg Aragon)
The cabin, more “glamping” than camping, also boasted a large wooden porch with couch and chairs, and a side yard with fire pit and a BBQ with a full tank of propane.
When not relaxing in the cabin, we had fun playing around the 40-acre campground, which offered everything we needed for a mini, three-day glamping adventure. We enjoyed renting a four-wheel bike, jumping on a giant bouncy pillow, mining for treasures, playing in a kiddie playground, sipping local beer, and lounging by the huge swimming pool.
The pool area is a tropical paradise while camping (photo – Greg Aragon)
Located a few steps from our cabin porch, the resort swimming pool was an oasis. The area is surrounded by lush trees and features a shallow walk-in ramp into the water that is perfect for little kids. The area also offers private cabanas and two Jacuzzis. Right behind the pool is a playground with sand, slides and a big play structure.
Next to the pool is the Kids Club, where parents can purchase fun arts and crafts for the little ones. This is where we rented a four-wheel surrey bike to thoroughly explore the campsite. For an hour each morning, we pedaled around the property admiring beautiful, new RVs and stopping to chat with friendly fellow campers. The bike has a steering wheel, four sets of pedals and enough seats for four adults and two small kids up front. Not only is the bike fun for the whole family, but it is also a great workout for the legs!
Four-wheel surrey bikes are a fun way to explore the campground (photo – Greg Aragon)
Another exciting adventure at KOA San Diego is the Beach Treasure Dig, a realistic little mining operation where kids can hunt for treasures. As water rushes down two ming flumes into tracks filled with sand, kids use sifters to find precious gems and other valuables. In our case, I hid some coins in the sand that my son was super thrilled to find.
Kids love looking for gems and other treasures at the campsite’s mine (photo – Greg Aragon)
After mining, we walked a few feet to the Sand Castle Cafe for fresh pizza and cold local beer. Featuring al fresco dining with a farm-to-table Southern California flare, the cafe serves warm baked goods, pancake breakfast, breakfast burritos, burgers, gourmet pizza, farm fresh salads and treats.
The Sand Castle Cafe serves breakfast lunch and dinner right at the campsite (photo – Greg Aragon)
While eating I overheard two gentlemen behind us talking about the campsite and its history. They turned out to be Ted Bell and his son Mike, the owners of the KOA San Diego. Ted, who is 92 now, founded the campsite in 1968, while working as a police officer for the City of Chula Vista. Back then the camp was five acres with only a few dozen sites.
“When we opened up in 1968 we were kind of an outdoor motel for tourists coming to San Diego,” says Mike Bell. “ But in the late 80s into the 90 we started transitioning into recreation and family resort focused. And a lot of people that come to the campground these days come to stay and spend all of their time in the park. They are not going to Sea World or the zoo or the beaches.”
Bell says that his guests now come from literally all over the world to experience San Diego weather and KOA comfort and outdoor charm.
Everybody loves a giant bouncy pillow (photo – Greg Aragon)Nothing like a little basketball while camping (photo – Greg Aragon)
After talking with the Bell’s we walked across the campsite to the giant red and yellow bouncy pillow. Measuring about 30 feet long by 15 feet wide, the air-filled pillow is like a big trampoline that makes you feel like you are jumping on mars. Next to here is a basketball court where I played a pick-up game with fellow campers.
Back at the cabin, we fired up the BBQ that came fully-equipped with a tank of propane. For dinner we grilled baby back ribs, potatoes, beans and veggies. We then had a memorable meal outside on our patio. After dinner, we threw some wood in the fire-pit, grabbed some extra long skewers, and made smores with marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate bars.
Cabins come with a propane BBQ and a fire pit that is perfect for smores (photo – Greg Aragon)
Whether you have an RV, a camper van, or a tent, or want to sleep in a deluxe cabin or a rustic hut, the San Diego KOA Campground is one of San Diego’s most popular camping resorts and is a top-rated destination for family fun. The campground is located about 20 minutes from major San Diego attractions such as Sea World, The San Diego ZOO and San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park. The campsite is also pet-friendly and boasts a 7000 square-foot dog park.
The San Diego KOA Resort is located at 111 North 2nd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. For reservations call 888-566-1165 or visit: www.koa.com/campgrounds/san-diego
Halloween Horror Nights has emerged at Universal Studios Hollywood with new haunted houses, new addition to the Terror Tram, returning favorites, and sinister wizards to scare up a frightful evening. There’s much to experience for the 2022 season building anticipation for many fans of this annual theme park tradition.
The streets are lined with Sideshow Creeps at New York Street as guests enter the park. It wouldn’t be a complete welcome without the billowing inferno of flame throwers bursting overhead atop of shipping crates. No live commentator or go-go dancers like in previous years, but turns out not sorely missed either. The Dia de los Muertos themed open area returns with open arms to the Universal Plaza. It’s a well-suited respite from rest of the park events with a bar, food, carnival game, and decorated set pieces for photo opportunities.
There’s even a backdrop that explains the legend of La Llorona for those not familiar with the fable tale before experiencing the accompanying and well-received haunted house. The character has been brought to life in previous seasons of the Halloween event, but it’s such a fan favorite to resist. And thankfully has been well-put together commanding respectable wait times. In the streets of Little Europe, and the exit of the La Lorona haunted house for that matter, is El Pueblo del Terror scare zone dedicated to Hispanic creatures of the night like el cucuy, chupacabra, el cadejo, mictlantecuhtla, tlahuelpuchi, and, of course, the weeping woman.
Atmosphere Photo Gallery
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Stealthy bog monsters lurk in an eerily lit and wickedly decorated Haunted Forest tucked in the Animal Actors show plaza, just before the solitude of the restrooms. This area makes for a relatively quiet recluse from the main pathways and people watching.
Haunted Forest Photo Gallery
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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is not only open to a pathway to more haunted houses, but also to Death Eaters lurking in the dark corners of Hogsmeade. Death Eaters Encounter abound in search of their next victim, or perhaps new followers to their cause. Green lighting and fog add-on to intimidating posture. Be on your guard and arm yourself with a wand and protection spell at the ready.
Death Eaters Encounter Photo Gallery
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La Llorona: The Weeping Woman brings the tale of a woman who drowned her children and then herself back to terrify. Will you be the next children she tries to drown her sorrows? This haunted house is a huge fan favorite from past years, and for good reason. Easily the longest wait in the Upper Lot. Tucked around every corner is the decaying set design of a discarded mission. The weeping woman appears in various stages reaching from a horse-headed stilt walker to over-sized body devouring children from their beds. And along with the Dia de los Muertos plaza and El Pueblo del Terror scare zone, this center of the theme park made for a very cohesive thematic backdrop.
La Llorna Photo Gallery
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Universal Horror Hotel replaces The Walking Dead haunted house. The pathway is virtually unrecognizable with the exception of the first portion of the queue. A video clip plays to provide a back story of a 1920s Hollywood hotel owned and operated by a serial killer. Everything after the old “Don’t Open, Dead Inside” double-doors feels fresh. An elevator attack scene now makes its home here with a convincing thrashing of legs mid-air.
The scares inside has a The Shining meets Bates Motel atmosphere passing through hallways past doors to hotel rooms, bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen. A bloody reoccurring pattern shows up on walls and doors suggesting a sort of participation within a cult. A valiant effort to update the space for original content that fits with the surrounding area of the theme park. However, the entrance wasn’t very noticeable and the second half of the interior feels like there is much to be desired.
Universal Hotel Hell Photo Gallery
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The Horrors of Blumhouse features a new double feature of scares with Freaky and The Black Phone. Freaky follows the body-switching horror comedy between a teenage girl and a serial killer. The Black Phone follows a cunning kidnapper to his hideout. Given the space the Blumhouse experience being placed in the queue for the Waterworld stunt show, the facade was cleverly fitted to be that of an abandoned video rental store. Another challenge was balancing the comedy into the horror of Freaky.
Turns out, it’s really, really hard to do because no portion of this house would make anyone chuckle. There were however plenty of sight gags to feast your eyes upon with a glass wine bottle shoved down a throat, toilet seat death, impalement to a wall, and body-switching action behind a false wall. Black twisting hallways and title cards move the days along as well as transitions between movies. The Black Phone segment seemed to have gotten less attention.
Guests will be able to pass through posters of missing children, the black phone, the kidnapper’s living room, the kitchen, and basement with bed mattress on the floor. But noticeable iconic moments from the movie such as a black van, black balloons, and basement staircase are absent. The takeaway here seems like the guests are supposed to have the perspective of the child victim.
The only scare character to make an appearance is the kidnapper. Unfortunately doesn’t use a spray can on his victims like depicted in the film adaptation. The experience begins and ends with a series of black twisting hallways, which we find less than favorable. Some other people will find that to be scary.
Blumhouse Photo Gallery
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Halloween is another returning favorite amongst diehard horror fans. And is quite relevant with the upcoming new “Halloween Ends” movie release in mid-October. This year focuses on the first movie with Dr. Loomis tracking down his murderous patient Michael Myers while stalking babysitter Laurie Strode.
Visitors inside the Myers house will be immersed in iconic moments like the tombstone of Judith Myers in the bedroom, billowing bed sheets, and a claustrophobic encounter with Michael switching his blade at you in the closet. The performers for Michael kept their body posture respectfully in character, the same could not be said of the Dr. Loomis performance. The haunted house easily wins over its execution and will not disappoint.
Scarecrow: The Reaping comes high anticipated as a new incarnation of an original favorite maze to the event’s Orlando counterpoint. So this has a lot to live up to. Set in the Depression Era and events of the Dust Bowl, farmers are being overrun not only by famine, but by crows and scarecrows coming to life to make them on of their own.
It is obvious how much care was taken to creating this experience. Guests are taken back in time to a farmhouse and barn surrounded by all the fixins of corn, hay, and farming equipment. Be ready to navigate through curtains of cornstalks and animal intestines. This is a house worth going around for a second helping.
Scarecrow Photo Gallery
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Universal Monsters: Legends Collide pits Dracula, the Mummy, and the Wolf Man together like never before and lets them loose. While Orlando’s version centers its set location in the Egyptian dig site as part one of an overarching story, Hollywood’s version is part two taking place in London from a trading dock to a museum.
The creative team did not skip out on the prop design with everything contributing to the storytelling from maps of London, glowing amulets, and even screen-used statues from The Mummy film franchise. It helps when a haunted house based on Universal Monsters is built in a theme park attached to a working film studio with a giant warehouse full of movie props. Music artist Slash of Guns N’ Roses fame collaborates again with Universal for another banging, head-bobbing original soundtrack.
Can we get an album of Slash’s work of Universal haunted house music created already? I’m sure fans would love a copy produced on vinyl record. Notable set pieces sees Dracula emerging on an office window sill, a projection of flying bats coming together in the form of Dracula, then having the head vampire himself appear, and the “zombie sled” effect used effectively for Dracula’s brides and a swarm of mummies.
A lot of the set design choices were based on the classic monster pictures as seen from the Universal film library and then taking even more inspiration on real locations like Highgate Cemetery. Be sure to keep an eye out for Anubis inspired creature reinterpreted with the head of a wolf instead of a jackal.
Universal Monsters Photo Gallery
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The Weeknd: After Hours Nightmare takes inspiration from the music artist and invites guests onto the set of his many music videos. I will admit, I am not the target audience for this experience as I am not familiar with the music industry. Having said that, the long waits seem to have captured the attention of those in the know. Being an outsider, I did not walk out hating it.
Felt more like I was walking from one twisted music video into another. A guest expressed it was a cool experience, especially if it was music that she actually listened to. Which I would have to agree with that statement. The concept of a music artist bringing his music videos and mindset to a lively ghoulish delight will appease fans of that genre.
The Weeknd Photo Gallery
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Killer Klowns From Outer Space returns to Halloween Horror Nights just as colorful and full of dark humor as ever. Not only a cult favorite, but a favorite with Universal fans as well. If you haven’t seen the 1988 horror-comedy movie, it’s widely available on many free streaming services. The title pretty much says it all. Alien beings in the form of over-the-top demonic looking clowns have come down from outer space, trap humans in cotton candy, and liquify them for consumption. Simple as that.
First you board the alien space ship shaped like a circus tent and into a blacklit fun house. Nothing sinister about that. Along the way will be shadow puppets, bathroom attacks, and pies ready to melt your entire body. Complete with cherry on top for the full effect.
Killer Klownz Photo Gallery
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Terror Tram features something both old AND new this season! Hollywood Henry returns to exact his revenge on the studio lot. Taking over the Psycho path from the Bates Motel to the mansion and the War of the Worlds set. Chainsaws buzz by your scampering feet. Cross paths with black cats for luck. A gruesome pumpkin patch lights your way. Traveling past the old tram pick-up spot, guests get to walk even further along the front lot and actually into the world of Jordan Peele’s NOPE and US.
The Tethered from the movie US crosses the globe and find their way into the aftermath of Jupiter’s Claim from the film NOPE. The screen-used set location of a small business Western theme park is now overrun by survivors and people clad in red broiler suits.
The body movements of the Tethered was choreographed by the same instructor from the movie US. Admirers of Jordon Peele’s movies will certainly be awe-struck with this real-life merging of his cinematic universe. We hope this walk-through of a real movie set receives enough praise to return next year.
Terror Tram Photo Gallery
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A new seasonal store has opened in Universal Citywalk located near the Voodoo Doughnut store. Many collectible items can be found here. More selections can be found in the Studio Store in Citywalk, inside the park gates, and Production Central store to commemorate this season’s hauntings.
Halloween Merchandise 2022 Photo Gallery
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Halloween Horror Nights tickets can be purchased online or at the Universal Studios Hollywood front gate, providing guests with Early Event Admission to select mazes, beginning at 6pm each night of the event (subject to change). Various ticket options are available for purchase:
R.I.P. Tour is a premium product, inviting guests to scare with a VIP treatment that includes an expert guided tour of the event with exclusive experiences along the way.
Universal Express includes one-time express to each scare maze, Terror Tram, ride and attraction. Express access is a separate line with a shorter wait time and does not apply to food and retail locations.
After 2 P.M. Day/Night
Popular passes: Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass, which allow guests to experience the scares again and again.
General Admission
Halloween Horror Nights begins on Thursday, September 8 at Universal Studios Hollywood with eight frightening scare mazes. The event will run select nights through Monday, October 31. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.
On Sunday, D23 Expo 2022 started off its last day with the hotly anticipated Parks and Resorts presentation, “Boundless Future: Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products.” Hosted by Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro, the multi-media show gave fans a sneak peek into some of the future changes planned for each DPEP branch around the world.
After a rousing start to the presentation with singer-songwriter Jordan Fisher’s performance of “Happily Ever After” leading into the announcement that the popular fireworks show will be back at the Magic Kingdom next year, D’Amaro led off with news about the original Anaheim resort.
Popular anthem “Happily Ever After” will play again when an updated nighttime spectacular returns in 2023 to light up the skies over Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom park.
Disneyland
Galaxy’s Edge
Joined by Executive Producer and Disney Legend Jon Favreau, D’Amaro gave guests an advance look at the Mandalorian and Grogu, as they will appear in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Oga’s Cantina starting in mid-November.
Avengers Campus
Turning his attention to Avengers Campus in DCA, D’Amaro brought out Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige who announced the plans for a third attraction there, based in the multiverse. Guests will be able to battle alongside all Avengers against every foe in the multiverse, with the introduction of a new character, King Thanos–a version of Thanos who won.
After a quick zoom call with Mark (Hulk) Ruffalo where he suggested that the Avengers Campus would benefit from “…a little green…” the two were greeted by The Incredible Hulk in his Quantum Suit, and announce that he would be available for meet and greets at Avengers Campus beginning next week for a limited time.
Pacific Wharf
Close by, Pacific Wharf in Disney California Adventure will be reimagined as San Fransokyo from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Big Hero 6. Current plans for the space include a meet and greet with Baymax, as well as new dining and retail options.
Pixar Place Hotel
Outside of the parks, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel at the Disneyland Resort is becoming transformed into Pixar Place Hotel. Guests will experience a resort that combines the feeling of being surrounded by Pixar art with modern comforts and amenities.
Downtown Disney District
Some of the most appetizing news of the presentation was the announcement that popular local eateries Din Tai Fung and Porto’s Bakery & Cafe will be moving into the Downtown Disney District. To work off all those soup dumplings and potato balls, runners will be pleased to note that runDisney races will return to the resort in 2024.
Over in Disneyland’s Toontown, the new attraction Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is scheduled to open in 2023. A version of the existing attraction currently in operation at the Disney Studios park in Walt Disney World, D’Amaro shared some concept art on the queue as it goes through the El CapiTOON Theater.
Mickey’s Toontown
Other changes coming to Toontown include the opening of Goofy’s How-to-Play Yard, complete with a playful sound garden, along with Donald’s Boat and Duck Pond in 2023.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
The reimagineering of Splash Mountain in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is underway. The story of the ride will pick up where the film left off and take guests on a trip with Tiana, Naveen and alligator Louis through the bayou to prepare to put on an inclusive Mardi Gras celebration. It will reopen in late 2024. Several members of the original film cast will return to lend their voices to the attraction, including Anika Noni Rose as Tiana, Bruno Campos as Naveen, Michael-Leon Wooley as Louis and Jenifer Lewis as Mama Odie.
As a special treat, Tony Award® winner Anika Noni Rose, who voiced Tiana in The Princess and The Frog, once again returned to D23 Expo (she performed at the 2009 D23 Expo singing “Down in New Orleans” before the film’s release.) She performed both “Almost There” and “Dig a Little Deeper” from the movie.
The Haunted Mansion Hatbox Ghost
The last news from Disneyland was the announcement that the Hatbox Ghost, replaced in the Disneyland Haunted Mansion back in 2015, will make an appearance at the Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom park in 2023.
The fan-favorite happy haunt from the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland park, the Hatbox Ghost, is coming to the Haunted Mansion attraction in Magic Kingdom park in 2023.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Treasure
Over at the Disney Cruise Line, a sixth ship for the Disney fleet was announced–the Disney Treasure. Inspired by both the theme of adventure and Walt Disney’s own love of exploration, the ship will incorporate real-world design elements from Asian and Africa, while tying in the fictional land of Agrabah from Aladdin, and will set sail in 2024.
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The entryway atrium–The Grand Hall–will again house the ship’s signature statue which will have three characters for the first time in DCL history: Aladdin, Jasmin, and the Magic Carpet.
Also for the first time, DCL announced they will be taking the Disney Wonder to Australia and New Zealand beginning in late October 2023. Repositioning cruises will also be a first to go through the South Pacific, visiting destinations such as Fiji and Samoa.
Continuing with exciting off-the-ship locations, DCL is continuing work on a new private island in the Bahamas called Lighthouse Point. Located on the island of Eleuthera, Lighthouse Point will not only have the beaches and water recreations guests would expect, but also a cultural pavilion that will represent Bahamian culture authentically, using traditions and stories passed down through generations of local residents, artists, and advisors.
Shanghai Disney Resort–Zootopia-themed Land
Over in Shanghai, work continues on the first land based on the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Zootopia. Fans were treated to some new concept art and a look at the audio-animatronic figure of Officer Clawhauser that will greet guests as they enter the land through the Zootopia Police Department.
LinaBell
LinaBell, an inquisitive fox from the Duffy universe, made her very first appearance in the United States at D23 Expo. Previously she had only been available at Shanghai Disneyland.
Duffy and Friends Coming to Disney+
Duffy and Friends are getting their own show on Disney+. The six-episode, stop-motion animated series will debut in 2023.
Duffy and Friends will soon be starring in their own show on Disney+. The six-episode, stop-motion animated series will debut in 2023.
Hong Kong Disneyland
Walt and Mickey Statue
As part of the Disney company’s 100th-anniversary celebration, Hong Kong Disneyland will unveil a new statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse in 2023, depicting Walt with Mickey near Cinderella’s carousel.
World of Frozen
Based on the blockbuster film Frozen, World of Frozen will open in the second half of 2023. The first of three new Frozen-themed areas coming to international Disney parks, it will blend Arendelle with the natural landscape of Lantau Island.
Disneyland Paris
Along with the Walt Disney Studios Park getting a new promenade transformation with an attraction themed to the WDAS hit Tangled, it will be getting its own Frozen-themed land. The Disneyland Hotel, reopening in 2024, will also be renovated with Frozen influences.
As part of the grand finale of the 30th Anniversary celebration underway, a new stage show, “Pixar: We Belong Together,” will debut in 2023, also in Walt Disney Studios park.
Tokyo Disney Resort
The third Frozen-themed land will come to Tokyo Disney Resort as part of the Fantasy Springs expansion of Tokyo DisneySea. The expansion will also include areas for Peter Pan and Tangled, and a new hotel.
To celebrate all the Frozen-ness coming to the three parks, the Expo audience was treated to a live performance of the Frozen 2 hit song “Into the Unknown,” performed in Cantonese, Japanese, and French.
Walt Disney World
Back in the US, the completion of EPCOT’s World Celebration project should happen in late 2023. Around that same time Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana should open as well, allowing guests to follow the story of water on Earth.
Also in 2023 will be the spring opening of TRON/Lightcycle Run in Magic Kingdom, and the live appearance of EPCOT’s mascot Figment for meet and greets.
What If?
For this segment, D’Amaro was joined by Disney Animation Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee and Imagineering Portfolio Creative Executive Chris Beatty to explore some of the “blue sky” possibilities for the parks. Potential changes included changing out DinoLand USA at Animal Kingdom for an area themed to Zootopia and/or Moana.
Another expansion teased by the panel was the concept of “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain.” An area on the other side of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom could potentially be developed into an adventure-themed area with lands incorporating a guided tour of the house in the valley of Encanto or a flight into the Land of the Dead from Coco or the often-rumored Land of Villains.
D23 EXPO 2022 – The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by VISA – brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event, which takes place September 9, 10, and 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center, provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, series, games, theme parks, collectibles, and celebrities. (The Walt Disney Company) Chris Beatty, Jennifer M Lee (Chief Creative Officer Walt Disney Animation Studios, Walt Disney Studios), Josh D’Amaro (Chairman; Disney Parks, Experiences and Products)
Disney 100 Years of Wonder
Finally, D’Amaro offered a look at Disney100–the biggest celebration in the company’s history–which will kick off in January. New nighttime spectaculars are coming to several of the parks:
World of Color – One will be a new version of World of Color with a new story celebrating Walt Disney’s storytelling legacy.
Wondrous Journeys will be a new fireworks show that will kick off in late January at the Disneyland Resort. It will feature nods to all 60 Walt Disney Animation Studios films to date.
Magic Happens, the popular parade whose run was terminated early by COVID, will return this spring.
The relatively new World Showcase Lagoon show Harmonious, at EPCOT, will be retired and replaced in late 2023.
The panel concluded with a performance of the new song “It’s Wondrous” from the upcoming Wondrous Journeys show.
All in all, a lot of additions/replacements coming to Disney Parks and Resorts all over the globe. How many will come to fruition? Only time, and perhaps another D23 Expo, will tell.
In an exciting new collaboration with Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, the Winchester Mystery House is launching "Festival Fright Nights." This all-new Halloween event will...
