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Disneyland Resort Nighttime Shows Return April 22 and May 28, 2022!

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February 22, 2022

Disneyland Resort Nighttime Shows Return April 22 and May 28, 2022!

Disneyland Resort proudly presents the homecoming of four beloved nighttime spectaculars and a new grand finale to the “Main Street Electrical Parade” for its 50^th anniversary. On April 22, 2022, the “Main Street Electrical Parade” and “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular will ignite the night at Disneyland Park, and “World of Color” will return to Disney California Adventure Park. “Fantasmic!” is preparing for its return to Disneyland on May 28, 2022.

Since Disneyland Resort reopened in April 2021, guests have been able to rediscover the wonders and magic of returning entertainment – such as Jambalaya Jazz in New Orleans Square at Disneyland and “Disney Junior Dance Party!” at Disney California Adventure. New experiences have been introduced, too, like the Raya encounter in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail and Celebrate Soulfully entertainment throughout the month of February. Each of these offerings highlights the incredible momentum at the Disneyland Resort as part of its phased reopening.

A guest favorite since its debut in 1972, “Main Street Electrical Parade” features cherished floats such as the classic train and drum unit and Elliot the Dragon. With an electronic musical score based on “Baroque Hoedown” by Jean-Jacques Perrey and Gershon Kingsley, this parade was the first to play unique musical arrangements synchronized to each float unit. The lineup of floats has changed over the years, and Disney parks around the world have presented evolving versions of this iconic parade.

To honor the milestone 50^th anniversary of “Main Street Electrical Parade,” Disney Live Entertainment will introduce a magnificent grand finale that celebrates the theme of togetherness in an all-new float. This universal theme is reflected in the creative concept of the grand finale sequence, drawing inspiration from the original design of classic “Main Street Electrical Parade” floats and Mary Blair’s iconic art style on “it’s a small world.”

The seven-segment float stretches 118 feet in length and brings to life more than a dozen Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films, making it one of the longest and grandest sequences in the parade’s history. These stories will be interpreted in thousands of sparkling lights and electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound, with unique representations of beloved characters as animated dolls.

Guests along each side of the parade route will see different stylized scenes from classic and contemporary favorite stories such as “Encanto,” “The Jungle Book,” “Raya and the Last Dragon,” “Aladdin,” “Coco,” “Mulan,” “Brave,” “The Princess and the Frog” and more. The finale also pays tribute to the parade’s heritage with the return of the Blue Fairy character from “Pinocchio” and a unique, 19-foot-tall representation of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

“World of Color” at Disney California Adventure brings animation to life with powerful fountains that create an immense screen of water. Combining music, fire, fog and laser effects with memorable animated sequences, “World of Color” floods the senses and immerses audiences in some favorite Disney and Pixar stories, including scenes like WALL-E and Eve zipping through the cosmos, Pocahontas exploring just around the riverbend and Jack Sparrow battling on the sea. The mega-scale spectacular is presented on a massive “stage” of water, color and light that is bigger than a football field and encompasses all of Paradise Bay. Plus, the powerful fountains can send water to heights ranging from 30 feet to 200 feet – higher than the top of Pixar Pal-A-Round!

The inspiration for the show came from Walt Disney himself, and “World of Color” is tied together by a soaring musical score that includes familiar Disney melodies and a contemporary version of the 1960s television theme for “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color,” originally composed by Richard B. and Robert M. Sherman, the Oscar®-winning composers of “it’s a small world,” “The Tiki Tiki Tiki Room” and many other iconic songs for Disney.

“Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular is a street-to-sky celebration filled with sparkling pyrotechnics and immersive projections that envelop guests in a breathtaking journey with surprising special effects. Main Street, U.S.A., and a few other spots in Disneyland become a magical canvas, transporting guests from an Anaheim orange grove into the worlds of timeless Disney and Pixar stories. “Disneyland Forever” also features two original songs: the theme “Live the Magic” and the inspiring closing song “Kiss Goodnight,” written by Disney Legend Richard B. Sherman.

“Main Street Electrical Parade” and “Disneyland Forever” will be available for a limited time at Disneyland. From April 22 to late spring, “Disneyland Forever” will perform Fridays through Sundays, and the “Mickey’s Mix Magic” projections-only show is scheduled Mondays through Thursdays. “Disneyland Forever” fireworks will then run nightly in the summer. “World of Color” will return to its regular schedule upon reopening.

“Fantasmic!” lights the night beginning May 28

Celebrating its 30^th anniversary at Disneyland in 2022, “Fantasmic!” is Disney’s longest-running nighttime show. “Fantasmic!” is an emotional extravaganza of colorful Disney-animated film images, choreographed to an exciting musical score and highlighted by the 45-foot-tall, fire-breathing Maleficent dragon. The waters of the Rivers of America come alive as Mickey Mouse dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice and faces some of Disney’s most dastardly villains, using the power of his imagination to save the day.

Along the way, fantastic events and images as seen in Disney films like “Fantasia,” “The Jungle Book,” “Pirates of the Caribbean” and more come to life with live performers, character appearances, enhanced special effects and pyrotechnics.

“Fantasmic!” will return to its regular schedule beginning May 28.

It continues to be an incredibly exciting time at the Disneyland Resort with the return of these nighttime spectaculars and an entertaining slate of other fan-favorite offerings.

Guests may view the latest entertainment details and schedules at Disneyland.com and the Disneyland mobile app.

West Side Story coming to Digital March 2 and Blu-ray March 15

Robbie Bulus

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February 22, 2022

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West Side Story coming to Digital March 2 and Blu-ray March 15

Acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg presents an inspired reimagining of the beloved musical West Side Story. The film that critics celebrate as “electrifying” (Alonso Duralde, The Wrap) and “a total triumph” (Matt Goldberg, Collider) has been nominated for 7 Academy Awards® including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Supporting Actress and 11 Critics’ Choice Awards.

West Side Story is also Certified-Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes™. Rejoice in the spectacular new choreography alongside the iconic songs – plus see astonishing all-new footage of Spielberg at work in documentary filmmaker Laurent Bouzereau’s revealing “The Stories of West Side Story” – by adding 20th Century Studios’ West Side Story to your musical collection on Digital March 2 and 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD March 15.

West Side Story will also be available on Disney+ starting March 2.

Directed by Academy Award® Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. This reimagining of the beloved musical stars Ansel Elgort (Tony); Ariana DeBose (Anita); David Alvarez (Bernardo); Mike Faist (Riff); Brian d’Arcy James (Officer Krupke); Corey Stoll (Lieutenant Schrank); Josh Andrés Rivera (Chino); with Rita Moreno (as Valentina, who owns the corner store in which Tony works); and introducing Rachel Zegler (Maria.) Moreno – one of only three artists to be honored with Academy®, Emmy®, GRAMMY®, Tony® and Peabody Awards – also serves as one of the film’s executive producers.

Bringing together the best of both Broadway and Hollywood, the film’s creative team includes Kushner, who also served as an executive producer; Tony Award® winner Justin Peck, who choreographed the musical numbers in the film; renowned Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor and GRAMMY Award® winner Gustavo Dudamel, who helmed the recording of the iconic score; Academy Award®-nominated composer and conductor David Newman (“Anastasia”), who arranged the score, Tony Award®-winning composer Jeanine Tesori (“Fun Home,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie”), who supervised the cast on vocals; and GRAMMY®-nominated music supervisor Matt Sullivan (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Chicago”), who serves as executive music producer for the film.

The film is produced by Spielberg, p.g.a., Academy Award®-nominated producer Kristie Macosko Krieger, p.g.a. and Tony Award®-winning producer Kevin McCollum. “West Side Story” has been adapted for the screen from the original 1957 Broadway show. Original choreography by Jerome Robbins, based on the stage play, book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, play conceived, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, music by Leonard Bernstein.

Bonus Features*
The Stories of West Side Story

Opening – Director Steven Spielberg begins the journey of one of his career goals – to direct his own cinematic version of the iconic musical. Doing so means he will embrace enormous challenges.
Prologue – From the iconic finger snaps to the complex choreography, we are introduced to the film’s opening scene and explore its setting. We begin to see Spielberg’s vision take shape.
Sharks & Jets – Meet the actors who play the Sharks and the Jets. Go behind the scenes of “La Borinqueña,” the song of the Puerto Rican Revolution, which was added into this vision of the story. Discover the deeper meaning of “Jet Song.”
Dance At The Gym – Mambo your way through “The Dance At The Gym” and Justin Peck’s choreography, as it leads to the pivotal moment when Tony and Maria meet for the first time.
The Romance – Explore the budding romance of Tony and Maria with the songs “Maria” and “Tonight” as Rachel Zegler (Maria) and Ansel Elgort (Tony) talk about the casting process, and what led them to this career-defining film.
America – During a sweltering New York heat wave, the cast and crew take the production to the streets for one of the biggest dance numbers in the film, “America,” featuring Ariana DeBose, who plays Anita.
Gee, Officer Krupke – Spielberg and the Jets make “Gee, Officer Krupke” their own through a new setting, vocal direction and choreography, while they explore the meaning of Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics. Get to know Iris Menas (Anybodys) and the significance of their role.
Cool – During the first week of production, Spielberg and the cast nervously jump into filming on the elaborate and challenging set of the musical number “Cool.”
From Quintet to The Rumble – Spielberg and his team navigate the intertwining scenes of “The Quintet” and “The Rumble.” Once there, they take a scene that is traditionally stylishly choreographed, and instead bring a more visceral authenticity to the fight between the two gangs.
I Feel Pretty – Screenwriter Tony Kushner sheds new light on “I Feel Pretty.” We see how, in Spielberg’s film, the beloved song by lyricist Stephen Sondheim is given new vision, as it is set and performed within Gimbel’s department store.
Somewhere – Hollywood Legend Rita Moreno, who won acclaim for playing Anita in the 1961 film, returns as Valentina, a shopkeeper’s widow, as well as an executive producer. She brings extraordinary experience and emotion to the film and sings the song “Somewhere.”
Finale – In a moving testament to the talented cast and crew of WEST SIDE STORY, Spielberg reluctantly wraps “one of the best filmmaking experiences” of his career.
Tribute – The late Stephen Sondheim reflects on his career and experience making WEST SIDE STORY in this dedication to the esteemed lyricist.

The Songs
WEST SIDE STORY Musical numbers

• Prologue
• La Borinqueña
• Jet Song
• Something’s Coming
• The Dance At The Gym
• Maria
• Balcony Scene (Tonight)
• America
• Gee, Officer Krupke
• One Hand, One Heart
• Cool
• Tonight (Quintet)
• The Rumble
• I Feel Pretty
• Somewhere
• A Boy Like That/I Have A Love

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

Disney Launches New Business to Develop Residential Communities

Robbie Bulus

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February 17, 2022

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Disney Launches New Business to Develop Residential Communities

As more and more fans look for new ways to make Disney a bigger part of their lives, the company today announced plans to introduce Storyliving by Disney, vibrant new neighborhoods that are infused with the company’s special brand of magic. These master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests and write the next exciting chapter in their lives—all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities and special touches that are Disney hallmarks.

The first Storyliving by Disney community will be built in Rancho Mirage, in California’s Coachella Valley—a location where Walt Disney himself owned a home and would spend leisure time with his family. Additional locations in the U.S. are under exploration for future development.

“For nearly 100 years, Disney has shared stories that have touched the hearts and minds of people all around the world,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “As we prepare to enter our second century, we are developing new and exciting ways to bring the magic of Disney to people wherever they are, expanding storytelling to storyliving. We can’t wait to welcome residents to these beautiful and unique Disney communities where they can live their lives to the fullest.”

At each location, including some neighborhoods for residents ages 55+, Disney Cast Members trained in the company’s legendary guest service will operate the community association. Through a club membership, Disney will also provide access to curated experiences, such as wellness programming; entertainment ranging from live performances to cooking classes; philanthropic endeavors; seminars and much more.

Disney Imagineers will play a key role in developing the creative concept for the communities, working in conjunction with respected developers and homebuilders.

“Disney Imagineers are exploring the richness of each local region to inspire the theme of Storyliving by Disney communities,” said Michael Hundgen, executive producer, Walt Disney Imagineering. “Distinctively designed indoor and outdoor spaces will offer residents new opportunities to explore, engage and create the next incredible chapter of their story.”

Announcing Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community

Where better to plant the first stake in the ground for a Storyliving by Disney community than an area that once felt the footsteps of Walt Disney himself. Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community, will be built in the heart of the Greater Palm Springs area. The brilliant mountain-ringed valley was once a rejuvenating retreat for Walt and Lillian Disney. Architecture and amenities of this Storyliving by Disney community will reflect the history and present-day inspiration of the rich valley culture.

Cotino is being developed in collaboration with DMB Development, which is highly regarded for its development of large-scale planned communities in the U.S. According to Brent Herrington, the company’s CEO, “Cotino represents the creativity and operational excellence of Disney combined with the extensive community development expertise of DMB Development. We are delighted to collaborate with Disney in this groundbreaking new concept.”

Cotino will welcome homeowners of all ages and will include at least one section expressly for 55+ residents. Home buyers will have a range of home types to choose from, including estates, single family homes and condominiums.

Per the Specific Plan approval for the development, the community is expected to surround an approximately 24-acre grand oasis featuring clear turquoise waters with Crystal Lagoons® technology, enabling crystalline lagoons of any size to be built sustainably, with low water consumption and using a minimum amount of additives and energy. A voluntary club membership will offer access to a waterfront clubhouse, a club-only beach area and recreational water activities, as well as Disney programming, entertainment and activities throughout the year.

Cotino also has Specific Plan approval for a vibrant mixed-use district featuring a range of shopping, dining and entertainment, a beachfront hotel, and a professionally managed beach park with recreational water activities that can be accessed by the public through the purchase of a day pass.

To receive news and updates or to access additional information, visit www.storylivingbydisney.com.

Disney+ Debuts First Trailer for “Chip ‘N Dale: Rescue Rangers”

Socalthrills Staff

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February 15, 2022

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Disney+ Debuts First Trailer for “Chip ‘N Dale: Rescue Rangers”

Disney+ has released the first trailer and a new poster for the original movie “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers.” A comeback 30 years in the making, the hybrid live-action/CG animated action-comedy catches up with the former Disney Afternoon television stars in modern-day Los Angeles. “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” premieres May 20, 2022, exclusively on Disney+.

“Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” stars John Mulaney (“Saturday Night Live”) as Chip, Andy Samberg (“Palm Springs”) as Dale and KiKi Layne (“If Beale Street Could Talk”). Also joining the cast are Will Arnett (“Arrested Development”), Eric Bana (“Dirty John”), Flula Borg (“Pitch Perfect 2”), Dennis Haysbert (“24”), Keegan-Michael Key (“Schmigadoon!”), Tress MacNeille (“The Simpsons”), Tim Robinson (“I Think You Should Leave”), Seth Rogen (“Pam and Tommy”), J.K. Simmons (“Being the Ricardos”), Chris Parnell (“Saturday Night Live”).

The film is directed by Akiva Schaffer (“Saturday Night Live”), written by Dan Gregor and Doug Mand (“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”) and is produced by Todd Lieberman (“Wonder”) and David Hoberman (“Beauty and the Beast”), with Alexander Young (“Extinction”) and Tom Peitzman serving as executive producers.

In “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers,” Chip and Dale are living amongst cartoons and humans in modern-day Los Angeles, but their lives are quite different now. It has been decades since their successful television series was canceled, and Chip (voice of Mulaney) has succumbed to a life of suburban domesticity as an insurance salesman.

Dale (voice of Sandberg), meanwhile, has had CGI surgery and works the nostalgia convention circuit, desperate to relive his glory days. When a former cast mate mysteriously disappears, Chip and Dale must repair their broken friendship and take on their Rescue Rangers detective personas once again to save their friend’s life.

The RAMS are going to Disneyland to Celebrate!

Socalthrills Staff

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February 13, 2022

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The RAMS are going to Disneyland to Celebrate!

When the final whistle blew to seal the Los Angeles Rams’ remarkable Super Bowl LVI victory Sunday night, the jubilant MVP Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald and Matthew Stafford turned to the TV cameras and, with the help of their families, shouted those famous words that every NFL player dreams of saying – “We’re all going to Disneyland!’’

That line is the centerpiece of Disney’s famous Super Bowl commercial, which annually features star players from the game in a nationally televised TV spot currently airing on social media sites and major TV networks nationwide. This is the first time three Super Bowl players have appeared in the commercial.

This year’s “what’s next” commercial also features several Make-A-Wish® kids who made a wish to attend the game and cheer on the Rams, including Kupp, Donald and Stafford. Since 1980, Disney and Make-A-Wish have granted more than 145,000 life-changing wishes globally for kids with critical illnesses.

Rams The iconic commercial is just the beginning for the three players, who are making the short trip from Super Bowl LVI at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Ca., to Anaheim where they will continue the Rams’ Super Bowl celebration with a fun-filled day at the Disneyland Resort. Kupp, Donald and Stafford are expected to experience some of the theme parks’ exciting attractions, interact with beloved Disney characters and generally have the most magical time of their lives.

Guests at Disneyland Park may see the celebratory cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park featuring the three players at 1:30 p.m. PT. Fans may also look for a livestream of the cavalcade LIVE on @DisneyParks TikTok and @DisneyParks Instagram at 1:30 p.m. PT.

It will be a fitting celebration after Kupp, Donald and Stafford stepped into Hollywood’s biggest spotlight – at least for one spectacular night – in leading the Rams to a 23-20 Super Bowl victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. They dazzled the capacity crowd at SoFi Stadium and millions of TV viewers worldwide with their performances.

Leading the Rams to victory, Kupp scored on a one-yard touchdown pass from Stafford with 1:25 left in the game to cap a dramatic scoring drive, finishing with eight catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns. Donald had four tackles and two sacks, including a sack of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow on fourth-and-one in the last minute that sealed the victory. Stafford threw for three touchdowns and completed 26 of 40 passes for 283 yards.

Kupp, Donald and Stafford join some of the most revered names in the NFL who have appeared in Disney’s popular Super Bowl commercial, a tradition that has become woven into the fabric of the game since 1987 when New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms first appeared in the commercial following his team’s Super Bowl victory. Donald is only the third defensive player from a Super Bowl game to be in the commercial.

Disney+ Has All The Goats in new Commercial

Russell Tom

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February 13, 2022

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Disney+ Has All The Goats in new Commercial

Disney+ debuted a new TV commercial during the Super Bowl Game where Awkwafina shared that the streamer has the greatest movies and shows of all time – the GOATs, literally.

The promo takes fans through the Disney+ offices, which are revealed to be the home of the GOATs from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.

More than 30 goats can be seen in the promo representing many fan-favorite characters including Captain America, Chewbacca, Cruella, Woody and Homer Simpson.

Disney+ Goats Pics

Disney Disney Disney Disney Disney Fans will discover a special surprise when they tweet about their favorite Disney+ GOATs using one of the following hashtags: #DisneyPlusGOATs, #DisneyGOATs, #PixarGOATs, #MarvelGOATs, #StarWarsGOATs, #NatGeoGOATs, #TheSimpsonsGOATs

Marvel Debuts Trailer for “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”

Socalthrills Staff

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February 13, 2022

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Marvel Debuts Trailer for “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”

During the Big Game coverage, Marvel Studios debuted a brand-new trailer for “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” that took viewers on a mind-blowing whirlwind through the Multiverse. In addition, Marvel Studios also released a new poster for the supernatural adventure.

In Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” the MCU unlocks the Multiverse and pushes its boundaries further than ever before. Journey into the unknown with Doctor Strange, who, with the help of mystical allies both old and new, traverses the mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities of the Multiverse to confront a mysterious new adversary.

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong, Xochitl Gomez, with Michael Stühlbarg, and Rachel McAdams.

The film is directed by Sam Raimi, and Kevin Feige is the producer. Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Eric Hauserman Carroll and Jamie Christopher serve as executive producers. The screenplay was written by Michael Waldron.

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” releases in U.S. theaters on May 6, 2022.

For more information visit: https://www.marvel.com/movies/doctor-strange-in-the-multiverse-of-madness

Theatre Review: Wicked

Cori Graham

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February 11, 2022

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Great Oz! Wicked is back at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and this show truly defies gravity! As someone who honestly loves Wicked and has seen it many times with different casts, I could wax poetic about how critical its message is, even in the current political climates of the world, about how it aligns with the discomfort and rawness of feeling like you’re not being true to yourself and finding out the hard way that dreams don’t always align with values.

But that is for each of you to find your own personal connection, I won’t lie, I was moved by the first few bars of the prelude, and it never wavered. Instead, I will start with the fact that the show was even funnier than I remembered. Wicked really is one of those shows that becomes an instant hit and grows to be one of the classics of the likes of Rodgers and Hammerstein and Stephen Sondheim.

The people of Oz, celebrating the death of the Wicked Witch of the West ask Glinda (Allison Bailey) to regale them with information about the legendary witch, as well as the story of when Glinda and the Wicked Witch, named Elphaba, were friends at Shiz University. Elphaba (Talia Suskauer) arrived at Shiz solely to support her wheelchair bound and non-green sister Nessarose (Amanda Fallon Smith). She and Glinda were hardly fast friends, working through their youthful trials of reputations in college, and navigating their relationships with boys at school like Boq (DJ Plunkett) and the rebellious Fiyero (Jordan Litz).

Glinda and Elphaba’s personal integrity, as well as their mutual dream to work with the Wizard of Oz, brought them together at the most critical time in Oz. Animals throughout Oz are slowly losing their voices and no one really knows why. Thanks to their sorcery professor, the two unlikely friends finally got to meet the Wonderful Wizard of Oz himself (Cleavant Derricks)—spurring a twister of events that leads to one being revered as good, and other wicked.

This staging of Wicked, directed by Joe Mantello was simply stunning. Initial thoughts were that the comical timing and blocking for “What Is This Feeling?” was the best I’ve seen. Physical comedic timing from Allison Bailey as Glinda was stellar throughout the performance but stood out the most in both “What Is This Feeling?” and “Popular”. Talia Saskauer’s performance as Elphaba was phenomenal, with some of the clearest vocals and pitch I’ve heard on this stage.

My biggest surprise was how impressed I was with Jordan Litz’ performance of Fiyero. Dancing Through Life was probably the best version I have seen or heard and that includes the Broadway recording–what a voice! Cleavant Derricks was warm and comfortably villainous, truly conveying the Wizard’s troubling lifestyle due to his rough past.

Conductor Evan Roider was excellent at matching the timing and energy of the performers in a way the genuinely contributed to the comedic and dramatic timing. Costuming Designer Susan Hilferty’s work continues to shine on stage, the juxtaposition of Elphaba’s outfits as compared to her fellow Ozians really demonstrates her difference outside of her green complexion.

Glinda’s dresses throughout the show are stunning, it is no wonder that Hilferty won Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critic Circle awards for her work on Wicked. Kenneth Posner’s lighting design brings the costumes to life on the stage, creating the unique atmosphere of the Emerald City, and the dark backdrops of an Oz that is haunted by the Wicked Witch of the West.

If you are on the fence about seeing Wicked, this is the tour to see. At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, there are no bad seats. This Cast is wickedly good, and this tour is absolutely one of the best. Put on your silver slippers and fly down to Segerstrom to see Wicked before it soars away March 6th.

Food & Wine Festival Returns to Disneyland Resort March 4 – April 26

Socalthrills Staff

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February 11, 2022

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Food & Wine Festival Returns to Disneyland Resort March 4 – April 26

Disneyland Resort invites friends and family to come together for the return of the fan-favorite Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, March 4 through April 26, 2022. Through food, art and entertainment, the limited-time event in Disney California Adventure Park highlights the diverse foods and flavors of the Golden State, with a distinct Disney twist.

Many of California’s cultures and regions are featured in the festival’s smorgasbord of specialty dishes and experiences. A lineup of visiting and Disney chefs – representing a range of communities – will share their personal stories and cooking tips in culinary demonstrations, tasting seminars and signature events.

A dozen Festival Marketplaces peppered throughout Disney California Adventure will serve irresistible small plates and beverages inspired by California-grown ingredients like avocados, citrus, strawberries, peppers and artisanal cheeses. New and returning highlights in this year’s menu include the carbonara-garlic mac and cheese with peppered bacon, s’mores cold brew cocktail, caramel-peanut milk chocolate Mickey macaron and more. Plant-based, allergy- friendly, gluten-friendly and kid-friendly dishes are available to please a variety of palates.

Many dining locations and outdoor carts at Disney California Adventure – including Pym Tasting Lab and Terran Treats in Avengers Campus – will offer festival-inspired fare.

Guests 21 and over will have the opportunity to discover wines, spirits and craft beers curated from across the Golden State. Beer aficionados can “hop” over to the Paradise Beer Garden, located near Paradise Garden Grill, for refreshing craft beers by the glass. Cocktails at Sonoma Terrace hosted by CORKCICLE will feature signature cocktails, savory snacks and more in a lively lounge atmosphere.

For the best value on their tasty “tour” of California, guests may choose to purchase the popular Sip and Savor Pass,* which includes eight entitlement tabs redeemable for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at Festival Marketplaces and tasting-size portions at participating dining locations.

Black-owned Crowns & Hops Brewery, Brown Estate Winery, McBride Sisters Winery and Shadow Ridge Distillery are among the diverse businesses represented at the festival. Additionally, women-owned bakeries Kayla’s Macarons and Flour Shop by Amirah Kassem will offer sweet treats at special carts in Disney California Adventure.

Exciting entertainment, programs and signature experiences

The Hollywood Backlot in Hollywood Land will be home to an appetizing assortment of entertainment and presentations. Disney Junior’s new animated series “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery” is the inspiration behind a limited-time festival experience for junior chefs at the Hollywood Backlot Stage. During “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery Unbirthday Party,” live host Rolly Pin and two animated characters from the series, Alice and Princess Rosa, invite guests ages 3 through 11 to express their creativity through hands-on cupcake decorating – with a special visit from Minnie Mouse, who arrives to admire their talents. Space is limited for this experience, and participant sign-ups begin 45 minutes before each show time.’

Guests may also encounter Chef Goofy or dance along with Chip ‘n’ Dale as the Jammin’ Chefs serve up tasty new rhythms using pots and pans.

On Saturdays and Sundays at the Hollywood Backlot Stage, guests of all ages can watch culinary demonstrations from a diverse mix of Disney and visiting chefs, who will prepare their favorite dishes while sharing insider cooking tips. Notable presenters this year include Disneyland Resort Executive Chef Chris Maggetti, Disneyland Resort Pastry Sous Chef Gracie Gomez, Chef Jet Tila, Chef Shachi Mehra, Chef Kevin Bludso and many others. Fridays through Sundays at the Paradise Beer Garden, guests can enjoy chats with visiting breweries.

The Disney magic extends throughout Disney California Adventure with live musical performances, art displays, family-friendly entertainment and craft stations for kids.

Guests may choose to enhance their festival experience by booking signature events designed to expand their palate and culinary knowledge. This year’s signature events are:

Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars at Sonoma Terrace, taught by expert sommeliers, brew masters and mixologists
Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions, during which guests will join celebrated winemakers and industry experts in savoring a rare selection of wines and hors d’oeuvres

Signature events and beverage seminars require a separate fee.** Guests may check for the latest details and schedules and also book signature events at Disneyland.com/FoodandWine.

More foodie fun at the Disneyland Resort

Guests will find a new line of festival merchandise, and Disney Gift Cards, garnished with a new design for the 2022 festival, are also available. Artists including Jerrod Maruyama, Noah, Ashley Taylor and others will have special signing opportunities at Off the Page in Disney California Adventure or WonderGround Gallery at Downtown Disney District.

Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will join the gastronomic festivities, with select restaurants offering special menu items and events for a limited time.

Adding to this bountiful celebration, Soarin’ Over California is returning to Disney California Adventure for a limited time beginning March 4. This epic, aerial adventure takes guests gliding over the Golden State’s natural and man-made wonders, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the crashing waves of Malibu. Its immersive, 80-foot projection dome stimulates the graceful motion of flight and teases the senses with iconic scents found throughout California.

During the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, Southern California residents may visit the Disneyland Resort for as little as $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day weekday ticket, which can be redeemed on weekdays through May 26, 2022, subject to park reservation availability.

Disney Speedstorm a New Disney and Pixar Racing Game Launching 2022

Socalthrills Staff

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February 9, 2022

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Gameloft, a leader in the development and publishing of games, is thrilled to announce Disney Speedstorm, a new cross-playable arcade racing experience, unveiled during today’s Nintendo Direct. Players race and battle each other on stunning tracks inspired by Disney and Pixar films, mastering each racer’s unique skills to claim victory. Developed by Gameloft Barcelona, home to the Asphalt series, Disney Speedstorm is slated to launch free-to-play on PC and consoles in 2022.

Disney Speedstorm

A hero-based combat racing game featuring iconic Disney and Pixar heroes and villains re-imagined as high-speed road warriors, with racetracks inspired by their unique worlds. An incredible lineup of racers will include Captain Jack Sparrow, Mulan, Mickey Mouse, Sulley, the Beast and more, suited-up and revving up for racing action. Upgrade each racer’s stats and make the most of their unique skills, which can impact the outcome of a single race and dramatically change the way to play!

From the docks of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean to the wilds of The Jungle Book, and even racing on the Great Wall of China seen in Mulan or the Scare Floor from Disney and Pixar’s Monsters, Inc., players can experience these worlds from a fresh, exciting perspective geared specifically for racing!

Players will be able to speed through action-packed tracks solo, or challenge friends in local and remote multiplayer modes, with Disney Speedstorm supporting cross-platform play. Additionally, the action never slows down thanks to fresh content always around the corner. New Disney and Pixar racers will be added regularly, and unique tracks will be released often, to pump fresh strategy into the mix. More details will be announced closer to launch.

“To work on a dream project like Disney Speedstorm, we are driven to create a game that feels like home for Disney and Pixar fans but is also unique to the arcade-racing genre. The gameplay mechanics, the racer abilities and the location design were all tailored to serve our vision of a fast and gripping competitive experience.” said Alexandru “Sasha” Adam, VP & Studio Manager, Gameloft Barcelona. “We can’t wait to share this vision with players around the globe.”

“Disney fans are in for a full throttle experience with the upcoming launch of the high-speed racing game Disney Speedstorm,” said Luigi Priore, VP, Disney & Pixar Games. “Gameloft has driven some of our most beloved Disney and Pixar characters to new heights with their latest interpretation, while putting a fun spin on their unique circuits and abilities to keep competing fans on the edge of their seats.”

More information about Disney Speedstorm can be found at disneyspeedstorm.com.

West Side Story coming to Disney+ on March 2

Robbie Bulus

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February 9, 2022

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West Side Story coming to Disney+ on March 2

Steven Spielberg’s award-winning, critically-acclaimed “West Side Story,” will debut on Disney+ in the U.S. and most international countries on March 2. The film will launch in Taiwan on March 9 and Japan on March 30.

In addition, the ABC one-hour special “Something’s Coming: West Side Story – A Special Edition of 20/20’” is available to stream on Disney+ now.

West Side Story

Nominated for 7 Academy Awards® including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Supporting Actress (Ariana DeBose) and 11 Critics’ Choice Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Supporting Actress (Ariana DeBose, Rita Moreno), “West Side Story” is the winner of three Golden Globe® awards—Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy; Best Actress, Musical or Comedy (Rachel Zegler) and Best Supporting Actress (Ariana DeBose).

The film has also received nominations from the DGA (Steven Spielberg), PGA (Steven Spielberg and Kristie Macosko Krieger), WGA (Tony Kushner) and SAG (Ariana DeBose for Best Female Actor in a Supporting Role) and has been named one of the year’s Top 10 films by the American Film Institute and the National Board of Review, the latter having voted Rachel Zegler Best Actress of the Year.

Directed by Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. This reimagining of the beloved musical stars Ansel Elgort (Tony); Ariana DeBose (Anita); David Alvarez (Bernardo); Mike Faist (Riff); Brian d’Arcy James (Officer Krupke); Corey Stoll (Lieutenant Schrank); Josh Andrés Rivera (Chino); with Rita Moreno (as Valentina, who owns the corner store in which Tony works); and introducing Rachel Zegler (Maria.) Moreno – one of only three artists to be honored with Academy®, Emmy®, GRAMMY®, Tony® and Peabody Awards – also serves as one of the film’s executive producers.

Bringing together the best of both Broadway and Hollywood, the film’s creative team includes Kushner, who also served as an executive producer; Tony Award® winner Justin Peck, who choreographed the musical numbers in the film; renowned Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor and GRAMMY Award® winner Gustavo Dudamel, who helmed the recording of the iconic score; Academy Award®-nominated composer and conductor David Newman (“Anastasia”), who arranged the score, Tony Award®-winning composer Jeanine Tesori (“Fun Home,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie”), who supervised the cast on vocals; and GRAMMY®-nominated music supervisor Matt Sullivan (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Chicago”), who serves as executive music producer for the film.

The film is produced by Spielberg, p.g.a., Academy Award®-nominated producer Kristie Macosko Krieger, p.g.a. and Tony Award®-winning producer Kevin McCollum. “West Side Story” has been adapted for the screen from the original 1957 Broadway show. Original choreography by Jerome Robbins, based on the stage play, book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, play conceived, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, music by Leonard Bernstein.

The West Side Story Original Motion Picture Soundtrack features 21 songs from the film and is available in both standard digital and physical (CD and vinyl) configurations, as well as a digital release in Dolby Atmos Music.

Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” Debuts new Trailer and Poster

Robbie Bulus

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February 8, 2022

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Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” Debuts new Trailer and Poster

A new trailer was released for Disney and Pixar’s original sci-fi action-adventure “Lightyear.” Releasing June 17, 2022, the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear—the hero who inspired the toy—follows the legendary Space Ranger on an intergalactic adventure.

“Buzz’s world was always something I was excited about,” said director Angus MacLane. “In ‘Toy Story,’ there seemed to be this incredible backstory to him being a Space Ranger that’s only touched upon, and I always wanted to explore that world further. So my ‘Lighytear’ pitch was, ‘What was the movie that Andy saw that made him want a Buzz Lightyear toy?’ I wanted to see that movie. And now I’m lucky enough to get to make it.”

Joining the previously announced Chris Evans, who lends his voice to Buzz, are Keke Palmer, Dale Soules and Taika Waititi as a group of ambitious recruits. Peter Sohn voices Buzz’s robot companion, Sox, and the cast also includes the voices of Uzo Aduba, James Brolin, Mary McDonald-Lewis, Efren Ramirez and Isiah Whitlock Jr. “The cast for ‘Lightyear’ is truly a dream team,” said MacLane.

“Each of the performers immediately inhabited their character, which gave us the opportunity to play a bit during recording sessions. This resulted in a level of specificity that elevated the material and brought additional depth to the characters’ relationships. It has been a privilege to work with such a talented and generous cast.”

Also revealed, award-winning composer Michael Giacchino, who’s behind the scores for the upcoming film “The Batman,” as well as “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” is on board to score “Lightyear.” Giacchino has a long history with Pixar; he won an Oscar, Golden Globe and GRAMMY for the original score in “Up.”

His other Pixar credits include “The Incredibles,” “Ratatouille,” “Cars 2,” “Inside Out,” “Coco” and “Incredibles 2,” among others. The Lightyear Original Motion Picture Soundtrack from Walt Disney Records will be available on June 17, 2022.

Disney

“Lightyear” is produced by Galyn Susman (“Toy Story That Time Forgot”).

Bonus Features* The Stories of West Side Story

The Songs WEST SIDE STORY Musical numbers

Announcing Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community

Disney+ Goats Pics

Disney Speedstorm

West Side Story

Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear.” is Releasing June 17, 2022.

Bonus Features*
The Stories of West Side Story

The Songs
WEST SIDE STORY Musical numbers