Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Holiday Favorites

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November 2, 2021

Beginning November 19 through January 2, guests can enjoy the Holidays at Knott’s Merry Farm with a complete park transformation into a classic winter wonderland featuring a landscape of thousands of twinkling lights, miles of themed garland, jumbo snowflakes, and a variety of picturesque seasonal settings.

This year, the park brings back all your holiday favorites with Christmas shows like Home for the Holidays, a musical revue featuring classic seasonal tunes, outstanding performers, holiday lights, and magical dancing toys, and the beloved ice show starring the famous beagle, the Peanuts Gang, and a cast of world-class ice skaters in Merry Christmas, Snoopy!, offering experiences for park-goers of all ages. With lively shows, beautiful holiday décor, and delicious holiday treats, Knott’s Merry Farm is sure to create lasting holiday memories for the whole family.

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Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with all your beloved, festive favorites that can only be found at Knott’s Merry Farm:

Festive yuletide cheer is in store at Knott’s Merry Farm with Home for the Holidays, where joyous merriment takes over the Calico Mine Stage with dancing and fun set to popular holiday tunes. Guests will be swept into a magical scene of an old-fashioned winter wonderland and celebrate timeless traditions.
Snoopy, the Peanuts, and a cast of world-class ice skaters return this holiday season to perform in the spectacular ice show, Merry Christmas, Snoopy! in the Walter Knott Theater. During the show, filled with whimsy and stunning skating, Snoopy enjoys all the best parts of the season, including trimming the Christmas tree, awaiting Santa’s arrival, and attending the festive Christmas Ball! Performances are available on select dates during Knott’s Merry Farm.

In the intimate setting of Ghost Town’s historic Bird Cage Theatre, Knott’s melodrama company brings to life Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Marley’s Wings. In Marley’s Wings, the Ghost of Jacob Marley returns in a holiday musical that is destined to become a classic! The Bird Cage piano will come alive with great new songs like “Raise the Rafters,” “Christmas in Heaven,” and “The Bah Hum Bug,” to name a few. Marley is on a mission! Performances are available on select dates during Knott’s Merry Farm.
The holiday season celebration continues at the Camp Snoopy Theatre with A Peanuts Guide to Christmas. The PEANUTS Gang offers their take and unique wisdom on surviving the holidays while singing a mashup of their favorite holiday tunes. After the show, head right over to the Peanuts Meet and Greet area to capture a lasting holiday memory with your favorite character!
Be transported back in time to a Victorian Christmas by the Calico Carolers, Knott’s own vocal quartet, as they perform the songs of the season throughout the streets of Ghost Town. Or travel to Calico Park for a soulful serenade of Christmas classics by acapella group, The Sleigh bells. You can also always grab a seat (and a plate!) at Fireman’s BBQ, where our legendary Bluegrass Duo takes the stage with a variety of classic bluegrass hits and old favorites, our Duo will have your toes tappin’ and your hands clappin’!

Swing in the season at Boardwalk Ballroom! The dance floor is open as the best swing bands around put their own spin on the season at the Tinsel Top Club. Or head over to the Boardwalk to experience the Rockin’ Reindeer, a musical duo who are the key to the season and a great way to enhance a wonderful meal at Boardwalk BBQ!
Join Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies for a foot-stompin’, down-home dose of Christmas cheer the only way they know how – with energetic music and comedy for the whole family! You won’t be able sit still when these talented musicians hit the stage at Wagon Camp! Or grab a seat for a South of the Border Show filled with rich history, tradition and the spirit of the season. Traditional mariachi is the name of the game at the Fiesta Plaza Stage with the Mariachi Angelitas.
Join 1950’s radio personalities Wayne Deer and Ginger Snaps as they present their annual Christmas broadcast from the KNOT studio in the heart of the Boardwalk. This hilarious duo does it all, from spinning records to taking requests. And keep an ear out for some important Christmas commercials.

Everyone’s favorite time of the year in Ghost Town is when Wilderness Dance Hall joyously transforms into Santa’s Christmas Cabin, where the entire family can create fond memories by taking photos with Santa Claus and his friends. It’s also home to an array of holiday treats, including freshly baked cookies, delectable pastries and seasonal drinks such as gourmet hot chocolate with marshmallows or a cold glass of milk, perfect for dunking your cookie in.
Mrs. Claus is back in the North Pole managing the elves as they get ready to deliver toys to all the good boys and girls. She has left her trusty bakers in charge at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen. Kids can help decorate one of Mrs. Claus’ delicious cookies for a small nominal fee and bring home their delightful creations.
Even more delicious holiday dishes and one-of-a-kind treats can be found throughout Knott’s Merry Farm. Guests can indulge in traditional holiday classics with a twist, including a Merry Farm favorite, crispy breaded turkey bites filled with perfectly seasoned stuffing and sweet cranberry sauce or funnel cake topped with pumpkin pie flavors and maple syrup sauce. Holiday favorites are also in-store with apple pie spiced loaves, tasty gingerbread cookies and delectable chocolate and cranberry flavored macarons in our bakery locations.

Every night during Merry Farm, when the sun sets, the park comes alive as the lights of the season brighten the night and kick off a night filled with memories for the whole family! In Ghost Town, a magical Snow and Glow experience takes place that fills the buildings and paths with thousands of lights dancing to the beat of Christmas music while snow gently falls in a spectacular one-of-a-kind moment to share with loved ones.
Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village is back with dozens of local artisans selling their unique gifts, including chainsaw wood carvings and elegant glass blowing. You are sure to find a gift for everyone on your list this season!

The perfect stocking stuffer is now on sale. A new 2022 Season Pass includes unlimited visits thru December 17, this year plus all of 2022, discounts on select food and merchandise, and access to exciting year-round seasonal events. A Regular Season Pass includes admission to Knott’s Berry Farm and a Gold Season Pass includes admission to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark. Pricing and more information is available at knotts.com

Mamma Mia! Theatre Review

By

Russell Tom

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November 2, 2021

Mamma Mia! is the first live musical show for the 2021-2022 season at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts comes in the form of one of the most successful jukebox musicals with the music of ABBA. This sizzling and saucy take of the infectious music, funny story, and dazzling dance numbers runs through Sunday, November 21, 2021.

On the eve of her wedding on a picturesque Greek island, Sophie sets on a quest to reveal the identity of her birth father. Three potential candidates answer the wedding invitation reuniting with Donna, Sophie’s unbeknownst mother.

With this story setup, not only does hilarity ensue, but also over 20 ABBA songs, including popular hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Take a Chance on Me” fire up the stage with high spirits and feel-good sensations.

You also wouldn’t want to miss the rest of the ensemble casts with their rendition of “Voulez Vous!”. Just thinking back on it makes my heartbeat and taking deep breaths from the energetic fun and abundant talent as seen on stage.

Donna’s whimsy friends from her music show days matching with Donna’s warmhearted love interests will have you in stitches as the performers play off one another.

Be on the lookout for “Knowing Me, Knowing You” as a sweeping highlight from one of Donna’s former lovers.

The production design also visually transports the audience to the blissful island setting. With a tile mosaic art portraying the blue sky of Greece to digital projections of snakes conveying Sophie’s nightmares, to a starry night of twinkling lights.

The set and lighting design truly enhance the enchanting players on stage for a memorable evening of live theatre. There’s no resisting “Mamma Mia” at La Mirada Theatre!

Tickets can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website, www.lamiradatheatre.com, by visiting the La Mirada Theatre Box Office, or by calling the La Mirada Theatre Box Office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Recommended for ages 13 and up.

Disney+ Debuts First Look Trailer for “The Book of Boba Fett”

By

Robbie Bulus

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November 1, 2021

Disney+ debuted the exciting, action-packed trailer and brand-new key art for “The Book of Boba Fett,” a new series from Lucasfilm, launching exclusively on the streaming service on December 29.

“The Book of Boba Fett,” a thrilling Star Wars adventure teased in a surprise end-credit sequence following the Season 2 finale of “The Mandalorian,” finds legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett and mercenary Fennec Shand navigating the galaxy’s underworld when they return to the sands of Tatooine to stake their claim on the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate.

“The Book of Boba Fett” stars Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen. Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Robert Rodriguez, Kathleen Kennedy, and Colin Wilson are the executive producers.

Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck serve as co-executive producers, with John Bartnicki producing and John Hampian as co-producer.

Production Begins on Disney’s “Hocus Pocus 2”

By

Socalthrills Staff

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November 1, 2021

Production on the live-action comedy “Hocus Pocus 2,” the haunting sequel to Disney’s Halloween cult classic, is underway in Rhode Island. The Disney+ original film directed by Anne Fletcher (“Dumplin,’” “The Proposal”) will debut exclusively on Disney+ in Fall 2022.

Bette Midler (“The First Wives Club,” “Beaches”), Sarah Jessica Parker (“Sex and the City,” “Divorce”), and Kathy Najimy (“Sister Act,” “Younger”) star as Winifred, Sarah, and Mary, the delightfully wicked Sanderson sisters who bewitched audiences in the 1993 film “Hocus Pocus.” Doug Jones (“The Shape of Water,” “What We Do in the Shadows”) also returns as Billy Butcherson. Joining them are Whitney Peak (“Gossip Girl,” “Molly’s Game”) as Becca, Lilia Buckingham (“Dirt,” “Crown Lake”) as Cassie, and Belissa Escobedo (“American Horror Stories,” “The Baker and the Beauty”) as Izzy, three young women in present-day Salem who incite the wrath of the three witches.

It’s been 29 years since someone lit the Black Flame Candle and resurrected the 17^th-century sisters who were executed for practicing witchcraft, and they are looking for revenge. Now it is up to three high-school students to figure out how to stop the ravenous witches from wreaking a new kind of havoc on Salem before midnight on All Hallow’s Eve.

“I am beyond thrilled to be involved in the sequel to a film that is as beloved as ‘Hocus Pocus,’” says director Anne Fletcher. “Fans around the world have embraced these characters and have made this film a Halloween tradition whose popularity continues to grow, and how lucky am I to be back at Disney with these three extraordinarily talented ladies in the iconic roles they created, as well as our fabulous new additions to the cast?”

Hocus Pocus 2 Cast

“Hocus Pocus 2” is written by Jen D’Angelo (“Happy Together,” “Workaholics”) and produced by Lynn Harris (“King Richard,” “The Shallows”), with Adam Shankman (“Disenchanted,” “Hairspray”), Ralph Winter (“Hocus Pocus,” “X-Men” franchise) and David Kirschner (“Hocus Pocus,” “Chucky”) serving as executive producers.

Rounding out the cast are recent Emmy® winner Hannah Waddingham (“Ted Lasso,” “Game of Thrones”), Tony Hale (“Veep,” “Arrested Development”), Sam Richardson (“The Tomorrow War,” “Good Boys”), Juju Brener (“Vanquish”), Froy Gutierrez (“Teen Wolf”), Taylor Paige Henderson and Nina Kitchen.

The cult classic Halloween film “Hocus Pocus” is now streaming on Disney+.

DJI Action 2 Capture Action Like Never Before

By

Socalthrills Staff

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October 27, 2021

DJI, the world’s leader in civilian drones and creative camera technology, today reimagines what a compact camera can do with the new DJI Action 2. The interchangeable and adaptive magnetic design opens new vistas to make every video compelling, with unique tools to frame, shoot, and monitor a camera, featuring DJI’s unparalleled expertise in stabilization systems. DJI Action 2 is smaller, more versatile, and more powerful than its predecessor, giving everyone the tools and the confidence to capture life’s adventures in crystal-clear 4K.

“Whether you’re racing down a mountain or playing tag with your kids on a playground, everybody deserves an easy and intuitive tool to capture and remember those life moments,” said Paul Pan, DJI Senior Product Line Manager. “We stripped our action camera down to its fundamentals and rebuilt it from the ground up to create DJI Action 2. You can configure this camera for neighborhood walks, hang gliding off a cliff, music festivals, and countless other action-packed moments. DJI Action 2 embeds DJI’s legendary technology in a revolutionary new series of mounts and fittings, making it easier than ever to see your life in action.”

Modular, Wearable Design

Weighing 56 grams, the new compact, and innovative modular design allows users to take DJI Action 2 anywhere they go. It has options to attach to your helmet to film an FPV bike ride, mount on your surfboard to get right next to a breaking wave and wear securely to your shirt to create an easy, hands-free timelapse of your tour in a new city. From vlogging to extreme sports, Action 2 is the triple threat – dustproof, waterproof, and drop-proof – and robust to withstand the ups and downs of all of life’s adventures.

DJI Action 2 comprises the camera unit and various modules – the front touchscreen module, power module, and various mounting peripherals – that can be interchanged. With multiple configurations and mounting combinations, users have unlimited control over creatively capturing the world.

DJI Action 2’s touchscreens are redesigned to make it easier and more convenient to control your photography so you can focus on the action. The camera unit features a 1.76-inch OLED touchscreen with an additional OLED screen on the front touchscreen module, which attaches securely to the bottom of the camera unit via magnetic locks, allowing users to set up a selfie-and vlog instantly.

Protected with Gorilla Glass, the touchscreens use haptic feedback for more precise control so you can navigate through camera settings quickly. You won’t miss any of the action with SnapShot, which allows users to turn the camera on and instantly begin recording in just a second by holding the power button down.

Powerful Imaging System

A 1/1.7-inch sensor records up to 4K/120fps video for incredible detail, and a super-wide 155° FOV lets you capture your entire surroundings for immersive footage. A newly implemented Color Temperature Sensor helps the camera restore color tones in complex lighting conditions and underwater recording for more natural, vibrant results.

Following its predecessor, DJI Action 2 incorporates RockSteady 2.0, DJI’s proprietary Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) technology. For a new level of smoothness, HorizonSteady maintains a level frame throughout the shot, even during your more dynamic moments. The DJI Action 2 Camera Unit has a battery with a run time of up to 70 minutes on its own, 160 minutes when connected with the Front Touchscreen Module, and 180 minutes with the power module.

Using DJI Action 2 with the front touchscreen Module also incorporates DJI Matrix Stereo technology, first seen in DJI Pocket 2. The single microphone from the camera unit combines with the three microphones from the module to record audio from every direction, creating immersive sound during playback.

Packed with Intelligent Features

DJI Action 2 offers a variety of intelligent features, including:

Slow Motion: Record video in slow motion (4x in 4K/120fps and 8x 1080p/240fps) to capture transient moments with permanence.

Hyperlapse and Timelapse: Control the perception of time with Timelapse and Hyperlapse to capture unique content with the effect of the world moving faster around you. During Hyperlapse recording, you can switch to and from regular-speed recording for even more creative options.

QuickClip: Set the device to take short 10, 15, or 30-second videos, perfect for social media.

Livestream: Use DJI Action 2 to broadcast a Livestream with a stable stream output of up to 1080p/30fps.
UVC: Utilize DJI Action 2 as a USB video device class (UVC) for your computer and capture high-quality video for conference calls and live gaming broadcasts.

Unlimited Possibilities

DJI Action 2 connects with the DJI Mimo app on your mobile device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for even more functionality, including a live feed of the camera, various story templates, and more. For users short on time or new to content creation, Mimo includes an intuitive AI Editor, which automatically selects and combines every epic moment with flawless transitions and upbeat music, creating share-worthy videos on social media.

An ecosystem of accessories helps you to maximize all the possibilities of DJI Action 2, including:

DJI Action 2 Front Touchscreen Module: A front-facing OLED touchscreen and three built-in microphones bring 4-mic Matrix Stereo technology, which allows you to compose videos or selfies and record crisp audio on the go. Connect to Action 2 for a maximum battery life of 160 minutes.
DJI Action 2 Power Module: Lets you get the most out of Action 2 by providing up to 180 minutes of filming and an additional microSD card slot. A hot-swappable design means you can change between power modules for all-day power.
DJI Action 2 Magnetic Lanyard: Wear this stylish-yet-discrete lanyard to keep your hands free and capture moments from an exciting first-person view.
DJI Action 2 Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount: An adhesive base allows users to attach DJI Action 2 to any surface and enjoy 360° of freedom to fix the camera in any direction. A standard 1/4″ screw hole is compatible with most camera accessories.
DJI Action 2 Magnetic Adapter Mount: This mount securely holds DJI Action 2 in place during extreme sports or demanding scenarios. It includes folding fingers at the bottom to use Action 2 with most third-party action camera accessories.
DJI Floating Handle: A hollow design helps keep DJI Action 2 floating so you can film in water without fear of losing the camera. An anti-slip grip makes it easy to hold, and the handle can be attached to a tripod or the DJI Action 2 Waterproof Case.
DJI Action 2 Waterproof Case: The Waterproof Case houses DJI Action 2 Camera Unit and front touchscreen module or power module to depths of up to 60 meters.
Remote Control Extension Rod: A versatile 3-in-1 accessory serves as an extension rod, tripod, and detachable remote controller, to meet all your shooting needs.

DJI Action 2 Magnetic Headband: Another hands-free alternative that allows users to shoot videos in unique FPV.

DJI Action 2 Macro Lens: This optical glass with multi-layer coating attaches magnetically over the camera unit lens, making for ideal close-up shots in sharper, richer detail.
DJI Mic: Wireless dual-channel recording system that adds clear and crisp audio to your vlog or showreel. DJI Mic has a recording range of up to 200 meters and is compatible with Action 2, smartphones, and any device that has a 3.5mm audio input. Enjoy up to 7.5 hours of battery life from the transmitters, 5 hours from the receiver, and 18 hours from the charging case.

DJI Care Refresh

DJI Care Refresh, the comprehensive protection plan for DJI products, is now available for DJI Action 2. For a small additional charge, DJI Care Refresh (1-year plan) includes up to two replacements in one year. DJI Care Refresh (2-year plan) includes up to three replacements in two years and extends the original warranty up to 2 years from the date of purchase. Other exclusive services of DJI Care Refresh include an International Warranty Service, exclusive technical service, free shipping, and Rewards for Safe Use. For a complete list of details, please visit https://www.dji.com/service/djicare-refresh.

Price and Availability

DJI Action 2 is available for purchase today from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners in several configurations. The DJI Action 2 Dual-Screen Combo retails for $519 USD and includes the DJI Action 2 Camera Unit, Front Touchscreen Module, Magnetic Lanyard, Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount, and Magnetic Adapter Mount. The DJI Action 2 Power Combo retails for $399 USD and includes DJI Action 2 Camera Unit, Power Module, Magnetic Lanyard, and Magnetic Adapter Mount. All other accessories will be sold separately. For more information on all the new features, accessories, and capabilities, please visit www.dji.com/dji-action-2

Watch Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” Debut’s New Trailer

By

Robbie Bulus

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October 27, 2021

Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear,” an original feature film releasing June 17, 2022, in theaters. Check out a brand-new, action-packed trailer and see the new poster below.

The sci-fi action-adventure presents the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear—the hero who inspired the toy—introducing the legendary Space Ranger who would win generations of fans.

I can’t believe that I get to be a part of the Pixar family and work with these truly brilliant artists who tell stories unlike anyone else. Watching them work is nothing short of magic. I pinch myself every day.”

Chris Evans (“Knives Out,” “Avengers: Endgame”) lends his voice to Buzz. “The phrase ‘a dream come true’ gets thrown around a lot, but I’ve never meant it more in my life,” says Evans. “Anyone who knows me knows that my love for animated films runs deep.

About Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear”

Annie Award-winning director and veteran Pixar animator Angus MacLane, who co-directed 2016’s “Finding Dory,” helms “Lightyear.” Galyn Susman (“Toy Story That Time Forgot” short) produces.

Plaza Point, the All-New Holiday Store on Main Street, U.S.A., is Now Open

By

Socalthrills Staff

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October 21, 2021

Plaza Point is the all-new holiday store on Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland park, and it opens today (Thursday, October 21) at the Disneyland Resort! For those who enjoy every aspect of the holidays, this new store is a must-visit location while they are in Disneyland park, as it is a home for the holidays all year long!

Inside Plaza Point, guests will find fun seasonal items from ornaments to home décor, collectibles, and more! And, throughout the year, the store will change seasonally to showcase additional holidays as well, such as Lunar New Year, Easter, and Halloween, to name a few.

That means guests will want to make a stop in Plaza Point each time they visit to not only see the latest décor but also shop the current seasonal merchandise!

One favorite item in the new holiday store are the ornaments that guests can get personalized, which also serve as great holiday gifts! It’s so fun watching the artistry in action as cast members hand paint a name on each ornament. And the ornament personalization will be available for purchase year-round.

Want to know a little bit more about the story of Plaza Point? This welcoming space is brought to guests by the store proprietress, named Miss Evelyn Toro. She is a world traveler, collecting unique pieces of holiday décor as she goes, and brings the treasured items back to display in her store. The warm, wood-paneled store fits perfectly in the Victorian era of Main Street, U.S.A.

Here to tell you more about the story of Plaza Point is Disney Imagineer Kim Irvine, who served as Executive Creative Director on this new holiday store.

We hope you get a chance to visit the all-new Plaza Point during your next visit to Disneyland park!

Universal Studios Hollywood Rejoice the Return of Holiday Favorites

By

Socalthrills Staff

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October 20, 2021

Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates the most wonderful time of the year with the return of yuletide favorites and family traditions, “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and “Grinchmas,” beginning Friday, November 26 and running daily through Sunday, January 2, 2022. The holiday festivities are included in the price of admission.

Families will rejoice at the arrival of “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” where the quaint wizarding village of Hogsmeade™ is transformed to reflect the holiday spirit featuring merry décor and jolly ambiance. Guests can take delight in special holiday a cappella performances from the Hogwarts Frog Choir, stroll through the village shops while sipping a delicious Hot Butterbeer™ and enjoy the savory festive fare at the Three Broomsticks™.

Beginning at dusk each night, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle” dazzles with stunning imagery and animation as the impressive light projection show illuminates Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, bringing the iconic Hogwarts™ castle to life and infusing the land with the sounds of an arrangement of music from the Harry Potter film series.

Guests can commemorate their Christmas visit to Hogsmeade™ Village with a variety of exclusive keepsake items available for purchase, including personalized ornaments, garland, scarves and stockings.

The jolly “Grinchmas” Who-lebration returns in festive fashion as holiday park-goers will be rockin’ around the topsy-turvy 65 foot-tall “Grinchmas” tree in Universal Plaza, adorned with hundreds of ornaments and thousands of LED lights. A dazzling tree lighting ceremony accompanied by a snowfall flurry will take place every evening, bringing good tidings and season’s greetings as guests celebrate with The Grinch, his faithful dog Max and the Who-ville Whos, who will be performing on select nights. A selection of themed Who-tacular sweet treats, including hot cocoa will be available for purchase.

In addition to the theme park, spirited holiday décor will permeate Universal CityWalk. Guests to the outdoor entertainment destination will be enchanted by the spectacular 40-foot tall Christmas tree, featuring more than 200,000 LED lights. The ever-popular Voodoo Doughnut will entice guests with a variety of festive designs and flavors to celebrate the season.

Universal Studios Hollywood Info

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Admission to Universal CityWalk is free. More information is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com.

Theatre Review: Sh-boom: Life Could Be a Dream

By

Russell Tom

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October 20, 2021

Laguna Playhouse resumes its postponed 100-year celebration with the season debut of Sh-boom: Life Could be a Dream, written and created by Roger Bean. Mr. Bean may be best known for creating The Marvelous Wonderettes. Denny and the Dreamers perform favorite songs from the ’50s and ’60s from the comfort of Denny’s basement of his mother’s house.

Denny and the gang want to enter a radio contest to realize their dreams of making it to the big time. The ’60s hits say it all: “Fools Fall in Love,” “Runaround Sue,” “Earth Angel,” “I Only Have Eyes For You,” “Unchained Melody,” “Lonely Teardrops,” “Do You Love Me?” and more.

The jukebox musical will appeal mostly to an audience that is generally 50 years of age and up. The performers put a lot of heart on stage. But the paper-thin story and characters merely are there to faintly glue and carry the songs together in a small but presentable showcase of talent. It’s a proven yet predictable serving of the 1950s and 1960’s Americana nostalgia.

A youthful singing group dreams of becoming famous singers, they seek out a sponsor, conflicted with a new member of the group, a sole female eye-candy, someone drops out but returns before the show end with enough time to get the girl. The show ends with a big radio contest, but there are no other competitors and no real resolution to wrap everything up.

The show mainly wants to retain a good-feel atmosphere for the baby boomer generation. Although not crude, the real star is the toe-tapping musical performances highlighted by the short cast list. This is actually quite well situated given the current world event. The characters of Denny, Wally, and Eugene play as youthful but overexaggerated and eager to perform for an audience.

The greaser mechanic Duke and beautiful sponsor’s daughter Lois play more straight for balance and contrast to the boys. The cast is no stranger to the stage and boasts an impressive resume from Singin’ in the Rain, Hello Dolly!, Anything Goes, Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia, and more.

Performances through Sunday, October 31, 2021, at the Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Drive in Laguna Beach. Tickets range from $51 – $101 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 are subject to change.

“Olaf Presents” New Series coming to Disney+ Nov 12

By

Socalthrills Staff

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October 15, 2021

Disney+ and Walt Disney Animation Studios unveiled plans for a new series of shorts starring the snowman-turned-storyteller, Olaf, as he recreates moments from Disney Animation classics “The Little Mermaid,” “Moana,” “The Lion King,” “Aladdin” and “Tangled.”

Check out the trailer, poster, and stills, and feel free to share with your readers. “Olaf Presents” launches exclusively on Disney+ Day a global celebration that will come to life across The Walt Disney Company on Friday, November 12, with new content releases, fan experiences, exclusive offers, and more.

Olaf Presents

Olaf steps into the spotlight and goes from snowman to showman as he takes on the roles of producer, actor, costumer, and set builder for his unique “retelling” of five favorite Disney animated tales in “Olaf Presents,” a series of new animated shorts from Walt Disney Animation Studios.

The charismatic and versatile Olaf demonstrates his theatrical flair, taking on such iconic roles as a mermaid, a genie, a lion king (and most of the parts in between), as he entertains Arendelle with his delightful abbreviated versions of these beloved tales. Josh Gad returns to voice Olaf with veteran Disney animator Hyrum Osmond directing and Jennifer Newfield producing.

“Hawkeye” on Disney+ Launches with Two Episodes on Nov 24

By

Robbie Bulus

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October 15, 2021

Disney+ unveiled plans to launch the first two episodes of Marvel Studios’ “Hawkeye” when the highly anticipated six-episode event debuts exclusively on the streamer on November 24.

Subsequent episodes will launch each week on Wednesday. Check out a new 60-second spot that offers fans a glimpse of Clint Barton and fellow archer Kate Bishop in action.

Marvel Studios’ “Hawkeye” is an original new series set in post-blip New York City where former Avenger Clint Barton aka Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) has a seemingly simple mission: get back to his family for Christmas.

But when a threat from his past shows up, Hawkeye reluctantly teams up with Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld), a 22-year-old skilled archer and his biggest fan, to unravel a criminal conspiracy.

The series also features Vera Farmiga, Fra Fee, Tony Dalton, Zahn McClarnon, Brian d’Arcy James, and newcomer Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez.

Helmed by Rhys Thomas and directing duo Bert and Bertie, “Hawkeye” debuts exclusively on Disney+ on Nov. 24, 2021.

Disneyland Resort Holiday Sneak Peek. New outfits and More!

By

Socalthrills Staff

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October 15, 2021

Believe it or not, the holiday season will be here before we know it. We’re only four weeks away from Nov. 12, the start of the season at the Disneyland Resort! And here is a little sneak peek of some of the special, new elements coming to the Disneyland Resort this year.

Starting with the first look at Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their all-new holiday attire.

As you can see, Mickey and Minnie are all bundled up and decked out for the holidays in their new, festive fashions! Don’t you just love their puffer jackets and matching cozy scarfs? When the holiday season begins on Nov. 12, you’ll be able to spot Mickey and Minnie in these new holiday looks around Town Square in Disneyland park.

But before the holiday festivities begin, Magic Key holders may be able to spot Mickey and Minnie in these new outfits sooner! From time to time, Magic Key holders might get the chance to see this duo popping in to say hello inside the limited-time Starcade experience in Tomorrowland. As a reminder, this experience is just for Magic Key-holders, and runs through Oct. 30, 2021!

Now here’s an early holiday gift, a sneak peek at some of the magical holiday merchandise, slated to arrive at the Disneyland Resort this November!

Check out these plush… do their outfits look familiar?

Some of this year’s merchandise is inspired by Mickey and Minnie’s looks that you’ll see in the park. The upcoming holiday assortment is sure to have something for everyone – from Spirit Jerseys to headwear, housewares, and more. We can’t wait to share more soon, but for now, here’s a teaser of the “Walt’s Holiday Lodge” collection!

The holiday season returns to the Disneyland Resort from Nov. 12, 2021, through Jan. 9, 2022. Beloved traditions including “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade, “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular, and “it’s a small world” Holiday is back at Disneyland park. And over at Disney California Adventure park, Disney Festival of Holidays celebrates multicultural traditions, Cars Land is transformed for the holidays, and so much more!

More info and more merch coming soon, so stay tuned!

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