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    Universal Studios Hollywood's World Famous Behind The Scenes Studio Tour Celebrates 60 Years

    Universal Studios Hollywood’s World-Famous Behind-the-Scenes Studio Tour Attraction, Which has Entertained More Than 200 Million Guests Worldwide, Celebrates a Milestone 60 Years
    with Exciting Entertainment Planned for Spring and Summer
     
    The Iconic Attraction was the Genesis of Universal Studios Hollywood and Set the Stage for the Development of Universal Destinations & Experiences Global Theme Parks
    Universal City, California, January 23, 2024 – In 1964, Universal Studios Hollywood, originally referred to as Universal City Studios, rolled out its fleet of Glamor Trams, inviting tourists to “see film rushes of current productions, both feature and television, being made at Universal City,” according to the attraction’s original press release issued on July 4, 1964.

                It was a novel concept to invite the public to be a fly on the wall of movie and television production. After all, no one else had ever conceived of the idea. The iconic red and white Glamor Trams, with their ruffled awnings, were staged five times a day, each lasting just over two hours, Monday through Friday.
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    2024 celebrates the Studio Tour’s milestone 60 years, the more than 200 million guests who have experienced this attraction and, ultimately, Universal Studios Hollywood’s storied history. More information will be shared soon highlighting the exciting program planned for spring and summer in support of the Studio Tour’s 60th anniversary.
    During its inaugural year, behind-the-scenes special effects featured a brief make-up demonstration, a display of costumes by renowned costume designer Edith Head, an energetic two-man stunt performance and a tour of picturesque outdoor film sets. The following year, Universal expanded its scope of entertainment to feature a series of live entertainment that included a stunt show, animal show and screen test comedy theatre—all a precursor to what would eventually lead to the development of the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

    The point of entry for visiting guests at that time was at The Tourist Center, located at the Universal Commissary Building, where make-up artist demonstrations, trick photography and special props were on display.
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    That was 60 years ago, and while much has transpired in six decades, the Studio Tour has remained true to its roots of immersing guests in the awe-inspiring world of movie-making magic and providing remarkable access to production sets on a real studio lot. The once celebrated Glamor Trams are long gone and have been replaced with a contemporary 60-minute experience, infused with advanced technology that enlightens and entertains millions of film buffs, theme park fans and tourists alike visiting from across the globe. With its sights on the future, the Studio Tour is in the midst of converting its fleet of 21 diesel-hydraulic engines to electric trams to help reduce carbon emissions and improve the guest experience by reducing noise associated with the diesel-hydraulic engine.
    And yet, aspects of the Glamor Tram have remained constant over this astonishing six decade span. 

    Studio Tour Guides were central to the operations of the Glamor Tram tours then and remain vital to the success of the Studio Tour today. Numerous times a day, professionally trained Studio Tour Guides interact with guests, educating them on the inner workings of the movie and television lot, armed with insider information and first-hand accounts, and entertain them with tours in both English and Spanish.

    The role of a Studio Tour Guide has become a highly sought-after position in recent years with candidates auditioning from around the globe for a coveted spot – and for good reason. Studio Tour Guides have evolved over time into a Hollywood “apprenticeship.” Future filmmakers, budding actors and executives in-the-making are empowered to take advantage of a variety of opportunities and Hollywood-insider perks, that may include intimate group symposiums with prestigious industry professionals, free acting classes, participation in an actor’s showcase with top industry casting directors and chances for job placement positions within the company.
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    Dozens of producers, directors, performers, movie and TV professionals as well as industry executives began their careers as Studio Tour Guides, and to this day, rank among the leaders shepherding the Studio Tour and Universal Studios Hollywood into the future. ​
    The Studio Tour of today continues to build on its rich history and like many great blockbuster films, creates a foundation for the next big sequel…and therein lies the origins of Universal Studios Hollywood.

    From ushering guests past iconic sets from the renowned film Psycho directed by Alfred Hitchcock – one of the very first film sets accessible for visitors to see up close and personal in 1964 – to the evolution of Universal Studios Hollywood, immersing guests in innovative, groundbreaking rides and attractions themed to compelling film and television properties, Studio Tour was “act one” in the development of the notable Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX) portfolio of global theme parks.

    As the landmark Studio Tour turns a milestone 60, the juxtaposition of then and now shines a spotlight on its evolution to the theme park of today.

    Beginning with the modern day, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™--touted as a revolutionary addition to Universal Studios Hollywood when it expanded its scope of movie and television themed attractions to include the popular Super Mario™ video game property—celebrates its one-year anniversary.

    This collaboration with Nintendo was a placemaking endeavor for the global entertainment destination when it debuted the first SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in the United States. From the moment guests pass through the signature giant green pipe, they are transported into the Mushroom Kingdom to become a part of its exhilarating universe.
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    SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is a visually spectacular land, filled with vibrancy of colors and architectural ingenuity and where guests can gather to experience the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge.” This technologically advanced ride, inspired by the popular Mario Kart™ video game series, seamlessly fuses cutting-edge augmented reality with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces along a moving ride track. With its broad cross generational appeal, SUPER NINTENO WORLD envelops guests in its unique world complete with interactive activities, Toadstool Cafe™ signature restaurant, 1-UP Factory™ store and walk-about characters: Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad.
    In partnership with Universal Creative, the visionary design and development division of Universal Destinations & Experiences, Universal Studios Hollywood has crafted an ambitious blueprint for its future. The historic journey is nothing short of remarkable and the evolution of breakthrough, next-generation thrill rides has continued to revolutionize Universal Studios Hollywood, renowned for its innovative collaborations with influential Hollywood filmmakers and creatives, including Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson, Michael Bay, Chris Meledandri, Jordan Peele and Shigeru Miyamoto and Nintendo’s creative team, whose credibility reinforce Universal Studios Hollywood’s authenticity
    Over the past 60 years, many rides have opened, and others were bid a fond farewell. For a walk down memory lane, here’s look back at some of the many milestone rides and attractions that have helped to shape the destination:
    • Bygone, nostalgic Studio Tour attractions included the Parting of the Red Sea (1973), which demonstrated an early special effect technique, and the spinning Ice Tunnel (1975) which demonstrated the effects of a severe snowstorm and forced perspective, as well as a dynamic hillside rockslide of tumbling faux boulders and a near miss collision with the infamous Runaway Train.
    • In 1971, Flash Flood showered guests with a unique behind-the-scenes look at movie weather effects. All these years later, the popular attraction continues to be a staple on the Studio Tour.
    • ​“Jaws Lake” took a bite out of the studio backlot in 1976, a year after Academy Award® winning filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s movie debuted, which has withstood the test of time as one of today’s premier Studio Tour attractions.
    • In 1989, “Earthquake” had guests clinging for their lives with its fabricated but eerily realistic 8.3 magnitude quake. All these years later, Earthquake, which continues to shake things up on the Studio Tour, will debut anew with updated and contemporary technology and aesthetics.
    • The progressive additions to the Studio Tour took a future forward leap in 1991 towards what was to come at Universal Studios Hollywood. It was a gradual process that began with the debut of the “Animal Actors’ Stage” in 1970, an attraction that remained until recently when the space was reimagined for the theme park’s upcoming Fast & Furious themed roller coaster.
    • In 1991, “The E.T Adventure” paved the way for the arrival of such iconic rides as “Back to the Future—The Ride” in 1993 and “Jurassic Park—The Ride” in 1996, which was singularly revered as a game changer for the fledgling theme park.
    • In 2005, an original movie set from Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster, War of the Worlds landed onto the backlot as a sprawling addition to the Studio Tour, in which trams traverse a key scene depicting a small town devastated by an elaborately choreographed 747 jetliner crash and surrounded by wreckage and debris.
    • When the 1986 King Kong attraction was destroyed in the 2008 backlot fire, the behemoth primate reemerged in 2010 as “King Kong 360-3D,” a signature attraction on the Studio Tour, inspired by filmmaker Peter Jackson’s Oscar®-winning film.
    • “TRANSFORMERS: The Ride—3D,” under license by leading toy and game company Hasbro, set the stage for the theme park’s epic transformation that began in 2012, raising the bar for immersive, technologically advanced entertainment. Inspired by the franchise’s signature theme of action and adventure, the attraction infused an adrenalized multi-level ride-track and visceral special effects with one of the most elaborate flight simulation ride systems ever created. 
    • In 2014, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” brought Universal Pictures and Illumination’s Academy Award® and Golden Globe Award-nominated film franchise to life with the same sweet and subversive humor and beloved characters that catapulted the franchise to international blockbuster fame.
    • 2015 saw the introduction of two major theme park additions. This included “Springfield, U.S.A,” a vibrant land surrounding “The Simpsons Ride™,” which opened in 2008, to create an immersive portal into the exciting and colorful world made famous with “The Simpsons” incredible 35 seasons, and “Fast & Furious—Supercharged,” a gripping, high speed, 3D-HD thrill ride inspired by Universal Pictures’ most successful film franchise of all time and featuring the films’ cast members.
    • “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” was transformative for Universal Studios Hollywood when the elaborately themed land opened in 2016, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. Pictures films, and is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including as its iconic focal point, Hogwarts™ Castle. Cobblestones pave the way along Hogsmeade™ Village welcoming guests to the land’s signature thrill ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™" outdoor coaster.
    • In 2019, “Jurassic World—The Ride” replaced “Jurassic Park—The Ride,” bringing to life Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s JURASSIC WORLD blockbuster films with the addition of technologically advanced mechanical and special effects dinosaurs from the movie, including the colossal Indominus rex and the magnificent aquatic Mosasaurus.
    • In 2021, Illumination’s global blockbuster film franchise, The Secret Life of Pets, came to life in the groundbreaking ride, “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash.” The state-of-the-art ride combined sophisticated facial recognition with enhanced gesture tracking, helping to identify each guest as a unique stray puppy on the ultimate quest to find their forever homes.
    • The original Jupiter’s Claim set from Jordan Peele’s expansive horror epic, NOPE, became the latest addition to the Studio Tour in 2022. The elaborate set was carefully disassembled post-production and transported to Universal Studios Hollywood where it was meticulously reconstructed on site, complete with original props and details from the film for Studio Tour fans to enjoy.
    These just touch on the spectrum of adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood as the entertainment options are inclusive of daily theme park operations and acclaimed seasonal and special events.  From its engaging character interactions, popular Halloween Horror Nights and Grinchmas™ celebrations to the VIP Experience, a premium off-shoot of the iconic Studio Tour with enhanced behind-the-scenes access, there is so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood…with much more on the way.
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    More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
  • Published on

    Six Flags Launches Largest Digital Alliance in Theme Park Industry

    Alliance Set to Revolutionize Guest Experience
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    ARLINGTON, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: SIX), the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of water parks in North America, today announced that it has launched the largest digital alliance in the theme park industry, partnering with Google, HCL Tech, Dell, Snowflake, Fueled, and Pure Imagination Studios. The digital alliance—a first of its kind in the theme park industry— will offer cutting-edge technologies from best-in-class companies to benefit both guests and team members.

    The technological advancements spearheaded by this alliance aim to redefine the guest experience across multiple touchpoints. Our initiatives focus on streamlining pre-visit planning through intelligent recommendation systems, elevating real-time engagement during the visit with personalized, AI-driven notifications and virtual assistant support, and enriching post-visit interactions via insightful analytics that tailor future recommendations and offers.

    "Our guests are at the center of everything we do, and we want to give them the best possible experience when they visit our parks," said Selim Bassoul, CEO of Six Flags. "By partnering with the best-in-class companies, we are using data and technology to accelerate innovation and revolutionize the theme park industry."

    "Six Flags is leading the way on technology, harnessing the power of an alliance to accelerate innovation and seamlessly blend brands into the guest experience through multiple touchpoints in the park," said Omar Jacques Omran, Chief Digital Officer at Six Flags. "Our guests will benefit from the latest technology to make their visit more personalized, enjoyable, and memorable."
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    Alliance members will play an important role in advancing innovation in the industry by harnessing their unique capabilities and technology:
    • "As Six Flags’ primary cloud provider and AI innovation partner, Google Cloud is ready to make AI and cloud technologies more accessible to more people across the theme park industry,” said Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud. “Through this alliance, the industry can take advantage of our innovations in data, technical infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI to create memorable and tailored guest experiences.”
    • “HCLTech looks forward to enabling Six Flags accelerate its digital transformation initiatives to personalize and enhance its guest experiences,” said Hari Sadarahalli, Corporate Vice President for Engineering and R&D Services (ERS) at HCLTech. “As the digital engineering and system integration partner, we will leverage our expertise across AI, Analytics, Cloud and Digital Engineering to integrate varied and complex systems, enabling Six Flags to provide a connected and cohesive experience across all its parks."
    • ​“There’s no doubt about it – the advances of generative AI and the hardware that powers its capabilities will revolutionize the customer experience whether you’re at home or at the amusement park,” said Jeff Boudreau, chief AI officer, Dell Technologies. “Working with Six Flags, Dell Technologies is helping fuel the next level of AI-enabled family adventures.”
    • "The Snowflake Data Cloud will help this newly formed digital alliance harness the power of data and improve their guests' experiences," said Bill Stratton, Global Industry GTM Lead, Media, Entertainment, and Advertising, Snowflake. "With Snowflake's single, integrated platform, and the ability to make the complex simple, Six Flags will be able to gain new insights into guest behavior and deliver personalized experiences."
    • “At Fueled, we are passionate about applying our expertise in mobile app design and development,” said Rameet Chawla, Founder and CEO of Fueled. “Our team worked closely with Six Flags to enhance their guest experience by providing tailored content, streamlining automation, and offering customizable visit options.”
    • Joshua Wexler, CEO of Pure Imagination Studios, said: "Pure Imagination Studios is delivering an elevated level of innovation in AR, VR and animation that will bring Six Flags into the metaverse and the future of experiential entertainment. Through exceptional storytelling and expanded interactivity and game play in both the physical and digital worlds, we will transport guests of all ages to places that are not bound by traditional physical rides, visuals or reactions. We will ignite their wildest imaginations."

    ​The new latest technologies will revolutionize the guest experience by introducing immersive and interactive elements that are unparalleled in the theme park industry. Leveraging data-driven personalization, we'll provide tailored experiences for each guest, setting a new standard for customer engagement. The digital alliance is poised to unveil these groundbreaking innovations in the coming months.

    About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
    Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 27 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 63 years, Six Flags has entertained hundreds of millions of guests with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. Six Flags is committed to creating an inclusive environment that fully embraces the diversity of our team members and guests. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.
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    Universal Studios Hollywood's Philanthropic Foundation Raises $1 Million to benefit LA Community Non-Profits

    Universal Studios Hollywood’s Philanthropic Discover A Star Foundation Raised $1 Million in 2023 to Benefit Greater Los Angeles Community Nonprofits Supporting Critical Poverty and Children’s Issues and Raises the Stakes in 2024 as Foundation Marks a Milestone 30 Years 
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    Universal City, California, January 16, 2024 – Renowned for creating innovative, groundbreaking rides and attractions, Universal Studios Hollywood is also committed to philanthropy through its Discover A Star Foundation, which raised in excess of $1M in 2023 to benefit nonprofit groups within Los Angeles County that empower individuals and families to lead more fulfilling lives.

                For 29 years, Discover A Star (DAS) has been at the forefront of providing grants to select Los Angeles nonprofit organizations working to alleviate homelessness and poverty as well as critical children issues.

                “Giving back to our community and making a difference in people’s lives is as important to us as creating exceptional rides and attractions for our guests,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manger, Universal Studios Hollywood and President of the Discover A Star Foundation. “I believe it is our responsibility to lead by example and I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished and the invaluable impact we consistently make year over year within our community. As Discover A Star marks its 30th year of giving in 2024, we look forward to making an even greater impact in the years to come.”

                In 2023, the $1M+ was raised to benefit 38 notable nonprofit groups with the remarkable ability to affect the lives of more than one million Los Angelenos.

                Below follows a partial list of the Discover A Star 2023 nonprofit beneficiaries:
    • Covenant House California:  $75,000 to support expansion of Hollywood site and rapid rehousing programs for homeless youth.
    • Downtown Women’s Center:  $75,000 to support programs for women experiencing homelessness including bridge, permanent supportive housing and Whole Women’s Saturday enrichment program.
    • My Friend’s Place: $75,000 to support expansion of services supporting homeless youth and transitional age young adults.
    • Homeboy Industries: $50,000 to support comprehensive 18-month Re-Entry and Healing Program focusing on education, employment readiness and mental health support for formerly incarcerated/gang involved individuals.
    • Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: $50,000 to support operation which provides fresh and shelf stable food to over 600 partner agencies across Los Angeles County, reaching 900,000 people monthly.
    • School on Wheels: $50,000 to support programs aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for homeless children from Kindergarten through twelfth grade.
    • A Window Between Worlds: $25,000 to provide scholarships for art facilitator training at L.A. County based human services organizations that focus on youth and underserved families.
    • Assistance League of Los Angeles: $25,000 to support the Operation School Bell program which provides clothing and school supplies to LAUSD students in need.
    • Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration: $25,000 to support the Together We Are Able classroom program that promotes inclusion, respect and diversity to unite children of all abilities.
    • Junior Achievement Southern California: $25,000 to support mission of teaching young people how to make smart financial decisions, plan for their futures, and inspire them to believe in themselves.
    • Los Angeles LGBT Center: $25,000 to support Culinary Arts Program that provides the foundation of required culinary skills for students to secure jobs and pursue meaningful careers throughout the Los Angeles restaurant and hospitality sectors.
    • Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles: $25,000 to fulfill the wishes of children between the ages of 2½ and 18 who confront critical illness.
    • Piece by Piece: $25,000 to support program that teaches individuals who have experienced homelessness or economic insecurity the art of mosaic making enabling them to build confidence, earn supplementary income and an improve their quality of life.
    • Project Angel Food: $25,000 to support home delivered medically tailored meals and nutritional counseling program for individuals living with critical illness in Los Angeles County.
    • Valley Family Center: $25,000 to support Children's Psychoeducational Services Program, providing Counseling and services for children who are dealing with the effects of poverty and exposure to violence, abuse or neglect.
     
    Since its inception, Discover A Star has raised over $12M. Funds are raised annually through a variety of programs and opportunities supported by Universal Studios Hollywood that include the Discover A Star Charity Classic Golf Tournament, Discover A Scare Halloween Horror Nights event, and the Round Up for Charity program across the theme park and select venues at Universal CityWalk, among other outreach approaches.
                For more information about Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk, guests can visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.
  • Published on

    SeaWorld San Diego’s Inside Look Event is Back Starting January 13th with All New Behind the Scenes Experiences

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    An all-new dining experience with rescued animals, a jellyfish-focused Aquarium Lab tour, and more offer guests endless ways to spend their day learning about animals from the park’s dedicated team of animal care specialists
    SAN DIEGO, CA (January 8, 2024) – Inside Look is returning to SeaWorld San Diego on Saturday, January 13 and continuing on select dates through Sunday, January 21. During the event, which is included with park admission, park visitors will have special access to areas of the park normally not open to general park guests, including the Rescue Center, as well as all-new opportunities to hear from animal care specialists about the park’s belugas and otters, see jellyfish up close, and learn about rescued animals.
     
    “Inside Look is an awesome opportunity for our guests to learn about our incredible animals in new and unique ways as well as meet our zoological specialists as they share their passion for the animals they care for. Education and wildlife conservation have been the core of SeaWorld’s mission for 60 years, and we hope that guests will take home a little piece of inspiration to make a change in their daily lives that will help protect our planet’s wildlife” said Eric Otjen, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld San Diego. “We’re especially excited to share what we’re learning about jellies as we gear up for the opening of Jewels of the Sea, our new jelly exhibit opening this year.”
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    Guests can check the daily schedule to make sure they don’t miss any of the all-new and returning exclusive experiences, including: 
     
    All-New Aquarium Lab Jellyfish Tour: This paid upgrade allows guests to go behind the scenes at the Aquarium Lab to see and learn more about moon jellyfish, a species that will be featured in The Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience exhibit opening in 2024. Guests will have the opportunity to hear about and interact with archer fish and cleaner shrimp.

    All-New Inside Look Dine with Animals: For the first time, guests can upgrade their day and have the exciting ability to enjoy a delicious meal while learning more about unique rescued animals for an additional fee. At Nautilus Pavilion, guests will listen to the powerful stories of these incredible rescued marsupials, primates, and reptiles while enjoying a delicious chef-curated buffet meal.
     
    Animal Care Inside Look: In addition to daily animal presentations, SeaWorld Animal Care Specialists will be hosting special Trainer Talks where guests can learn about animal behaviors, feeding, and husbandry. These 20-minute presentations will be offered daily at Orca Encounter, Dolphin Point, Sea Lion & Otter Stadium, Penguin Encounter, and for the first time, Wild Arctic Beluga Viewing Area and Otter Outlook.

    Inside Orca Care Program: During this paid upgrade, visitors will meet and hear from the dedicated animal care specialists who safeguard the health and well-being of our killer whales. Park guests will view a learning and training session between the orcas and their animal care team to better understand the dynamics of caring for SeaWorld’s largest residents. 
     
    Inside the SeaWorld Rescue Center: Guests will have a special opportunity to tour areas of SeaWorld Rescue Center, a back area of the park where the Rescue Team brings hundreds of rescued animals each year for rehabilitation. During this experience, members of the SeaWorld Rescue team will share stories about recent rescues and tour guests through the Rescue Center showing the animal care hospital and rehabilitation areas. In addition, guests will get an up-close look at the rescue truck and inflatable boat used in rescues.

    Inside and Underwater at Turtle Reef: At the Turtle Reef exhibit, guests will be able to watch zoological scuba divers interact with the turtles in the reef and play games with guests while educators share information and answer questions.
     
    Meet Animal Conservation Ambassadors: Guests can learn and see a variety of unique rescued animals during the Feathers, Scales, and Furry Rescue Tails presentation located at Nautilus Amphitheater. This fun and educational presentation at Mission Bay Theater shares the story of Conservation Ambassadors, animal care, and rescue. Guests will meet many incredible rescued animals, such as marsupials, primates, and reptiles, and learn about their unique stories.
     
    Connections with Conservation Partners: Inside Look will spotlight conservation organizations in the local community that SeaWorld partners with as a part of “Inside Look Connections” on Skytower Lawn. Organizations such as Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, Living Coast Discovery Center, Project Wildlife, Helen Woodward Animal Center, Surfrider Foundation, as well as SeaWorld Rescue, will have booths where guests can ask questions and learn about their important work.
     
    To further enhance their Inside Look experience, guests can pick up an Inside Look passport and visit certain Inside Look locations for a special stamp. Inside Look is included with park admission. Event times are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please see seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours for the daily schedule.
    Best Way to Play is with a SeaWorld San Diego Annual Pass
    With new offerings introduced for 2024, SeaWorld San Diego has the best benefits ever for 2024 Annual Pass Members. For as low as $13.25 a month, with no down payment, guests can enjoy up to $2,365 worth of benefits including unlimited year-round admission for amazing animal experiences, thrilling attractions, and incredible seasonal events. Members receive 12 months of visits with the best benefits ever, including FREE parking, up to six free guest tickets, and special savings on merchandise, Quick Queue, and more. Pass Members are first for everything, first to ride any new attraction, first to view new animal exhibits, and first to know about major park announcements. In 2024, Pass Members will be the first to view SeaWorld’s newest exhibit, Jewels of the Sea, A Jellyfish Experience, the immersive and interactive aquarium.
    For more information, visit SeaWorldSanDiego.com. Be sure to follow SeaWorld San Diego on Facebook and Instagram for the latest park updates and information.
     
    About SeaWorld
    SeaWorld is a leading marine life theme park and accredited zoo and aquarium that provides experiences that matter while educating and inspiring guests of all ages to care about marine life. Welcoming millions of guests every year, the parks offer fun and enriching experiences from up-close animal encounters and year-round educational programs to award-winning marine-life themed rides and attractions, special events and exciting entertainment. For more than 60 years SeaWorld has advanced the conservation of marine life in and outside its parks through science, education, and exceptional animal care that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world, helping more than 40,000 animals to date. The SeaWorld Conservation Fund, a non-profit foundation established in 2003, has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations to advance critical research on every continent. A portion of park proceeds goes toward supporting these longstanding conservation commitments. SeaWorld parks are in Orlando, San Antonio, San Diego and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). SeaWorld is part of the SeaWorld Entertainment (NYSE: SEAS) portfolio of theme park brands. For more information, visit us at SeaWorld.com.
  • Published on

    Pre-sales NOW open for the Ultimate Horror Fitness Experience: "SLASHERCISE™” Vol 1

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    Ama Lea (Dir Fangoria’s 2022 Chainsaw Awards, Dir Deathcember) and Vanessa Decker (Bloody Disgusting’s Horror host of Hello Horror and influencer @horror.vixen), combine talents to create an unparalleled workout experience that blends heart-pounding fitness routines with the spine-tingling suspense of vintage 80’s horror. The Slashercise DVD series promises to combine all that is loved about 80’s classic horror and fitness rolled into a full-fledged, digital format exercise program
    Brace yourselves for a groundbreaking fusion of fitness and fear with Slashercise, a spine-chilling horror aerobics workout DVD that promises to reinvigorate the way we experience fitness! Slashercise is the horror genre's answer for the latest iteration of the at home workout generation. REAL workouts, REAL Horror, REAL fun. Presale for Vol 1 is open now at www.slashercise.com!
     
    Slashercise was conceived by Decker and Lea at the onset of the pandemic when at-home exercise had its biggest resurgence since Jane Fonda donned spandex. Joined by our producing team, Event Producer Claire Dunlap (Spooky Swap Meet, Midsummer Scream Halloween and Horror Convention) Lindsay Hearts (CEO & Designer at FOXBLOOD), Diana Prince (Darcy The Mail Girl of The Last Drive-in with Joe Bob Briggs) and Kira Von Sutra (Artist), Slashercise was born.

    Slashercise is a complete exercise plan that uses host-guided cardio routines and bodyweight training to provide a complete circuit training workout. The workouts are designed to keep your muscles moving, challenged, and active. This is an ACTUAL workout with the added motivation of 80s horror, synthwave, gore, camp, and scream queen hotties that leaves the user panting for more! Forget grooving with the oldies, join us while we get those buns of steel or die trying!
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    Key Features of Slashercise Vol 1:
     
    1. A Horror-filled, Cinematic Fitness Journey: Director Ama Lea brings her cinematic expertise to the fitness world, while Vanessa Decker and fitness accomplices craft workouts that play out like scenes in a horror movie. Each session is a journey into the unknown, guided by the immersive storytelling that has made Lea a standout figure in the horror industry, the two will script out killer scenes for everyone to enjoy.
     
    2. Frightful Fitness Routines: Slashercise introduces a series of high-intensity workouts inspired by iconic horror themes. From cardio sessions set to the beats of a menacing synthwave soundtrack created by macabre maestro Travis Bacon, to strength training routines that'll mirror the struggles of a long night of final girl survival, each workout is carefully crafted to keep participants on the edge of their exercise mats. Vanessa Decker, celebrated for her passion for all things horror, injects the workouts with her unique personality and insights. From eerie warm-ups to pulse-pounding cardio, Decker's presence adds a layer of authenticity and excitement that horror fans will appreciate.
     
    3. Inclusivity: Slashercise is for ALL bodies. Tall bodies, short bodies, plus sized bodies, thin bodies and dead bodies...ok maybe not dead bodies, but you get the idea. Inclusivity is built into the workouts and is present on screen with our delightful cast of bodaciously scary ghoulfriends leading the workout sessions.
     
    4. Spooky Set Designs: Slashercise doesn't just happen in a typical workout studio. Our 1980's synthwave nightmare extends to the set designs, transforming exercise spaces into haunted landscapes where every squat and lunge is accompanied by an eerie and fun atmosphere.
     
    5. Celebrity Cameos and Horror Sketches: Between workouts, recover by watching our short horror sketches highlighted by celebrity cameo appearances. Lea and Decker have curated a lineup of surprise guests who'll bring the horror genre to life such as Felissa Rose, Diana Prince, and Spencer Charnas from Ice Nine Kills with many more.This series is bound to become a new addition to your vintage horror collection!
     
    6. MEATHEAD. 'What's the worst thing you can imagine at the gym?' Vanessa asked Ama.  "A creepy dude invading my space?" "Close! A gym bro aka  MEATHEAD!" And that's how our slasher, MEATHEAD was born. He's an absolute nuisance to our workout crew causing havoc and mayhem on our film set, as well as leading our easy and modified modes for the workouts! 
     
    7. Four Bone-Chilling Sections: In this hour plus workout DVD, you will have the option to do ALL four workouts or choose to target a specific area you want to focus on for that session.
     - Arms, Back, & Chest: Sculpt and tone your upper body with exercises designed to make your arms as strong as a horror movie heroine.
     - Legs and Booty: Work those legs and lift that booty with exercises that will leave you feeling like you can outrun any slasher.
     - Aerobics: Get your heart racing with horror-themed aerobics that'll have you serving synthwave 80s vibes all day long.
     - Striptease: A seductively spooky striptease session that adds a thrilling twist to your fitness routine... or it's just fun to watch.

    8. Customizable: Slashercise provides customizable intensity levels to accommodate all fitness levels. The program that allows the viewer to choose their intensity level or modify when needed. Choose the "Slasher" level for a spine-tingling but manageable workout, or dive into the heart-pounding challenge of the "Final Girl" level for a truly intense fitness experience. Both will assist in getting toned enough to outrun any killer baddie, ghoul, or kaiju that comes your way.
     
    9. Exclusive Bonus Content: The DVD includes exclusive bonus content, including behind-the-screams footage, interviews with Ama Lea and Vanessa Decker, our cast and crew and special features that dive into the creative process behind "Slashercise."
     
    Slashercise ™ is not just a workout; it's a horror-fueled journey that invites fitness enthusiasts and horror fans alike to push their limits while embracing the thrill of the unknown. With Lea's directorial expertise and Decker's infectious passion for horror, this collaboration is set to redefine the fitness landscape. 
    The DVD is available for pre-order now at Slashercise.com and will be released March 2024. Don't miss your opportunity to be among the first to participate in the fun, fitness and frights with “Slashercise”. 
     
    www.slashercise.com

  • Published on

    Ring in 2024 at Knott’s Merry Farm

    Countdown the final hours of the year with
    a spectacular firework display and a night full of fun!
    he countdown to the New Year is on at Knott’s Merry Farm with special fireworks, live entertainment, and special extended hours for the one-night event. Guests have a chance to say goodbye to the final moments of 2023 at Knott’s as the park celebrates with memorable festivities including Merry Farm seasonal performances throughout the day on December 31st. The enchanting Knott’s New Year’s Eve celebration gives guests front row seats to the final event of the year as the park rings in 2024 with a park wide-party unlike any other and everyone is invited.

    The New Year’s celebration features entertaining activities for the whole family including a family-friendly comedian, live bands, swing dancing and more. Guests are invited to count down the final moments of 2023 with festive music, party hats and noisemakers making this night extra special. The spectacular firework celebration sets the skies above Knott’s ablaze at the stroke of midnight as colorful fireworks light the start of the New Year. The nighttime extravaganza offers a stress-free night perfect for family and friends to come together and create new memories by starting a new tradition by celebrating New Year’s Eve at Knott’s.

    This year’s line-up of can’t miss entertainment are:

    • At the Midnight Fireworks Spectacular, guests can ring in the New Year with a bang as the park’s skies wonderfully light up for an aerial fireworks display that will leave the young and young at heart in awe.
    • Visit Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies at Wagon Camp for the best entertainment this side of the Santa Ana freeway that will have the crowd’s toes tappin’, hands clappin’ and guts bustin’.
    • DJ HowLy brings the party to the farm for a special New Year’s celebration, with high energy music and dancing taking place at the Calico Mine Stage. Plus a 9PM countdown to celebrate with our East Coast friends!
    • Next to the Calico Mine Stage, the PEANUTS characters will be posing for pictures with guests to celebrate the New Year in their favorite party outfits.
    • Surf on by Boardwalk BBQ where you can catch PianoMania Dueling Pianos. These two talented musicians go head-to-head in a musical battle you won't want to miss.
    • Fiesta Plaza will feature Adelaide Pilar playing upbeat Latin music.
    • The Calico Mine Stage will blast unforgettable pop and rock music courtesy of the band Midnight Hiatus.  It’ll have guests dancing in the aisles.
    • Family-friendly comedian, Chipper Lowell, brings his hilarious comedy, magic and audience participation to the Bird Cage Theatre.
    • Jitterbug Pop Swing Band, Dance Instructors, and the Jitterbug Jumpers are on hand to play the slickest standards ever. Swing, sway and jump with the hippest cats in town. The Jitterbug Pop Swing Band provides the tunes and you’re invited to dance the night away in the legendary Boardwalk Ballroom. Dance instruction classes included!
    • A New Year’s Eve celebration is not complete without a delicious meal. Spur’s Chop House is serving up a special New Year’s Eve Buffet from 3:30pm – 9:30pm. The buffest includes party favors and a champagne toast! Walk up only.

    WHEN:        
    Knott’s New Year’s Eve Celebration is included with regular daytime admission. Park hours on New Year’s Eve are 9am to 1am.

    WHERE:       
    Knott’s Berry Farm - 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620

    A 2024 Knott’s Season Pass is a great way to visit on New Year’s Eve. A new 2024 Season Pass includes unlimited visits in 2023 and 2024 with no blackout dates, discounts on select food and merchandise, and access to exciting year-round seasonal events. A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2024 to Knott’s Berry Farm and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2024 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates.
    For more information visit knotts.com