DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda Opens June 15th 2018
DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda Opens June 15th 2018
All-New DreamWorks Theatre Featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” Will Officially Open on June 15, 2018 at Universal Studios Hollywood
Inspired by the DreamWorks Animations hit film and global blockbuster franchise Kung Fu Panda, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” official opens June 15th replacing Shrek 4D that had opened 14 years ago. The attraction will take guests on a thrilling journey that fuses captivating storytelling with state-of-the art visual effects for a highly engaging experience.
Ride synopsis: The Emperor’s Quest”recounts a plot filled story whereby on the morning of The Emperor’s Great Feast of Heroes, dragon warrior Po embarks on a wild and perilous mission to deliver the rare and precious Liquid of Limitless Power to the Palace, while enlisting guests to join him on the exciting adventure filled with raging rapids, river pirates, awesome magic and Kung Fu. Using cutting edge technology, the new multi-sensory attraction will introduce the first-ever integration of interior projection mapping designed to engulf guests in 180 degrees of immersive adventure.
DreamWorks Theatre Exterior courtyard Rendering via Universal Studios Hollywoo
The newly constructed building housing the DreamWorks Theatre is inspired by Mission revival architecture and pays homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood’s Art Deco period of the 1920s,. Details even include a box office ticket booth staffed by a three-dimensional usher asleep on the job. As guests navigate past the ticket booth, through the flourishing outdoor garden and into the theatre queue, you will encounter a series of 36 movie posters that pay homage to DreamWorks Animation films.
Entrance to DreamWorks Theatre Via Universal Studios Hollywood
Within the lobby a display of over 20 award statuettes can be found representing a sampling of the Golden Globe, Emmy, People’s Choice, Critic’s Choice, National Board of Review and Annie awards DreamWorks Animation has assembled from 2008 to 2015. A collection of original sculpted maquettes of the “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” characters will also be on display along with artifacts symbolizing the magical powers that Po brought back from the Spirit Realm. The storyline begins as guests enter the pre-show area of the theatre where they meet an array of DreamWorks characters who kick-off the attraction’s narrative. Finally guests will enter the main theatre, complete with new ultra-plush, fully articulated seats that pivot and swivel in tandem with the 180-degree action.
DreamWorks Theatre Interior Rendering via Universal Studios Hollywood
Developed by the innovative team at Universal Creative, this never-before-adapted technique will depict a series of immersive and visually dynamic scenic designs that will transform within the interior space and enhance the story. With detailing that is so precise, it will be near impossible to realize the projected imagery is a mere illusion. This paired with seven Christie 4K Boxer Cinema Projectors and 360 degree surround sound audio, will create sweeping physical effects from water to wind. Guests will feel more like participants than spectators in the adrenaline-spiked adventure.
We were able to experience this during a Universal AP preview. Here are a couple things to know:
- If you have a disability pass you will enter on the far right at the entrance and inside the holding area of the theatre there is a ramp located to the far right where you can enter the theatre.
- Best section to view the show? I would recommend sitting at least midway and to the back of the theatre honestly. There are wall projections that cover the side walls inside the theatre and if you are too close you won't see them comfortably.
- Total run time is just about 5 minutes once show begins.
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