UniversalParksBlog News for September 28th, 2022
This week, we’ve got three shows that have either arrived or are coming soon at Universal Studios. And we should probably talk about the weather, too.
We’ll ask everyone to stay safe as we discuss the latest UniversalParksBlog News.
Photo: Orlando vacations
Rock the Universe 2023
We once again live in a world where social gatherings are acceptable. In fact, given what we all just experienced, they’re essential.
We all need the occasional get-together to keep us sane, and I say that as an introvert.
Photo: universalorlandoyouth.com
So, I’m happy to report that a popular music festival will return to Universal Studios next year.
From January 27th-29th, 2023, Universal will host Rock the Universe. This event’s a milestone, too. It’s the 25th year for Rock the Universe!
Universal has already announced the main performers for each night of the event.
Photo: universalorlandoyouth.com
On Friday, January 27th, guests can watch Bethel Music and Skillet. Saturday’s performances include Zach Williams and Matthew West.
You’ll also find other musicians like Katy Nichole, Rend Collective, and Anne Wilson (not to be confused with Heart’s Ann Wilson).
Also, remember that Universal hosts the FanZone, where you can watch performances by rising artists on the Christian Rock scene.
As usual, Universal will sell Rock the Universe packages that range from $70.99 to $180.99, depending on what you like.
You’ll find a link for Let’s Adventure Travel at the bottom of the page. The experts there can guide you toward the best package for your needs.
Photo: Universal Orlando
Finally, be aware of the Rock the Universe Express after 4 p.m., which costs $34.99. It’s like a Universal Unlimited Express Pass for the ticketed event.
Remember that the shows have limited seating. So, you should act quickly to buy your tickets and plan your vacation. Let’s Adventure Travel will be your best friend here.
Let’s Go! Dance It!
Not everything translates well into English. So, I’ve already shown you the general phrasing for the new show that opened this past weekend.
Photo: Universal
The official name is ¡Vamos! – Báilalo, and you love the new presentation! Imagine people dressed in West Side Story era outfits dancing to hot music.
That’s the gist of this performance, which is brimming with kinetic energy. You’ll find ¡Vamos! – Báilalo at Universal Studios Florida near Louie’s Italian Restaurant.
However, this show isn’t just for professional dancers! The Universal workers head into the crowd and invite people to join this street dance!
Photo: Universal
Since nobody in the audience knew what to expect during the first performance, the mood was raucous and loud.
A Spanish version of I Will Survive had the crowd losing its mind with joy!
Currently, Universal Studios Florida hosts this show at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
Photo: Universal
I’m not gonna mislead you here. It may be too much for you first thing in the morning. Presuming you participate, you may work up a sweat dancing to the upbeat music.
Still, you WILL want to check out this show. It’s one of the best new additions at Universal in ages. Highly recommended.
PS: You can look at some of the costumes on Universal’s Instagram feed.
Okay, You Missed This But…
Photo: Universal
The other new show happened last Saturday but may return again. Universal has worked harder to express gratitude to loyal customers in recent years.
While the main competitor across town, Walt Disney World/Disneyland, works to reduce benefits for annual passholders, Universal is doing the opposite.
Photo: Universal
We’re in the middle of the latest batch of Passholder Appreciation Days. Gabby’s Dollhouse fans earned a special treat as part of this event.
What is Gabby’s Dollhouse, you ask? This was a test to identify whether you know any young children. Of course, if you don’t know what it is, you don’t know any kids.
Gabby’s Dollhouse is a wildly popular children’s program on Netflix. I’m not exaggerating much when I say that Cocomelon, Bluey, and this are raising our children.
Photo: Netflix
Parents use the streaming shows as cheap babysitting, which makes events like the Passholder Appreciation Days dance party all the sweeter.
Some lucky Universal fans took their kids to Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party. Yes, that’s the actual name of the thing.
Photo: laughing place.com
Attendants danced to hit songs from the show like “Hey, Gabby!” and “Sprinkle Party.” Universal also provided “a-meow-zing” gift bags.
Here’s some video from the event:
Given this dance party’s success, I suspect Universal will host another one sooner rather than later.
Passholder Appreciation Days end on September 30th, but Universal can hold a dance party whenever it wants.
Universal Miscellany
Okay, we’re still in a holding pattern on the biggest story of the week. Hurricane season has gotten serious. Here’s a tweet as proof:
Teacup Rock is gone.
The landmark at Thunder Cove Beach was one of the Island's most photographed rock formations — and it gained popularity in recent years thanks to social media. https://t.co/fSvwBeEWX9— CBC News (@CBCNews) September 26, 2022
That was from Fiona, which left one of my dearest friends without power or internet for three days…and he was among the lucky ones.
Now, Hurricane Ian has formed in the Caribbean Islands and appears certain to impact Central Florida in some form.
So, let’s start with what matters. If you’re impacted by this inclement weather, PLEASE be safe. Also, don’t be a hero.
Photo: NOAA
Take care of yourself and your loved ones. You can always replace stuff later.
As for the Universal Studios impact, we don’t know what that will be yet. However, we are highly confident that it won’t be great.
As such, those of you planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort this week should be aware of potential hiccups.
Photo: Universal
The parks may close early, or they may just close. It all depends on what happens next, but I cannot see into the future.
Universal last closed early for Hurricane Dorian in 2019. Hopefully, that’s the worst possibility here as well.
In other park news, Halloween Horror Nights has brought back a popular feature. You can take your picture with Chucky once again!
Photo: Universal
I’d suggest that you not turn your back on Chuck, though. He’s got a penchant for knifing people in the back…and the front.
Finally, another story we’ll cover more next time is the opening of the Universal Studios Store at the new Terminal C at Orlando International Airport.
This place is operational, but I haven’t been yet. The only video I can find is of the preview. Here’s what Terminal C looks like, though:
Okay, that’s everything for now. Seriously, though. Stay safe, everyone!
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