Universal is probably best known for its rides/attractions based on recognisable movies. However between the two theme parks, there are shows that have maybe a little less publicity, but which certainly give the parks plenty of character. While not competing with the live entertainment offered by CityWalk, they make for great distractions when you want to break up the rides, or when the afternoon traffic is at its peak.
The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad:
This is the one live show in Universal’s Islands of Adventure (Though there are plenty of other live distractions in the park such as the coin pressing and the living fountain, both of which are close to the Sinbad Theater) and is marketed as a stunt show within the Lost Continent Island. There are plenty of stunts to be seen in Theme Parks these days and while the storyline in this show is paper-thin, and the stunts not necessarily spectacular; the show does feature more talented performers of close combat than would normally be found in a show like this. Rather than relying on impressive computer and pyro effects, the show combines these techniques with individual skill (particularly those playing the henchman roles. ) There are usually three or four performances per day and it is definitely worth your time to catch one of them.
Beetlejuice Graveyard Review:
This show has been a long-runner at the Universal Studios Park and is located in the Los Angeles area near the “Earthquake” attraction. It is a rock and roll review containing songs by the Universal horror icons and hosted by the titular zombie. The review has been updated in the last year to include recent hits. Sadly the show does not have the charm it used to but the performers (barring the host character, who is awful) are good singers and many will enjoy the adapted renditions of familiar pop songs. Previously a not-to-be-missed show, the update has lowered the review to something for a really hot, busy afternoon.
Animal Actors On Location:
Offering exactly what it suggest in the title, the Animal Actors show (Located at the entrance to the KidZone) is slightly more informative than many of its kind and is a not-to-be-missed show for any family with young kids, or those who simply love animals.
Blues Brothers Live Show
Unlike the other shows mentioned in the article the Blues Brothers is not housed in its own stadium, rather set onto a plinth on a street opposite Finnegan’s restaurant (near the Mummy ride). While keeping a low profile, it is one of Universals most fun secrets (though the nature of the show means that it isn’t exactly the quietest secret). Four performers, including Jake and Elwood perform songs from a variety of eras and genres including some of their signature tunes. An essential show to catch during a day in Universal.
Fear Factor Live
Fear Factor Live is based on the television show in which contestants take on adrenaline fuelled fear-related challenges, this transplants the series into a live format. The show has proven a big hit and usually features contestants drawn from families who stick around after the shows (“Auditions” take place at selected times during the day outside the stadium). Critters and heights feature prominently. I will say that if this does not sound like your thing, try it – the show’s presentation is loud and garish but also entertaining and kooky and the fact that Universal usually “casts” dads, moms, dentists and accountants rather than adrenaline fuelled youngsters gives the show a much broader appeal. A must-see on a day at Universal.
The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad:
This is the one live show in Universal’s Islands of Adventure (Though there are plenty of other live distractions in the park such as the coin pressing and the living fountain, both of which are close to the Sinbad Theater) and is marketed as a stunt show within the Lost Continent Island. There are plenty of stunts to be seen in Theme Parks these days and while the storyline in this show is paper-thin, and the stunts not necessarily spectacular; the show does feature more talented performers of close combat than would normally be found in a show like this. Rather than relying on impressive computer and pyro effects, the show combines these techniques with individual skill (particularly those playing the henchman roles. ) There are usually three or four performances per day and it is definitely worth your time to catch one of them.
Beetlejuice Graveyard Review:
This show has been a long-runner at the Universal Studios Park and is located in the Los Angeles area near the “Earthquake” attraction. It is a rock and roll review containing songs by the Universal horror icons and hosted by the titular zombie. The review has been updated in the last year to include recent hits. Sadly the show does not have the charm it used to but the performers (barring the host character, who is awful) are good singers and many will enjoy the adapted renditions of familiar pop songs. Previously a not-to-be-missed show, the update has lowered the review to something for a really hot, busy afternoon.
Animal Actors On Location:
Offering exactly what it suggest in the title, the Animal Actors show (Located at the entrance to the KidZone) is slightly more informative than many of its kind and is a not-to-be-missed show for any family with young kids, or those who simply love animals.
Blues Brothers Live Show
Unlike the other shows mentioned in the article the Blues Brothers is not housed in its own stadium, rather set onto a plinth on a street opposite Finnegan’s restaurant (near the Mummy ride). While keeping a low profile, it is one of Universals most fun secrets (though the nature of the show means that it isn’t exactly the quietest secret). Four performers, including Jake and Elwood perform songs from a variety of eras and genres including some of their signature tunes. An essential show to catch during a day in Universal.
Fear Factor Live
Fear Factor Live is based on the television show in which contestants take on adrenaline fuelled fear-related challenges, this transplants the series into a live format. The show has proven a big hit and usually features contestants drawn from families who stick around after the shows (“Auditions” take place at selected times during the day outside the stadium). Critters and heights feature prominently. I will say that if this does not sound like your thing, try it – the show’s presentation is loud and garish but also entertaining and kooky and the fact that Universal usually “casts” dads, moms, dentists and accountants rather than adrenaline fuelled youngsters gives the show a much broader appeal. A must-see on a day at Universal.