OPENING: MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE at The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

February 25 through April 15, 2017

The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences

Presents

THE CHICAGO PREMIERE OF

Terry James, Executive Producer

Aaron Thielen, Lead Artistic Director

Andy Hite, Artistic Director

Here at ChiIL Mama, my kids adored the Madagascar movies. Even most of the adults I know cheered on the unlikely Alex the Lion and Marty the Zebra in their great escape, buddy movies. Now you can see it LIVE on stage and "move it move it" with the whole family while enjoying your favorite Madagascar tunes. The Marriott Theatre has a stellar reputation for presenting high caliber, world class shows, and their Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences series is no exception.

It’s time to escape the zoo and head to the stage! The musical twist on the blockbuster DreamWorks motion picture, MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, comes to life for children of all ages at The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire, from February 25 through April 15, 2017, with a press opening on March 4 at 10 a.m. Audiences will join the familiar zoo escapees and embark on a truly unique and “crack-a-lackin’” adventure as each animal enjoys freedom for the very first time after spending their entire life in captivity. MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, a theatrical interpretation of the 2005 hit film, will be directed and choreographed by Matt Raftery.

“The Marriott Theatre is proud to be producing the Chicago premiere of MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE. We are incredibly excited to be able to share this story with our audiences both young and young at heart”, said Marriott Theatre Artistic Director, Aaron Thielen. “It's exciting to be able to bring these familiar characters from the "big screen" to life on our stage.”

Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto the stage in this musical adventure. MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE follows all of your favorite zoo friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. 

This special one-hour presentation for kids (and parents) of all ages is filled with larger-than-life characters, non-stop adventure, and an upbeat score that will make audiences want to “Move It, Move It!” All performances are followed by a Question & Answer session with the cast.

Costume designer (and assistant director) Jesus Perez assures that audiences will be dazzled by the unexpected costumes and innovative puppetry. “Madagascar is already an established idea, but since this is a live production and not a movie, it has opened up a world of creativity for us. This is the perfect vehicle for me as a designer to bring this fantastical world to life,” said Perez.

MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE stars James Earl Jones II as “Marty the Zebra,” Russell Mernagh as “Alex the Lion,” Rashada Dawan as “Gloria the Hippo,” Stephen Schellhardt as “Melman the Giraffe”, Jonathan Butler-Duplessis as “King Julien,” Leah Morrow as “Skipper,” Liam Quealy as “Kowalski,” Laura Savage as “Mort and Private,” Elena Romanowski as “Rico,” Samantha Pauly as “Maurice,” and Jed Feder as “Mason.”

MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE runs most Tuesdays through Sundays at 10 a.m. with certain performances at 12:30 p.m. Visit MarriottTheatre.com or call 847.634.0200 for exact schedule, as show times and dates may vary. Single ticket prices are $17.23 per person. Groups of 20 or more receive a discount by calling 847.634.5909. Free parking is available at all shows. To reserve tickets, call the Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or visit www.MarriottTheatre.com.

Oakbrook Center's Adventure To Santa With DreamWorks And Holiday Happenings

It hardly seems possible that it's Christmas eve already! With the big day falling on Sunday, many kids, including my 2, were in school right up until Friday the 23rd. Now that the kids are finally on break, there's still time for last minute shopping and fun visits to jolly old St. Nick himself. Festive fun will be happening throughout the whole winter break and you'd better believe we'll be enjoying our vacation weeks between Christmas and New Years and the first week of January. We've partnered up with Oakbrook Center to highlight some of their happenings with this sponsored post. We have been compensated for sharing this info with our readers.

NEW RESTAURANTS, SANTA ADVENTURE, WINTER MARKET AND RETAILERS ENCHANT OAKBROOK CENTER SHOPPERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Find a little more holiday magic this winter thanks to some special developments at Oakbrook Center, one of Chicagoland’s premier outdoor shopping destinations. From new restaurants and an upgraded Adventure to Santa attraction to a debut Winter Market and a multitude of new stores, the opportunities for holiday cheer are endless.

Oakbrook Center is a favorite of ours and I plan to head there with my teens. Now that they're old enough to go off on their own to hang out and explore with friends, they're excited about shopping again.

“The holidays are a special time here at Oakbrook Center, as we create an unparalleled shopping experience for both local and out-of-town guests,” said Caryn Torres, senior general manager of Oakbrook Center. “This year, several new additions to the shopping center will guarantee treasured memories for the whole family.”

The District at Oakbrook

As the latest addition to Oakbrook Center’s continuously growing repertoire of restaurants, The District at Oakbrook provides several chef-driven, convenient and affordable fast-casual food options. The 14,000-square-foot space will be home to numerous restaurants including DMK Burger Bar, Nando’s PERi-PERi, Pie Five Pizza Co., Porkchop, Stan’s Donuts, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Greek Kitchen, DAVIDsTEA, Freshii and Cilantro Taco Grill. The District gives guests options for every palate and preference, providing them with the fuel they need to successfully complete their holiday shopping. 

“The highly anticipated District at Oakbrook will be ideal for on-the-go shoppers, large groups and families throughout the holiday season as well as all year-round,” said Torres. 

Adventure to Santa

Back by popular demand, Oakbrook Center and DreamWorks Animation are again teaming up to present Adventure to Santa, with this year’s narrated tour featuring the cast of Kung Fu Panda. Adventure to Santa elevates the traditional mall holiday visit by blending the latest technology with captivating stories while Kung Fu Panda and his friends guide family members on an unforgettable adventure to the North Pole to meet Santa. 

Reservations can be made online at www.adventuretosanta.com with the purchase of a photo package. Adventure to Santa will kick off the holiday season on Saturday, November 5, and will be open during extended Oakbrook Center holiday hours through Saturday, December 24.

Winter Market

Oakbrook Center will debut a Winter Market nestled amongst the alluring shops of the Village Green lawn area near Crate & Barrel, offering a variety of locally-made specialty products.

Gifts such as hand-crafted jewelry, adorable children’s items, fun treats for a favorite pet, beautiful hand-made apparel and much more will be available for visitors’ perusal. Winter treats, such as donuts, cider, hot chocolate and adult beverages, will be available to satisfy all tastes. 

Unbeatable Shopping

The holiday shopping experience would not be complete without new retail options to help guests check items off their gift lists. 

Two new athletic stores will provide great gift options for both fitness enthusiasts and casual exercisers. Fabletics brings shoppers on-trend designs that inspire an active lifestyle with stylish and high-quality gear at an accessible price point. Providing more than just a class, a cycling studio and a bike, the new Peloton location at Oakbrook Center delivers an engaging experience with the technology to make every workout effective, and the social connection to make every workout addicting.

Oakbrook Center also welcomes two new fashion-forward retailers. A globally-minded company dedicated to creating a unique, inspiring retail environment and philanthropic efforts, Altar’d State offers a place of respite with the latest fashion finds and the most sought-after accessories, along with charming home décor and gifts. ALEX AND ANI creates meaningful, eco-conscious jewelry and accessories to positively empower and connect humanity. The brand’s products are proudly designed and crafted in America and made with love. 

For those looking for sweet holiday gifts, Sugarfina’s shelves are lined with colorful artisanal candies in Lucite cubes, any of which can be packaged into three, four or eight-piece bento boxes. Guests can mix-and-match or buy a themed ready-to-go giftset. Sugarfina offers complimentary holiday gift-wrap ribbon with purchase and phone orders for in-store pickup.

Leisure and Luxuries

Once everyone is crossed off the holiday shopping list, guests can take a break and visit the new, state-of-the-art AMC Theatre, located on the Upper Level between Nordstrom and Sears. Featuring IMAX screens, the 12-screen cinema offers guests an upgraded film presentation and RealD^® 3D capability. The theatre also offers reserved seating and plush power recliners, as well as a full menu, seat-side service and a full bar serving beer, wine and cocktails.

Creating a more relaxing holiday shopping experience, a three-level parking garage next to the new AMC Theatre will improve vehicle access. Further enhancing parking efficiency, the garage will feature a real-time digital management system that will help customers find a parking space, easing the search for a spot. 

Check out their site for up to the minute information about holiday happenings at Oakbrook Center, as well as Facebook, and Twitter and Instagram @OakbrookCenter.

Oakbrook Center is located in Oak Brook, Ill., on the corner of Route 83 and Cermak Road just off of Interstates 88 and 294. The center features a unique collection of more than 160 shops and restaurants. Shopping hours are: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 630/573-0700 for further questions.

About Oakbrook Center

Oakbrook Center is owned and managed by General Growth Properties (GGP), Inc., an S&P 500 company focused exclusively on owning, managing, leasing, and redeveloping high quality retail properties throughout the United States. GGP is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol GGP.

About DreamWorks Feature Animation

DreamWorks Feature Animation (DWA) is a division of the Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG).  Its 20-year feature film heritage includes many beloved characters and animated franchises, including Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. DWA's 32 feature film releases have generated more than $13 billion at the global box office, garnered numerous awards and fueled a robust consumer products business.

Disclosure: It was our pleasure to partner up with Oakbrook Mall on this sponsored post. We have been compensated for sharing this info with our readers. As always, all opinions are our own.

Got Your Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2 Yet?

The Hilarious Smash Hits DreamWorks Animation’s  Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2 Now on Digital HD and DVD  with New Bonus Features on Blu-ray™  Skadoosh! To celebrate the upcoming release of DreamWorks Animation’s Kung Fu Panda 3 on June 29th, revisit where it all began with over 80 minutes of fur-flying fun, including all–new antics! Relive the awesomeness of everyone’s favorite martial arts-loving panda and the Furious Five in Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2, from the studio that brought you How To Train Your Dragon and Home. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment will release the two films with new extras available now on Digital HD, Blu-ray™ and DVD with a bonus disc of new content.

In DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda, Jack Black is perfect as the voice of Po, a noodle-slurping dreamer who must embrace his true self – fuzzy flaws and all – in order to become the Dragon Warrior. With groundbreaking animation and high-kicking humor, the Oscar-nominated Kung Fu Panda is delightful entertainment for the whole family.

Black reprises his role as Po in Kung Fu Panda 2, the fiercely funny Academy Award-nominated sequel. In his biggest challenge since becoming the Dragon Warrior, Po must lead his friends and fellow kung fu masters, The Furious Five, on a mission of epic proportions to defeat his most threatening rival yet!

The Kung Fu Panda franchise features the all-star voice talents of Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, Gary Oldman, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross, Michelle Yeoh, Danny McBride and Jean-Claude Van Damme.

The re-release of these films will include exciting new bonus features for the whole family to enjoy, including an all-new 22 minute animated adventure, “Secret of the Scroll,” and an exclusive sneak peek of DreamWorks Animation Kung Fu Panda 3.

DreamWorks Animation’s Kung Fu Panda & Kung Fu Panda 2 Blu-ray™ & DVD includes:

Special bonus disc features:

• “Secrets of the Scroll” – an all-new animated adventure.
• Tigress, Viper, Monkey, Crane and Mantis transform from complete strangers into the legendary Furious Five Warriors of Kung Fu
• Martial Arts Awesomeness Music Video
• Our heroes' fight sequences move to the beat of “Kung Fu Fighting” in this colorful music video
• Mash-Up of Awesomeness: Slo-Mo
• Prepare to be thrilled by amazing, high-intensity action sequences in all the glory that slow motion provides
• Mash-Up of Blunders
• Laugh with this lightning quick mash-up of all Po's hilariously embarrassing moments
• Plus an Exclusive Sneak Peek of Kung Fu Panda 3
• All-new Kung Fu Panda 3 sneak peek with introduction by Jack Black

ABOUT DREAMWORKS ANIMATION

DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series and live entertainment properties, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE® Magazine for five consecutive years. In 2013, DreamWorks Animation ranked #12 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation’s feature films are produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 31 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Puss In Boots, and The Croods.

ABOUT TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™ and Digital HD™. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox.

Tweet Tonight 6/26/15 at 6pm CT For Sweet Prizes and Bring Dreamworks Home to Your Home #HomeMovieParty #ad

HOME from Dreamworks Animation and Fox Home Entertainment is hitting Digital HD this Friday, June 26! To celebrate, we are having a Twitter party with director Tim Johnson! 

Home is where the digital downloads are. Whether you're home or away on summer vacation adventures, you can bring Home with you... DreamWorks' Home that is. Come ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama tonight and tweet along with the hashtag #HomeMovieParty.

Disclosure: ChiIL Mama is elated to partner up with DreamWorks and Think Jam once again. We have been compensated for sharing this info with our readers. As always, all opinions are our own.

When Oh, a loveable misfit from another planet, lands on Earth and finds himself on the run from his own people, he forms an unlikely friendship with an adventurous girl named Tip who is on a quest of her own. Through a series of comic adventures with Tip, Oh comes to understand that being different and making mistakes is all part of being human. And while he changes her planet and she changes his world, they discover the true meaning of the word 'Home.'

DreamWorks is preparing 'Home' for Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D on July 28.

Supplements will include: Best Party Ever!; Oh's Shake Your Boov Thing; "Feel the Light" by Jennifer Lopez – Music Video; "Feel the Light" by Jennifer Lopez – Lyric Video; Oh's Boovy Jukebox; Oh's Party Planning Tips; This is Being Boov; Almost Home; Testing Lab; Party Play All; Deleted Scenes; Be an Artist!; and Stars of Home.

Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/Blu-ray 3D/DVD/Digital HD combo pack is $48.99. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital HD combo pack is $36.99.

Disclosure: ChiIL Mama is elated to partner up with DreamWorks and Think Jam once again. We have been compensated for sharing this info with our readers. As always, all opinions are our own.

NEW RELEASE: How To Train Your Dragon 2 Coming Soon On Digital HD Blu-ray & DVD

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2, ONE OF THE BEST REVIEWED AND HIGHEST GROSSING FILMS OF THE YEAR, ARRIVES ON DIGITAL HD OCT. 21 AND BLU-RAY™ & DVD NOV. 11 “The best animated film of the year…fun for the whole family” – Bill Zwecker, Chicago Sun Times Here at ChiIL Mama the whole family adored HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2. We love how the characters aged up and can't wait to own it! DreamWorks has outdone themselves with another well written, delightfully illustrated, action packed movie your family will watch time and time again. It's one of our favorites for sure! Catch the all-new animated adventure, DreamWorks DRAGONS: DAWN OF THE DRAGON RACERS, exclusively with the Blu-ray™ Combo, DVD Double Pack and Digital HD Soaring past the $500 million mark at the global box office, DreamWorks Animation’s HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 is not only one of the best reviewed films of the year, but also 2014’s highest grossing animated film to-date and one of the top ten grossing films of the year in any genre. The thrilling second chapter of the epic HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON trilogy returns to the fantastical world of the heroic Viking Hiccup and his faithful dragon Toothless. The inseparable duo must protect the peace and save the future of men and dragons from the power-hungry Drago when Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment releases DreamWorks Animation’s critically acclaimed HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 on Digital HD October 21 and on Blu-ray™ and DVD November 11. HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2, the next chapter to the Academy Award® nominated film released in 2010, is “sensational…an instant animated classic,” proclaims Access Hollywood. A hit with audiences and critics alike, the film received an outstanding audience reaction with a coveted “A” CinemaScore® and certified 92% fresh on RottenTomatoes.com. Variety’s Peter Debruge declares the film is “Braver than ‘Brave,’ more fun than ‘Frozen’…Dragon delivers.” It’s a must-own title for the whole family! Fans will get even more excitement, adventure and, of course, more dragons when DreamWorks Animation releases DRAGONS: DAWN OF THE DRAGON RACERS, an all-new animated adventure featuring the original voice cast. A hunt for lost sheep soon turns into a high-flying sprint in the all-new epic adventure as Hiccup and friends battle to become the first Dragon Racing Champion of Berk! DRAGONS: DAWN OF THE DRAGON RACERS will be available exclusively on the Blu-ray™ combo pack, DVD double pack and Digital HD. The all-star film talent features Jay Baruchel (This Is The End), two-time Academy Award® winner Cate Blanchett (Blue Jasmine), Gerard Butler (Olympus Has Fallen), Craig Ferguson (“The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson”), America Ferrera (“Ugly Betty”), Academy Award® nominee Jonah Hill (The Wolf of Wall Street), Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Neighbors), T.J. Miller (“Silicon Valley”) and Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids).  The film also adds the voice talent of Academy Award® nominee Djimon Hounsou (Blood Diamond) and Kit Harington (“Game of Thrones”). The Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital HD feature hours of bonus materials that explore the world of dragons and more. Furthermore, the Blu-ray™ and Digital HD contain four exclusive featurettes, deleted scenes and a 60-minute behind-the-scenes documentary about the making of the film, shot and created by the film’s writer and director Dean DeBlois. DreamWorks Animation How To Train Your Dragon 2 Blu-ray™ & Digital HD include: Feature film in high definition  Special Features: Fishleg’s Dragon Stats – How much do you know about your favorite dragons? Explore the Dragon 2 Guide and learn more about your favorite fire-breathing friends! Drago’s War Machines – Gobber the Belch narrates this inside look at the fierce creatures and “high-tech” weapons used by Drago to expand his growing dragon army. Berk’s Dragon World – Explore the massive stable created to house the dragons of Berk, along with other changes made on the island to promote harmonious living. Hiccup’s Inventions in Flight – Learn the secrets of how Hiccup and Toothless work together to form the ultimate high-flying team in this fascinating interactive tour. Deleted Scenes -- The awesome adventure continues with telling deleted and extended scenes, including action-packed footage you couldn’t see in theaters! Commentary by Simon Otto, Bonnie Arnold, Dean DeBlois, and Pierre-Olivier Vincent Where No One Goes: The Making of How To Train Your Dragon 2 – Writer-Director Dean DeBlois and his team take you behind the scenes of creating the film’s eye-popping visual effects and epic story Dragon Races – Catch the thrilling aerial action and exciting play-by-play commentary as you cheer on your favorite riders in a spectacular dragon race! Image Gallery Theatrical Trailer World of DreamWorks Animation – Move to the music videos from your favorite  DreamWorks Animation feature films DreamWorks Animation How To Train Your Dragon 2 DVD includes: Feature film in standard definition  Special Features: Fishleg’s Dragon Stats – How much do you know about your favorite dragons? Explore the Dragon 2 Guide and learn more about your favorite fire-breathing friends! Image Gallery Theatrical Trailer World of DreamWorks Animation – Music videos from your favorite  DreamWorks Animation feature films ABOUT DREAMWORKS ANIMATION DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series and live entertainment properties, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE® Magazine for five consecutive years. In 2013, DreamWorks Animation ranked #12 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation’s feature films are produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 29 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Puss In Boots, and The Croods. ABOUT TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™ and DigitalHD™. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox.

KICK OFF THE “YEAR OF THE DRAGON” WITH THE AWARD WINNING ADVENTURE

ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Picks List: ChiIL Flicks Picks  Disclosure:  Thanks to DreamWorks and Fox Home Entertainment for partnering up with us to spread the word on this sweet new release & sending us a DVD for review purposes. We've been huge fans of DRAGONS: DEFENDERS OF BERK since day 1.  Got your DVD yet?  This recent release just came out March 25th, and it's a keeper, with Never-Before-Seen Dragons and Exclusive Offers for The School of Dragons Online Game! My kids were thrilled with the games and extras on the DVD and the code for on line play. And I was jazzed to have all of our favorite episodes available to replay at will. Click here for our past DRAGONS: DEFENDERS OF BERK coverage. Dragons: Defenders of Berk is one of my tweens' favorite shows and I must confess... mine too. It's a blog stopper. There are three shows my kids dig that I'll stop work for and watch with them. Dragons: Defenders of Berk, Phineas and Ferb, and Gravity Falls.  They're all excellent, have great animation, they're entertaining, and they are so well written. So, we're super stoked to announce that “DreamWorks Dragons: Defenders of Berk Part 1″ is now out on DVD!!  We're also more than a bit excited about the film sequel coming in June.   Check out more of our past coverage of the LIVE stage show here. It totally blew our minds and is still one of our all time favorite arena shows! DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon fans can soar higher than ever before when Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment releases on DVD the first part of the award-winning top-rated TV series, DreamWorks DRAGONS: DEFENDERS OF BERK. Available everywhere March 25, the DVD kicks off the franchise’s “Year of the Dragon” which will continue with the highly anticipated film sequel arriving in theaters this June as well as Dragon game apps, books and other fan experiences releasing throughout the year. The DVD of the 2013 Annie Award winner for Best Animated Television Production for Children is loaded with exciting bonus content for the whole family to enjoy and contains 10 epic adventures and four all-new dragons. Based on the DreamWorks Animation Academy Award® nominated movie How to Train Your Dragon, DRAGONS: DEFENDERS OF BERK PART 1 follows Hiccup and his fellow dragon trainers as they battle to protect their island home. The young Vikings must put their dragon training skills to the test to defeat dangerous and surprising new enemies! The series features original voice talent from the film including Jay Baruchel, America Ferrera and Christopher Mintz-Plasse and will include, Zack Pearlman and more. Defenders of Berk, and the previously released Riders of Berk, is a must-own for any Dragons fan to catch up before the summer event when How to Train Your Dragon 2 hits theatres June 13th! The DVD is jam-packed with special features that dive deeper into the exciting world of Dragons, including Dragon Tracker Part 3 featuring an in-depth look at the Screaming Death, Fireworm Queen, Flightmare and Skrill dragons; Evolution of Screaming Death, a featurette with visual effects supervisor David Jones who explains the history behind this interesting and scary dragon; and the “SuperFly” Dragon Mash-up music video. When it comes to action and excitement, the sky’s the limit in this high-flying animated TV series. Fans that purchase the DVD will also get a Digital HD UltraViolet™ code for the title and an offer for exclusive battle gear and one month’s free subscription to School of Dragons, the online game from JumpStart based on DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon franchise. With cinema-like graphics and an immersive 3D world, it takes more than courage to train a dragon but brains as well. For more information, visit http://www.schoolofdragons.com. DreamWorks Dragons: Defenders of Berk Part 1 DVD Features: ● Dragon Tracker Part 3 ● Evolution of Screaming Death ● "SuperFly" Dragon Mash-Up ● Sneak Peek ABOUT DREAMWORKS ANIMATION DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series and live entertainment properties, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE® Magazine for five consecutive years. In 2013, DreamWorks Animation ranks #12 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation’s feature films are produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 26 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Puss In Boots, and The Croods. ABOUT TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™ and DigitalHD™. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox. ABOUT JUMPSTART Since 1991, JumpStart has been dedicated to enhancing children’s lives through engaging educational games. Today, JumpStart designs games under its two flagship brands JumpStart® and Math Blaster®. These games immerse children in magical 3D worlds filled with adventure, exploration, and most importantly, learning. JumpStart’s products are available online and through various platforms such as Nintendo Wii™, iOS® and Android™. JumpStart has become a prominent force in children’s educational gaming and is trusted and tested by teachers and parents alike, helping millions of children learn. A subsidiary of Knowledge Holdings, Inc., the company is privately held and based in Torrance, California. For more information, go to www.jumpstart.com. DreamWorks Dragons: Defenders of Berk Part 1 DVD  Street Date: March 25, 2014 Screen Format: Widescreen 1.78:1 Audio: English 5.1 Dolby Digital Subtitles: English/Spanish/French Closed Captioned: Yes Disclosure:  Thanks again to DreamWorks and Fox Home Entertainment for partnering up with us to spread the word on this sweet new release & sending us a DVD for review purposes. We've been huge fans of DRAGONS: DEFENDERS OF BERK since day 1.

Shrek The Musical Deluxe Edition Blu-ray™ and DVD out now!

Disclosure:  Thanks to Dreamworks and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment for providing us with a review copy.  All opinions are our own.

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING:

Here at ChiIL Mama, we adore Shrek.   The great green ogre and his wife are the stars of a series of fairy tales that finally don't feature a skinny, blond, narcoleptic princess awaiting rescue.   Princess Fiona kicks booty, and is a fabulous role model.    

If you've never checked out the original book by William Steig, we highly recommend it.  The book is even quirkier and cooler than the animated movies (which we also love), and we completely dig the Broadway musical adaptation!   

Now the equation goes one step further with a Blu-Ray/DVD movie... of the play... of the book...

This one's a keeper!   Now out on DVD, Blu-ray and Digital HD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.  

Steig is an excellent children's author and illustrator and this is the perfect candidate for playing the "same/different game".  We love to check out the original books when we go see book based movies and theatre and then compare and contrast the different versions of the tale with the "same/different game".

Last night Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, special guests and Broadway stars from Shrek The Musical walked the green carpet in NYC at The Hudson Bond for the Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Copy launch event.  

In attendance were Kelly Rutherford (Gossip Girl) and the stars of Shrek The Musical, including Sutton Foster (Fiona), Christopher Sieber (Lord Farquaad), John Tartaglia (Pinocchio), Daniel Breaker (Donkey), Marissa O'Donnell (Teen Fiona), Leah Greenhaus (Young Fiona, Flower Girl) and many others!

Featuring a fantastic score of 17 all-new songs, Shrek The Musical was filmed on stage to capture the magic of a Broadway performance and stars an amazing celebrated cast. The film was shot live on Broadway with 10 cameras and directed by Michael Warren. Now you can bring the magic of Broadway to your home and get the best seat in the house with Deluxe Edition Blu-ray™ and DVD out now!

Here at ChiIL Mama, we had a chance to give away 4 packs of tickets for our readers and review Shrek the Musical by the Broadway Touring Company and then again by Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, earlier this year.  Shrek the Musical is a pure joy to experience and fun for all ages.  Now you can take it home with you to enjoy over and over at your convenience!

Click here to check out our past Shrek the Musical coverage.

6 Steps To Bring The Magic Of Broadway To Your Own Living Room 

Experience The Magic Of Shrek The Musical On Blu-ray and DVD, Available Now! 

With the Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD release of Shrek The Musical releasing this week, fairy-tale fans and musical theatergoers alike can now experience the Grammy-nominated stage production in the comfort of one’s own home! Featuring a fantastic score of 17 brand new songs, Shrek The Musical was filmed on stage to capture the magic of a Broadway performance and features an all-star cast.

Here are 6 simple steps to emulate the magic of Broadway in your own living room:

Step One - Sight

No digital interpretation of the stage would be complete without a state-of-the-art projector that can produce an image of up to 150 inches. If a projector is too costly, a 40 inch television or larger will suffice to give the home audience the optimum visual experience.

Step Two – Sound

No ultimate living room entertainment set-up would be complete without a crisp surround sound system. With the ear being stimulated from 4 angles, the illusion of being immersed in a theatre can be achieved.

Step Three – Tickets Please

Why not design your own tickets to your show? Guests will have to show their tickets before entering the living room for example. German Shepherds dressed in tuxedos make excellent ushers too.

Step Four - Wow it’s Green in Here

With a simple purchase of green crepe paper attached to a range of living room light sources, a green filtered glow will engulf the room to create a wonderfully Shrek-like ambience.

Step Five - ‘Curtain Call Ladies and Gentlemen!’

The anticipation of waiting for the famous theatrical curtains to trickle away is no doubt one of the fundamental experiences of going to the theatre. With a curtain rail, fabric and some sticky tape, your living room will mirror the Gershwin’s famous curtain call in no time.

Step Five: Intermission:

Why not engage in a 15-minute interval? Prepare a refreshing beverage for the adults and load up on the ice cream for the kids. Don’t forget those little wooden spoons for the upmost authenticity.

Step Six: Applause:

Don’t forget to clap along with the audience when something particularly amusing or impressive arises on screen. Booing and hissing at the respective villains may also prove effective. Please note, please do not throw your shows or any object at the screen for fear of damaging your precious TV set.  Although all these tips may make you believe that you are in the theater, it’s not real remember.

We are sure you’ll love watching your favorite animated characters come to life like magic, and now you’re ready to experience it at home! Pick up the Blu-ray for your family to enjoy today!

 

Get To Know The Shrek Bunch

The Cast Of The Animated Franchise Comes To Life On Stage and Blu-ray, This Week!

The loved and laughable DreamWorks animation Shrek is brought to life in Shrek The Musical and enjoyed by fans and families of the Broadway stage. Now you can bring the excitement to your living room when you pick up the musical on Blu-ray and DVD. What better way to celebrate the release than a brief introduction to the stage cast of your favorite animated movie. Read down to find out who among them was a Bunhead, a Julliard graduate, and will be starring in a Shakespeare Classic this season.  Meet the Shrek bunch!

Bryan D’arcy James – Bryan plays the role of our beloved ogre Shrek. While he’s sure to win you over in his green role he’s definitely not new to the stage. Mr. Darcy will be star opposite Ethan Hawke in the Lincoln Center Theatre production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The talented artist is also notable on the screen too, most recently for his role as Frank Houston on NBC’s Broadway themed drama ‘Smash’.  You’re probably wondering if he sings too, and he does, his solo debut album is From Christmas Eve to Christmas Morn.

Sutton Foster - Princess Fiona is brought to life by the beautiful Sutton Foster. The multi talented artist (actor, singer, and dancer) is best known for her role in the fan favorite ABC Family series ‘Bunheads’, for which she earned a Critic’s Choice Television Awards nomination. Using her beautiful voice, Sutton has performed at venues across the country performing in concerts such as Funny Girl, They’re playing out songs, Chess, and many more.  Like her fellow cast mate, she also works on solo album projects, releasing two albums, Wish and An Evening with Sutton Foster – Live at the Café Carlye.

Christopher Sieber - Every story needs a villain and none is more villainous than Lord Farquaad, played by Christopher Sieber.  His performance as the miniature maniacal royal is sure to make your living room erupt with laughter and boo’s. Chris’ talent has also been enjoyed in various Broadway productions, such as Pipin, Spamalot, Beauty and The Beast, Into the Woods, and much more. He most recently debut his solo concert  “Minnesota Boy Does Well: Tales from Back and Center Stage.”  Fans of the Olsen twins may also remember him from the ABC comedy Two Of A Kind, in which he played the girls’ father.

Daniel Breaker- The character enjoyed equally by parents and their kids is Shrek’s smart tongued sidekick, Donkey.  As the liveliest character of the musical, Daniel Breaker brings sass, smarts, and laughter to the stage.  The Julliard Scholl Graduate has starred in several Tony and award winning productions such as Passing Strange, Cymbeline, and more. Off screen he has appeared in top titles such as Limitless opposite Robert DeNiro and Bradley Cooper, the Spike Lee-directed project entitled Redhook Summer and Passing Strange.  

John Tartaglia - What do Pinocchio, The Magic Mirror, Dragon Puppeteer all have in common? They are all John Tartaglia. The talented Tartaglia is best known for producing, creating, and starring in the 8-time Emmy nominated children’s show “Johnny and the Sprites”. Additionally, he received a Tony Award Nomination for his role in the Tony-Award winning musical Avenue Q, in which he originated the roles of Princeton and Rod. Most exciting of all his credits may be his 12-year stint on Sesame Street, making him one of the youngest puppeteers to ever perform on the historic show.

We are sure you’ll love watching your favorite animated characters come to life like magic, and now you know the people that are behind that magic! Pick up the Blu-ray for your family to enjoy today!

Disclosure:  Thanks to Dreamworks and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.   for providing us with a review copy.  All opinions are our own.

FLICK PICKS: The Croods #Dreamworks #thecroods #croodscountdown #gofobo

We can NOT wait to ChiIL out at the movies.   

The Croods are coming...this Friday in fact!  Just in case YOU have been living in a cave and missed all the pre-opening hype, The Croods is a 3D comedy/adventure from Dreamworks & 20th Century Fox that follows the world’s first modern family as they embark on a journey of a lifetime when the cave that has always been their home is destroyed.

Traveling across a spectacular landscape, the Croods are rocked by generational clashes and seismic shifts as they discover an incredible new world filled with fantastic creatures – and their outlook is changed forever.

Star Power:

Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone, Ryan Reynolds, Catherine Keener, Cloris Leachman, Clark Duke, Chris Sanders and Randy Thom from writers and directors Kirk De Micco and Chris Sanders. 

The Croods opens on March 22, 2013 and is rated PG.

Check back with ChiIL Mama like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often.   Exciting video games are coming for Wii, Wii U, Nintendo DS, & 3DS featuring The Croods, and we'll be reviewing some of them.   Squee!   

In The Croods: Prehistoric Party! video game, you'll explore spectacular landscapes in a new world filled with never-before-seen creatures as you battle your friends and family with up to four-player multiplayer for Nintendo's Wii U and Wii system (single player for handheld systems).

We're excited to celebrate the upcoming release of The Croods: Prehistoric Party! on March 19!!