Universal to bring projection mapping to its new Kung Fu Panda show

February 8, 2018, 12:10 PM · Universal Studios Hollywood today released more details about the DreamWorks Theatre that it is building to replace its old Shrek 4-D show. We already knew that the theater would open with a new Kung Fu Panda show, but now we have a title and more details about what promises to be be a unique style of production.

Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor's Quest will open this summer at the Hollywood theme park, and it will feature a 180-degree screen as well as projection mapping within the theater. Here's the narrative set-up, from the park's description:

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.

Visitors will watch the show from "fully articulated seats that pivot and swivel in tandem with the 180-degree action," according to Universal. The film will feature 4K digital projection as well as 360-degree surround sound audio and an original score by composer Germaine Franco, who has worked as an orchestrator on the Kung Fu Panda films as well as a composer and orchestrator on Disney/Pixar's Coco.

The production was created by DreamWorks Animation and Universal Creative, which worked on the projection mapping effects that will transform the theater with dynamic scene designs.

The show will play in the newly constructed DreamWorks Theatre, which is being built in a 1920s Art Deco style. The theater will include a box office booth staffed by a sleeping Pinocchio, who's obviously slacking off on the job. Hmmm, that reminds me of this Universal Parks ticket-booth guy from Singapore:

Gingy

The lobby of Universal Studios Hollywood's DreamWorks Theatre also will display a selection of the more than 20 award statuettes that DreamWorks Animation has won over the past decade, including Golden Globe, Emmy, and Annie awards. The new theater and show will debut sometime this summer.

Replies (5)

February 8, 2018 at 12:37 PM · SCREENS. Good grief.
February 8, 2018 at 4:46 PM · Hmm, pirates and rapids? That sounds *a lot* like the ride at Motiongate Dubai.

February 9, 2018 at 7:20 AM · (SCREENS. Good grief.)

When does this guy go away?

February 9, 2018 at 1:14 PM · Concern regarding ANOTHER screen based attraction is valid.

BUT, this attraction should be given a chance as UC will be installing a 180 degree screen.

February 9, 2018 at 2:06 PM · Sounds promising, particularly with the projection mapping. I hope they bring this to Universal Orlando.

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