Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
Disney’s “Mufasa” Screening Brings Joy to Kids Affected by California Fires
Disney brought a touch of magic to Boys & Girls Clubs in Los Angeles this week, hosting private screenings of Mufasa: The Lion King for children impacted by the recent wildfires. The event offered a welcome escape and a sense of normalcy for the young attendees.
Related – Disney Hosts Screenings of Moana 2 & Mufasa at El Capitan Theatre for those Affected by LA Fires
“When the team proposed the idea of hosting these screenings for kids who have been impacted by the fires, it was an instant yes — followed by the question, ‘And what more can we do?’” shared Cathleen Taff, President, Production Services, Franchise Management & Theatrical Distribution, Disney Entertainment, Studios. “We know the joy and comfort a Disney movie can bring to a child and their family, and we’re honored to provide that sense of happiness and escape for these kids.”
For children impacted by the devastating California wildfires, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Pasadena and Santa Monica offered a moment of respite this week with special movie screenings hosted by Disney. These clubs are serving as crucial support systems for families who have lost their homes, been displaced, or otherwise affected, including those from the closed Boys & Girls Club of Malibu. With weeks of missed school, the Pasadena club has also transformed its space into a temporary school, helping kids get back on track with their learning.
Brynja Seagren, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Santa Monica noted, “Throughout this crisis, we’ve focused on continuing to provide access to safe, supportive spaces for kids and we are grateful to Disney for bringing some magic right to our Clubs. They created an on-site movie theater experience featuring themed treats and swag that brought huge smiles to our kids’ faces as they experienced the story of Disney characters they know and love.”
Along with the screenings, attendees enjoyed Mufasa tumblers, friendship bracelets, and Mickey Mouse rice Krispy treats. The biggest surprise, though, was a visit from Mickey Mouse himself! His appearance in Pasadena was met with cheers and high fives from children and staff. He even took time to chat with the kids about Mufasa, confirming that he’d already seen the film.
The kids even became active participants in the screening, as they happily sang along to Mufasa’s catchy soundtrack.
“During difficult times like these, we know that Disney is uniquely positioned to bring a sense of normalcy and happiness to kids when it’s needed the most,” Lisa Haines, senior vice president, Disney Corporate Social Responsibility, shared. “These movie parties are one piece of our efforts to lift up the kids and their families that have been affected by these fires.”
Sweetwater, a local business, played a key role in this week’s special Mufasa screenings, donating the necessary screening technology to convert the Boys & Girls Club gyms into pop-up cinemas.
“Over 70 Club families have lost their homes, and dozens more are displaced,” Lisa Cavelier, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena, said. “We are honored that Disney is working with us to meet some of the challenges facing our families by bringing much-needed joy and fun to Pasadena and Altadena kids.”
Walt Disney’s belief in the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs—to help young people realize their dreams—led him to become an honorary board member. For over 50 years, Disney has carried on that legacy of support for local clubs.
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
