Glinda and Elphaba Returning to Universal Orlando for More Wicked Fun!
Get ready, Ozians—Glinda and Elphaba are flying back to Universal Orlando Resort! After making a brief but magical appearance at the Wicked Experience in Universal Studios Florida last November, the iconic duo is set to return. This time, they’re likely preparing for a promotional push ahead of Wicked: For Good, the second installment of Universal Pictures’ highly anticipated Wicked film adaptation, which premieres in November 2025.
To bring the spellbinding sorcery of Wicked back to Universal Orlando, the resort has posted a casting call for performers to portray Glinda and Elphaba. The requirements are very specific:
Female-presenting actors between 5’1” and 5’4” in height
A headshot, resume, full-length athletic wear photo, and audition video must be submitted
Video auditions require a one-minute comedic monologue and an introduction with name and height
Submissions are due by March 17, 2025
What Does This Mean for Universal Orlando?
While details on where and how these characters will appear remain under wraps, the casting call strongly suggests increased presence for the Wicked Experience or new promotional events tied to Wicked: For Good. With the first film smashing box office expectations, Universal is sure to go big for the sequel’s release, and will likely bring back the meet-and-greets that were incredibly popular last year.
Universal Orlando’s Wicked Experience was a massive hit, giving fans a taste of Oz with photo ops, costumes from the film, and limited-time meet-and-greets with Glinda and Elphaba. If you missed the chance to meet them the first time around, this might be your opportunity to step into their world once more!
Whether you’re a fan of Wicked or an aspiring witch hoping to land the role, one thing is clear—Universal Orlando is ready to defy gravity once again!
Would you love to see more Wicked experiences at Universal? Let us know in the comments!
In the ever-evolving landscape of trading card games, Ravensburger’s Disney Lorcana series has consistently captivated players and collectors alike. With the release of its seventh expansion, “Archazia’s Island,” the excitement has reached a fever pitch. As always, central to this excitement is the Illumineer’s Trove, a meticulously crafted product that not only enriches gameplay but also offers a treasure trove of collectibles. We believe that this trove might have the potential to be filled with unprecedented riches – and here’s why.
A Paradigm Shift: Dual-Ink Cards
One of the most groundbreaking introductions in “Archazia’s Island” is the concept of dual-ink cards. These cards, embodying two ink colors, provide unprecedented versatility and strategic depth.
The first tournament of season 7 revealed that we may have just witnessed the greatest leap in card strength in the history of the game. Power Creep refers to the tendency to have stronger and stronger cards released in subsequent expansion sets, and we may have just experienced the largest jump in card strength to date. All of this revolves around three very specific and valuable cards-
Tamatoa: Happy as a Clam: This card allows players to retrieve two items from discard upon entry into the game, but he also allows you to play an item for free when he quests. With a beefy stat line – he has become the most expensive legendary in the game.
Scrooge McDuck: Resourceful Miser: Scrooge also takes full advantage of item play as he can be played without paying ink cost – choosing instead to exert four items in play, freeing up valuable resources for other major strategies. Upon entering you can search your top four cards in your deck for an item to be played at a later time. The synergy with Tamatoa is incredible.
Belle: Apprentice Inventor: Historically Sapphire (Blue) decks were very slow and couldn’t cope with fast decks that beat them to the punch, with Belle this problem is solved giving players perhaps the most value on turn 1 in the history of the game. They can play a one cost item and then sacrifice it to get a very powerful Belle into play. Pair this with a card like Pawpsicle or Fortisphere and you have a crazy turn one strategy.
It has never been more exciting to search for these cards and pull them from booster packs – and this trove gives you 8 booster packs to do just that. However, the value in the trove doesn’t end with your hunt for exciting rare cards. The visual allure of “Archazia’s Island” is undeniable. The set’s artwork continues to set it apart, with the chance to pull an Enchanted Rarity Card never being more exciting—or lucrative, as resale values skyrocket. Collectors are particularly enamored with these high-value cards, not just for their gameplay advantages but for their aesthetic brilliance. The meticulous artistry and intricate designs elevate the collecting experience, making each pull a potential masterpiece.
Unboxing the Illumineer’s Trove: Contents and Aesthetics
The Illumineer’s Trove is a testament to Ravensburger’s commitment to quality and player satisfaction. Priced at $49.99, this comprehensive set includes:
Eight Booster Packs: Each pack offers 12 additional cards, providing ample opportunities to expand one’s collection and discover new strategies.
Storage Box: Durably constructed, this box ensures that cards are securely stored. The full-art design, featuring an emerald green motif, adds a touch of elegance to any collection.
Damage-Counter Dice: Six pearlescent dice are included to seamlessly track damage during gameplay. Their aesthetic appeal complements the overall design of the set.
Lore Counter: This spin-dial accessory, adorned with an image of Bolt, allows players to effortlessly monitor their progress toward victory.
The emerald green motif that runs through the Storage Box, Damage-Counter Dice, and Lore Counter not only ensures visual cohesion but also enhances the thematic immersion for players. The inclusion of Bolt on the Lore Counter is a delightful nod to fans, adding a personalized touch to the accessory.
Ravensburger’s decision to feature full-character artwork on the card dividers is a stylistic choice that has garnered widespread approval. This design approach not only enhances the visual appeal of the dividers but also reinforces the connection between players and their favorite characters. Each divider becomes a miniature canvas, showcasing the rich artistry that defines the Lorcana series.
“Archazia’s Island” made its debut in local game shops across the U.S. on March 7, 2025. The set is slated for a broader release in major retail locations starting March 21, 2025. This coordinated rollout strategy ensures that both dedicated enthusiasts and casual players have access to the new content.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. Players have expressed enthusiasm about the new mechanics and the depth they bring to the game. The introduction of dual-ink cards, in particular, has been lauded for adding a fresh layer of strategy. Collectors are equally thrilled, with the allure of Enchanted Rarity Cards driving a surge in secondary market activity.
The Illumineer’s Trove from “Archazia’s Island” stands as a testament to Ravensburger’s dedication to innovation and quality. By introducing dual-ink cards and elevating the artistic standards, this expansion not only enriches the gameplay experience but also solidifies Lorcana’s position in the competitive trading card game market.
As the March 21st release approaches, the excitement continues to build. Players and collectors alike are eager to explore the depths of Archazia’s Island, uncover its secrets, and harness the power of its unique cards. In a realm where strategy meets artistry, the Illumineer’s Trove emerges as a beacon for all who venture into the world of Lorcana.
Major Changes Underway at Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life Theater
Big changes are coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as Walt Disney Imagineering has officially filed a permit to modify the infrastructure of the Tree of Life Theater, home to It’s Tough to be a Bug!. With the attraction’s permanent closure set for March 16, 2025, Disney is wasting no time preparing for its upcoming replacement—Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
The newly filed Notice of Commencement lists the work as “Modify Infrastructure” and names Incryo Systems Inc. as the contractor. This company specializes in cryogenic vaporizers and industrial gas equipment, which could suggest work related to the fog effects inside the theater. Fans of It’s Tough to be a Bug! may recall the creepy black widow spiders and buzzing hornets, both of which incorporated atmospheric fog to enhance the experience.
With Zootopia: Better Zoogether! on the way, it’s possible that Imagineering intends to re-use or upgrade some of these effects for the new show. Last week, another permit was filed for demolition and construction in the theater, making the latest permit the second filed for the refurbishment work at the theater in as many weeks.
The End of an Era
It’s Tough to be a Bug! has been a staple of Disney’s Animal Kingdom since opening day in 1998, immersing guests in the miniature world of Flik and his insect friends from A Bug’s Life. The 3D show mixed humor with unexpected effects, including creepy crawlers under your seat and a rather intense finale featuring Hopper.
While it will be bittersweet to say goodbye to one of Animal Kingdom’s original attractions, Disney is bringing a fresh experience to the theater with Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
Coming in winter 2025, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! will transport guests into the world of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and other beloved characters from Zootopia. The show will feature a brand-new original song, performed by Ginnifer Goodwin (the voice of Judy Hopps), making it an exciting addition to the park’s entertainment lineup.
With new permits rolling in and demolition set to begin, the transformation of the Tree of Life Theater is officially in motion. Stay tuned for more updates as we hop closer to the grand debut of Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
Are you excited about this change, or will you miss It’s Tough to be a Bug!? Let us know in the comments!
Keystone Clothiers’ Never-Ending Facade Fix at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
If you’ve walked down Hollywood Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios lately, you may have noticed a familiar sight—construction walls once again surrounding the entrance to Keystone Clothiers. This marks the latest chapter in what has become an unexpectedly long saga of facade repairs at the popular shop.
The trouble began back in September 2022, when part of the building’s exterior wall near the entrance collapsed, leading to the first round of construction. While the store itself remained open, the entrance was walled off for repairs for an entire year. Then, in September 2023, the doorway finally reopened—but with a noticeably unfinished appearance.
Rather than a fully restored Art Deco entryway, guests were instead greeted by green construction materials hastily assembled to resemble a doorframe. It wasn’t the grand reopening many had hoped for, but it at least allowed for normal access to the store.
A Fresh Round of Fixes—For Real This Time?
Now, over a year after that partial reopening, new blue construction walls have gone up around the entrance, hopefully signaling a more permanent fix. Above the walls, the green plywood panels that have served as a temporary solution remain visible. To the left, beneath the “apparel” sign, the rest of the facade remains intact, including the store’s stone-like window display.
In typical Disney fashion, the construction walls aren’t just a bland obstruction—they feature inspirational quotes from various Disney franchises, a small touch to keep guests entertained while the work continues. The walls also prominently display the PPG Paints logo, a nod to the Official Paint Supplier of Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.
Will This Be the Final Fix?
After over two years of ongoing issues, guests are understandably eager to see Keystone Clothiers’ entrance restored to its former Art Deco glory. While there’s no official timeline for completion, the return of construction walls suggests that Disney is finally ready to put this facade fiasco to rest—hopefully, for good this time.
Have you noticed this ongoing construction at Keystone Clothiers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Springtime Delights: Paseo and Naples in Downtown Disney
As spring arrives, Patina Restaurant Group’s trio of Downtown Disney District restaurants – Naples Ristorante E Bar, Paseo, and Céntrico, featuring Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán’s elevated Mexican cuisine – are joining the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival with a variety of special events. Guests can anticipate culinary demonstrations and an exclusive evening with Chef Gaytán, offering a unique spring dining experience for food enthusiasts throughout Orange County and beyond.
Experiencias de Paseo: Crudo & Tequila (March 19 and April 9): Led by Paseo’s Executive Chef Rudy Lopez, guests can experience a culinary demonstration on the stories behind Kanpachi Crudo, the classic appetizer of chips and salsa, and Paseo’s Sonrisa Margarita.
An Evening With Chef Carlos Gaytan(March 26): To celebrate the arrival of spring, Chef Carlos Gaytán will feature an incredible five-course tasting menu paired with delicious wines from leading Mexican wine brand, Monte Xanic, for guests to enjoy. The night will feature Chef Gaytán’s authentic Mexican dishes with a twist that guests have come to know and love, including mahi mahi, pozole verde, and crispy pork belly in a tamarindo glaze. To finish the night on a sweet note, a decadent Mandarina cheesecake with cookie crumble.
Make & Shake: Pizza Making and Mixology Class(March 29 and April 5): At Naples, guests can make their own authentic wood-fired pizza with the restaurant’s renowned chefs and craft the perfect cocktails with expert mixologists. This expert-led class will teach guests how to perfectly top their Neapolitan creations with fresh vegetables and savory Italian meats, paired with a mixology session where you will learn to make two craft cocktails, the Italian Royale and New York Sour.
Ready to celebrate spring at these Downtown Disney restaurants?
On March 8, Disney revealed new experiences in the parks, on screen, and beyond at SXSW. One experience they shared involves Marvel’s The Fantastic Four.
Kevin Feige shared that Tomorrowland, Disneyland’s iconic opening-day land, served as a key inspiration for the upcoming film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Furthering the connection, he announced that the Fantastic Four will make special appearances in Tomorrowland this summer, allowing guests to meet Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm, coinciding with the theatrical release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
The beloved robot H.E.R.B.I.E. was also hinted at for a potential future appearance in the parks. While Vaughn acknowledged the challenges, specifically balance issues, he expressed confidence that they will find a solution to bring H.E.R.B.I.E. to life for park guests.
Michael Giacchino debuted the main theme for The Fantastic Four: First Steps live at last year’s Hollywood Bowl. The memorable moment was captured on video by attendees, including friends of Daps Magic, who shared the performance online.
Are you looking forward to meeting the Fantastic Four at Disneyland this summer?
“On March 26th, Disney+ will grant viewers worldwide unlimited access to the breathtaking spectacle of Mufasa: The Lion King. Relive the epic adventure, the powerful music, and the stunning visuals as often as you like.”
Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins’ Mufasa: The Lion King, featuring original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, including the viral hit “I Always Wanted a Brother,” has roared into cinematic history. The film’s global box office success, exceeding $700 million and placing it among 2024’s top 10 releases, speaks to its widespread appeal. Critics and audiences alike have lauded the film’s “adventurous” spirit (USA Today), “dazzling musical” sequences (The Times), and “visually stunning” artistry (Deadline Hollywood). Now, this cinematic triumph arrives exclusively on Disney+, joining the esteemed collection of Lion King titles, including the classic 1994 animated film, the 2019 reimagining, The Lion Guard, and the recent Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl concert special.
Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.
Have you had a chance to see ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ yet?
Create unforgettable memories at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park during the Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary Celebration, a vibrant celebration filled with captivating entertainment, festive decorations, and a wealth of magical moments.
For a limited time, Guests can visit the Disneyland Resort for as low as $100 per day with a 4-day, 1-park per day ticket, or as low as $120 per day with a 3-day, 1-park per day ticket, valid May 16 through August 14, 2025.
Special Disneyland Anniversary Tickets at a Glance
(Ages 3+)
3-Day, 1-Park Per Day Ticket for $120 Per Day
Enjoy this specially priced 3-day, 1-park per day ticket—valid May 16 through August 14, 2025—for $360 total.
Subject to restrictions and park reservation availability.
4-Day, 1-Park Per Day Ticket for $100 Per Day
Enjoy this specially priced 4-day, 1-park per day ticket—valid May 16 through August 14, 2025—for $400 total.
Subject to restrictions and park reservation availability.
Park Hopper ticket upgrade and Lightning Lane Multi Pass can be added for additional fees.
Save Up to 20% on Select Stays at a Disneyland Resort Hotel This Summer
Save up to 20% on select rooms at a Disneyland Resort hotel, Sunday through Thursday nights from May 16 to August 14, 2025. This offer is valid on Standard and Premium room types at these Disneyland Resort hotels:
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Disneyland Hotel
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
Plus, you can upgrade this offer to a Walt Disney Travel Company vacation package by adding theme park tickets to your stay. Book now through July 31, 2025. Travel must be completed by August 15, 2025.
Disney® Visa® Cardmembers: Save Up to 30% on Select Stays at a Disneyland Resort Hotel
Save up to 30% on select Premium rooms at a Disneyland Resort hotel, Sunday through Thursday nights from May 16 to August 14, 2025. This offer is valid on Premium room types at these Disneyland Resort hotels:
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Disneyland Hotel
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
Book now through July 31, 2025. Travel must be completed by August 15, 2025.
Ready to book your stay to experience the 70th anniversary of Disneyland? Contact me to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.
Southwest Announces Major Policy and Benefit Changes
Today, Southwest Airlines unveiled upcoming adjustments to select policies and benefits within their fare bundles, set to take effect in May 2025. These changes aim to refine the customer experience and align with evolving travel trends, and will impact various aspects of ticket flexibility and reward accrual.
An email was sent out to Southwest customers announcing the changes.
“Updates to Checked Baggage Policy
We will offer two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members and Customers traveling on Business Select fares. We will also offer one free checked bag to A-List Members and other select Customers. In addition, Southwest will credit one checked bag for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers. All remaining Customers will pay to check their first and second bags, and we will continue to charge for the third and fourth checked bags. Changes will apply to flights booked on or after May 28.
Updates to Our Fare Bundles
We’re updating the benefits of our fares bundles in phases. Whether you’re looking for a lower price with fewer perks, or more benefits for added flexibility, you’ll have the choice to pick what works best for your trip.
Phase 1: Beginning this month, we increased our Rapid Rewards earn ratio on our Business Select fares and lowered the earn ratio on our Wanna Get Away® and Wanna Get Away Plus™ fares. We will also begin to vary our redemption rates across our fare products on some high- and low-demand travel periods.
Phase 2: Beginning May 28, we will introduce a new Basic fare. This new Basic fare will be our lowest price point and will have less flexibility than other fares. Additionally, we will be adding expiration dates to our Flight Credits, which will vary based on which fare you choose to purchase.”
”We recognize these changes may be a disappointment to some, but know we’re committed to building a Southwest that will continue to offer you low fares, convenient flights to destinations you want, and a travel experience that is rewarding. You can count on the Heart of Southwest, our People, to guide you through the changes and welcome you on your next journey with their friendly, award-winning Customer Service.”
The email was signed by Southwest president, CEO, & Vice Chairman of the Board, Bob Jordan.
These updates build upon Southwest’s ongoing efforts to enhance the customer experience, which include the upcoming rollout of assigned seating and extra legroom options. Additionally, Southwest recently initiated its first industry-standard airline partnership with Icelandair on February 13th, coinciding with the launch of its inaugural overnight redeye flights. Demonstrating a commitment to operational excellence, Southwest currently leads the industry in on-time performance for 2025 and has achieved a remarkable 98.3 percent completion rate for its published flight schedule, marking a significant year-over-year improvement.
What do you think about the changes Southwest is making?
Give the Gift of Disney Magic With the Stitch and Minnie Mouse Graduation Pandora Charms!
Disney fans and gift-givers! Graduation season is creeping up, and if you’ve got a special someone who’s about to toss their cap, Pandora’s got you covered with the cutest little Stitch and Minnie Mouse Graduation Pandora charms.
First up, we’ve got Stitch, and honestly, he’s rocking that grad look. For $88, you get this sterling silver charm with Stitch grinning ear-to-ear, sporting a tiny graduation cap and clutching his diploma. Seriously, the enamel details are on point, and the “Proud 2025” engraved on the back? Pure ohana vibes. It’s like saying, “We’re all cheering you on, always and forever,” which, let’s be real, is the perfect message for any grad.
Now, if your grad is more of a Minnie Mouse kind of person, Pandora’s got a sparkly number for $75. This one’s a sterling silver openwork bead, and Minnie’s looking super proud in her mortar board. And, of course, it wouldn’t be Minnie without a whole bunch of cubic zirconia bling! They’re scattered all around her and circle the “Class of 2025” inscription on the other side.
Basically, it’s a little burst of celebration that’ll fit right onto any Pandora bracelet.
Whether you’re dealing with a Stitch fanatic or a Minnie devotee, these charms are a sweet way to commemorate a big milestone. They’re a little pricey, sure, but hey, it’s a memory they can wear every day.
Ear-resistible Shine! New Minnie Mouse Lavender Iridescent Collection by Loungefly!
Let’s talk about this Minnie Mouse Lavender Iridescent collection by Loungefly. Seriously, if you’re a Disney fan, especially a Minnie fan, you’re gonna wanna see this.
The combination of lavender sequins and pastel colors make this collection perfect for a magical spring style.
First up, we’ve got the Minnie Mouse Iridescent mini backpack, and it’s basically a party on your back. For $80, you’re getting this adorable little bag covered in polka dots, but get this, some of the dots are actually hidden Minnie silhouettes! How cute is that? And the ears? Forget about it! They’re 3D, covered in iridescent sequins, and they just pop.
Plus, they didn’t skimp on the iridescent magic – the bow, the side pockets, even the straps have that sparkly finish. It’s like Minnie decided to throw a glitter bomb, and it landed perfectly on this backpack. Honestly, it’s the perfect size for park days or just adding a little Disney magic to your everyday look.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Okay, the backpack is cute, but I need something to match,” then you’re in luck! They also have this matching Minnie Mouse ear headband for $30. And let me tell you, it’s just as sparkly and fun as the backpack. The whole headband is covered in this iridescent material, and the ears are, you guessed it, covered in iridescent sequins. The bow is rocking the same polka dot/Minnie silhouette pattern as the backpack, so they go together perfectly.
It’s like the ultimate finishing touch for any Disney outfit, or even just for those days when you need a little extra sparkle. If you’re someone who collects ears, or just loves to add a bit of Disney flair to your style, these are a must-have.
Seriously, you’ll be shining brighter than the castle fireworks with this set!
Whirlwind Magic: Loungefly’s Disney Princess Carousel Collection Is Available Now!
Alright, picture this: you’re strolling through the park, maybe grabbing a churro, and you spot the most adorable carousel-themed bags. That’s basically what Loungefly’s Disney Princess Carousel Collection is all about!
First up, we’ve got the showstopper, the Disney Princess Exclusive Carousel Figural Crossbody Bag. It’s like they shrunk a real carousel and turned it into a bag! Seriously, you can actually move the princesses up and down on their little horses. It’s so cute and playful, you’ll be humming Disney tunes all day. For $80, you’re getting a serious dose of theme park magic that’ll jazz up any outfit.
Now, if you’re looking for something a bit smaller but still super fun, there’s the Disney Princess Carousel Crossbody Bag. This one’s got all the sidekicks—think Pascal, Gus Gus, and friends—spinning around in their own little carriages. It’s just as whimsical as the figural one, and for $75, you’re getting that same burst of Disney charm. Plus, spinning those little guys is just plain satisfying.
And for those who like to keep things compact, we have the Disney Princess Exclusive Carousel Wristlet Wallet. At $50, it’s perfect for carrying your essentials. You can still spot your favorite princesses on their decorated carousel horses, each with details that nod to their stories. It’s like a mini dose of magic that fits right in your hand.
Basically, this whole collection is a must-have for any Disney fan who wants to add a touch of playful nostalgia to their everyday style.
