Shrek Closing, Mummy Refurbishment, Pokemon in Japan, and More

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— Hastin (@hastin) October 6, 2021

Two weeks ago we shared that we had heard enough to believe Fear Factor Live is closing. At the end of the post we hinted there were other rumblings going around about other closures and new attractions. Today the other shoe fell with a behind-the-scenes note, confirmed by Universal Orlando, that Shrek 4D is closing January 10, 2022. We had heard this too was closing but have not heard from enough other sources to confirm at that time. While there are several rumors of what could be replacing Shrek we believe Alicia at Orlando Park Stop has it right: it's a Minions Villains Con experience. This, plus Minion Mayhem, will flesh out a nice Minions mini-land at the front of the park for families.

On the same note, and also confirmed by Universal Orlando, is a lengthy refurbishment for Revenge of the Mummy from January 7, 2022, through "late summer". While we haven't yet heard the amount of work being done it would not be surprising to see at least a partial track replacement, upgrades to the effects, and possibly upgrading the queue. This is great news for the attraction as Universal views the ride as saving and not one to replace.

Over in Japan, The Pokemon Company and Universal Studios Japan announced a joint partnership for medium-term and long-term entertainment projects. This announcement is unique in that it's with that one park and not with the overall Parks & Resorts division. My thoughts are Pokemon will be part of the very popular summer anime entertainment offerings featured at USJ. My guess is this is a test run with Universal and once the event goes well Pokemon will enter into a longer-term partnership with the other parks for new rides, shows, and attractions.

Finally, it seems the pre-pandemic plan to fix the Fast & Furious Supercharged problem seems to be still on and possibly the much-rumored escape rooms for CityWalk. There seem to be several projects of various sizes happening throughout the resort prior to Epic Universe that will keep the resort fresh before Epic Universe arrives.

Parkscope Unprofessional Podcast Hour #134 - Vesper Slush

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On this episode Joe, Lane, and Mike talk more Halloween Horror Nights 27 reactions, Dueling Dragons/Dragons Challenge closing, T2:3D October 8th closure announcement, T2 replacement ideas, Shrek 4D rumors, and lots and lots of James Bond talk.

Email us at parkscopeblog at gmail dot com or follow us at Parkscope, ParkscopeJoe, ParkscopeNick,  ParkscopeLane, and Sean.

Universal Permit Update 11/8/12: Donkey and Shrek Returning

A few notice of commencements were filed today by Universal. T2:3D is receiving new lighting and HVAC controls, CityWalk's escalators are being refurbed, but the only one standing out is the return of the Donkey and Shrek Meet and Greet.

As you can see, it says the Meet and Greet will be moving over to the Shrek Theater. This is an interesting development, as there really isn't any room overall in that building, or next to it now that Transformers is going in. Many have speculated that we may see a smaller, less elaborate area set up for Donkey, similar to the "Waffle Cart" he has in Universal Studios Hollywood. There have also been the beginnings of rumors that Shrek 4-D is not long for this world, so this additions is definitely curious.

We'll have to keep our eyes out, and we'll keep you informed as work progresses at @Parkscope.

Minion Mayhem AP Preview

©2012 Universal Orlando. All Rights Reserved

Universal Orlando Annual Passholders get the opportunity to be "One In A Minion!" first.  From June 18th - July 1st, AP holders will gain early admission to Universal Studios Florida to ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem!  One hour prior to regular scheduled park opening, both Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Shrek 4-D will open to AP holders.  To signup for this opportunity, visit http://www.universalorlandoresort.com/APminion/.  Space is limited and first come, first serve. Remember, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is in technical rehearsal and subject to delays or closures. 

If you get an opportunity to became one the first to become a Minion, let us know what you think! Tweet us @Parkscope or @MrX_381.