When you think of making a trip to Hollywood, you might imagine a couple of things: being lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a recognizable face from your favorite films as well as getting to visit the iconic theatres that premiere these movies. Well, guess what? You’re in luck! Located on the upper lot of Universal Studios Hollywood is DreamWorks Theatre Featuring Kung Fu Panda. More than a movie, this attraction puts you in the center of all the kung fu action alongside Po, Mr. Ping, and Master Shifu. Po holds a special place in my heart – I’m inspired by his playful sense of humor and “can-do attitude” that often help him overcome the toughest of challenges (and I can relate to his quirk of being motivated by food!).
So let’s make like Po and Skadoosh!
The Story
Po receives an urgent message from the emperor: He must deliver the mysterious Liquid of Ultimate Power to the palace! Along with Mr. Ping and Master Shifu, Po enlists the audience (that means you!) to aid him on the journey as backup warriors. It’ll be a full-blown adventure of awesomeness as you journey down roaring rapids and encounter river pirates to complete Po’s mission.
The Queue
You just know it’s going to be a great show as soon as you walk up to DreamWorks Theatre. The stunning exterior and historic architecture make you feel like you’ve just stepped back in time to the golden age of Hollywood. And just like any classic Hollywood theater, you’ll first pass by the box office. Don’t worry though. There’s no need to buy tickets to see this show. (Pinocchio seems to be always sleeping on the job anyway.)
As you make your way around the exterior and into the entrance of DreamWorks Theatre, you’ll take a walk down memory lane as you see the original movie posters of all your favorite DreamWorks Animation films: “Kung Fu Panda” (of course), “Shrek,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Puss in Boots,” “Madagascar,” “Monsters vs. Aliens,” “Home,” “The Road to El Dorado,” and “Boss Baby,” just to name a few. (Well, many.)
PRO TIP: Keep an eye out for the profiles and silhouettes of some of your favorite DreamWorks characters hidden amongst the iron archways you pass through as you enter the theatre.
Inside the lobby, you’ll be greeted by some of your favorite DreamWorks characters, including Donkey, Shrek, Marty the Zebra, the Penguins, and Poppy. You’ll also see a display case showcasing some important magical artifacts that Po has obtained from his past adventures: the helmet of Master Thundering Rhino, the Sword of Heroes, and the Ming Hammer, a relic so powerful it can knock you into the Spirit Realm! The Ming Hammer has even caught the attention of a certain villainous wolf…
FUN FACT: Also on display are some of the many, many awards and accolades that DreamWorks has won for its films, including Emmys and Golden Globes. So shiny!
The Ride
Once you’ve found your seat in this seemingly normal theatre, the show is ready to begin! Of course, this being DreamWorks Theatre, it’s anything but a normal show. Your seat will move: bouncing, leaning, and swiveling in sync with the action on the screen. You’ll start off by riding right behind Po, Mr. Ping, and Master Shifu as they journey in their boat downriver. Though peaceful at first, the leisurely ride down the river descends into chaos as you soon go over a waterfall. You may feel a splash as you take the dive.
There’s barely a moment to collect yourself on this journey as you encounter glorious sights and dangerous hazards while venturing across the ancient Chinese countryside! Some especially fun moments include:
- Running across an unfinished pedestrian bridge (featuring the cutest bunny builders I’ve ever seen).
- Riding through a beautiful bioluminescent cave.
- Ducking and dodging various spikes, blades, and booby traps in a pirate hideout.
- And let’s just say the walls and other structural elements of this theatre aren’t immune to the chaos (and interdimensional traveling) of this adventure.
Ride Details
Here are some of the nitty-gritty details you need to know:
- There is no height requirement for this attraction.
- Universal Express Pass is available for use on this attraction.
- This attraction is an active movie experience presented in a theater-style setting with seat movement that includes sudden tilting, shaking, and jarring actions.
- Accessibility & Ride Accommodations: Closed Captioning and Braille support can be provided upon request.
- Guests wishing to experience seat movement must transfer into a theatre seat independently or with assistance from a companion. All seats at the end of the rows have been modified to aid with transfer. Please see a Team Member for assistance.
Explore the Land
Once the show is over, you might just encounter some of your favorite DreamWorks characters roaming the area upon exiting DreamWorks Theatre! You could see such movie stars as Donkey, Shrek, Fiona, King Julien, Poppy, or Branch, so it’s the perfect time to snag a selfie to prove to your friends you met someone famous! ! After that, it’s just a hop, skip, and skadoosh over to the Animation Studio Store, where you can check out some merch featuring your favorite DreamWorks characters to commemorate your victory as a kung fu warrior. A Shrek shirt? They’ve got it. A Poppy plush? They’ve got it. A Kung Fu Panda headband? You bet they’ve got it!
What’s your favorite part of the Kung Fu Panda experience in DreamWorks Theatre? Let us know in the comments below!