Characters from the DreamWorks Animation hit Madagascar franchise have crash landed at Busch Gardens in Tampa, and their “Operation: Vacation” stage show will be debuting May 18, 2013 in the Stanleyville Theater.
To celebrate the arrival of the show, the Tampa park will host a premiere party weekend on May 18 and 19, complete with on-the-hour dance parties and meet and greets, in addition to the show’s premiere.
“We are thrilled to partner with DreamWorks Animation to bring the hugely popular Madagascar characters to Busch Gardens,” said park President Jim Dean. “Both Busch Gardens and DreamWorks share a core the mission to provide quality entertainment to audiences. This show is certain to have families engaged and amused and will round out the triple play of amazing shows, thrilling rides and unique animal encounters that our park delivers.”
The lively stage show encourages families to sing, clap and dance along to original songs and party favorites on a 20-minute musical adventure. Singers, dancers and a live band join the Madagascar characters as they amp up the party. And as part of each show, guests can meet the characters following the performance in Stanleyville Theater, which has been renovated and is now an enclosed and air-conditioned theater.
Here are highlights from Madagascar Live:
The energy and excitement will extend beyond Stanleyville Theater during opening weekend. Guests can join dancers and DJs throughout the park – in Stanleyville, Gwazi and Cheetah Hunt plazas – for a chance to dance every hour on May 18 and 19. There also will be unique opportunities to encounter animals all weekend long. Saturday night only, Gwazi field will remain open 30 minutes after park closing for more character meet and greets from 8 to 8:30 p.m. with a fireworks presentation at 8:30 p.m.
Plus, internationally known animal expert Jack Hanna will share animal facts and his travel tales during shows at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each day of the premier weekend in Gwazi Park. “Jungle Jack” Hanna will follow each show with autograph signings and audience meet and greets.
Photo Gallery: