Category Archives: SCV Style

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, owner of Six Flags Magic Mountain to merge with Cedar Fair, owner of Knott’s Berry Farm, in equal transaction. Combined company will benefit from expanded and complementary Portfolio of 42 iconic parks and 9 resort properties across 17 states, Canada and Mexico.

Diversified Geographic Footprint with a More Balanced Presence in Year-Round Operating ClimatesMore Robust Operating Model and Technology Platform to Drive Improved Guest Experience and Park EfficienciesStrong Financial Profile and Cash Flow Generation Expected to Facilitate Investments in Park Upgrades, Expansions and New, Innovative Offerings

Approximately $200 Million of Annual Synergies, Including $120 Million of Cost Savings Anticipated Within Two Years Following CloseExpected to be Accretive to EPS for Cedar Fair Unit-holders and Six Flags Shareholders within the First 12 Months Following Close.

SANDUSKY, Ohio & ARLINGTON, Texas – (BUSINESS WIRE) – Cedar Fair (NYSE: FUN) and Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: SIX) today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement to combine in a merger of equals transaction. The combined company, with a pro forma enterprise value of approximately $8 billion based on both companies’ debt and equity values as of October 31, 2023, will be a leading amusement park operator in the highly competitive leisure space with an expanded and diversified footprint, a more robust operating model and a strong revenue and cash flow generation profile.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, which has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies, Cedar Fair unitholders will receive one share of common stock in the new combined company for each unit owned, and Six Flags shareholders will receive 0.5800 (the “Six Flags Exchange Ratio”) shares of common stock in the new combined company for each share owned. Following the close of the transaction, Cedar Fair unitholders will own approximately 51.2%, and Six Flags shareholders will own approximately 48.8%, of the combined company’s fully diluted share capital on a pro forma basis. One business day prior to the close of the transaction, Six Flags will declare a special cash dividend composed of: (i) a fixed amount of $1.00 per outstanding Six Flags share, totaling approximately $85 million in the aggregate, plus, (ii) an amount per outstanding Six Flags share equal to (a) the aggregate per unit distributions declared or paid by Cedar Fair to unitholders with a record date following today’s date and prior to the close of the transaction, multiplied by (b) the Six Flags Exchange Ratio, which special dividend will be payable to Six Flags shareholders of record as of one business day prior to the close of the transaction, contingent on the closing of the transaction.

“The combination of Six Flags and Cedar Fair will redefine our guests’ amusement park experience as we combine the best of both companies,” said Selim Bassoul, President and Chief Executive Officer of Six Flags. “Six Flags and Cedar Fair share a strong cultural alignment, operating philosophy, and steadfast commitment to providing consumers with thrilling experiences.”

“Our merger with Six Flags will bring together two of North America’s iconic amusement park companies to establish a highly diversified footprint and a more robust operating model to enhance park offerings and performance,” said Richard Zimmerman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cedar Fair. “Together, we will have an expanded and complementary portfolio of attractive assets and intellectual property to deliver engaging entertainment experiences for guests. The combination also creates an enhanced financial profile with strong cash flow generation to accelerate investments in our parks to delight our guests, driving increased levels of demand and in-park value and spending. I have great respect for the Six Flags team and look forward to joining forces as we embark on this next chapter together.”

“Our merger with Six Flags will bring together two of North America’s iconic amusement park companies to establish a highly diversified footprint and a more robust operating model to enhance park offerings and performance,” said Richard Zimmerman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cedar Fair.

“The combination of Six Flags and Cedar Fair will redefine our guests’ amusement park experience as we combine the best of both companies,” added Selim Bassoul, President and Chief Executive Officer of Six Flags. “Six Flags and Cedar Fair share a strong cultural alignment, operating philosophy, and steadfast commitment to providing consumers with thrilling experiences. By combining our operational models and technology platforms, we expect to accelerate our transformation activities and unlock new potential for our parks. We are excited to unite the Cedar Fair and Six Flags teams to capitalize on the tremendous growth opportunities and operational efficiencies of our combined platform for the benefit of our guests, shareholders, employees, and other stakeholders.”

Compelling Strategic and Financial Benefits

  • A Successful Amusement Park Operator with Complementary Portfolio of Attractive Assets: The combined company will operate a portfolio of 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks and 9 resort properties across 17 states in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The company’s complementary portfolio will include some of the most iconic parks in North America with significant brand equity and loyal, recurring guest bases within the highly competitive leisure space. The combined company will also have entertainment partnerships and a portfolio of beloved IP such as Looney Tunes, DC Comics and PEANUTS to develop engaging new attractions enabled by compelling characters, environments, and storytelling.
  • Diversified Footprint and Guest Experiences: Cedar Fair and Six Flags have minimal market overlap of park operations, and the combined company’s complementary geographic footprint is expected to mitigate the impact of seasonality and reduce earnings volatility through a more balanced presence in year-round operating climates. The portfolio will include diversified experiences for guests including safaris and animal experiences, campgrounds, sports facilities and luxury lounges, enabling the combined company to better meet rising consumer demand for varied and engaging entertainment options.
  • Enhanced Operating Platform to Improve Guest Experiences: By uniting Cedar Fair and Six Flags’ complementary operating capabilities, the combined company will benefit from a more robust operating platform for improved park offerings and more efficient systemwide performance. The companies expect to leverage Cedar Fair’s recent park investment experience to accelerate the transformation underway across Six Flags’ portfolio. Cedar Fair and Six Flags will seek to create a more engaging and immersive guest experience. The combined company will also offer expanded park access to season pass holders along with an enhanced, combined loyalty program featuring additional perks.
  • Experienced and Proven Leadership Team: The senior leadership teams of Six Flags and Cedar Fair bring different and complementary skillsets and experience to the combined company, including decades of park operating experience as well as significant expertise integrating businesses and achieving synergy targets.
  • Significant Cost Savings and Revenue Uplift Opportunity: Following the close of the transaction, Cedar Fair and Six Flags expect the combined company will benefit from the significant value created by total anticipated annual synergies of $200 million. Approximately $120 million of these synergies are expected to be related to identified administrative and operational cost savings, which the companies anticipate realizing within two years following transaction close. The companies also expect to leverage their complementary operating capabilities to deliver additional revenue uplift, generating approximately $80 million of incremental EBITDA that the companies anticipate realizing within three years of transaction close.
  • Strong Financial Profile: Over the last 12 months, through the third quarter of fiscal 2023, Six Flags and Cedar Fair collectively entertained 48 million guests, and, as a combined company, would generate pro forma $3.4 billion1 in revenue, $1.2 billion1 in Adjusted EBITDA2, and $826 million1,3 of free cash flow4, reflecting run rate cost savings of $120 million and revenue uplift resulting in $80 million of incremental EBITDA. The transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings per share for Cedar Fair unitholders and Six Flags shareholders within the first 12 months following transaction close. The combined company is also expected to have a pro forma leverage ratio of approximately 3.7x net debt to Adjusted EBITDA, inclusive of synergies, with a path to reduce the leverage ratio to approximately 3.0x within two years of transaction close.
  • Significant Free Cash Flow Generation and Enhanced Financial Flexibility: The combined company’s increased free cash flow will provide it with greater flexibility to invest in new rides and attractions, broader food and beverage selections, additional in-park offerings, and cross-park initiatives, such as consumer technology and enhanced guest services. The combined company’s resources are expected to be strategically deployed to grow attendance, increase per capita spending, and improve profitability, all while enhancing guests’ value and experience across the park portfolio. The combined company is committed to allocating capital to maximize shareholder returns once the company achieves its targeted net leverage ratio.

Leadership, Corporate Governance and Headquarters

The combined company will be led by a proven management team that reflects the strengths and capabilities of both organizations. Upon closing of the transaction, Richard Zimmerman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cedar Fair, will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of the combined company and Selim Bassoul, President and Chief Executive Officer of Six Flags, will serve as Executive Chairman of the combined company’s Board of Directors. Brian Witherow, Chief Financial Officer of Cedar Fair, will serve as Chief Financial Officer of the combined company and Gary Mick, CFO of Six Flags, will serve as Chief Integration Officer of the combined company.

Following closing of the transaction, the newly formed Board of Directors of the combined company will consist of 12 directors, six from the Cedar Fair Board and six from the Six Flags Board.

Upon closing of the transaction, the combined company will operate under the name Six Flags and trade under the ticker symbol FUN on the NYSE and will be structured as a C Corporation. The combined company will be headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and will maintain significant finance and administrative operations in Sandusky, Ohio.

Approvals and Closing

The merger is expected to close in the first half of 2024, following receipt of Six Flags shareholder approval, regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Approval by Cedar Fair unitholders is not required. Six Flags’ largest shareholder, which owns approximately 13.6% of Six Flags’ shares outstanding, has signed a voting and support agreement to vote in favor of the transaction. The transaction is not expected to trigger any change of control provision under Cedar Fair’s and Six Flags’ respective outstanding Notes. The companies expect to refinance their respective revolving credit facilities, and Six Flags expects to refinance the Six Flags Term Loan, ahead of transaction close.

The City of Santa Clarita announces “You’re The Best,” talent contest, debuting at the Main in Newhall on January 23, 2020. Community members of all ages invited to participate.

Monthly Talent Show to Feature Chaos, Quirkiness and More at The MAIN. Take Part in New Community Talent Competition to Show Why “You’re the Best”.

Santa Clarita, Calif. – Come one, come all to a new monthly community talent show at The MAIN in Old Town Newhall! The City of Santa Clarita is seeking community members of all ages to participate in a new talent contest called “You’re The Best,” which will make its debut on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. 

The show is an outrageous and ridiculous evening of entertainment, fun and mayhem. Audiences will be encouraged to let their hair down, not take themselves or others too seriously, throw inhibitions out the door and expect the unexpected. 

The City of Santa Clarita announces “You’re The Best,” talent contest, debuting at the Main in Newhall on January 23, 2020. Community members of all ages invited to participate.

The City is looking for people who sing, dance, act, play music, do martial arts, have an animal act or want to showcase their unique skill. Each month, the winner of “You’re The Best” will receive a $50 gift card, and winners from each month will have the chance to win $500 in the grand finale in late 2020.

The competition is open to all ages and levels of experience. Finding inspiration from old school television variety shows, such as “The Gong Show,” “You’re the Best,” performances will include comedians, dance groups, magicians, animal acts, singers and more! 

“You’re The Best” will take place on the fourth Thursday of each month from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The MAIN (24266 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321).

For more information on the contest, or to sign-up to perform, please visit AtTheMain.org.

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA TO HOST START OF FINAL STAGE OF 2019 AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 5, 2018) – The Amgen Tour of California organizers today announced the 13 Host Cities selected for the 14th edition of America’s premier professional cycling stage race set for May 12-18, 2019. Throughout seven stages over seven days, the world’s elite cyclists will contest more than 750 miles of roadways, highways and coastlines from Sacramento to Pasadena.

The Amgen Tour of California Women’s Race empowered with SRAM, showcasing the world’s best women cyclists, will run concurrently May 16-18, covering upwards of 180 miles over three stages. Owned and presented by AEG, both races conclude with same-day finishes in Pasadena, a veteran overall finish city.

The City of Santa Clarita will host the start for the final stage of both the men’s and women’s races on Saturday, May 18, 2019. The men and women competing in the Amgen Tour of California and the Amgen Tour of California Women’s Race empowered with SRAM will race through the streets of Santa Clarita before waving goodbye as they push toward the overall finish line in Pasadena. Of the 2019 lineup of California Host Cities, the City of Santa Clarita has the distinction of having hosted the most stages in race history, and 2019 will mark its 14th hosted stage.

“We are honored for the opportunity to host another stage for the Amgen Tour of California. It is not often that we bring a world-class race event right to our residents’ backyards!” said Mayor Laurene Weste. “With an event this prestigious, it really boosts our tourism efforts by having regional, national and international eyes on Santa Clarita. This the 14th stage we’ve hosted and every time we have had a wonderful experience partnering with the Amgen Tour of California.”

The annual Amgen Tour of California carries the distinction of being the only U.S. men’s and women’s races on the UCI WorldTour calendar and have helped launch some of today’s best known and most decorated international cyclists as well as continuing to attract the most talented competitors and teams in the world. With seven new courses between them, the event’s legacy as an international platform for both men’s and women’s racing will hold special significance this year as Olympic hopefuls gear up for Tokyo 2020.

2019 RACE SCHEDULE

DATE                           MEN                                                                                                                                                            

Sun., May 12      Stage 1 Sacramento

Mon., May 13     Stage 2 Rancho Cordova to South Lake Tahoe

Tues., May 14    Stage 3 Stockton to Morgan Hill

Wed., May 15     Stage 4 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to Morro Bay

Thurs., May 16   Stage 5 Pismo Beach to Ventura

Fri., May 17         Stage 6 Ontario to Mt. Baldy

Sat., May 18         Stage 7 Santa Clarita to Pasadena

DATE                           WOMEN                                                                                                                                                    

Thurs., May 16   Stage 1 Ventura

Fri., May 17         Stage 2 Ontario to Mt. Baldy

Sat., May 18         Stage 3 Santa Clarita to Pasadena

**Courses subject to change

Host City information and a highlight video are available at www.amgentourofcalifornia.com or https://youtu.be/9EumaLheLe8 (downloadable HD press version at www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/media-resources).

This year’s course will highlight the distinct beauty of Northern, Central and Southern California. The 2019 Host Cities include the return of fan and race team favorites, long-time veterans like Sacramento, Santa Clarita and Pasadena, and a first-time start in Rancho Cordova.

The 2019 Amgen Tour of California will cover a variety of terrain, showcasing many of California’s most well-known and iconic settings and landmarks, and allowing different types of specialists in the peloton to shine throughout the week. Several fast and flat sections on tap in Sacramento, Morgan Hill and Pasadena will cater to sprinters (not to mention a start overlooking the famous WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca motor speedway). Climbers will also face challenges in South Lake Tahoe, the Diablo Mountain Range outside Stockton where they will reach an elevation of 4,625 feet, and on multiple climbs between Pismo Beach and Ventura. Fans and teams alike will count down to the men’s and women’s Queen Stages from Ontario to Mt. Baldy, which will feature a grueling 26-mile fan-favorite climb to the summit finish, a day that will shake up the leader board and can make or break the quest for the overall victory.

A traditional stage for the Amgen Tour of California, the final race day for both the men and women is one that highlights the beauty of long-time race partners: Santa Clarita and Pasadena. Past overall finishes in Pasadena have consistently been dramatic and exciting, with fans from across Southern California lining up to cheer on the fast-and-furious sprint finishes to determine the ultimate champions.

“The Amgen Tour of California continues to serve as an international postcard for the state, showcasing the beauty and diversity of California – and the 2019 host cities certainly reflect that,” said Kristin Klein, president of the Amgen Tour of California and executive vice president of AEG Sports. “We look forward to hosting another truly dynamic and engaging race, which will feature an all-star peloton, continuing the tradition of delivering one of the most exciting sporting events in the country.”

Title sponsor Amgen has been a race partner since race inception. In 2005, Amgen launched Breakaway from Cancer®, its national initiative to increase awareness of important resources available to people affected by cancer – from prevention through survivorship. Amgen expanded its platform in 2016 to launch Breakaway from Heart Disease™, aimed at encouraging Americans to have a game plan to tackle heart disease by understanding their risk through diagnostic screening and by taking charge of their heart health through diet, exercise and appropriate treatment options. To learn more, visit breakawayfromcancer.com and breakawayfromheartdisease.com.

“At Amgen, our mission is to serve patients, and for more than 35 years we have reached millions of people with our medicines,” said Murdo Gordon, executive vice president, Global Commercial Operations, Amgen. “Our sponsorship of the Amgen Tour of California gives us a platform to educate and empower people to connect with the resources that enable living a longer, healthier life.”

In addition to lining the race course, fans of all ages will once again have the opportunity to experience the race as a VIP from an all-inclusive hospitality tent or through once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. To learn more visit: https://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/vip-experiences. VIP Hospitality Passes go on pre-sale to American Express cardholders December 5-10 at 9:59 a.m., and the public on-sale begins December 10 at 10 a.m. To purchase visit: https://www.axs.com/amgen2019. For questions, please contact sales@amgentourofcalifornia.com.

**AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA SUPPORTS CALIFORNIA WILDFIRE RELIEF

As a result of the devastation caused by the recent California Wildfires, the Amgen Tour of California, in partnership with the LA Kings and AEG Sports are proud to donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross.

“The recent fires have caused our community and our state incredible and unimaginable damage. AEG continues to thank those who have worked tirelessly to help combat the fires. Our hearts go out to those who have suffered hardships.  We are making this donation to the America Red Cross in honor of the first responders and all who have been impacted.  We are also encouraging our fans and our supporters to help by making donations as well,” said Dan Beckerman, president and CEO, AEG and Alternate Governor, Kings.

“The devastation has severely impacted the entire state of California, including many of our past and upcoming host cities of the Amgen Tour of California,” said Kristin Klein, president, Amgen Tour of California & executive vice president, AEG Sports. “We’re not just a state. But a collection of communities that come together to support each in time of need and we are proud to support the relief efforts undertaken by so many of the first responders and the American Red Cross.”

Red Cross volunteers are supporting evacuation centers to provide safe refuge for people impacted by these devastating fires. Additionally, they are also providing meals, health services, spiritual care, comfort and other support for affected residents.

Please consider joining our organization in supporting the Red Cross’ efforts in California. Visit the American Red Cross to donate today.

About the Amgen Tour of California

The Amgen Tour of California and the Amgen Women’s Race empowered with SRAM are Tour de France-style cycling road races created and presented by AEG. Running concurrently, the races challenge the world’s top professional cycling teams to compete along demanding courses that traverse hundreds of miles of California’s iconic highways, byways and coastlines each spring. The teams chosen to participate have included Olympic medalists, Tour de France contenders and World Champions, and award important, world-ranking points to the top finishers. For more information visit the Amgen Tour of California on InstagramFacebookTwitterYouTube or www.amgentourofcalifornia.com.

About Amgen

Amgen is committed to unlocking the potential of biology for patients suffering from serious illnesses by discovering, developing, manufacturing and delivering innovative human therapeutics. This approach begins by using tools like advanced human genetics to unravel the complexities of disease and understand the fundamentals of human biology.

Amgen focuses on areas of high unmet medical need and leverages its biologics manufacturing expertise to strive for solutions that improve health outcomes and dramatically improve people’s lives. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen has grown to be the world’s largest independent biotechnology company, has reached millions of patients around the world and is developing a pipeline of medicines with breakaway potential.

About AEG

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 120 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including STAPLES Center, The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Live, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world’s largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands, AXS.com ticketing platform, AXS cable television channel and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.

Universal Studios Hollywood Rings in 2019 with EVE, Hollywood’s Most Dynamic New Year’s Eve Celebration, Featuring Live Music, Fireworks and Non-Stop Fun on Rides and Attractions

The end of the year is almost here and people are looking for something fun to do with their friends on New Year’s Eve! Universal Studios Hollywood will be ringing in 2019 with EVE, Hollywood’s most dynamic New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring live music, dazzling fireworks, and non-stop fun on rides and attractions. Also, the all-new Ultimate EVE package is a featured addition to this year’s event, inviting guests to celebrate in style with exclusive private lounges, buffet dinner, private cash bar, complimentary midnight champagne toast, VIP fireworks viewing areas and unlimited Universal Express access.

All-New Ultimate EVE Package Features Exclusive Private Lounges, Buffet Dinner, Champagne Toast, VIP Fireworks Viewing Areas and Unlimited Universal Express Access.

To purchase tickets for EVE or the Ultimate EVE package, click here.

Universal City, California, November 29, 2018 – Universal Studios Hollywood rings in 2019 with EVE, Hollywood’s biggest and most exciting New Year’s celebration, including an all-new Ultimate EVE package, on Monday, December 31, with extended theme park hours to 2:00 a.m.

EVE is included in the price of theme park admission and invites guests to spend the day and night enjoying its many popular rides and attractions with a special park-wide party starting at 9:00 p.m., featuring multiple DJs and live music entertainment hubs, that will culminate simultaneously at midnight with a traditional New Year countdown and a spectacular fireworks display.

The all-new Ultimate EVE package is a featured addition to this year’s event, inviting guests to celebrate in style. Package highlights include theme park admission starting at 6:00 p.m., access to private lounges, buffet dining, private cash bars, reserved VIP viewing areas for the dazzling fireworks display, a complimentary, midnight champagne toast, commemorative 2019 party favors and unlimited Universal Express access to all rides and attractions.

Starting at 9:00 p.m., Universal Plaza, Simpsons Plaza located in Springfield™ and an area near “Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride” will transform into three uniquely-themed party hubs, featuring a variety of music, from rock ‘n’ roll to electronic dance music to Latin pop, and the celebration will continue with enhanced DJ shows and after-party entertainment until 2:00 a.m.

A selection of food and beverages, including specialty desserts, champagne, beer, wine and specialty cocktails, as well as 2019 memorabilia will be available for purchase.

To purchase tickets for EVE or the Ultimate EVE package, click here.

With its festive environment, guests can toast the New Year with the spirit of the holidays already resonating throughout Universal Studios Hollywood.

The highly-anticipated return of “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM  brings glistening snowfall for the first time ever to Hogsmeade village along with “The Magic of Christmas at HogwartsTM Castle,” a breathtaking digital light projection experience, which continues through January 6, 2019.

More information, including special EVE Preferred Hotel Packages, is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”.  Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” and the “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction and the all-new DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest.”  The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such authentic thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”  The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.

SHOWS AT THE MAIN in Santa Clarita IN DECEMBER 2018. Brush up on your Shakespeare and beyond!

“Blood on Thy Hands,” 10 by 10 Variety Show, Comedy Mashup, The Society Comedy Troupe and Note by Note Music Showcase

 Santa Clarita, Calif. –  The City of Santa Clarita invites you to attend upcoming shows at The MAIN, located at 24266 Main Street, in Old Town Newhall. Tickets are now on sale for a variety of shows taking place in December.

Bridgeway Theatre Company presents “Blood on Thy Hands,” an original work from director Stephan Nieman and writer Sarah Hoftstedt.

Bridgeway Theatre Company presents “Blood on Thy Hands,” an original work from director Stephan Nieman and writer Sarah Hoftstedt. It is a contemporary story featuring three of Shakespeare’s leading ladies analyzing life after their story ends. Des (Desdemona from Othello), Lia (Ophelia from Hamlet) and Julie (Juliet from Romeo and Juliet) are in their own version of purgatory, in which they connect with each other to share their perspective of how they died, while discussing the objectivity of male control in their lives and what love means to each of them. Performance dates and times are November 30 at 8:00 p.m., December 1 at 2:00 p.m., and December 2 at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $18 for seniors and students, and $20 for adults.

The 10 by 10 Variety Show occurs on the first Thursday of the month and features music, film, storytelling, magic, comedy and more! Ten performers, from a variety of genres, are selected to perform a 10-minute piece of their choosing. Every month is different, so you never know what you will see on stage! Performances this month include storytelling with Michael Dougherty, Vicki Juditz and Bart Richards; comedy from Lang Parker and Richard Meyer; comedy and juggling by Ivan Pecel; music with Tracy Lee Nelson, Steve Messick and John Bergstrom; and magic by Glenndalf. The show is Thursday, December 6, at 7:00 p.m. and free to attend.

Comedy Mashup is a group of working comedians and improvisers from all over Los Angeles that come together once a month to put on a show that is half stand-up comedy and half improv.

Comedy Mashup is a group of working comedians and improvisers from all over Los Angeles that come together once a month to put on a show that is half stand-up comedy and half improv. Mad House Comedy’s Ashley Johnson headlines the evening, while “Your Favorite Cast” brings the improv and holiday sketch comedy. The show is Friday, December 7, at 8:00 p.m., and is geared towards an adult audience. Tickets are $12 presale and $18 on the day of the show.

The Society Comedy Troupe is bringing hilarious and energetic team improv to The MAIN. Similar to the TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?,” they ask for audience participation while creating improvised music, comedy and scenes. The show is Saturday, December 8, at 8:00 p.m., and is appropriate for all ages. Tickets are $12 for seniors and students, and $15 for all others.

Note by Note is a free musical showcase delighting audiences with a variety of genres. Bands, duos and soloists will perform a wide range of styles, including rock, folk, Celtic, Americana, blues, jazz, country, experimental, western and more! Featured performers in December include Mike Fleming, Abby Lyons, Ric Taylor and Sarah Mee Ran Cave. The show is Thursday, December 13, at 7:00 p.m. and free to attend.

Learn more about these shows and purchase tickets by visiting AtTheMain.org/tickets.

City of Santa Clarita Offering Excursion for Residents to see ‘Wicked’ at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre

 Santa Clarita, Calif. – Grab your broom, don your ruby red slippers and travel to the wonderful land of Oz – long before Dorothy and her friends burst onto the scene. Wicked, the award-winning Broadway musical, is returning to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre for a limited time, and the City of Santa Clarita is offering residents the chance to see it before it flies away.

The City’s Recreation and Community Services department is planning an excursion to see “Wicked” on Sunday, January 13, 2019, and has a limited number of tickets available to the public. Tickets can be purchased for $114 per person ($125 for non-residents), and include reserved mezzanine seating at the theatre and charter bus transportation to the show.

 Participants will depart from The Centre (20880 Centre Pointe Parkway) at 10:30 a.m. on January 13. Upon arrival in Hollywood, participants will have time to have lunch at a restaurant of their choosing before the show begins at 1:00 p.m. The price of lunch is not included in registration for this excursion.

Wicked, back at the Pantages in Hollywood by popular demand, is the story of two unlikely friends, Elphaba and Glinda, who you may know better as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch in “The Wizard of Oz.”

 Wicked, back at the Pantages in Hollywood by popular demand, is the story of two unlikely friends, Elphaba and Glinda, who you may know better as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch in “The Wizard of Oz.” The play is recommended for children eight years and older, and those under five years of age will not be admitted into the theatre.

For more information about this opportunity and to register to see Wicked with the City of Santa Clarita, please contact Jennifer Lindstrom, Recreation Coordinator, at (661) 250-3731 or visit santa-clarita.com/Seasons.

For more information about tickets and Wicked visit:

https://www.hollywoodpantages.com/events/detail/wicked

https://www.hollywoodpantages.com/seasonpackages/2018-19-seasonpackages/mini1819packages

City of Santa Clarita RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS 23rd Annual “ACHIEVEMENT OF EXCELLENCE IN PROCUREMENT 2018 AEP AWARD”

Santa Clarita, Calif. –  The City of Santa Clarita has been recognized with the prestigious 23rd Annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® (AEP) Award in 2018 from the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI). This is the eighth time the City has received this award in recognition of its purchasing policies and practices, and marks the fifth consecutive year Santa Clarita has been recognized.

            The AEP Award is bestowed upon public and non-profit organizations that obtain a high application score based on standardized criteria. The AEP is awarded annually to recognize innovation, professionalism, electronic procurement, productivity and leadership in the procurement function. The City of Santa Clarita’s procurement ethics standards, eProcurement practices and internal procurement automation received high honors and recognition among judges. Several other areas were also accredited, including the City’s creative and successful annual Vendor Outreach program, centralized procurement authority, internal customer and professional development training programs, the use of electronic systems for bids, quotes, online surplus auctions and the City’s employee Procurement Card program.

The City of Santa Clarita is one of only 65 cities in the United States and Canada to receive this esteemed award in 2018. The Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award® has the distinction of being sponsored by every major procurement association in the nation and recognizes state-of-the-art best practices in public procurement.

THE SUMMER TROLLEY RETURNS WITH SERVICE TO SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN AND EVENING SERVICE TO OUR PREMIER ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT IN OLD TOWN NEWHALL

Santa Clarita, Calif. – The City of Santa Clarita’s popular Summer Trolley, which takes guests to and from Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor each day for FREE, is now offering evening entertainment service, from local hotels to both Town Center Drive and Old Town Newhall! Traditionally, the Summer Trolley has run service between participating hotels and Six Flags Magic Mountain. The new, later service adds three stops along Main Street in Old Town Newhall (the hotspot for dinner, drinks and entertainment) with extended hours, every Thursday through Sunday.

The free Summer Trolley runs each morning from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., picking up riders from three locations along the way: Hyatt Regency Valencia/Westfield Valencia Town Center, Courtyard by Marriott/Embassy Suites and the Holiday Inn Express. Return trips to those locations depart from Six Flags each evening beginning at 6:00 p.m. with the last trolley leaving at 11:00 p.m., depending on park hours.

The new nighttime service is a great way to experience nightlife at the Westfield Valencia Town Center (Hyatt Regency Valencia stop) and in the City’s Arts and Entertainment District in Old Town Newhall. Some of the new attractions at Westfield include The Dudes BreweryCheesecake Factory and Saddle Ranch Chop House, as well as community favorites like Salt Creek Grille, plus explore a variety of wine bars, restaurants and entertainment opportunities along Town Center Drive and the Patios.

While the Summer Trolley will make the same stops during this time, it will also take riders to Old Town Newhall in the evening where they can enjoy free Thursdays@Newhall events, as well as a host of nightlife spots that include a variety of dining, craft breweries, wine rooms and shopping. Local favorites include Brewery Draconum, Double Trouble, Newhall Refinery, Pulchella Winery, Southern Smoke BBQ & Brewhouse and Newhall Press Room.

Evening service to Old Town Newhall runs from 5:40 to 11:10 p.m.Thursday through Saturday, while Sunday service runs from 5:40 to 9:45 p.m. Two trolleys are in rotation providing service every 30-40 minutes during operating hours.

See the full Summer Trolley schedule at VisitSantaClarita.com. For more information about the Summer Trolley’s service to Six Flags and Old Town Newhall, please contact Evan Thomason at (661) 286-4167 or by email at ethomason@santa-clarita.com.

Frightful Fun for Everyone: Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort Returns September 7

Disneyland, California Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is returning for even more days of wicked fun! Beginning September 7 through October 31, a spell will be cast at both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, transforming the Disneyland Resort into a frenzy of happy haunts.

This limited-time seasonal celebration will include special attraction

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is returning for even more days of wicked fun! Beginning September 7 through October 31, a spell will be cast at both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, transforming the Disneyland Resort into a frenzy of happy haunts.

overlays, themed décor, seasonal treats and merchandise, plus spooky encounters with favorite characters.

Oogie Boogie will once again take over Disney California Adventure park with stylish Halloween decor along Buena Vista Street and a swarm of bats encircling Carthay Circle Theatre. Cars Land will celebrate Haul-O-Ween as Radiator Springs turns into Radiator Screams! For the occasion, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree will transform into Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree while Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters changes into Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween. In Hollywood Land, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will transform nightly into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark.

Over at Disneyland park, the Pumpkin Festival will greet guests as they make their way down Main Street, U.S.A. Fan-favorite attractions will also return, including the eerily delightful Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy.

Minnie and Mickey Mouse at Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort

Additionally, the highly anticipated Mickey’s Halloween Party will host 15 nights of fun. This separate-ticket, after hours event gives you the chance to make your Halloween Time experience even more fun with some exclusive entertainment, Disney characters in their Halloween attire and trick-or-treating throughout Disneyland park!

Be sure to purchase your Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets* early and mark your calendars for the dates below. Tickets may be purchased online at Disneyland.com/party (until the day before the event), at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400.

  • June 5: Tickets on sale to Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders, Disney Rewards Visa card holders and Disney Vacation Club members
  • June 12: Tickets on sale to general public
  • Mickey’s Halloween Party 2018 dates: Sept. 19, Sept. 21, Sept. 24, Sept. 26, Sept. 28, Oct. 2, Oct. 5, Oct. 9, Oct. 12, Oct. 16, Oct. 19, Oct. 23, Oct. 26, Oct. 29, Oct. 31

For more information about Halloween events at the Disneyland Resort, please visithttp://www.Disneyland.com/Halloween. Entertainment and attractions are subject to change or cancellation without notice.

*Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets are subject to availability and are valid only for specific event dates and hours. Space is limited. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be resold. Ages 2 and under: no ticket required. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Jack Skellington and Haunted Mansion Holiday are inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Broadway Smash FROZEN To Launch North American Tour in Fall 2019 with Official Opening at the Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles!

Hollywood Pantages Theatre Hollywood

Hollywood, Calif. – “Frozen,” the Broadway musical, will launch its national tour at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre in fall 2019, the Pantages announced Tuesday.

The Tony-Nominated Best Musical to play exclusive engagement at the Hollywood Pantages during the 2019-20 season. Frozen will be part of the 2019-20 season package available early next year.

Frozen,” the Broadway musical, will launch its national tour at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre in fall 2019, the Pantages announced Tuesday.

The Tony-Nominated Best Musical to play exclusive engagement at the Hollywood Pantages during the 2019-20 season.

Frozen will be part of the 2019-20 season package available early next year.

Caissie Levy and Patti Murin star as sisters Elsa and Anna in “Frozen” the musical, which will launch its national tour at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre in the fall of 2019. (Deen van Meer)