How to Host and Plan a Hybrid Fundraiser

Many nonprofits and schools want to increase their donations cost-effectively but lack the expertise or resources to create and host a major fundraising event. A hybrid fundraiser gives you the best of both worlds: an engaging live experience that shares your mission with supporters while leveraging new technology for acquiring donations.

Hybrid fundraising events can be a great addition to traditional donor cultivation activities, being more targeted than telephone campaigns while also providing significant opportunities for engagement through social media sharing.

These types of events enable your nonprofit to do something different from what is expected of you, stand out from your competition and avoid becoming obsolete as time goes on. You get all this while still increasing revenue!

To have a successful hybrid fundraising event, it’s essential to research your options and establish a budget for the event. The next step is to assemble a team of people with different skill sets. You can then create a fundraiser website, promote it and execute your live event.

In the end, you will thank donors for their support and deepen donor engagement by keeping them involved after the fact. Finally, you’ll analyze performance data so that you can improve upon future events.

We’ve created this guide to take you through these steps one at a time so that you can learn how to host your own effective hybrid fundraising event campaign. Have fun!

Step 1: Weigh Your Hybrid Options

The following are ten steps to help plan and host successful hybrid events. First, let’s define some terms:

Hybrid Fundraiser: A hybrid fundraiser is a type of event that allows your supporters to donate online or during on-site activities. At the same time, they learn about your mission and engage with like-minded peers.

The donation method is up to you (cash, check, credit card). If the donation method is cash or check, make sure to have someone at the event record all gifts for accuracy and security purposes.

Step 2: Determining Tech Needs and Budget

While it can be tempting to “go big” on your first hybrid fundraiser and spend money on the most prominent venues and most elaborate activities possible, this strategy could end up costing you more than the revenue gained in the long run. Therefore, it’s essential to consider your budget and how much you want to invest in this project.

Keep in mind that when it comes time for planning and executing stages of your event(s), vendors will likely charge more if they think you’re not organized or serious about what you’re doing. Turning to professionals for help early on is a great way to get better rates while also avoiding setting yourself up for failure later.

To determine your budget, ask yourself:

  • How much do I currently raise during fundraising events?
  • What percentage of these funds do I typically see arrive after the live event is over (donations + additional revenue, e.g., auction packages)?
  • How much money would this represent for my organization if I could feasibly capture 10-20% more capital through a hybrid fundraiser?

Another vital thing to consider is the technology required for hosting your fundraisers. Do you have the necessary equipment and software (e.g., iPads or tablets with card readers & digital signatures, laptops with internet access and compatible presentation software, wireless microphones)?

Additionally, it would be best to determine whether you want to host more than one live event as part of your fundraiser. If so, will some of those events be held off site where participants don’t have Internet access? Can you rent additional equipment as needed?

Depending on what kind of activities you’ll be hosting, you may want to hire support staff such as videographers or photographers.

Tech Needs

  • Tablets/iPads with card readers and digital signatures for event check-in.
  • Laptops w/ internet access and compatible presentation software for speeches or activities.
  • Wireless microphones to connect with the audience or participants at offsite events.

Budget Needs

  • Additional equipment rental fees (e.g., sound system, wireless microphone/speaker system) if necessary.
  • Support staff (e.g., videographers, photographers) depending on what kind of events you’ll be hosting.

Note: You may also want to consider hiring a professional event planner to assist your volunteers and keep everything running smoothly throughout the weekend.

Step 3: Assembling Your Team

As mentioned above, it’s a good idea to hire a professional event planner to assist your volunteers and keep everything running smoothly throughout the weekend.

It’s also helpful to have an experienced fundraiser on-site during your live events who can:

  • Verify credit cards, cash, & electronic checks.
  • Collect and record donations accurately.
  • Address any technical difficulties quickly so they don’t impact participants’ experience.

Support Staff:

  • Event Planner (at least 1 for each on-site event).
  • Experienced fundraisers trained in credit card and check collection procedures.

Step 4: Building Your Hybrid Fundraising Site

If you plan on letting donors contribute both online before the event(s) and during on-site activities, then it’s essential that you set up fundraising pages ahead of time. This way, donors’ credit card information is already stored in your system when they arrive to participate in your fundraiser so you can capture their donations quickly and efficiently.

At a bare minimum, a fundraising website should include:

  • Donations page(s), where supporters enter the amount they’d like to give.
  • Payment Gateway(s), which accepts online contributions.
  • Funding Progress bar that shows how much has been raised so far.
  • Organization profile picture/logo and contact information.

To be successful, make sure your site invites donors to participate, not intimidate them. Also, keep in mind that very few people will want to go through the donation process unless there’s an incentive for doing so (e.g., free raffle entry, donation matching, etc.).

Step 5: Promoting Your Hybrid Fundraiser

Just because you’ve built an excellent fundraising website doesn’t necessarily mean people will visit it. We recommend promoting your hybrid fundraiser both before and during your events via email, social media, flyers, event invitations, or any other methods you think are appropriate.

Include images of your donor incentives (e.g., certificates for free raffle entries) to motivate potential supporters to get involved. You can also promote specific event details, such as the date(s) and time(s), website URL, etc.

Step 6: Excellent Tips for Planning Your Hybrid Event

  • Get creative with your on-site activities! The possibilities are endless depending on what you’d like to accomplish and how much time you have available. For more inspiration, think about previous events you’ve hosted or attended that were both successful and engaging.
  • Keep things moving at a fast pace, but don’t be afraid to take breaks if needed.
  • Wear comfortable shoes! If possible, bring an extra pair if one gets wet during an activity or is damaged by corrosive liquids (e.g., vinegar).
  • Make sure all required safety equipment is on-hand. This includes personal protective equipment (PPE), disposable gloves, safety goggles/glasses, and any other gear that might be required for activities.

Step 7: Executing Your Hybrid Event

Here are just a few possible event ideas to consider:

Live-Action Challenge: Participants compete in teams of two or three by performing different tasks that test their problem-solving abilities under physical stress.

For example, participants could assemble flat-pack furniture with the help of only verbal instructions while wearing emergency “hazmat” suits that make it challenging to use their hands effectively! Other examples include timed cooking challenges, puzzle hunts, water balloon tosses, etc.

Food Tasting Competition: Each team must create the best-tasting dish out of a set of ingredients.

Cookie Decorating Contest: Each team tries to decorate the most accurate replica of your organization’s logo with icing and sprinkles.

DIY Activity Station: Different stations could be set up where participants make slime, fold origami fortune tellers, or color in coloring book pictures.

Seasonal Activities: These could vary depending on the time of year, but examples include building snowmen, carving pumpkins, and making ornaments.

Step 8: Ending Your Hybrid Fundraiser

Now that you’ve completed your hybrid event(s) let donors know how their donations will make an impact by sending them a personalized thank you message afterward. Showcase the great things your organization has accomplished with their support and how they’ll continue to help build a brighter future for the community.

Step 9: Deepening and Thanking Donor Engagement

We recommend following up with donors within two weeks of their contributions to maximize their likelihood of giving again in the future. You can do this via email or text message (if you’ve collected cell phone numbers) and include a personalized video message from your CEO, executive director, or other key staff members (s).

Other donor communication tips include sending thank you cards or gifts (e.g., pens, notepads, magnets), updating them on important news related to your cause (i.e., upcoming events such as fundraisers, open houses, etc.), and including press releases of your organization’s accomplishments in all communications.

Step 10: Analyzing Data and Evaluating Performance

Once you’ve wrapped up your hybrid event(s), it’s time to take a look at some key metrics and determine the next steps. How did things go? What could have gone better? How much money did you raise?

Things to consider include social media engagement rates (e.g., likes, shares, comments) on Facebook and Twitter; how many donors utilized the online fundraising page; the number of participants who attended/completed your event(s); and more.

Make a note of any learnings or insights that can help improve future events and make sure to follow up with donors and thank them again.

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Romantic Rock and Vans Footwear To Host “The Art Of Shoes” At Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show Saturday, December 21 In Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA — Romantic Rock’s highly anticipated Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show makes its return to Los Angeles later this month, with a grand opening night and red carpet artist reception onSaturday, December 21 at Self Help Graphics & Art. This annual art exhibition celebrates the fine art and photography of creatives who share a passion for both music and art, and this year has partnered with Vans Footwear to give back to the community through “The Art Of Shoes.” 

“The Art Of Shoes” will feature one-of-a-kind designs painted onto Vans shoes by Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show participating artists and other iconic punk rock musicians. Each pair of Vans shoes will be auctioned off, starting at $200 per pair, with all proceeds benefiting The Sidewalk Project, a Los Angeles non-profit whose initiative is to enrich the lives of the Los Angeles houseless community. “Each band and artist that is a part of this project is giving their time to support both The Sidewalk Projectand Punk Rock & Paintbrushes, and we are SO honored to have every single artist joining us,” says Emily T. Nielsen, founder of both Romantic Rock and Punk Rock & Paintbrushes. “Every artist on this project is connected to us and that is what this is about…the punk rock ART community.” 

Musicians and artists participating in “The Art Of Shoes” at the Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show include: Mike Ness of Social Distortion, Noodles of The Offspring, Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy, Matt Skiba of blink-182 and Alkaline Trio, AlisonMosshart of The Kills, Dan Pawlovich of Panic! At The Disco, Warren Fitzgerald of The Vandals, Eric Melvin of NOFX, ChristianJacobs of The Aquabats, Jennie Cotterill of Bad Cop / Bad Cop, Pete Dee of The Adicts, Matt Hensley of Flogging Molly, Eric Wilson of Sublime, Jason Cruz of Strung Out, Jared Watson of DIrty Heads, Jen Razavi of The Bombpops, Johnny Ness, Soma Snakeoil, Steve Caballero, ChadCantColor, and Chris Shary + LoriHerbst. 

These wearable works of art will be available online for early bidding starting on Saturday, December 14 at www.32auctions.com/SIDEWALK. On December 21 at the 

Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show opening night, the shoes will be on display with updated prices reflecting the online bids. The auction will be open for onsite live bidding until 11pm on December 21st, and again the next day from 11am to 4pm. On December 22 at 4pm the auction will close, and shoes will be awarded to the highest bidders. 

Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show will feature multiple original works, prints and more from select artists in the music community including Tim Armstrong, Matt Henlsey, Carla Harvey, Jim Lindberg,AlisonMosshart, Soma Snakeoil, Natalia Fabia, Johnny Ness, Sara Wright, and many others, along with music from special guest DJs including Noodles of The Offspring, Jonny “Two Bags” Wickersham of Social Distortion, Stacey Dee of Bad Cop / Bad Cop, and Joe Sib of SideOneDummy Records. The night will also boast a full cocktail bar, a coffee booth featuring Oakland Coffee, red carpet, photo booth, live body painting, and more. 

To RSVP to this all ages event, please visit: https://prpb2019.eventbrite.com The Punk Rock & Paintbrushes art exhibition will also be open on Sunday, December 22 from 11am to 5pm, and will feature musical performances from Warren Fitzgerald (of The Vandals) and friends of “The Sidewalk Project,” DJ RyToast of Tyrone’s Jacket, Bent Duo and State To State. 

Sponsors for Punk Rock & Paintbrushes Holiday Art Show include: Oakland Coffee (founded by Green Day), AO Hemp (owned/founded by Nathen Maxwell of Flogging Molly), Punk Rock Bowling, The Sidewalk Project, KROQ, Vans Footwear, and Jägermeister.

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Orlando To Host Monster Jam World Finals® XX

Monster Jam’s marquee event moves to host cities starting in 2019

Orlando, Fla. – Monster Jam® , the unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable larger-than-life sport, is proud to announce Orlando, Florida as the first host city in Monster Jam World Finals® new schedule. In a joint press conference at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium, Monster Jam, City of Orlando and Orange County Officials today announced plans for Monster Jam World Finals XX in 2019 and XXI in 2020.

“We are thrilled to announce the next step in the evolution of the Monster Jam franchise as we embark on a new chapter. Like other major sporting events, such as the Super Bowl and the NCAA Final Four, Feld Entertainment will bring our marquee event to world class destinations across the U.S., starting here in Orlando with our 20th Anniversary Monster Jam World Finals,” said Kenneth Feld, Chairman & CEO, Feld Entertainment. “Orlando is a city that is not only a premier sports destination, but it’s a city synonymous with family entertainment. We’re excited to make Monster Jam World Finals accessible to even more fans, with the anticipation of over 50,000 fans from around the world converging on “The City Beautiful.”

“Bringing the Monster Jam World Finals to Camping World Stadium next year is a big deal for Orlando and further proof we are one of the country’s premier sports event destinations,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “We’re grateful for our longstanding partnership with Feld Entertainment and can’t wait to see our stadium packed with fans of Monster Jam’s premier event.”

“We are thrilled to host the Monster Jam World Finals in Central Florida,” said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. “There’s simply no place like Orlando when it comes to a family and fan-friendly environment. We welcome fans from around the world to our great community for this action-packed event.”

“On behalf of our board of directors and community partners, we are looking forward to hosting Monster Jam World Finals in 2019 and 2020,” said Jason Siegel, CEO of the Central Florida Sports Commission. “We want to thank the Feld family for the opportunity to welcome one of their premier events to Camping World Stadium, and we know their fans and athletes will have a tremendous experience here in Central Florida.“

Monster Jam World Finals XX will be held at Camping World Stadium May 10–11, 2019 featuring all-new competition formats, including an elevated starting line above the seats and seven championship crowning moments. The championship weekend will deliver unprecedented access to the most Monster Jam athletes and the larger-than-life Monster Jam trucks they drive. Page Two: Orlando To Host Monster Jam World Finals® XX.

Tickets to Monster Jam World Finals XX go on pre-sale to preferred customers starting October 16 and on sale to the public starting November 1. For more information, visit MonsterJam.com and tune into the Monster Jam 2019 Season Kickoff live on Facebook, Tuesday, September 18 at 7 p.m. EST.

Being fans of Media Mikes, we want to extend a very special discount: Receive 20% off select seats with code BLOG20. Not valid on VIP seating. Hurry for the best available seats! Code expires May 9, 2019.

About Monster Jam Monster Jam® is the most action-packed live event on four wheels where world class drivers compete in front of capacity crowds in both monster truck racing and freestyle competitions. The brand’s ongoing, global expansion now includes events in 56 international cities across 30 countries, as well as multiple lifestyle extensions from Monster Jam toys and apparel to eyeglasses and more! Monster Jam features the most recognizable trucks in the world including Grave Digger® , Max-D, El Toro Loco® , Monster Mutt® and many more.

About Feld Entertainment, Inc. Feld Entertainment® is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Monster Jam® , Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Disney Live!, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Sesame Street Live!, and DreamWorks Trolls The Experience (coming Fall 2018). Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.

About Central Florida Sports Commission The Central Florida Sports Commission (CFSC) is a private, non-profit organization established to attract and manage sports-related events, conferences and activities that drive positive economic development in the City of Orlando, Orange County, Seminole County, Osceola County and Lake County. Founded in 1993, CFSC has hosted or co-hosted more than 1,240 events in Central Florida with a total economic impact exceeding $1.4 billion in spending within our community. For more information, please visit www.centralfloridasports.org.

About Camping World Stadium Camping World Stadium is owned and operated by the City of Orlando. Since opening in 1936 as a Works Progress Administration project by President Franklin D. Roosevelt at a cost of $115,000 and a capacity of 8,900, the stadium has undergone numerous expansions and name changes over the years. The historic venue underwent a massive $207.7 million reconstruction in 2014 which yielded 90% all-new construction and a completely modernized stadium. The numerous enhancements and amenities include 41,000 lower bowl seats with chair backs, two 360-degree concourses, multiple giant video displays, a 20,000-square-foot plaza deck, a vibrant open-air exterior and unique indoor & outdoor club spaces to serve 5,000 patrons. These upgrades have bolstered Camping World Stadium’s ability to draw new high profile events like neutral-site college football games, NFL pre-season match-ups and big-name concerts while retaining its signature annual bowl games and events. The City of Orlando and its partners at Florida Citrus Sports expect the recent reconstruction to generate a $300 million annual economic impact. For more information, visit CampingWorldStadium.com.

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Nickelodeon’s Double Dare Kicks Off Multi-city U.S. Tour, Hosted by Original Host Marc Summers and Beloved Sidekick Robin Russo

Double Dare Live, Produced in Partnership with  Red Tail Productions, LLC and CB Entertainment to Visit Cities Across North America Beginning October 30

 Tickets On Sale Friday, Aug. 24, at 10:00 a.m.

NEW YORK-Aug. 20, 2018- Nickelodeon, in partnership with Red Tail Productions, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Red Tail Entertainment, and CB Entertainment, announced today Nickelodeon’s Double Dare Live, the multi-city live stage tour inspired by the iconic TV game show Double Dare.  Featuring original host Marc Summers and his beloved sidekick Robin, the live stage show will debut in Fayetteville, NC, on October 27 and will tour North America through November.  Tickets go on sale to the general public Friday, August 24 at 10:00 a.m. ET.  Fans can visit doubledarelivetour.com for a list of upcoming Double Dare Live tour cities, times and ticket information.

“Hosting the Double Dare Live tour couldn’t be any more exciting, and I look forward to bringing the fun and messiness of Double Dare to audiences across the country,” said Marc Summers.  “Doing the show again with my sidekick Robin will fulfill childhood dreams of the generation that grew up with us and introduce this classic show to the next generation.”

Double Dare Live will feature two teams comprised of selected audience members competing to win prizes by answering brain-bending trivia questions, completing messy physical challenges and ultimately facing the legendary obstacle course.

The brand-new Double Dare series premiered this summer and was ranked as one of the top three shows with K6-11 on all TV. Double Dare is hosted by digital creator and actress Liza Koshy, with original host Marc Summers providing color commentary on the challenges and lending his vast knowledge of the game and expertise to each episode.

Double Dare premiered on Oct. 6, 1986, on Nickelodeon, and ran from 1986-1993, making it the network’s longest running game show. Marc Summers served as the show’s original host from 1986-1993. Shortly after its debut, Double Dare became one of the most popular original daily programs on cable television. The series went into syndication in 1988, and was later revived as Super Sloppy Double Dare in 1989.  The show also ran on broadcast television as Family Double Dare in 1988, followed by new versions on Nick, including Double Dare 2000.

Double Dare, Episode 127 – Pictured: Liza Koshy, Marc Summers and Contestants in DOUBLE DARE on NICKELODEON. Photo: Scott Everett White/Nickelodeon. ©2018 Viacom, International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

NICKELODEON’S DOUBLE DARE LIVE FALL TOUR CITIES AND DATES

Oct. 30                                   Fayetteville, NC                   Crown Complex

Nov. 1                                    Cincinnati, OH                     Taft Theatre

Nov. 2                                    Charlotte, NC                       Ovens Auditorium

Nov. 3                                    Baltimore, MD                     UMBC Events Center

Nov. 4                                    Norfolk, VA                          Constant Convocation Center

Nov. 7                                    Milwaukee, WI                    Miller High Life Theatre

Nov. 8                                    Indianapolis, IN                   Murat Theatre

Nov. 9                                    Nashville, TN                       TPAC

Nov. 10                                 Rosemont, IL                       Rosemont Theatre

Nov. 11                                 Cleveland, OH                     Playhouse Square

Nov. 14                                 Hartford, CT                         The Bushnell

Nov. 15                                 Newark, NJ                           NJPAC

Nov. 16                                 Rochester, NY                      Auditorium Theatre

Nov. 17                                 Schenectady, NY                 Proctors Theatre

Nov. 18                                 Pittsburgh, PA                      Benedum Center

 

Double Dare Live is produced by Red Tail Productions, LLC and CB Entertainment.

Red Tail Productions, LLC

CEO Phillip Drayer and President Marc Engel produce and present a wide variety of entertainment throughout North America, including the acclaimed Broadway hit A Night with Janis Joplin (Tony Nomination), the spectacular Do You Hear the People Sing, Cirque Musica, Scooby Doo Live! Musical Mysteries, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live and Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure.  Through its division Red Tail-Live, the company has a tremendous track record of producing and presenting live entertainment in a variety of venues, theatres, performing arts centers and arenas throughout the U.S. and Canada presenting over a hundred events annually, spanning genres from Broadway Musicals to Country and Pop, to Classic Rock, Jazz and Comedy, and featuring heritage artists such as Tony Bennett, Alan Jackson, Norah Jones, Dolly Parton, Harry Connick, Jr., The Beach Boys, Bill Maher, and Martina McBride.

About CB Entertainment

Charlie Blum is a renowned entertainment industry executive with over 40 years’ experience as a major concert promoter, talent buyer, theatre executive, television producer and artist manager. He served for almost three decades as President/CEO for Chicagoland’s premier concert facility, the Star Plaza Theatre, following more than ten years as a Vice President with the Nederlander Concerts.  Charlie has worked with virtually every major artist in show business, presenting thousands of concerts featuring performers like Jerry Seinfeld, Garth Brooks, Frank Sinatra, Madonna, The Jackson Five, Christina Aguilera, The Grateful Dead, Rascal Flatts, Blake Shelton, Rod Stewart and Cher.  He has executive-produced four nationally released PBS television shows, most recently, the groundbreaking “Harmonies 4 Healing” with partner Connecticut Public Broadcasting.  Charlie is also the host of Lakeshore Classic Movies every weekend on PBS in Chicago.

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 39th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in more than 90 million households and has been the number-one-rated kids’ basic cable network for 22 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

 

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Filed Under: Art/Theatre, TV Headlines Tagged With: beloved, double, host, hosted, kicks, marc, ...

You Can Be The Kansas City Alamo Drafthouse Movie Host


Media Mikes loves the Alamo Drafthouse. It’s our theatre of choice in Kansas City and where we record our weekly “Behind the Mikes” Podcast. That’s why we’re spreading the word that the Kansas City Alamo Drafthouse is looking for a fun, knowledgeable movie fan to help host their many Girlie Nights and Action Pack Quote-Alongs! Interested movie fans can submit video links of themselves introducing a film, and top contenders will compete for a public vote to take home the gold. Job responsibilities include speaking in front of large crowds, promoting events via social media, and enthusiastically operating a confetti cannon. After all, what’s a party without a mess?

If you think you have what it takes just send a sample video to [email protected]. Video submissions will be accepted through Monday, October 20, 2014 and the winner notified on October 27. Good luck, and tell Ryan we sent you!

 

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: alamo, city, drafthouse, host, kansas, movie, ...

Universal Orlando Resort And Warner Bros. To Host Second Annual “A Celebration Of Harry Potter” Event In January 2015

“A Celebration of Harry Potter” will Feature Incredible Experiences at Both Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida Jan. 30 – Feb. 1

Vacation Packages with Exclusive Benefits, Including Exclusive Q&A Sessions with Harry Potter Film Talent, Go on Sale Thursday, August 21 at Noon EST

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. announced today that they will host the second annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter” event – a special event for fans celebrating the global phenomenon that is Harry Potter.

Beginning January 30, 2015, fans will enjoy three days of incredible experiences – including the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo, Q&A sessions with Harry Potter film talent and more. Special vacation packages, including annual passholder packages, will go on sale August 21 and will include exclusive benefits such as access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and the all-new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.  Full vacation package details are below.

All general admission park guests will have the opportunity to:

  • Attend Q&A sessions with Harry Potter film talent and other special guests (talent attendees will be announced at a later date)
  • Experience and participate in the interactive and unique exhibits of the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Enjoy special discussions regarding various aspects of the Harry Potter franchise
  • Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Plus, ride the Hogwarts Express between the two lands with a park-to-park ticket.
  • And much more!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley officially opened in Universal Studios Florida on July 8, 2014 bringing even more of Harry Potter’s adventures to life at Universal Orlando Resort. The new land features incredible shops with windows full of magical surprises, authentic dining experiences, a fire-breathing dragon and the new multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Guests with a park-to-park ticket will also be able to board the iconic Hogwarts Express and enjoy a unique journey as they travel between London and Hogsmeade. The new immersive area expands upon The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, launched in 2010 in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and doubles the size of the sweeping area already dedicated to Harry Potter’s adventures to create a spectacularly themed environment across both Universal theme parks.

While most of the activities for “A Celebration of Harry Potter” will be open to all Universal Orlando park guests and annual passholders, only guests who purchase the exclusive event vacation package or annual passholder package will enjoy certain special benefits and reserved seating for select events. Packages are limited and will go on sale at noon EST on Thursday, August 21, 2014. See below for full package details.

Packages for “A Celebration of Harry Potter” at Universal Orlando Resort

On Sale at Noon EST on August 21, 2014

On-Site Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at  $219 per adult per night, tax inclusive
  • 3-night on-site hotel accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal Orlando Resort’s all-new retro-themed moderate & value priced hotel
  • 3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
  • Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
  • Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
  • Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
  • Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
  • Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
  • Complimentary on-site transportation to and from both theme parks and Universal CityWalk
  • Note: This package does not include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access

On-Site Deluxe Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at   $285 per adult per night, tax inclusive
  • 3-night on-site hotel accommodations at one of Universal Orlando’s spectacular deluxe on-site hotels:  Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort
  • 3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
  • Complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks for all three days – a FREE benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day
  • Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
  • Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
  • Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
  • Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
  • Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
  • Complimentary on-site transportation to and from both theme parks and Universal CityWalk

Universal Partner Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at $185 per adult per night, tax inclusive
  • 3-night accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel near Universal Orlando
  • 3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
  • Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
  • Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
  • Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
  • Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
  • Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
  • Free scheduled transportation between the hotel and Universal Orlando Resort
  • Note: This package does not include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access

 To book special annual passholder event vacation packages, please call 1-888-343-8991 starting August 21, 2014 at noon EST.

Access to select events within “A Celebration of Harry Potter” is included in regular admission to Universal Orlando or with an annual pass. For more information about the event, tickets and vacation packages, visit www.universalorlando.com/celebration.

About the Harry Potter Series
Harry Potter continues to be a global phenomenon. Each of the seven books by author J.K. Rowling has broken sales records, with the series to date having sold over 450 million copies worldwide and translated into 77 languages. The Harry Potter films, produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, have grossed more than $7.7 billion to date worldwide at the box office, making Harry Potter the largest-grossing film franchise in history.

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs.  And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company.  Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

About Warner Bros. Entertainment
Warner Bros. Entertainment is a global leader in all forms of entertainment and their related businesses across all current and emerging media and platforms. A Time Warner Company, the fully integrated, broad-based studio is home to one of the most successful collections of brands in the world and stands at the forefront of every aspect of the entertainment industry from feature film, television and home entertainment production and worldwide distribution to DVD, digital distribution, animation, comic books, video games, product and brand licensing, international cinemas and broadcasting.

HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR.

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: 2015, annual, bros, celebration, event, harry, ...

Movie Mike to Host 35mm Screening of “Jaws”

Long time readers of MediaMikes.com know that the Mike’s love the movie “Jaws.” So when an opportunity came up in Kansas City to host a 35mm presentation of the Steven Spielberg classic, the people at the Alamo Drafthouse knew where to turn.

Mike Smith will host the special “late show” screening of “Jaws” on Saturday, July 5, at the Alamo Drafthouse Kansas City. The show will start at 10:30 p.m. Prior to the screening Smith will have on display some of his extensive collection of “Jaws” memorabilia. MovieMike and Loaf will also be interviewing fans of the film for an upcoming BEHIND THE MIKES Podcast, which is recorded live each week at the Alamo.

For tickets and more information, go to: http://drafthouse.com/movies/the_late_show_jaws/kansas_city

 

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Blu-ray Review “The Host”

Actors: Saoirse Ronan, Jake Abel, Max Irons, Boyd Holbrook, Frances Fisher
Directors: Andrew Niccol
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: July 9, 2013
Run Time: 125 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

As a guy, I should hate Stephenie Meyer for giving the world “Twilight” and ruining vampires. But I honestly do not have a problem with those films, in fact I quite enjoy them (except “Breaking Dawn: Part 1”). I was intriguer by “The Host” since it has that sci-fi futuristic angle but I had no idea what I got myself into. This film is a saggy, bloated two hour mess. The film looked ok in the beginning talking about aliens etc and then it just fell into this terribly boring love triangle story.  I thank God for “Angry Birds” since it saved me from turning this film off after the first 30 minutes.  Do not recommend for any men to watch this film and women maybe if they have had a proper nap and looking for trash to watch.

Official Premise: From Stephenie Meyer, the creator of the worldwide phenomenon The Twilight Saga, comes this daring and romantic thriller based on The New York Times #1 bestselling novel. When an unseen enemy threatens mankind by taking over humans’ bodies and erasing their minds, Melanie Stryder (Saoirse Ronan) risks everything to protect the people she cares about most, proving that love can conquer all in a dangerous new world. The Host is a passionate and powerful epic love story co-starring Diane Kruger, Jake Abel, Frances Fisher, Max Irons and William Hurt.

Despite being a terrible film, “The Host” does have a nice 1080p transfer. Besides the film shot in the city, the rest of the film is just in the desert so there is nothing spectacular about the scenery.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works for the dialogue and the one or two boring action scenes. Universal delivered this release as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy + UltraViolet. The special features are limp just like the film.  There is an audio commentary track with Author/producer Stephenie Meyer, screenwriter/director Andrew Niccol and producer Nick Wechsler, which is more boring than the film. There are four short meaningless deleted scenes.  There is a very short behind-the-scenes look with “Bringing The Host to Life”. Lastly there is a “Seeker PSA”

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, host, review

Film Review "The Host"

Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Max Irons and William Hurt
Directed by: Andrew Niccol
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 2 hrs 5 mins
Open Road Films

Our Score: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“What have you done to him? What have you done to his eyes, you maniacs!” Rosemary Woodhouse – “Rosemary’s Baby”

In the future, after wars have decimated the planets, ours is visited by an alien race that begins to take over our bodies, making everyone happy and polite. However, not everyone has been turned. As we meet Melanie (Ronan) she is being chased by several of the nice-guy aliens, only to hurtle herself out of a window. Surprisingly, despite the fact that “almost every bone has been broken and every organ damaged” (her teeth are still remarkably straight and even) Melanie has survived the fall. The “Healer” that examines her cuts a small hole in her neck and inserts a “soul”…the organism that has made the human race so docile. When she recovers Melanie renames herself “Wanderer” and begins living a docile life. However, deep inside Melanie’s personality and thoughts remain. But which one will emerge and which will be destroyed?

Horribly written with so many plot holes you could drive a truck through them, “The Host” is the latest work of “Twilight” author Stephenie Meyer. As the film progresses we get a glimpse of Melanie’s past…looking after her brother Jamie (Chandler Canterbury)…meeting and falling in love with Jared (Irons)…longing for those good old days on the Louisiana bayou. The majority of the film deals with Melanie and “Wanderer” (in the new world everyone is addressed with their new assignment on Earth – the “Healer” is known as Healer Fords, the aliens that are on “Wanderer’s” tail are known as Seekers. Diane Kruger is THE Seeker, a being who will stop at nothing to get to Melanie hidden deep inside. As the film progresses Melanie reunites with her Uncle Jeb (Hurt), though as she is visibly an alien there is an obvious lack of trust. Wait a minute…did you say she was VISIBLY an alien? Yes indeed. Apparently one of the side effects of having a soul take over your body is the appearance of beautiful blue eyes, shining brighter than a star. Which means unless you’re Yancy Butler or Jeff Fahey you have to hide your eyes lest you be discovered. Or wear sunglasses!

I feel so bad for the cast of this film because they are trying so hard. Ronan is constantly arguing herself, which gets funnier as she goes along because, as Melanie was from Louisiana, on occasion her “inside” voice has a little bit of a twang. But only occasionally. The eye thing gets really boring after a while, especially when director Niccol insists on tight close ups of Melanie’s face where, after a dramatic pause, she opens her eyes and stares blue darts into the camera. As the Wanderer (or “Wanda” as she’s now called by the earthlings) gets closer to Jared she and Melanie argue more. When Jared kisses her she slaps him…it’s like an internal battle…Melanie can’t stand the idea of another woman kissing her man…even when she IS the other woman. As the story goes on and the Seekers – led by THE Seeker – gets closer, you can’t help but wonder if there isn’t a Discovery Eye Center anywhere on the planet that stocks contact lenses? Hell, I could walk into Spencer Gifts tomorrow and get a set of beautiful blue contacts. Or a pair of sunglasses. But then I wouldn’t learn a valuable lesson about life, love and realizing I’m never getting back the two hours I invested in this film.

I really feel sorry for writer/director Niccol. Even though it’s noted that the film is based on a novel, the movie poster proudly proclaims the film was written and directed by Niccol, who actually DID write the brilliant “Truman Show.” If I was him I’d buy every poster I could find and destroy them!

On the positive side, the cast is game, the special effects not too cheesy and the scenery is lovely to look at. With any color eyes!

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, host, review

Blu-Ray Review “The Perfect Host”

Directed by: Nick Tomnay
Starring: David Hyde Pierce, Clayne Crawford
MPAA Rating: R
running Time: 93 minutes
Distributed by: Magnolia Pictures

Film: 3.5 of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 of 5 stars

I would categorize this film as a dark comedy and its quite dark but also quite funny. David Hyde Pierce gives one of the best performances of his career. He is funny. He is creepy. He just is perfect for the role. He even has this fantastic walk throughout the film. The Blu-ray presentation is top-notch. The picture is great and the sound plays perfectly between the music and dialogue.

The story focuses on John Taylor (Crawford) a criminal that is on the run after committing a major crime. He face is all over the news and he decides to hide out in the house of Warwick Wilson (Pierce). When things get out of control, John takes things to the next level but finds out that he might be in well over his head.  The story is spaced very well until the end when it switches gears and gets a little lost.  It tries a little too hard to be smart then it needs to but overall it succeeds on most accounts.

The only real special feature on the disc is “Making of The Perfect Host”. It runs about 10 minutes and features writer/director/editor Nick Tomnay talks about his 26 minute black-and-white short that he expanded into this feature-length film. Also included is “HDNet: A Look at The Perfect Host”, which is basically an extended trailer with a few short interviews. Lastly there is the trailer attached. Overall good movie, disappointing extras.

 

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From The Producers Of “Saw” and “Poltergeist”, “The Perfect Host” Heads Home

DAVID HYDE PIERCE AND CLAYNE CRAWFORD SET THE TABLE FOR SUSPENSE IN THE INTRIGUING PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER

From The Producers Of Saw and Poltergeist, The Dark Comedy Arrives On Blu-ray Disc And DVD On August 30 From Magnolia Home Entertainment Under The Magnet Label

“Black humor turns comically darker in twisty quasi-suspenser The Perfect Host.” – The Hollywood Reporter

A dinner party crasher learns manners the hard way in the “fun, minimalistic thriller that piles on the suspense” (Slash Film), The Perfect Host arriving on Blu-ray Disc and DVD August 30 from Magnolia Home Entertainment under the Magnet Label. With standout performances from David Hyde Pierce (“Frasier”) and Clayne Crawford (“24”), The Perfect Host takes viewers on a suspense-filled ride revealing just how far people are willing to go to satisfy their needs.

From the producers of the Saw franchise and Poltergeist, The Perfect Host, follows Warwick Wilson (Pierce), in a performance described “as delicious as the duck Warwick serves at dinner” (Twitch Film), the meticulously perfect host who receives an unexpected dinner guest in John Taylor (Crawford), a bank robber on the run. Yet Taylor gets more then bargained for when he rings Warwick’s doorbell. As the night wears on, secrets are revealed and it becomes clear that nothing is quite as it seems.

An official selection at the Sundance Film Festival, Fantasia International Film Festival and the Sitges Film Festival, co-writers Nick Tomnay and Krishna Jones have created “a seamlessly crafted story that keeps you guessing with every scene” (Slug Magazine). Loaded with special features, The Perfect Host Blu-ray Disc and DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $29.98 and $26.98, respectively.

Synopsis
Warwick Wilson is the consummate host. The table is set and the duck is perfectly timed for 8:30 p.m. John Taylor is a career criminal. He’s just robbed a bank and needs to get off the streets. He finds himself on Warwick’s doorstep posing as a friend of a friend, new to Los Angeles, who’s been mugged and lost his luggage. As the wine flows and the evening progresses, it becomes clear that appearances can be deceiving.

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: heads, home, host, perfect, poltergeist, producers, ...
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