The elaborate show takes place aboard an authentically replicated 18th-century Spanish galleon that is anchored in an indoor lagoon. Surrounding the lagoon is a showroom of six additional ships where the audience is seated. Voyagers on each of the six ships have their own fearless pirate mascot whom they cheer on as the adventure unfolds with a cast of a dozen actors, singers and stunt performers engaging in a bounty. Needless to say, there is a lot of prepping that goes on ahead of the show.
Actors fine-tune their routines on stage with props before the show while the set technicians are simultaneously busy working on sound and lighting. The show utilizes several pieces of equipment such as trampolines and a revolving ladder. The crew also prepares safety precautions and makes sure the stage is dry so no one slips.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1geGY5p8geQ
Aerial silks are also used in the show and there are plenty of pre-performance checks to ensure the aerialists’ safety.
During my visit I met with Celeste Peterson, operations manager for Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, who explained that the actors typically rehearse after their shows. She also mentioned that during a typical interview process, they can interview upwards of 200 people before narrowing it down to one or two actors.
My son and I took in an evening show that night, and while wearing our red headbands and beaded necklaces, we were thoroughly entertained for hours. Although it is known as a Pirate show, there is quite a bit of humor tied in. The Pirates engage with the audience, crack funny jokes and even do some silly dancing. And a huge animatronic dragon even makes a cameo.
During a brief interview with Pirate’s actor Ed Bangasser, he told me that he once was a director of the show, and that for the month of October they host a different show called Vampirates. This special Halloween show includes a costume contest with prizes. While he was talking to me, I mentioned to him that I enjoyed his accent, which was a mix of Australian and English. I asked him where he was from and he laughed and said, “America.” It then occurred to me that he was still in character.
Ed wears many hats at the show - he plays the yellow and purple pirates, as well as the captain and McGee. The best part of all is that I learned Ed works as a teaching assistant during the day. Who would have guessed?!
Before the adventure kicks off, the cast holds a group meeting to go over details and come together as a team. Ed informed me that the wardrobe/dressing room is a very sacred place for them. This is where they go to get “pumped up” before the show, taking enjoyment in playing loud music while getting ready.
If you’re ready for some fun and excitement, then head on over to Pirate’s Dinner Adventure!
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is located at 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620. For more information, visit Pirate's Adventure on Facebook and on Twitter.
Blogger's tip: Here's a coupon for 30% off Pirate's Dinner Adventure tickets, through December 2014.
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