Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theater continues a Halloween classic celebration with a showing of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in 4D from October 25th to 31st. This will be preceded by a run of Disney’s Hocus Pocus, starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy, on October 21st to 23rd. An added treat this year is a one-night-only performance of the new Hocus Pocus Overture, premiered live by the film’s composer John Debney on Friday, October 21st. In addition, before each screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus, the Disney Silly Symphony “The Skeleton Dance” will be presented with live organ music played by Bob Richards on the mighty Wurlitzer.
Nightmare Before Christmas will be presented October 25-31 with 4D special effects
Accompanying the run of both films will be a special display of props, costumes and images from both films. Fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas will be able to see the intricate model of Halloweentown’s City Hall, as well as the Mayor’s custom limousine. Costumes and props from Hocus Pocus include gowns worn by principal cast members, as well as the film’s creepy spell book.
As if that wasn’t enough, the El Capitan is returning its Spooktacular Backstage Tour on October 21st to 31st. The separately ticketed experience takes no more than 25 guests behind and under the scenes in the 1926 playhouse. Guests will roam the backstage corridors, get up close to the Wurlitzer console, and even linger for a few moments on the stage itself. Along the way, tour guides will recount tales of former members of the El Capitan staff who met whimsically grim fates over the years. Reservations are recommended for the Spooktacular Backstage Tour.
On October 25 there will be a special Tiny Tot Tuesday showing of The Nightmare Before Christmas. Parents and children may enjoy the 12:30 matinee with lights dimmed rather than out, lowered audio, and in 2D. All events at the El Capitan can be reserved online at www.elcapitantickets.com or by calling 1-800-DISNEY6