PETE’S DRAGON World Premiere + El Capitan Theatre Fun! ~ #PetesDragonEvent

WOW! That is the first word that pops in my head when I think about the amazing few days I just experienced. As arrived back in the DMV around 2 AM this morning, you would think I would be ready to lay my head down and pass out. Nope! All I could think about was the fantastic press trip I just attended, specifically the World Premiere of PETE’S DRAGON! Luckily I did eventually go to sleep, I was able to later muster enough energy with the power of coffee to open up my blog and chat DETAILS with you on the memorable night.

When I was first told about the world premiere, we were informed that the color theme for the event was “green.” As you can see some from of the photos below… it was even a green carpet rather than the traditional red! While I tried to find a green dress, I had no luck. However I pulled one of my favorite “little black dresses” and knew I could pair it well with green jewelry.

Since the green carpet was such a special occasion, getting my nails done was a must! While I would have loved to have a local nail artist draw a dragon on my nails, time did not permit. Luckily I was able to adorn my nails with lots and lot of sparkle! Not only if I had more time to clean up my cuticles…

So with my dress, jewelry, and new nails in hand, I got ready in under an hour at the Sheraton Universal. Throw in a cute black handbag, and my favorite sparkly heels, and I was good to go!

Pre-Party at Hotel Roosevelt

Before the world premiere, we attended a pre-party at the Hotel Roosevelt. Wine? Check. Mac & Cheese? Check. Green up-lighting with a Pete’s Dragon theme? Check. Super fun green screen activities? Check. This was definitely my kind of party! … and not just because of the wine and mac & cheese!

I just love the atmosphere of the hotel. Reminds me of the swanky ones we have here in DC, where something is always happening. Check out how cool the ceiling looked? Totally loving the vibe. While there, it ALMOST (not totally, just almost a little bit) made me miss the East Coast. However I quickly got over that homesickness in less than a half of second and went on my merry way to explore the rooms.

Plus it was great seeing all the PETE’S DRAGON signage to remind us the reason why we were there! Always nice to be reminded that PETE’S DRAGON hit theaters August 12. And what do you know… that’s THIS FRIDAY.

As mentioned there were fun green screen activities for guests, as well as virtual-reality experience, face painting, crafts, and more! I opted for one of the green screen photos. The result? Riding on Elliot! My son definitely got a kick out of the photo.

We even also had the opportunity to chat with a few celebrities there. For all you UNDERWORLD (or FELICITY fans), I ran into Scott Speedman!

World Premiere

If you’ve never seen the El Capitan Theatre up close before, it is gorgeous! Think Classic Hollywood mixed with the magic of Disney. When you see the PETE’S DRAGON sign up on the marquee… the excitement starts to really stir.

As I stepped onto the carpet, the name shouting from reporters and fans immediately started! Not for me, of course. But I still enjoyed a surreal moment out there on the carpet. It goes by fast! But luckily a shot or two were snapped, even though I’m pretty sure I’m not even looking at the camera LOL.

At the end of the carpet was a giant Elliot display where you could climb upon to have your photo taken! I think Bryce definitely enjoyed the photo op!

Check out these other images from the premiere, thanks to Disney!

I love that Auli’i Cravalho was there at the premiere! She provides the voice for Moana in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ MOANA, out this November! I have an interview coming soon with her… but just an FYI, this was actually her first premiere event! I can’t wait to share with you more details on this animated adventure.

As for the film PETE’S DRAGON, my detailed review is now available for viewing. Though I just have to say quickly… I love love LOVE the film. The focus of family is heart warming and I love the message presented on the bring screen. Fair warning, bring the tissues! I’m normally not one who cries a ton at movies, but this one definitely brings the emotions.

As I exited the theater after watching the film,  immediately the name shouting from journalists and fans started back up. Were any of them shouting my name?

No… not at first.

Then I heard it. ASHLEY! ASHLEY! ASHLEY! My name was being called! Did someone actually recognize me from my recipe segments on FOX 45 News??… No. It turned out to be a fellow blogger calling me over for a group shot. I quickly ran to where everyone else gathered!

For the record, despite whatever expression you think you can read on my face, I had an amazing experience. I have nothing but appreciation to Disney for inviting me out to the event. I can’t thank them enough for creating such wonderful memories with my fellow bloggers.

El Capitan Theatre

The day after the premiere, we headed back to the El Capitan for a special tour! This theater was one of the three original on Hollywood Blvd that help put this town on the map as the place to go for movies.

I have to say, it was pretty cool to see the “Welcome Mommy Bloggers” up on the famous sign! To think just the night before it was for PETE’S DRAGON. And now? For us bloggers! All part of the Disney magic, right?

Opening in 1926, the theater went through a series of changes till 1989. It was then that Disney renovated the El Capitan, creating it to be THEE theater for Disney movie viewing. In 1991, the theater reopened, premiering the now Disney classic…. THE ROCKETEER!

Since then, the El Capitan has hosted a variety of premieres and special events in conjunction with Walt Disney Studios. While touring the theater, we saw the Kodak Hall of Fame, which included images from various events. I event spotted one that I attended myself!

Now if you’ve attended an El Capitan event,you may be familiar with “Ethel.” Before the film starts, as you enter the theater, you are greeted with with magical organ music. This organ rises and descends through the stage.

Affectionately named “Ethel,” this Wurlitzer has four keyboards and multiple ranks of pipes! Thirty-seven to be exact. This organ was originally built for and used at the Fox Theatre, before residing at El Capitan. It was quite cool to see this famous organ up close and personal.

Pete’s Dragon Trailer

Be sure to connect with the PETE’S DRAGON on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr. Don’t forget to check out our Pete’s Dragon Activity Pack and Elliott the Dragon Craft.

PETE’S DRAGON arrives in theaters THIS FRIDAY, August 12!

Want to learn more on my most recent adventure in LA? We can connect on head on over to Twitter (@AshBG) and on Instagram (@ashb4211). As you browse my social media feed, simply look for the hashtags #PetesDragonEvent, #JungleBookBluray, #QueenOfKatwe, and #Moana.

I received the following information as a blogger via Walt Disney Publications. While I’attended an expense paid trip by Disney to Los Angeles, all opinions are 100% my own.