"Vampirates" Invade Boo-uena Park
What could possibly be better than a show filled with swashbuckling pirates? A show filled with swashbuckling vampire pirates, or “Vampirates,” as they are more commonly known in Buena Park… or as the locals call it… “Boo-uena Park."
During the month of October, Pirates Dinner Adventure on Beach Boulevard is presenting a Halloween-themed version of their popular dinner show. "Travel back to the 1800’s and climb aboard the Evil Captain Sebastian the Black’s ship for an interactive family-friendly evening filled with adventure, romance and a spooky good time. You’ll witness feats of aerial artistry, swordplay, death defying stunts and dynamic duels as Captain Black’s dastardly crew attempts to defeat the Vampire Hunter. This tale of good vs. evil is filled with intrigue, loyalty, betrayal, and adventure."
Audiences are encouraged to arrive up to 90 minutes prior to their posted showtime. While waiting in the expansive lobby, you can snack on pre-show appetizers (the meatballs were delicious!), grab a themed adult (or non-alcoholic) beverage from the bar, and browse the gift shop. There were appropriately named drinks on the specials board for the Halloween season. Our group tried a variety of drinks ranging from traditional beer, to menu staples, to my choice… “The Nightcrawler.”
A pre-show occurs right before the doors open (30 minutes prior to showtime), in which the characters set the story for what is about to unfold in the adjoining auditorium. Check your tickets… your pirate will lead your group to the corresponding section inside. Friendly servers will show you to your seats. Audiences are seated in a section in which they will cheer on their Vampirate.
We were seated in the Orange section, happily in the front row. While we were just feet from the water and inches from the action, there are no bad seats in the house. At the birthday party earlier this year, we were a few rows back and had no issues experiencing any of the fun.
Audience members are included several times during the show. These participants are chosen from various seats in every section of the theatre. What is particularly fun, is that both adults and children are included in the action for varying tasks.
Upon being seated, our server greeted us immediately for drink orders. With alcoholic beverages still in hand (the glasses are LARGE and you get to take the souvenir glass home with you), we asked for water and tea. Our pirate, Andre Baptiste, came over and happily posed for a photo. This interaction is what makes the experience special.
The show kicked off with “Freddy” reading birthday announcements and going over the rules of the show. It wasn’t long until the Vampirates took to the stage, and Captain Black entered the scene. Over the course of the next 75 minutes or so, the crew, along with the Vampire Hunter, mermaid, siren, and other cast members entertained the crowd as a delicious meal was served.
The team at Pirates Dinner Adventure has service down to a science. The arrival of the food is seamlessly delivered and is perfectly timed. It is a well-oiled machine, with the meal courses evenly spread out over the duration of the show.
The standard dinner includes your choice of tomato soup or a garden salad as a starter. The meal consists of a juicy piece of chicken, a tasty seasoned skewer of grilled shrimp, mashed potatoes, and veggies. A member of our party commented on how healthy the meal was. The food is surprisingly good and is accompanied by a soft drink and topped off with a piece of chocolate cake with raspberry sauce. With the pre-show apps, and the over-sized drinks, we left pleasantly full. Special meals for the little ones are offered, as are vegan and vegetarian meals. Having had the chicken last time I was there, I opted for the vegetarian butternut squash ravioli for something different. I was not disappointed. Our server made sure to ask about allergies and dietary restrictions while taking the order.
Having been to the traditional show in the past with groups of children under 5 and now with a party of just adults (without kids in tow), I can say an equal amount of fun was had. This proves that the experience is just as fun for an adult date night, as it is for a family outing.
The show itself is non-stop action... packed with stunts, aerial acts, acrobatics, singing, and humor. There is not a dull moment. Combined with the pre-show, you are treated to nearly two hours of entertainment. With the Halloween addition, spooky fun is sure to be had.
Tickets include a spectacular show and a delicious meal for an affordable price, that is sure to make a memorable experience for everyone in your party... young or old.
Pirates Dinner Adventure 7600 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620
Phone: (714) 690-1497
Toll Free: (866) 439-2469 https://piratesdinneradventureca.com/ Special Pricing for theFUNnelCakeBlog fans! Save on Tickets! Use code V-FUNNELCAKE19 for any show Monday-Thursday during the month of October. With this code Adults tickets are $32 plus tax and fees, and children are $28 plus tax and fees. Reservations are required for all shows and can be made online at https://piratesdinneradventureca.com/calendar/ or by calling (866) 439-2469. Promo Code Fine Print: Call (866) 439-2469 and mention code V-FUNNELCAKE19 at the time of purchase. Tax and applicable fees are additional. Gratuity not included, will be charged for parties of 10 or more. May not be combined with any other discount, promotion, or group reservation. For general seating only, upgraded seating available at an additional cost. Not valid for prior purchases or special shows. Subject to availability. Reservations required. Valid for shows Monday - Thursday 10/01/19 - 10/31/19”
A costume contest will be held every Saturday and Sunday for ghouls and goblins of all ages. Costumes must be family friendly, and no masks or weapons will be allowed.
The Venue - Welcome The "Vampirates"
Appetizers and Pre-Show
The Meal
Venue and The Pirates
Vampirates Halloween Dinner Show
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