‘Madagascar Live!’ Opens at Busch Gardens This Weekend

If you love the movie “Madagascar” and its sequels, then Busch Gardens has an event for you.

Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo and King Julien will all take a vacation adventure at Busch Gardens when the park premieres its new 20-minute musical stage show “Madagascar Live! Operation: Vacation” May 18 and 19 in Stanleyville Theater.

“We are thrilled to partner with DreamWorks Animation to bring the hugely popular Madagascar characters to Busch Gardens,” said Jim Dean, park president, in a press release. “… This show is certain to have families engaged and amused and will round out the triple play of amazing shows, thrilling rides and unique animal encounters that our park delivers.”

To celebrate the start of the show, the park will host a party at Stanleyville Theater May 18 and 19 with on-the-hour dancing and meet-and-greets with the characters, the release states.

Additionally, animal expert Jack Hanna will share animal facts and his travel tales during shows at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. May 18 and 19 in Gwazi Park, the release states. “Jungle Jack” Hanna will follow each show with autograph signings and audience meet-and-greets.

There will also be dancers and DJs throughout the park, as well as special animal encounters. On May 18, Gwazi field will remain open 30 minutes after the park closes for more character meet-and-greets, 8-8:30 p.m., and a special fireworks presentation, 8:30 p.m.

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