Universal Studios fan fest nights introduces an incredible, massive Dungeons & Dragons puppet

Universal introduces epic D&D puppet Xanathar via magical collaboration.

: Universal Studios Hollywood launches its Fan Fest Nights, featuring the colossal puppet Xanathar from Dungeons & Dragons. Created by Wizards of the Coast and Jim Henson Creature Shop, the beholder impresses audiences with its size and artistry. Stephen Siercks highlights the quest design involving the Harpers and Xanathar, enhancing the experience with interactivity. The event incorporates storytelling and role-playing, enriched by remarkable puppetry and game elements.

Universal Studios Hollywood's Fan Fest Nights introduce a remarkable new experience for visitors and Dungeons & Dragons fans. This event is part of an exhilarating collaboration between Wizards of the Coast and the Jim Henson Creature Shop to create an extraordinary, giant puppet of the legendary beholder Xanathar. Stephen Siercks, director of Entertainment Production, showcased this incredible creation during a behind-the-scenes tour.

The D&D experience is designed to be an interactive adventure akin to a role-playing game come to life. Visitors can join guided walk-throughs of Dungeons & Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep, encountering the heroic Harpers' spy network and facing the infamous beholder. The incorporation of gameplay elements like class designations and role-playing further immerse guests in the D&D universe, with plot twists influenced by the role of dice.

Xanathar's impressive physical presence is enhanced by its puppetry, allowing live and responsive performances. The collaboration with the Jim Henson Creature Shop ensures that the creature features realistic eye and mouth movements and lights up to engage guests fully. This format allows guests a surprise encounter with Xanathar, intensifying the experience with dynamic interactions.

Comments by Stephen Siercks emphasize the scale and artistry involved in bringing Xanathar to life, likening it to iconic puppets from popular culture. For instance, its grand reveal is compared to the Alien Queen's emergence in science fiction or Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors. The performance includes Xanathar with its pet goldfish Silgar, blending humor and danger.

Fan Fest Nights promises to deliver an unforgettable mix of compelling storytelling, gaming, and theatrical puppetry. Its incorporation of detailed Easter eggs and fan-centric narratives demonstrates Universal Studios' commitment to creating premier genre experiences. Running select nights through May 18, this event promises to be a must-see for fans of immersive entertainment.

Sources: io9, Universal Studios Hollywood

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