Epic Universal Podcast – Aztec Dancers, Mariachis, Tequila, and Ceremonial Sacrifices?! (Ep. 45)

Release Date: April 4, 2025

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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with more Epic Universe updates, rumors, and retro fun. From the Universal Portal Tour and Express Pass prices to Ghostbusters speculation and a throwback to Universal’s 1968 Mardi Gras event – this episode covers it all.

Eric’s Surprise Trip to Universal During Blackout Dates

Eric and his family were gifted a last-minute timeshare trip to Central Florida for Easter week. Unfortunately, their Power Passes are blacked out during the exact dates they’ll be there, leaving them with only April 12 and 13 to squeeze in a visit.

Jim’s Delayed Visit to Epic Universe

Jim shares that Nancy is scheduled for hip surgery on May 20 – just two days before the park opens. With flying and long drives off the table during recovery, Jim is likely postponing his first Epic Universe visit until September, possibly during IAPA.

Epic Universe Portal Tour Coming to Five Cities

Universal’s hype-building campaign hits the road with immersive Portal Tour setups featuring Kronos Tower photo ops, props, characters, and a collectible passport. Stops include:

• Orlando, FL – April 6 at Lake Eola Park
• Atlanta, GA – April 13 at Atlantic Station
• Philadelphia, PA – April 20 at Penn’s Landing
• New York, NY – April 27 at Flatiron Plaza
• Chicago, IL – May 4 at Pioneer Court

Permit Filed for Rip Ride Rockit Demolition

Universal filed a permit labeled “Project 902” that hints at demolition and reconstruction at the Rockit site. While no official confirmation has been made, the language in the permit strongly suggests a major change is coming.

Ghostbusters Attraction Rumors

Fan speculation is swirling around a potential Ghostbusters-themed attraction replacing Rip Ride Rockit. Reddit and forum posts mention a vertical layout and the possibility of reusing the New York backlot theming for a ghost-busting shooter or dark ride. Jim and Eric discuss the likelihood – and whether Fast & Furious is the more realistic option.

Monster Makeup Experience Now Bookable at Epic Universe

The Dark Universe land is offering guests the chance to become a classic Universal Monster using real prosthetics and special effects makeup. At $149.99, the package includes the transformation, a collectible lanyard, themed box, and photo ops.

Jim questions whether this experience will last or suffer the same fate as past attempts like Disney’s Pirates League. Eric compares the time and money commitment to face painting and Bippity Boppity Boutique.

Express Pass Pricing and Ride List Revealed

Universal confirmed the pricing tiers and eligible rides for Epic Universe Express and Express Unlimited. Prices start at $89.99 and may increase on peak days. Eligible rides include:

• Stardust Racers
• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
• Curse of the Werewolf
• Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

Drone Show Uncertainty for CineSational

Following an FAA suspension tied to a drone incident in Orlando, Epic Universe’s planned drone elements – including flying dragons over Isle of Berk – may be delayed or canceled entirely.

Jim notes that Disney encountered similar drone setbacks, with examples like the Quinjet project and Fantasyland dragon. Operational challenges and legal constraints often ground these high-tech spectacles.

History Segment: Mardi Gras in Mexico (1968)

Jim walks through the history of Universal’s 1968 after-hours “Mardi Gras in Mexico” event – a bold experiment in entertainment that included Aztec princesses, tequila tastings, and aerial performers.

The event featured:

• A recreated Mexican village marketplace
• A sacrificial princess stage show
• The Papalanta Flyers – performers who dive from a 100-foot pole as a ritual

Jack Benny’s Vault and the Creature Photo-Op

Universal originally planned a walkthrough attraction based on comedian Jack Benny’s vault, complete with gags from his TV show. When the vault concept was scrapped, they replaced it with a photo-op featuring the Creature from the Black Lagoon. The illusion used a curtained window and well-timed movement for a practical jump scare.

Jim Hill

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Eric Hersey

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