Universal Studios Singapore – Park Update 01/2016

Universal Studios Singapore welcomes the Year of the Monkey with festive touches all around the park. See them here in the January 2016 Park Update!

Lunar New Year at the Park

This year’s arch, while much simpler and more blocky, won’t be one that triggers trypophobia.

Sesame Street’s back at the Universal Studios Store showcase window. And there seems to be new use for the plush toys…

… as floral arrangements.

The centerpiece for this year’s Lunar New Year: A circular arch with the Chinese word for ‘Spring’ in the middle. Numerous monkeys are climbing the arch, each holding an auspicious item.

It looks like The Portal at The Invaders, huh?

This is the place to meet the park’s Minions, which are specially dressed for the season. Sesame Street characters will also don ‘lucky’ outfits this season, but we’ve seen much of that before already.

Similar decor at New York like last year, with updated banners.

The New York Library is finally ‘clean’ after months of seasonal events.

The wax figure of Vin Diesel from Madame Tussauds has returned to New York.

Battlestar Galactica Update

New warning signs were posted at the queue entrance for both roller coasters last month. It’s a shame they stick out quite badly from the existing design of the attraction entrances.

(Thanks to Tong Ming for sending this in first!)

Attractions closed for maintenance

Pantages Hollywood Theater will be closed from 22 February – 6 March 2016 for maintenance. During this period, Sesame Street: When I Grow Up will not be available. We’re not sure if the show will be modified, and a replacement seems unlikely for now. Who wants Monster Rock back?

Waterworld will be closed from 22 February – 31 March 2016 for maintenance. Given that the theatre is purpose-built for the show, it’s unlikely that there will be major modifications or even removal. They’ll be back!

Speaking of which: The park map has been overhauled recently. And that includes the one outside the park. While functionally it makes it easier to find certain shops and attractions, the design and choice of colours doesn’t seem to be pleasing. What do you think?

Minions Update

More Minion presence in the park. While I’m not sure if this is what the park needs (park expansion, please!), they are high quality sculptures and fit in rather nicely with existing elements. Thanks to Tong Ming and Carlo for keeping us updated.

The Giant Minion is moved towards Pantages Hollywood Theatre.

Inside Minion Mart: A highly detailed popcorn bucket, first seen at Universal Studios Japan. The eyes and arms can be moved.

The bucket opens from the back.

Merchandising Display over at Universal Studios Store.

This year’s new red packet designs. It’s more traditional compared to 2014’s jumbo odd-size packets. $8 for a pack of 6, with auspicious chinese greetings die-cut on the outer layer.

Good news if you are spending a day at the park during the Lunar New Year season: The park will be open from 10am to 9pm during 6 Feb – 13 Feb 2016.

The park will be open till 8pm from the second week of March onwards. Perhaps there will be some other seasonal programming leading up to this year’s Easter season.