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In a clip — apparently of 1970s vintage — shown in “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost,” a young Ben Stiller is seen being interviewed alongside his parents, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, who rose to fame as a joint comedy act. If Ben (Benji then) were a producer, the interviewer asks, would he hire his mother and father? “No,” he replies. Gesturing toward his parents, he adds, with a hint of mischief in his voice, “It’d be hard to work with you.”

Ben more than makes amends for that gibe in this charming documentary, which is not merely an introduction to Stiller and Meara — as a routine and as a couple — but also a memoir of what it was like to grow up in the public eye. Their two children, Ben and his older sister, Amy, were in the spotlight from an early age, and that experience left them with plenty of footage to draw on. (Ben started to shoot his own movies in childhood; when Jerry appeared in “Airport 1975,” Ben remade it as “Airport ’76.”)

It turns out that Jerry, who died in 2020, five years after Anne, was a pack rat when it came to keeping audiotapes of his life. We’re told that Anne used to say that the recordings would just pile up when he died, and while “she wasn’t wrong,” Ben notes, the process of selling the Upper West Side apartment where he and Amy grew up gives them an opportunity to listen.

At least two ideas running through “Nothing Is Lost,” which is streaming on Apple TV, and which takes its title from a line in a play that Anne wrote, give it a complexity that usually eludes profile-of-an-artist documentaries. One is the tension between Jerry and Anne’s onstage chemistry and their private lives. They were married people who played romantic partners, and having their careers bound together that way sometimes proved less than ideal.

Ben and Amy recall that, when they overheard heated moments between their parents, the line between rehearsals and fights was often difficult to discern. We learn that the two comics approached their work quite differently. Jerry was a stickler for preparation, Anne less so. Jerry found contentment with comedy, while Anne longed to make it as a serious actress and sought success off-Broadway. (Another great clip of Ben in boyhood shows him ostensibly giving playwright John Guare notes on a script.)

The other through line is that Ben begins to see similarities between his upbringing and how he has raised his own children. His son, Quin, notes that he has a penchant for getting trapped inside his own head, a trait he would seem to share with Jerry. (Ben and Amy agree that a lot of the pent-up frustration their father felt found an outlet in the Frank Costanza character on “Seinfeld.”) And while some of the intra-family chats can seem self-indulgent or repetitive, there is real poignancy in hearing Amy, an actress herself, talk about the years she waited tables while her brother was becoming famous.

Ben is credited as the movie’s director, but he includes a “film by” credit that lists his loved ones. That feels fitting.

—

‘Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost’

Not rated. Running time: 1 hour 37 minutes. Watch on Apple TV.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.

‘The Tin Men’ by Nelson and Alex DeMille; Simon & Schuster; 384 pages; $29

Despite the highly entertaining plot and the rip-roaring action, “The Tin Men,” by the father-and-son duo of Nelson and Alex DeMille, comes with sadness. During the writing of this military thriller, Nelson DeMille passed away on Sept. 17, 2024, at age 81, leaving his son to finish the manuscript they had been working on.

As is fitting, Alex DeMille leads off “The Tin Men” recounting how he worked with his father on their series about Army criminal investigators Scott Brodie and Maggie Taylor and how this third novel was concluded.

“The Tin Men” is a fitting tribute to Nelson DeMille’s rich career, which was filled with gripping bestsellers that captivated even those readers not always drawn to thrillers. “The Tin Men” moves briskly and is seamlessly punctuated by believable characters and elaborate-but-realistic military craft, while showing how artificial intelligence can be useful or manipulated to be diabolical.

The intelligent, unrelenting team of Scott and Maggie often are called to take on the tough assignments. The two arrive in the Mojave Desert to investigate the malfunction of D-17s — killer robots called “tin men.” During military testing, “tin men” killed an Army computer scientist. The robots’ speed and capabilities outmatch those of the human soldiers, putting an Army ranger regiment in danger. Scott and Maggie need to find out who is manipulating the robots’ software.

The authors keep the action on full speed as Scott and Maggie go through numerous physical and emotional trials. The DeMilles are careful to keep the story believable — the duo knows how to make smart, quick decisions.

“The Tin Men” is an apt legacy for the late Nelson DeMille and a new path for Alex DeMille.

Meet the author

Alex DeMille will discuss his and Nelson DeMille’s “The Tin Men” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. The event is free, but reservations are requested. Visit booksandbooks.com/event or call 305-442-4408.

‘The Disclosure’ by Mel Taylor; Severn River Publishing; 252 pages; $17.99

Emmy Award-winning reporter Mel Taylor, who covered South Florida for more than 20 years, delivers a detailed look at broadcast journalism augmented by solid suspense in “The Disclosure,” the third in his series about TV reporter Booker Johnson.

Booker, a reporter for South Florida’s Ch. 27, has covered a variety of news stories including the disappearance four years ago of circuit judge William Rocker following his wife Shanice’s murder. Rocker was the prime suspect but had not yet been charged when he fled to Vietnam. Now, unexpectedly, the judge calls Booker, saying he is returning to clear his name. He will only discuss the case with Booker, then the two will go together to talk with the police.

The judge insists the first interview must be conducted the next day in Chicago — the exact site to be shared once Booker and his film crew arrive. Booker and his producers wonder if they are being played, but the judge keeps his word.

However, a crucial witness who could clear the judge is killed before the person can speak with the police. As Booker pulls together a now more complicated story, he also fends off print and electronic rivals.

Taylor keeps the suspense high and the reality steady in his brisk plot. Booker’s relationship with his crew, especially his cameraperson, and their ethical approach to covering the news elevates “The Disclosure.” Booker is a solid investigator, but he is a journalist first and does not cross the ethical line or take unnecessary chances. His home life adds to this well-rounded character.

Taylor is a welcome addition to the growing group of writers who showcase South Florida.

By MARK KENNEDY, AP Entertainment Writer

NEW YORK (AP) — The union representing Broadway’s musicians reached a tentative labor agreement with commercial producers on Thursday, averting a potentially crippling strike that would have silenced nearly two dozen musicals.

The American Federation of Musicians Local 802 — which represents 1,200 musicians — had threatened to strike if they didn’t have a new contract by the morning, after going into mediation Wednesday.

Early Thursday, the union said it had struck a tentative deal that includes wage increases and contribution increases to the health fund.

“This three-year agreement provides meaningful wage and health benefit increases that will preserve crucial access to healthcare for our musicians while maintaining the strong contract protections that empower musicians to build a steady career on Broadway,” AFM Local 802 President Bob Suttmann said in a statement.

The tentative agreement next goes to members for ratification.

The 23 shows that could have gone silent ranged from megahits like “Hamilton” and “The Lion King” to newcomers like “Queen of Versailles” and “Chess,” which are still in previews. Plays would not have been automatically impacted.

It was the second Broadway labor deal in less than a week. Labor tensions had already seemed cool after Actors’ Equity Association — which represents over 51,000 members, including singers, actors, dancers and stage managers — announced a new three-year agreement with producers over the weekend.

Members of both unions had been working under expired contracts. The musicians’ contract expired on Aug. 31, and the Equity contract expired Sept. 28.

The health of Broadway — once very much in doubt due to the coronavirus pandemic that shut down theaters for some 18 months — is now very good, at least in terms of box office. It has been a long road back from the days when theaters were shuttered and the future looked bleak, but the 2024-2025 season took in $1.9 billion — the highest-grossing season in recorded history, overtaking the pre-pandemic previous high of $1.8 billion during the 2018-2019 season.

The unions pointed to the financial health of Broadway to argue that producers could afford to up pay and benefits for musicians and actors. Producers, represented by The Broadway League, had countered that the restored health of Broadway could be endangered by potential ticket price increases to accommodate the demands.

The most recent major strike on Broadway was in late 2007, when a 19-day walkout by stagehands dimmed the lights on more than two dozen shows and cost producers and the city millions of dollars in lost revenue.

On Wednesday, three U.S. senators from New York and New Jersey — Democrats Kirsten Gillibrand, Cory Booker and Andy Kim — wrote to both sides, urging them to “participate in good faith negotiations and continued communication.” The senators noted that Broadway supports nearly 100,000 jobs and is “an essential cornerstone in the economic well-being of surrounding businesses and sectors, including hospitality, retail and transportation.”

Wait, is this a perfect play?

“Life of Pi” — now at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale through Sunday, Oct. 26 — is a dazzling display of theatrical visuals and coruscant storytelling so powerful, so enthralling, that it’s hard to imagine how it could be any better.

The play is based on the 2001 bestselling, philosophical novel from Yann Martel that delves deep into spirituality and became an Oscar-winning movie in 2012. This stage version debuted in London’s West End, winning five Olivier Awards before bowing on Broadway in 2023, where it won three Tony Awards.

“Life of Pi” is not a musical but has that multilayered, multidimensional poetry wound tightly in and around the production. The special effects, the puppetry, the music (nope, not show tunes as much as something akin to a movie soundtrack), the movement/choreography — it all works in symphony to make the metaphysical almost tangible.

Don’t let the puppets and the homespun humor, of which there is a generous amount, fool you. This show is born and bloodied by conflict. “Life will defend itself no matter how small it is,” one character says.

The narrative, epic as it is, starts simply. Pi Patel (played by boundlessly energetic Taha Mandviwala) and his family run a zoo in India. Pi has been raised as a Hindu, but he is equally interested in Islam and Christianity.

In this regard, the play is faithful and faith-full. It honors Martel’s novel in that respect and burnishes beliefs until you can almost feel the warm glow. “I just want to love God,” Pi says.

Mirroring those potentially fractious religious ideas he’s exposed himself to is the political discord and turmoil in India in the mid-1970s, which force the Patels to pack up their animals onto a freight ship and move to Canada. Disaster strikes when a massive storm sinks the freighter, leaving Pi on a lifeboat with an injured zebra, a hyena, an orangutan and a Bengal tiger.

Now to go into any more detail on the plot would be more than a spoiler. It would be a sin. “Life of Pi” needs to unfold before your eyes and inside your mind in order for the play to preserve its punch … and its gentle pat.

But it must be said that the framework for the narrative, and one of the production’s most clever bits, is that — for two hours including a 20-minute intermission — Pi is recounting his tragedies and triumphs all in flashbacks from a hospital room as he is interviewed by an insurance adjuster and an embassy attaché.

At least that’s on one level.

But on another level, a level so profound it is breathtaking, this play is about stories we tell in our religions, our faiths — at first spackled here and there in “Life of Pi,” but then increasingly painted on with the ardor of an artist, each brushstroke passionate and pure and sure.

It is dark, brilliant and (surprisingly) funny at times listening to and watching Pi’s 227 days adrift at sea through two lenses, one animalistic and the other humanistic. Is it fantastical yarn-spinning? Is it a factual account?

“We believe what we see,” the insurance adjuster concludes.

“And so it goes with God,” Pi responds.

A perfect answer.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Life of Pi”

WHEN: Through Sunday, Oct. 26

WHERE: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale

COST: $48.68-$231.58

INFORMATION: 954-462-0222 (press 1); browardcenter.org

This weekend is a grab-bag of treats, some good for you, most just sweet and sticky and fun. Rembrandt arrives, as does the graphic artistry of Magic Men Australia. The Witches of Delray will return, and the new Cove Farmers Market will debut. There are concerts by Christian rapper Lecrae, sharing a new album, “Reconstruction,” and singer-actor Ryan Bingham, who can’t help but rekindle the “Yellowstone” vibe. There are cocktails raising money for a good cause, and a riesling happy hour, just because. You do you.

THURSDAY

Fantastical journey: The touring Broadway production of three-time Tony Award winner “Life of Pi” comes to the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale for performances through Sunday. This translation of Yann Martel’s beloved novel about a teenage boy adrift on the ocean with a zebra, an orangutan, a hyena and a tiger, is epic entertainment told with “spectacular stagecraft” (The Wall Street Journal). Showtimes will be 7:30 p.m. Thursday,  8 p.m. Friday,  2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $48.68. Visit BrowardCenter.org.

Easing on down the road: The Broadway tour of “The Wiz” (the funky take on “The Wizard of Oz” that was a Tony-winning hit in its debut in 1975) sets up at the Kravis Center in downtown West Palm Beach through Sunday. Weekend performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $51.75 (depending on date) at Kravis.org.

Walker’s road: Ryan Bingham, the Oscar-winning singer-songwriter (“The Weary Kind,” from movie “Crazy Heart”) and actor (Walker on “Yellowstone”) brings his tour with The Texas Gentlemen to the canopied Pompano Beach Amphitheater on Thursday at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are available, starting at $42.78. Visit AXS.com.

Australian beefcake: The Fort Lauderdale Improv in Dania Beach will welcome the Magic Men Australia — think Channing Tatum with funnier accents — on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. General-admission tickets cost $45.90. It probably goes without saying that all the up-close VIP seats and meet-and-greet tickets are sold out. Visit ImprovFTL.com.

Catch it while you can: Slow Burn Theatre Co. concludes its production of the Broadway musical “Catch Me if You Can” this weekend in the intimate Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale on Sunday. The show (based on the 2002 Steven Spielberg film about a con artist and an FBI agent on his trail) will have final performances at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 1 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $91.45. Visit BrowardCenter.org.

Drinking for good: This would be a good weekend to check out some seasonal cocktails that support a good cause through the end of the month. Michelin-recommended steakhouse Daniel’s in downtown Fort Lauderdale will donate 50% of October proceeds from the Angel’s Ribbon cocktail (Gulf Stream Vodka, Aperol and grapefruit juice; $20) to the Memorial Foundation’s Pink Angels program. Visit DanielSteak.com. … Through the end of the month, South Florida locations of Bodega Taqueria y Tequila (downtown Fort Lauderdale, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove andSouth Beach) will send proceeds from the Margari-ta-ta (strawberry-flavored margarita; $10) to CARE Clinic at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Visit BodegaTaqueria.com.

FRIDAY

Jonas and Jonas: The Jonas Brothers are on a 20th anniversary tour (wait, does that math?!), which will land at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise on Friday at 7:30 p.m. You can still get tickets, starting at around $71, at Seatgeek.com. … And because Joe Jonas doesn’t have enough going on, he and side hustle DNCE (“Cake by the Ocean,” “Dancing Feet,” “Toothbrush”) will host a Halloween show at FPL Solar Amphitheater at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami on Oct. 31 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $46.50 at Ticketmaster.com.

Thoughtful beats: Grammy-winning Christian rapper, author and thought leader Lecrae is touring with his critically praised new album, “Reconstruction.” Catch him on Friday at 8 p.m. at the Miami Beach Bandshell. Tickets cost $47.96. Visit MiamiBeachBandshell.com.

Digging Cole: Best known for hits such as “Chillin’ It,” “Hope You Get Lonely Tonight,” “Ain’t Worth the Whisky,” and “You Should Be Here,” Cole Swindell brings music from new album “Spanish Moss” to his Happy Hour Sad Tour stop at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood on Friday. The album finds the bro-country trailblazer in a more reflective mood (he’s a new dad to a daughter), with songs including “Forever to Me,” “Dale Jr.” and the title track. Priscilla Block and Greylan James open the 8 p.m. show. Tickets start at $34.10 at MyHRL.com.

Date night: Mini-golf party spot Puttshack is offering a date-night idea: Nine holes for $9 after 9 p.m. with code 9AFTER9. The deal will be offered at both South Florida locations at Dania Pointe in Dania Beach and Brickell City Centre in Miami through Nov. 14. New this week, Puttshack is offering a seasonal cocktail called Frankenstein’s Monster (Espolòn Blanco tequila, cotton candy syrup, passion fruit, lime juice and a black salt rim, served in a passion fruit smoke-infused chest; $14). The cocktail will be available through Nov. 2. Visit Puttshack.com.

Friday night live: Florida-raised country singer Jake Owen and SoCal reggae-rock band Dirty Heads will bring their mini co-headlining tour to iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach on Friday at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available, starting at $40.75 at Ticketmaster.com. … Australian-born singer and blues-rock guitarist Orianthi — she once served as Michael Jackson’s lead guitarist and has worked with Santana, Steve Vai and Alice Cooper — will play The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $53.10 at ParkerPlayhouse.com. … Goth-rock chameleons AFI will share music from new album “Silver Bleeds the Black Sun” at the War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale at 8 p.m. Friday. Tickets start at about $46 at FTLWarMemorial.com.

Local sounds: Led by the Heavy Pets’ singer-guitarist, Mike Garulli & The Floating Brains bring their adventurous psych rock to The Funky Biscuit in Boca Raton on Friday at 9 p.m. (doors open at 8 p.m.). Tickets start at $28.14 for general-admission standing room, with some table seating still available. Visit FunkyBiscuit.com. … Local pop-punk band Reverse Oreo will play a release party for new EP “ROOGS” at Mathews Brewing Co. in Lake Worth Beach on Friday, joined by Mother Rucker, Beeline, Gunnar Gill and Maximum Friction. Reverse Oreo is scheduled to go on at 11 p.m. Admission is free. Visit Facebook.com/mathewsbrewing. … Rebel souls The Working Class Underground will play a free show at Tarpon River Brewing in downtown Fort Lauderdale from 8 to 11 p.m. Friday. Visit tarponriverbrewing.com/event.

SATURDAY

Rembrandts are here: A remarkable survey of works by Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn will make their U.S. debut at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach on Saturday. The show, “Art and Life in Rembrandt’s Time: Masterpieces from The Leiden Collection,” which includes 17 works by the painter, will be up through March. Museum admission is $18, $15 for seniors, free for those 12 and younger. Visit Norton.org.

A new market: Cove Farmers Market will debut on Saturday in Deerfield Beach at The Cove Shopping Center (1582 SE Third Court), with local produce, artisan vendors, coffee, pet treats, baked goods and a variety of gluten-free, seed oil-free and vegan items. The market will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays through May. Visit CoveFarmersMarket.com.

Where my witches at? Last we checked, you could still register for the 14th annual Witches of Delray charity bike ride happening on Saturday morning. The  irreverent parade of costumed riders and decorated bikes, a signature fall event in South Florida, will get going at 8:30 a.m. at City Hall and loop along Atlantic Avenue and Pineapple Grove. It will conclude on Old School Square, where participants will vie for the titles of best decorated bike, best witch costume, best team theme and best witch cackle. A fundraiser for Achievement Centers for Children & Families, registration costs $100 a person at WitchesOfDelray.org.

More witches: Two immersive dinner shows called The Witching Hour are coming to The House on the River, Fort Lauderdale’s historic restaurant in a 120-year-old building that will be haunted for the occasion. Presented by Moonstone Collective and taking place at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. this Saturday (and Thursday, Oct. 30), the event includes a seated three-course dinner, themed cocktails, a theatrical witch-themed show, vendors, a DJ and more within the old home reimagined with sound, lights and projections. Recommended attire: Dark elegance with a hint of mystery. Tickets start at $87.61. Visit Instagram.com/thehouseontheriverFL or Eventbrite.com.

So far away: New-wave trendsetters A Flock of Seagulls will bring hits including “I Ran,” “Space Age Love Song” and “Telecommunication” to the Culture Room in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. for an opening set by locals Astari Nite (recommended). General-admission tickets cost $50.10. Visit CultureRoom.net.

Ach-tongue, baby: The relentlessly communal Sidewalk Bottleshop in Fort Lauderdale’s Progresso neighborhood will host a different kind of Oktoberfest on Saturday with German wines, including a riesling happy hour, and German snacks beginning at 5 p.m. Visit Instagram.com/sidewalk.bottleshop.

Now you see it … : Touring illusionist David Caserta (as seen on ”America’s Got Talent” and “Penn and Teller Fool Us”) will bring his spooky “Haunted Illusions” to the Coral Springs Center for the Arts on Saturday at 7 p.m. The family friendly show will feature new original illusions, comedy, music and, scariest of all, audience participation. Tickets range from $61 to $93, plus fees, at TheCenterCS.com.

Saturday night live: iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina will take over Miami‘s Kaseya Center on Saturday at 8 p.m., with headliners including Gilberto Santa Rosa, Oscar D’León, Danny Ocean, Olga Tañón, Chyno y Nacho, Elvis Crespo, Kapo, Morat and more. Tickets start at $45.25. Visit KaseyaCenter.com. … Cubatonazo 2025 will bring some of the top names in Cuban urban music to Hard Rock Live in Hollywood on Saturday, among them Gente de Zona, Jacob Forever, L Kimii, El Chacal, Wow Popy and El Niño y La Verdad. Tickets for the 8 p.m. show start at $69.55. Visit MyHRL.com. … Argentine rockers Los Fabulosos Cadillacs are scheduled to play the James L. Knight Center in Miami on Saturday at 8 p.m. Tickets start at about $75 at Seatgeek.com.

Humanity and history: West Palm Beach bookstore Rohi’s Readery (630 Seventh St.) will host the Rhythms of Humanity Block Party on Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m., with storytelling, music, dance, roller skating and interactive stations celebrating 100 years of arts and culture in the city’s Historic Northwest District. Sponsored by the Related Ross Foundation and the Miami Dolphins’ third annual Football UNITES Jason Jenkins Days of Service, the event is free. Visit RohisReadery.com and Instagram.com/rohisreadery.

SUNDAY

Legend’s best: On the tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of his Grammy-winning debut album, “Get Lifted,” elegant pianist and vocalist John Legend also has been breaking out some inspired covers, including The Staple Singers’ “Let’s Do It Again,” Lauryn Hill’s “Everything Is Everything,” Alicia Keys’ “You Don’t Know My Name” and even “Jesus Walks” by old collaborator Kanye West. Legend will perform on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood. Tickets are available, starting at $60.75. Visit MyHRL.com.

Take the kids: The family friendly concert series Rock and Roll Playhouse will bring “Sounds of Billy Joel” to Galuppi’s in Pompano Beach on Sunday from noon to 1 p.m. The show, which uses games and movement to introduce kids to classic rock, will find a perfect home in the new mini-amphitheater configuration recently introduced at Galuppi’s. General-admission seats are $24.85. Visit Galuppis.com.

K-pop stars: On The New_ World Tour, South Korean boy band Seventeen will share music from new album “Happy Burstday” at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise on Sunday and Monday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $28 at AmerantBankArena.com.

Staff writer Ben Crandell can be reached at bcrandell@sunsentinel.com. Follow on IG: @BenCrandell. 

Mechanical birds, bears and princesses have chirped, growled and sung in Orlando’s theme parks for more than 50 years. The animatronic trend shows no signs of fading, as new figures arrive in new places at Walt Disney World, and Epic Universe introduces batches of lifelike characters.

The additions range from a planned electronic version of Walt Disney at Magic Kingdom to a lumbering Frankenstein’s monster figure that debuted with Epic in May.

“People still enjoy seeing lifelike figures of their heroes, villains and others come alive,” said Dennis Speigel, CEO of International Theme Park Services. “I think this is one area that continues to evolve, and I don’t think we’ve seen anything yet.”

Technological advances are enabling the improved illusion of the figures, said Brian Ott, show systems studio executive with Walt Disney Imagineering.

“The way that we can now simulate, the way that we now design, the way that we now can generate content for these and in style — like it is moving like the character that everybody sees and recognizes from the film … I think that’s really the appeal of like, ‘Wow, not only did I see Elsa on the ride, but I felt like it was Elsa. It moved, it performed, it looked at me,’” Ott said.

The next new animatronic at Disney World will be Benjamin Clawhauser, a cheetah character that’s part of the “Zootopia: Better Zoogether” show launching at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park on Nov. 7.

“You will see something new and unique from that figure,” Ott said.

Tiki birds, Big Al and beyond: A tour of 10 Disney World animatronics

Other planned figures include Buddy, a support-bot, in the ongoing update for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Rangers Spin at Magic Kingdom; Scooter and other Muppets in the retheming of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; facelifts for Frozen Ever After figures at Epcot; and the addition of Walt Disney himself at the beginning of Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom.

These come on the heels of the first animatronic to represent Walt Disney, which debuted at Disneyland in California this summer.

“I think that has breathed a lot of life back into the animatronics and from the highest level,” Speigel said.

Figures frightening, formidable

Universal Orlando installed animatronics inside Epic Universe’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment ride and elsewhere.

“Everyone has their normal lives that they’re going through, and that comes with people wanting to be transported,” said Gregory Hall, assistant director, creative design for Universal Creative. “We have the opportunity to bring new technology and use it for good and use it to entertain and inspire people.”

The Monsters Unchained ride is peppered with figures in action, including Dracula, Mummy and the Creature from the Black Lagoon.

A crowd-pleasing scene happens in the Unchained preshow with new character Victoria Frankenstein and Frankenstein’s monster, who strides into the room. It’s a moment that prompts applause from Epic visitors, Hall said.

“That was the first time we made a figure on that scale walk,” Hall said. “And then he’s right next to Victoria, and they’re using extremely different technology.”

Another big animatronic project was the “erumpent,” a charging beast in the Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride.

“We’re really all about, how do we get the fastest, smoothest motion moving this giant thing?” said Anisha Vyas, director of projects for Universal Creative. “It needs to be really visceral. It needs to move really fast. It needs to be moving really fluid,” she said. “Getting it to move and stop is not hard. Getting it to look pretty and gorgeous and realistic? That’s hard.”

And the motion must be repeated for each load of passengers.

“We ensure every guest has the same experience,” Vyas said.

It all started with a bird?

The seed for Disney’s animatronics — the company trademarked the term Audio-Animatronics in the 1960s — goes back to Walt and Lillian Disney’s purchase of a miniature caged-bird decoration that tweeted. That eventually led to Enchanted Tiki Room attractions such as the one at Magic Kingdom, which opened with the park in 1971.

Animatronics got a major boost from “Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln,” developed by Disney for the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. Guests watched the faux former president give a speech, and Speigel witnessed this on a high-school trip to the event.

“When he put his arms on that chair and he stood up and talked, the whole audience, I remember, just gasped,” he said.

The 1960s technology propelled the show’s status, said Bob Rogers, chairman of BRC Imagination Arts. Otherwise, it might have been forgotten quickly, he said.

“The fact that it was just a robot, not a human, was the charm,” Rogers said.

Waiting for Walt

Fast forward to 2025 and the installation of the Walt Disney animatronic at Disneyland. “Walt Disney — A Magical Life” is temporarily taking the place of the Lincoln animatronic presentation there. Some fans have criticized the look of the new figure.

“It looks fine to me from a distance,” said Jeremiah Good, the Florida correspondent for LaughingPlace.com, “But people that were there for the opening that were in the front row filming every bit of it were going that doesn’t look a thing like Walt.”

Critics are more forgiving about animatronic looks for animated beings as opposed to actual humans, Good said. He awaits the Walt Disney figure slated to join Carousel of Progress next year.

“That is supposed to be a little bit older of a Walt, so that’ll be interesting to see,” Good said.

“I think there are some opportunities there for the point in Walt’s life,” said Imagineering’s Ott, who noted that Florida’s animatronic would be seen in shorter but more frequent bursts at Magic Kingdom than its counterpart in California. “I also think there are things just logistically about the run time of shows — if you just look at the run time of the Disneyland, the frequency of that show, versus something like Carousel of Progress that is cycling through.”

Tech talk

After pneumatic and hydraulic phases, animatronics are now settling into an all-electric era with computerized programming.

Last year, Walt Disney Imagineering gave a public peek into the process with an episode of “We Call It Imagineering” on YouTube. This preceded the debut of figures for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the retheming of Splash Mountain at both Magic Kingdom and Disneyland.

A big challenge was the development of Louis, the trumpet-toting alligator, considered one of WDI’s largest and most dynamic figures.

“There’s a lot of moving parts. “So you have all of these layers, you’ve got fabric and it all has to be in sync,” said Sonny Chapman, principal illusion maker, in the episode. Louis’ big belly, upper torso and arms must work together with the costuming, all while he’s bouncing, looking happy and blinking.

Imagineering has expanded into “stuntronics,” creating figures that can perform elaborate aerial acrobatic feats, including one dressed as Spider-Man at Disney California Adventure theme park. The company has also developed knee-high DBX droids, which made appearances at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this summer.

“They’re wonderful not just because they’re robots, but because they are animated and they are written with stories.” Rogers said. “They express emotions. They’re doing things. They get frustrated when they can’t do what they’re trying to do. … That’s just wonderful.”

Animatronics have proven, multigenerational staying power.

“A lot of our engineers went to school just to work on animated figures. … That’s their thing,” Hall said. “They’re studying their whole lives, and they make their entire lives, and it’s time for their generation to show the next generation how to pass the baton. This is one of those moments that’s even bigger than just [theme] parks.”

Vyas points to their entertainment value.

“I just think they bring so much life to the environment,” she said. “I absolutely love that at Epic Universe we’ve doubled down on that. I really think that it just takes it to the next level.”

dbevil@orlandosentinel.com

By JOCELYN NOVECK

NEW YORK (AP) — Now here’s something you might not quite believe about Victoria Beckham, glam Spice Girl turned high-profile fashion designer: At theater school, they purposely put her in the back row. Because she was too heavy.

“It was really difficult,” she says now of the memory from her youth, sipping a sparkling water in a Manhattan hotel in between work engagements. “We were all judged on how we looked. I was young. I had bad skin, my weight was going up and down, I had really lank hair.”

Beckham was also bullied in school and told she was a bad learner, revelations that come in a new documentary, “Victoria Beckham.” The three-part Netflix series traces her career and especially her ascension in the fashion world — building up to a grand Paris runway show at a palace in front of 600 people.

That 2024 show — with a rainstorm threatening to scuttle the whole thing — is presented as a career pinnacle for a designer who spent years proving herself alongside giants of the field, showing she wasn’t simply a celebrity slapping her name on a label. ( Vogue’s Anna Wintour is among the fashion luminaries attesting to Beckham’s hard-won industry acceptance in the documentary).

Of course the show also features liberal doses of Beckham’s soccer legend husband David — just as Victoria appeared in his own recent, popular Netflix documentary “Beckham” (both were produced by David Beckham’s own Studio 99).

Some reviews have said Victoria’s documentary feels more guarded and less revelatory. In any case, Victoria Beckham says she wanted to tell her own story, her own way. She focuses only briefly on what a certain generation knows her best for — the four years she spent as Posh Spice — and mostly on the two decades she’s been building her eponymous fashion and beauty brand.

Other revelations: While she was the richer partner when they married in 1999 and in fact bought their first house, it was David Beckham who later invested in her label and helped get it going.

She also talks about how her company almost fell apart due to bad business decisions — like spending 70,000 pounds (about $94,000) on office plants and 15,000 (about $20,000) more to water them — and how she learned, with investors, to right the ship.

Beckham, 51, sat down with The Associated Press this week during a visit to New York. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

AP: The other Beckham documentary appeared only two years ago. Why did you feel the need for your own?

BECKHAM: Well, his documentary wasn’t about me, you know. I was in the documentary as David’s wife and I’ve been part of his journey and I was so honored to talk about that. People’s response to me in that really surprised me, and there was something quite liberating about that because when I saw myself … I didn’t like how I came across. But then I think I’ve always felt that way about myself. I suppose it gave me the confidence to do my own.

AP: What specific stories did you want to tell?

BECKHAM: I’ve been in the fashion industry for almost two decades. I was in the Spice Girls for four years — and have been so defined by that four-year period in my life. A time that I’m so proud of, but I’ve been fighting preconceptions because of that period. I feel that only now is my brand in a place where me talking about my past will not affect the brand that I’ve built.

AP: You say this is an inspirational story. How so?

BECKHAM: I’m not ashamed to say I’m really ambitious. And it’s been the first time that I’ve ever looked back and, having that bird’s eye view on my journey so far, even I found it inspiring what I have done … the fact that I have been told “No” so many times, told that I’m not enough, not good enough. And by the way, that started when I was a child, when I was at school. If anybody watches this documentary and I can give them the confidence to follow their dreams, that’s another really good reason to do it.

AP: Do you think people have misperceptions about you?

BECKHAM: Oh absolutely, I think that for many years I was misunderstood, before social media, you know, the media told the narrative, and then there were paparazzi pictures where most of the time I looked incredibly unhappy. And I think looking at the documentary telling my story from ME explains the “why.” I can’t blame people for looking at the pictures of me looking really grumpy.

AP: You talk about your weight struggles as a girl in theater class. Have you spoken about that before?

BECKHAM: Never quite like this. The opportunity has never really presented itself. And I know a lot of people can relate to my story because of all the messages that I’ve had since people have watched the documentary. … From, yes, people that I know, but people that I don’t know, people who say, “I can relate, I have been through that.” It’s taken this process finally for me to feel at my age proud of what I’ve achieved, and also to finally believe that I am enough.

AP: It seems like you spend relatively little time in the series on the Spice Girls years.

BECKHAM: I’m so respectful of my time with the Spice Girls. I still see all of the girls now. I wouldn’t be who I am now … the Spice Girls gave me the confidence to be me. I remember Geri (Halliwell) saying to me, “You’re funny, be funny.” I’m shy. And they really gave me my personality back. … I think people would be surprised to know that I was only a Spice Girl for four years. I’ve been in fashion nearly two decades, but people like to pigeonhole.

AP: Two decades later, do you think there are still people who wonder whether it’s really you doing the designing?

BECKHAM: Maybe. I don’t know. … I think I’ve earned my place to be showing where I am. I think that I’ve more than proved myself and earned the right to be there. Now I have to work hard to maintain that.

AP: You talk about business mistakes you made, even when you were getting top reviews for your fashion.

BECKHAM: I’ve learned so much. I know what I know and I really know what I DON’T know. It got to a stage where my investors told me that we had to re-strategize not just the business side of things but the creative things as well. And that was difficult. … We had to change a lot of things to fix the business and I took it on the chin. Of course that meant compromising, but I wanted to save the business.

AP: How is business doing now, both fashion and beauty?

BECKHAM: Fashion in its own right is profitable. And to be able to say that in this current climate is something I’m very proud of. I’m an independent brand as well, so I’m incredibly proud to say the fashion is making money. Beauty is also doing incredibly well. And now, it is about building the house that I really have always dreamed of.

AP: You speak about family in the show, going back to your father and his influence on your entrepreneurship. But does it annoy you that people like to write about your current family dynamics?

BECKHAM: I recognize that I am really blessed. I am very appreciative of the life I have. You have to take it along with the other stuff.

Spooky season has rolled into South Florida like fog in a graveyard.

Listen closely, you can hear faint screams in the air as haunted attractions do their best to scare the living daylights out of anyone who dares enter.

Frighteningly fun festivals prepare to take over main streets where revelers will strut in their trendy, traditional and sometimes downright outrageous costumes.

Horror flicks take over a cinema screen, a murderous musical comes to the stage, and concerts by candlelight tackle “Thriller” and macabre movie themes.

This is Halloween in South Florida, and it’s not just for the kids. Adults, we know you’re ready to eat, drink and be scary. So we’ve rounded up eerie events that will get you into the spirit — from a twisted 3D funhouse, masquerade and bar crawl to a moonlit cemetery tour and plenty of Halloween night bashes.

Below, get details on ghastly gatherings creeping into Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties through Oct. 31 and beyond. Be sure to check each attraction’s website for information about waivers, age restrictions and other cautions before attending.

WHERE TO GO FOR SCARES

Nightmare Village at Xtreme Action Park, 5300 Powerline Road, Fort Lauderdale, has three new haunted house experiences inside its Ravenswood Haunted Theater on select days through Nov. 1. Meet a demented doll maker in The Final Stitch and a cannibalistic family in The Cellar, or visit the vampire-infested Dead and Breakfast. Tickets are $30 to $40. Visit xtremeactionpark.com.

Now in its 23rd year, Fright Nights returns to the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Boulevard, West Palm Beach, through Nov. 1. The attraction — with four haunted houses, carnival rides, music, food and other entertainment — is open Thursdays to Saturdays. This year’s themes: The Autumn Terror Returns, Nuclear Beats: Frenzy in the Fallout, Watery Grave and The Return of the Cuckoo’s Nest. Scare zones are Scary Christmas and Coven of the Scorned. Cost is $48.50 for general admission, $150 for VIP. Visit myfrightnights.com.

Catskill Haunts, the family owned and operated haunted attraction, has taken over Palm Beach Acres, 16651 Rembrandt Road, Loxahatchee, from 7 to 11 p.m. on select days through Oct. 25. Look for a scare farm, pumpkin maze and three haunted houses: The Haunted Barn, The Slaughterhouse and The Old Farmhouse.  Other activities include bounce houses, hayrides, food trucks, axe throwing and a petting zoo. Tickets are $15; add-ons are available. Visit catskillhaunts.com.

The Horrorland Scream Park has transformed Miami’s Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, into 18 acres of scares from Thursdays to Sundays through Oct. 31 (with one bonus Wednesday, Oct. 29). There are five new haunted houses (Cannibal Creek, Nosferatu, Wasteland Road, The Last Wave Hotel and Grinners Hospital), along with immersive scare zones, cirque-style horror shows and fire performances. Belly up to The Coffin Bar & Ghostly Beer Garden and roam Cemetery Food Village for drinks and snacks. Tickets are $49.99 to $100. Visit thehorrorland.com.

The House of Horror Haunted Carnival takes over 500,000 square feet at Miami International Mall, 1625 NW 107th Ave., Doral, in the shuttered Sears every day through Nov. 2. There are five new haunted attractions — Blood Moon Bayou, Howie’s 3D Playground, Base 13: Undead Frontier, Fear in the Dedlands and Midway Mayhem scare zone — and a carnival with a Scarecoaster, unlimited rides and games, and food and drink options. Tickets are $39 for general admission online and $49 at the door, $20 for age 6 and younger online and $29 at the door. Visit houseofhorrorcarnival.com.

SPOOKY THINGS TO DO

Hear tales of Davie’s past during Spirited History: Halloween Spook-Easy from 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Old Davie School Museum, 6650 Griffin Road. Take a tour, drink signature cocktails, savor hors d’oeuvres and listen to the Moonshyne Players. For guests age 21 and older. Tickets are $25-$30 and must be purchased in advance at olddavieschool.org/event/3015.

Get wild at the Monster Masquerade from 7 to 11 p.m. Oct. 18 at Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152nd St., with a tiger feeding, animal appearances, dance party, costume contest, open bars, food and photo opportunities. For guests age 21 and older. Tickets are $150. Visit zoomiami.org/monster.

Zombie Bar Crawl 2025 is set to begin at 6 p.m. Oct. 18 at LIT bar, 2440 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. A fundraiser for the nonprofit Lantera, which raises awareness and resources for mental health, the event also includes three other bars offering food and drink discounts. For a $20 donation, attendees receive a Zombie Survival Kit, which includes a crawl map and a VIP Lantera bracelet that unlocks food and drink specials throughout the night and perks at future Lantera events. Visit givebutter.com/ZombieCrawlWM2025.

Adults can trick-or-treat during Costumes & Cocktails from 8 to 11 p.m. Oct. 18 at Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach. One signature cocktail, axe throwing and a costume contest also are included with the price of admission: $35 in advance and $40 at the gate. For guests age 21 and older. Visit southfloridafair.com.

The fifth annual Haunting History tour returns to Woodlawn Cemetery, 1301 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, at 7 p.m. Oct. 22 and Oct. 24. Historian Ginger Pedersen and Historical Society of Palm Beach County museum docents tell the stories of pioneers buried there, including some tales of murder and mayhem. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a flashlight, bug repellent and water. Cost is $40; tickets not sold at the gate. Visit pbchistory.org.

The Hollyweird Halloween Festival offers over $10,000 in prizes for its adult costume contest, which is the highlight of the event taking place from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Oct. 25 along Hollywood Boulevard, between 19th and 20th avenues. There will be multiple stages with DJs and bands. Free admission. Visit hollyweirdfestival.com.

Shakes Fear, a presentation of William Shakespeare’s readings by the Shakespeare Troupe of South Florida, will be at 6 p.m. Oct. 29 at the 1926 Historic Bungalow, 3 NE First St., Delray Beach. Presented by the Delray Beach Historical Society. Tickets are $12. Refreshments will be served. Visit delraybeachhistory.org.

SHOWS

Loxen Entertainment’s production of Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein: The Monster Musical” comes alive from through Oct. 19 at the Colony Theatre, 1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Tickets are $35 to $83. Visit loxen.org.

“Little Shop of Horrors” has one weekend of performances left at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Shows are set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 18 and 2 p.m. Oct. 19. Tickets are $40; dinner/show: $66 to $116. Visit lakeworthplayhouse.org.

Entr’Acte Theatrix presents “The Rocky Horror Show” through Oct. 26 at CAST Theatre Co., 7429 S. Military Trail, Lake Worth. The cult classic stage musical has performances at 7 and 11 p.m. on select days. Advance value seating is $25 ($30 at the door), $35 standard ($40) and $50 VIP ($55). Visit linktr.ee/entractetheatrix.

Thinking Cap Theatre’s “Lizzie, The Musical” is a musical exploration of the 1892 trial of Lizzie Borden, who was accused of murdering her parents with an axe. Performances will take place on select days and times from Oct. 18 to Nov. 1 at the Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center, 1770 Monroe St. Tickets start at $45. Visit thinkingcaptheatre.org.

Ginger Minj, Jujubee and Sapphira Cristál star in “Hokus Pokus Live!”, a fully scripted theatrical experience, at 8 p.m. Oct. 19 at The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St, Fort Lauderdale. The Sanderson Sisters, along with Landon Cider as Billy, come to life on stage with comedy and music. For guests age 18 and older. Tickets start at $70.21. Visit parkerplayhouse.com.

Step into the immersive atmosphere of Candlelight concert experiences, with a string quartet performing spooky songs surrounded by a sea of candles:

• A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics will be Oct. 24 at The Sanctuary Church FTL, 1400 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, and Saturday, Oct. 25, at Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest; Hope Community Church, 1700 NW 98th Ave., Pembroke Pines, and First Presbyterian Church of WPB, 301 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. Times and costs vary. Visit candlelightexperience.com.
• Warner Bros. Horror Classics will feature themes from “The Lost Boys,” “The Shining,” “Doctor Sleep,” “Final Destination: Bloodlines,” “The Conjuring Universe,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” “Friday the 13th” and “The Exorcist.” The concert takes place at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 18, at The Sanctuary Church FTL, 1400 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are $24-$64. Visit candlelightexperience.com.

See Haunted Illusions created before your eyes by master illusionist David Caserta at 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive. Audience participation, moving lights, themed music soundtrack and pyro-smoke effects are part of the show. Tickets are $61 to $93. Visit thecentercs.com.

“Something Wicked,” a Halloween-themed concert presented by South Florida Pride Bands and the Bears of South Florida, will showcase three concert bands and a full percussion section at 7 p.m. Oct. 26 at The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale. It will feature songs from “Wicked,” “The Witches of Eastwick,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “A Nightmare Before Christmas” and “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” among others. Tickets are $53.10. Visit parkerplayhouse.com.

Performances of “Misery,” the stage adaptation of the Stephen King novel, are coming to the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, 1001 E. Indiantown Road, Jupiter, on select dates from Oct. 26 to Nov. 9. Tickets are $45 to $103. Get to the theater early for the Creature Features pre-show experience with clips from classic horror films and themed vignettes (free with admission). Visit jupitertheatre.org.

Mary Lou’s Presents: Dead Sirens Society Halloween Warehouse Party, with Snakehips as the DJ headliner, will be Nov. 1 at the Northwood Art & Music Warehouse, 933 28th St., West Palm Beach. From 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., the event will feature a “Drowned Decadence” theme with partygoers encouraged to dress as a mermaid, siren, pirate or other nautical muse with a Halloween twist. Tickets are $83.49 for general admission and $165.99 for VIP. Visit posh.vip/e/dead-sirens-society.

The Vampire Circus extends the spooky season at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale. The show combines circus, cabaret and theater in a 90-minute journey through Dracula’s world — all created by Cirque du Soleil veteran Francisco Santos. Tickets are $53.10 to $88.50. Visit parkerplayhouse.com.

HAPPENINGS ON HALLOWEEN NIGHT

Produced by The Pride Center at Equality Park in Wilton Manors, the Wicked Manors block party will be from 6 to 11 p.m. Oct. 31, taking over Wilton Drive from Northeast 21st Court to North Dixie Highway. Costumed revelers party and enjoy music from two stages. General admission is $12 advance, $15 at the gate, premium general admission tickets are $36 (advance-purchase-only) and VIP tickets are $125 advance and $150 at the gate. Visit wickedmanors.org.

Watch classic horror movies during the Halloween Spooktacular starting at 7 p.m. Oct. 31 at Savor Cinema, 503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale. There will be music and dancing in the courtyard, and an open bar and snacks. Attire is Halloween chic. Cost is $60. Visit fliff.com.

Proceeds from the Night of the Giving Dead Halloween costume party — from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at The Addison, 2 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton — will benefit student scholarships. The event is put on by Florida Atlantic University’s Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters and the FAU Alumni Association. Tickets are $150 and include food, a full open bar, and a band and DJ. For guests age 21 and older. Visit fauf.fau.edu/givingdead.

A costume contest with cash and prizes is part of the 11th Annual Halloween Bash starting at 9 p.m. Oct. 31 at Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill, 3115 NE 32nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale. For guests age 21 and older. Cover is $10 (includes one drink ticket). Visit bokampers.com.

Enjoy A Perfectly Wicked Evening, a concert featuring stars of “Wicked” and other Broadway favorites, at 8:30 p.m. Oct. 31, and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 W. Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Performers include Carrie St. Louis (Glinda), Christine Dwyer (Elphaba) and Matt DeAngelis (“Waitress,” “Swept Away” and “Hair”). Tickets start at $31.70. Costumes are encouraged for the Halloween night show. Visit thestudioatmiznerpark.org.

Rock out at The Skullapalooza Party from 3 to 10:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at Galuppi’s, 1103 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, with a costume contest and two music stages. The headliner is The Railz, a Randy Rhoads/Ozzy Osbourne tribute band. Presented by Big 105.9 FM and Galuppi’s. Free general admission (upgrades are $25-$75). Visit galuppis.com.

Ready to crack into some Florida stone crabs? The first harvests of the season landed at restaurants, wholesalers and seafood markets on Thursday morning, and bargain-seeking buyers have reason to … shell-ebrate: Costs are even with last season, continuing a trend of stable prices set in 2023 and 2024.

Seafood purveyors from Broward and Palm Beach counties are reporting robust hauls and even stronger consumer demand, with some shortages of medium-sized claws in the opening days. So far, crabbing vessels on the Gulf Coast and Florida Keys have pulled traps under clear skies and mild weather, unlike the turbulent storms that affected the start of the 2024 season.

For Peter Jarvis, owner of high-end wholesaler Triar Seafood in Hollywood, cautious optimism over his potential crab haul turned into relief when more than half of his 700-pound order arrived about 10 a.m. Thursday. His new prices: $35 per pound for medium, $45 for large, $55 for jumbo and $79 for colossal — the same price customers paid at the tail end of last season.

“There weren’t as many mediums as everyone expected in the traps, but over all, it’s been pretty good,” said Jarvis, whose Day 1 haul is being shipped out to 700 restaurant clients around the country that had pre-ordered. “Pretty much everything that was caught is already spoken for.”

During the 2025-26 season, which began Wednesday and continues through May 1, most of Florida’s stone crabs will be caught in muddy waters off the Gulf Coast, Florida Keys and Florida’s Big Bend, with some fisheries laying traps near Miami and the Bahamas. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission abridged its season by two weeks back in 2020 (ending May 1 instead of May 15) to curb overfishing and give crabs more time to regenerate their claws.

Florida law allows harvesting both claws of a crab if they meet the FWC’s minimum-size requirement of 2 7/8 inches. However, taking just one is better for sustainability, said Dave MacLennan, co-owner of Even Keel Fish Shack in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

At his restaurant, the claws come pre-cracked and served with housemade mustard sauce, dill aioli and lemon.

MacLennan, who’s also grappling with a shortage of medium-sized claws, said he’s asked servers to recommend the large-sized claws all weekend. He is charging $9 per medium claw and $15 per large and has no jumbo or colossal in stock yet.

But he has a tip for savvy buyers: With stone crabs claws, bigger isn’t always better.

“The jumbo-sized claws are not as tender as the mediums and larges, and they can be tougher and stringy,” MacLennan said. “But the larges have more crab meat than mediums and taste sweeter.”

Chef André Bienvenu, who left his job at Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach after 26 years to open Catch & Cut in Fort Lauderdale earlier this year, said he received 100 pounds on Thursday but “almost no mediums.”

His theory: “Typically, this means the claws have had more time to regenerate, so you’ll find bigger sizes closer to shore,” said Bienvenu, who’s charging $62 for four large claws and $89 for two jumbos. “We had a feeling the catch would be abundant because our suppliers said the crabs were crawling into the lobster traps, too.”

Compared with restaurants, stone crab prices are cheaper at seafood markets, which sell the crustacean delicacy uncracked and packed on ice. That’s the case at Captain Clay & Sons Seafood Market in Delray Beach, which is charging $31.99 a pound for medium, $39.99 for large, $56.99 for jumbo and $64.99 for colossal.

Pent-up demand always stirs up a frenzy of sales in the first two weeks of stone crab season, but prices often drop by early November, market co-owner Clay Brand said.

“Prices are a bit more expensive than I like them to be by a few dollars, but they should come down in a couple of weeks,” said Brand, who received all 300 pounds he ordered from fisheries in the Keys and West Coast.

So where can the biggest per-pound bargains be found? Call ahead to confirm pricing, but Pop’s Fish Market in Deerfield Beach said they’re charging $29.99 for medium, $45.99 for large, $59.99 for jumbo and $65.99 for colossal.

Not far behind is Delaware Chicken Farm & Seafood Market in Hollywood, with $32.99 for medium, $42.99 for large, $64.99 for jumbo and $67.99 for colossal.

Hunting for all-you-can-eat dinners? Billy’s Stone Crab in Hollywood is selling one for all sizes starting at $140 per person. Meanwhile, Catfish Deweys in Oakland Park has an all-you-can-eat offer of $109 per person.

“It’s looking good so far,” owner Dewey Culbreth said. “The amount of interest so far today tells me I’ll probably sell out an hour before closing time.”