Disney is taking the excitement for its live action adaptation of Moana around the globe.
Following a worldwide launch event in Hawaii earlier this month, stars Dwayne Johnson, Catherine Laga’aia, and director Thomas Kail traveled to Australia and China this week to celebrate the film’s upcoming theatrical debut on July 10.
The Australian celebration took place at ICC Sydney, where fans were treated to a special evening honoring the Pacific cultures that inspired the beloved story. The event featured a live performance from Opetaia Foa’i, who co-wrote the original Moana songs alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda and Mark Mancina, accompanied by his band Te Vaka.
Also attending were choreographer and associate producer Tiana Nonosina Lifuau and assistant choreographer Kayla Fa’amamalii, helping showcase the rich traditions, music, and culture that have always been at the heart of Moana. Johnson, Laga’aia, and Kail also posed for photos at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Icebergs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Earlier in the week, Johnson made a stop in Shanghai, China, where he greeted fans during a Moana-themed event at Shanghai Disney Resort and participated in a special photo opportunity at The Bund, one of the city’s most recognizable waterfront landmarks.
The new live action film follows Moana (Catherine Laga’aia) as she answers the Ocean’s call once again, embarking on a dangerous voyage beyond the reef of Motunui alongside the legendary demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson). Directed by Thomas Kail, the film is produced by Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Fans can also look forward to the brand new original song “Along the Way,” written by Lin-Manuel Miranda and performed by Laga’aia, Johnson, and Auli’i Cravalho, along with returning music from Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina.
Disney’s live action Moana sails exclusively into theaters on July 10.
Source: Walt Disney Studios Press Release
