Donning her signature red bow, global pop phenom Hello Kitty joins Universal Studios Hollywood, taking up residence at The Entertainment Capital of L.A. in the theme park’s all-new, and now open, Animation Studio Store.
In true Hollywood fashion, the spotlight shines brightly on Hello Kitty and her friends from Sanrio, including My Melody, Keroppi, and Chococat, as they star in a selection of park-exclusive merchandise, including accessories, apparel, stationery, souvenirs, and collectibles.
An array of delectable confectionery—prepared fresh daily—is also available, including such tasty treats as Hello Kitty, Chococat and Keroppi themed s’mores, and a variety of Hello Kitty themed fudge, cupcakes and caramel apples.
Highlights of the exclusive product offerings feature designs incorporating Sanrio characters into classic Universal titles such as Jaws, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, Back to the Future and more, as well as the group enjoying a variety of Universal Studios Hollywood theme park attractions, from the world-famous Studio Tour to “Jurassic Park—The Ride” and “King Kong 360 3D.” New park-exclusive merchandise will be released regularly.
The shop also features the popular Hello Kitty Build-A-Bow display, inviting guests to customize their design from a selection of colorful bow options. Guests purchasing any Sanrio item will also receive a complimentary Hello Kitty Hollywood-themed temporary tattoo, which mirrors Sanrio’s ‘small gift, big smile’ philosophy that is demonstrated globally across all Sanrio’s retail stores and special events.
Hello Kitty will also make special appearances just outside the entrance of the Animation Studio Store. Making her Hollywood debut in a red pleated dress embellished with film strips, Hello Kitty will meet and greet fans near a collection of Sanrio-themed topiaries, including My Melody, Keroppi and Chococat, and window displays featuring the characters making movies and enjoying the Universal Studios Hollywood experience.
In addition to Hello Kitty, the Animation Studio Store will feature an array of merchandise from Illumination Entertainment films, including Minions from the blockbuster Despicable Me film franchise, and DreamWorks Animation, including memorable items from Kung Fu Panda. A selection of products from other favorite animations will also be available, including Dr. Seuss, Scooby-Doo, Curious George, SpongeBob SquarePants and “The Simpsons.”
The Animation Studio Store sits at the heart of Universal Studios Hollywood in a new 6,000 square foot structure that draws its inspiration from California Mission revival architecture reminiscent of the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s. Fusing style with whimsy, the retail environment weaves nimble animated characters into the fabric of the Spanish architectural design from the wood detailing to the stucco, wrought iron and painted tiles.