After 23 years, the Lion King is one of the most beloved Disney films of all time. It has set records for highest grossing animated film of all time, has produced one of the most successful Broadway acts in history, and has become a staple with fans in countless ways.
Fans eagerly listen in on the excitement of the Lion King.
This past weekend, fans got a chance to relive some of the moments that lead up to the film’s release and learn a bit more about the process of creating the epic story. With special appearances by the film’s director, Rob Minkoff, producer, Don Hahn, animators Tony Bancroft, and Mark Henn, the world of Simba and the Pridelands was brought into the spotlight with some fun new facts and revelations.
Fans had a chance to sing a long to their favorite Lion King songs to celebrate the film’s 23rd anniversary.
One of those facts came from the studio animators’ faith in the picture. 1994 was the first year that Walt Disney Pictures attempted to release two major motion pictures rather than just focus on a single project. Alongside The Lion King, Pocahontas was being drawn and drafted. Given the history and the power of Pocahontas, many senior animators weren’t available to focus on Lion King. Little would they know that the movie would surpass expectations and become such an iconic addition to the Disney canon.
The Lion King has even found its way into the new version of Disneyland’s Fantasmic that premiered during this year’s D23 Expo.
Later in the show, fans got a chance to hear from the voice of Pumbaa, Ernie Sabella. Laughter was not in short supply, and fans had the opportunity to study the comic styles of both Sabella and Nathan Lane. Originally auditioning for the roles of the Hyenas, Sabella could not have anticipated the opportunity and ran with what could only be described as pure comedic genius.
A surprise visit from new Disney Legend, Whoopi Goldberg also took place. Producer, Don Hahn, even gave the crowd a special viewing of Whoopi’s recording session for “Be Prepared”.
Whoopi takes the stage to the surprise of the audience.
To wrap up the panel, singer Carmen Twillie performed “The Circle of Life” along with a huge wave of excited fans dressed up to in bright colors.
“The Circle of Life” is performed to the delight of the entire crowd.
The choir sang, clapped, and smiled brightly into the crowds, which was a very touching tribute to not only the film, but to the millions of fans that span the globe. After all these years, The Lion King still touches so many, and this panel was a shining example that all we need to do is “remember…”
A new beginning appears to be forming for Once Upon a Time fans according to the show’s creators Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz. For those who have seen the season six finale, there are a lot of questions about what will come next in the epic fairy tale series.
The group discuss what’s to come in the upcoming season.
The show’s latest season will focus on Henry and a “new” Enchanted Forest. As an adult, he will come to face new challenges and despite not revealing too much about the newest set of adventures, the creators did point out it’s a direction they are very excited about.
The biggest reveal was that we would see familiar characters in different forms. This includes Henry’s love interest, Cinderella. Along with many others, Cinderella will hold an alternate backstory than in previous seasons.
Henry’s love interest is revealed to be a different version of Cinderella.
Kitsis and Horowitz were quick to say that the new season is not rebooting or replacing the previous seasons. Instead, it will explore the reality of all fairytales in that there’s more than one version to every story.
Colin charms the crowd at D23.
The panel was filled with lots of fun moments that included show trivia, behind the scenes surprises, as well as a special musical filled session with show front-runner, Colin O’Donoghue. Reprising his epic song of revenge from the sixth season, O’Donoghue wrapped up the panel with cheers and full attention from the entire audience.
The upcoming seventh season will also provide more details into Hook’s uncertain future and provide us all with answers to how the show will handle a new universe of heroes and villains. It’s going to be a new chapter a lot of people are going to be excited to learn more about in the coming months.
Comic Con is getting a run for its money this year. Mickey and the Gang came out in full force this past weekend. Over the course of the three-day event, there were a lot of unforgettable moments that included film announcements, anniversary celebrations, musical performances, and so much more.
Dancing with the Stars performers rock the house at the Disney Legends Ceremony.
My third outing to D23 Expo, I couldn’t be happier with the wonderful mix of new updates and classic nostalgia that makes Disney such an enduring brand.
Starting off the weekend, I was able to attend this year’s Disney Legends Ceremony. This was my first time being able to join in the celebration. I couldn’t be more thrilled to share in the excitement with the rest of the adoring fans in the crowd. Tears were shed; laughter filled the room, and every single person at the ceremony felt a real sense of joy.
From Oprah, to Stan Lee, to Carrie Fisher, we not only got to catch a glimpse into how they contributed to the Disney Brand, but also had the opportunity to see the realities and triumphs that really makes every inductee deserving of the title Legend.
Fans remember Carrie Fisher in a touching tribute.Fans try to catch a glimpse of Stan Lee during the Disney Legends Ceremony
As seen all over the Internet, both animated and live action showcases brought the house down. It’s safe to say there is no shortage of great movies coming our way within the next two years. In addition to the expected slate of films, including Wreck it Ralph 2, Star Wars Episode VIII, Frozen 2, and Black Panther, we also got a chance to see some unexpected ideas. A Wrinkle in Time, lead by an all star cast that includes this year’s Disney Legend, Oprah Winfrey, will be a huge step forward for the brand. An original idea and adaptation from the classic novel, Disney will get a chance to diversify in a way that many should be pleased with.
Mary Poppins will return to the big screen in a practically perfect way along with some fresh faces that are not only included on screen, but also behind the scenes. A whole new musical accompaniment will be joining the film that will play tribute to the Sherman Brother’s classic work on the original movie. Fans were surprised with a teaser trailer that had a live performance from the new film’s composer, Marc Shaiman. The musical world of Mary Poppins is sacred to so many, and it’s safe to say that Shaiman will be adding to the legacy that Richard and Robert Sherman had so masterfully made.
However, taking a turn around the corner, you might have had a chance to discover some other gems with some of the smaller panels being held at this year’s event.
One of those wonderful sessions was with the minds and experts behind Pirates of the Caribbean. Celebrating 50 years of the original attraction, fans got a chance to sit down with Marty Sklar, Tony Baxter, Orlando Ferrante, Kim Irvine, Luc Mayrand, and Nancy Seruto.
From updates to Shanghai, plenty to discuss at the Pirates 50th Anniversary Panel.
This intimate panel reviewed Walt’s original vision for the attraction along with the changes and adaptations that have turned it into a Disney Parks classic. Yet, there was a sense of mixed feelings in the room, as many fans booed the mention of Disneyland’s latest announcement of removing the infamous auction scene.
One of the most striking moments of the entire weekend came from that panel, as Marty Sklar quickly reminded the booing fans that Disneyland is always changing. He went on to say that he is glad the attraction is not the same concept he had originally worked on. The crowd was silenced, and it was a powerful moment that will not be soon forgotten. Walt constantly made changes, perfected original ideas, and wasn’t afraid to evolve. In short, Disneyland is not a museum, but a living, breathing work of art.
Panels, such as the Pirates 50th anniversary celebration, are great opportunities to get insider information, as well as stories that helped shape how Disney has become such an important part of our lives. If you ever get a chance to attend a future convention, definitely give these panels a chance.
Imagineering had a special Water Ceremony for the new “Pirates” attraction in Shanghai. Waters from each attraction around the world were brought in to christen the latest addition to the Pirates legacy.
Another great aspect of this year’s D23 was the throwbacks to films like Hercules, and the Lion King. As both are coming up on landmark anniversaries, the convention hosted two amazing events for the movies. This included talks with the original cast and crew along with some never before seen behind the scenes footage.
A touching reunion of epic proportions.Hercules and Meg together again!A quick look at the animation styles of Meg
Similar to last D23’s ending to A Goofy Movie’s 20th Anniversary panel, both crowds for the Hercules and Lion King panels got a surprise musical finale. Susan Egan rocked the house with her famous rendition of “I Won’t Say” and Carmen Twillie brought along a huge chorus of fans to sing the “Circle of Life” to end festivities for The Lion King.
Fans had a chance to sing a long to their favorite Lion King songs to celebrate the film’s 23rd anniversary.“The Circle of Life” is performed to the delight of the entire crowd.
Going beyond the films, fans got a first look at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which will be one of the largest expansions for the parks. Spanning over 14 acres, Disneyland will have 3 entrances to the land, which will also create a full circle path throughout the park that will connect the previously dead end in Critter Country. A full 3D model was on display along with other concept art and speeches from Imagineering.
A look at the amazing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge model.
With no solid opening date, fans have plenty to be excited about along with an unimaginable amount of anticipation. Star Wars Land won’t be the only new addition to the Parks and Resorts slate, as we say goodbye to the Great Movie Ride and Paradise Pier to make way for a new Mickey Mouse Attraction and a Pixar related theme to help push Disney Hollywood Studios and Disney California Adventure into the future.
Along with all the juicy updates, a very special viewing of Fantasmic was provided to all attendees of the Parks and Resorts event. Saturday and Sunday engagements blew the crowd away with new scenes that include moments from Aladdin, The Lion King, and Pirates of the Caribbean. We were able to catch a glimpse, and were thrilled to be a part of the magic! With summer shows starting this week, it’s definitely going to be exciting to have Fantasmic back!
Flynn and Rapunzel take the place of Snow White and Prince Charming in the new version of Fantasmic.Time to celebrate!An epic finale!Jack Sparrow comes to the scene!
To wrap up the weekend, Alan Menken performed two fully booked concert performances in the main hall. Unlike D23’s past joint concert with Menken and Richard Sherman, this show was a full focus on Menken’s phenomenal career that included special tributes to his long-term partner and friend, Howard Ashman.
The show had a very personal atmosphere, and the crowd joined Menken in singing and cheering tunes from his entire library that included Little Shop of Horrors, Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, and so many more.
Menken thanked his fans with a special encore going over announcements for his work on the newly announced Little Mermaid live action adaptation as well as Aladdin. Lin-Manuel Miranda will be joining Menken in creating new songs for The Little Mermaid, which was met with thunderous applause. For Aladdin, Benji Pasek and Justin Paul from La La Land fame will be penning some fresh tunes.
Event wise, it was a total success and D23 was a full weekend of moments that are just as memorable as in years past. Every convention draws a bigger following, and it will be interesting to see what the future holds. There was so much to see, so much to do, and so many precious memories to take home.
Christopher Nolan is back, with what may be his most bold and experimental film to date, Dunkirk. Based on the true events of British and French soldiers stuck in Dunkirk, France, during World War II. Stranded waiting for help, and the German forces stopping those coming to rescue the soldiers at every movie, hope seems lost for those left on the beach. Nolan has taken a point in history that’s widely forgotten by many, and put it together in only a way that he could. This is far from a typical war film, and much more of an experience that puts the viewer into the events that transpired at Dunkirk.
The fact that Dunkirk is such an experimental film is going to make it something that’s a bit divisive, but makes it wholly original. Nolan has crafted a film that is low on dialogue, and to be honest, low on character and story, in order to create a film that feels like you’re there. The idea of having mostly nameless characters makes you feel like these soldiers could have been anyone you know. There’s something to be said about that approach to the film, and it’s a double edged sword for the viewer. While the idea of having nameless characters to make the audience feel as if they’re one of these soldiers works on a certain level, it also alienates the audience to a certain degree. Without a core character to really get behind, or really knowing these soldiers, it’s hard to really care about them. But, that seems to be the concise idea behind the film, and Nolan pulls it off in an interesting way.
It’s just so strange to be getting actors like Tom Hardy, Kenneth Branagh, Mark Rylance, Cillian Murphy, and James D’Arcy in the cast and giving them so little dialogue throughout. Though, Branagh seems to be the one who comes out ahead in that regard, as he’s used for much of the film’s exposition throughout, trying to keep the audience clued in on what’s happening. But every actor brings their best throughout, even first time actor Harry Styles, to their characters. It’s actually impressive how much these actors are able to do with so little dialogue. Nolan works hard to get the best out of every actor, and honestly, this movie wouldn’t work if you didn’t at least buy into the characters in some way. Though you don’t get to know them, you do feel for them, and that’s because you recognize these familiar faces.
The truth is, Dunkirk isn’t really a film about these characters, or even the story. This is a movie that’s about putting the audience in the middle of this event. It’s supposed to make you feel like you’re a part of that, and that’s what Nolan does best with this film. Shot almost entirely in IMAX, Nolan crafts something that is tense, gripping, and at times will leave the audience trying to find time to breathe. It’s incredibly impressive what he’s crafted on that level alone with cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema. The way the movie is shot puts the audience right in the middle of this conflict, and it rarely lets up. The movie is absolutely relenting at times, leaving the audience caught in the middle of this dreaded situation. Nolan has gone above and beyond as a director, and in terms of what he’s accomplished behind the camera as a filmmaker, this may be his best work yet.
The only other thing that may leave audiences a little cold is the film’s narrative, which is as experimental as anything else. This isn’t a straightforward storyline by any means, and Nolan has meticulously crafted a broken narrative into something exhilarating. But because of the way the story is told, it doesn’t always make sense. It can shift between storylines so quickly that it might leave the audience disoriented and confused, which again, seems to actually be Nolan’s intent. He really wants to make the audience feel like they’re in this as knee deep as the soldier’s, and by letting the story play out that way, the audience sees the conflict from every angle. It’s a fascinating way to break down this story, but much of the time, it works. There’s some parts of the story that don’t quite always gel together, but it works more often than it doesn’t, which is really what matters for the film.
Dunkirk is simply put, masterclass filmmaking by Nolan. While the movie doesn’t always fire on all cylinders, it’s still amazing what he was able to put together. This film is an experience more than anything, and that alone makes it well worth seeing. The cast is excellent throughout, even if they aren’t given much character work, or even much dialogue. But that’s the beauty of the film is that the audience is living through this with everyone else, and they’re just another nameless character stuck in Dunkirk. This will certainly be one of the most unique films of the year, and will be one that will be talked about for many years to come.
Today, Disney Vacation Club opens its newest expansion to the Disney Vacation Club Resort options with Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. The new DVC resort offers one of the widest ranges of accommodation types at Walt Disney World Resort. Copper Creek Villas & Cabins features 184 rustically elegant accommodation options, including Deluxe Studios, one- and two-bedroom Villas, three-bedroom Grand Villas and unique Waterfront Cabins. “Copper Creek Villas & Cabins offers members and guests a uniquely designed and exquisitely appointed home base for their Walt Disney World vacation, and it is truly a gem in the growing Disney Vacation Club portfolio,” said Ken Potrock, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club. “This resort offers the best of everything, including immersive theming, accommodations in a variety of sizes to suit any type of family, high-quality amenities, and the ideal waterfront location that is just around the river bend from Magic Kingdom Park.” Inspired by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the resort features natural elements, such as wood and stone, in its design, as well as subtle nods to the American transcontinental railroad. The Deluxe Studios offer room for up to four guests, while the larger one- and two-bedroom Villas and three-bedroom Grand Villas seamlessly blend the comforts of home with the wonders of the wilderness to create a tranquil retreat for families of any size. Each Villa is thoughtfully designed with today’s families in mind offering full kitchens, expanded storage space for belongings, and private patios or balconies with scenic views. The 26 all-new luxurious waterfront Cascade Cabins are the centerpiece of the resort. These two-bedroom, two-bath cabins sleep up to eight, offering modern luxuries with a homey, yet upscale feel. Large dining and living room spaces, along with a screened-in wraparound porch, allow for plenty of space for families. Amenities throughout the cabins include a full kitchen, flat panel televisions, a washer and dryer, a hidden pull-down bed featuring artwork of Chip and Dale, a built-in hot tub on the porch, an indoor/outdoor fireplace and a number of special Disney touches. The resort is a short water taxi ride away from Magic Kingdom Park, and offers easy bus access to the rest of the Walt Disney World Resort, making it the ideal home base for families looking to explore a wide range of new Disney attractions, including the recently opened Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and the reimagined Disney Springs retail, dining and entertainment district. While staying at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, guests have shared access to all of the amenities and activities available just steps away at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Geyser Point Bar & Grill, which opened earlier this year, offers picturesque views of Bay Lake, as well as explorer-worthy feasts and trails-end spirits in an open-air lounge. Roaring Fork, the resort’s original quick-service restaurant, has recently reopened featuring a refreshed look and expanded outdoor seating.
The resort’s new leisure pool, Boulder Ridge Cove Pool, is themed to the legendary mining history of the Northwest featuring a zero-depth entry pool, a whirlpool spa and first-come, first-served cabanas. Additionally, a brand-new sports court, BBQ pavilions and a refurbished fire pit and movie area have all joined the lineup of resort amenities. Those in search of extra pampering will want to stop by Salon by the Springs, opening later this year, for pool-side manicures, pedicures and hair services.
We had the chance to check out this new area a few weeks ago and really is like stepping into the great North West… with a touch of Disney of course. The cabins are very cool and secluded from everything else. The new pool offers a calmer atmosphere compared to the other pool but has an awesome quarry overlay that adds to the feel of the new section.
For the first time, Disney Springs will be bringing Christmas in July to life. Beginning July 15 through July 30, 2017, You can find special holiday themed items all throughout Disney Springs.
In July, The Art of Disney is featuring holiday inspired art with artist meet and greets, Dockside Margaritas is pouring the Snowflake Margarita, and Disney’s Days of Christmas is hosting a special meet and greet with Santa. Though he may be dressed for this Florida heat since it’s his off season! “Summer Santa” will be on hand for photographs 1:00pm to 10:00pm. For this limited-time Disney Springs celebration, a DJ will be spinning Christmas-beats and Enjoy Your Face will be celebrating with holiday face painting designs. Even the Disney Springs fountains will be decked for the season. Also, Starbucks in the Marketplace is offering their holiday themed drinks and you can stock up on sweets at Goofy’s Candy Company or Disney’s Candy Cauldron, featuring peppermint bark and gingerbread cookies. You’ll also find a few holiday-themed treats, including Santa Mickey and Minnie specialty apples and krispy treats, to delight children of all ages. Head over to AristoCrepes to indulge in a gingerbread crepe. The festivities don’t end there. UNIQLO is also celebrating their one year anniversary with special events. Now through July 30, 2017, guests can experience a taste of a traditional Japanese night market, complete with prize-winning games, special photo opportunities, origami and calligraphy classes, and more. This event is a first of its kind at UNIQLO, and special activities run from 7:00pm to 11:00pm daily. Visit UNIQLO’s event page event page for more information.
And, if you’re looking for a spot to relax before checking out our nighttime entertainment, multiple venues have enhanced their daily drink special offerings. Throughout the month of July, the bar located inside the House of Blues Restaurant & Bar will offer drink specials daily, from 11:30am to 5:00pm. We shared last week that STK Orlando had rolled out daily drink specials, and now Joffrey’s Tea Traders has also joined in on the fun. Stop by Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s in the Landing between 4:00pm and 7:00pm daily to try discounted “spiked specialties,” including the Kahlua-Tini and Frozen Cappuccino with Bailey’s.
Disney and Jerry Bruckheimer Films present Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales is a rollicking new tale of the high seas, infused with all the elements of fantasy, humor and action that have resulted in an international phenomenon for the past 13 years. Johnny Depp returns to his Academy Award®-nominated role as the outrageous, swashbuckling scoundrel Captain Jack Sparrow, and is joined by Oscar winners Javier Bardem and Geoffrey Rush. It was announced today at D23 Expo, that “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales”—the fifth film in the now-iconic “Pirates of the Caribbean” film franchise—will sail home on Digital in HD and 4K Ultra HD™ on September 19, and on 4K Ultra HD™/Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD and On-Demand on October 3.
Disney announced today at D23 Expo that in August, one of the biggest animated films in history, The Lion King, the coming-of-age masterpiece, filled with humor and heart, breathtaking animation and soul-stirring Academy Award®–winning music (1994: Best Original Score and Best Original Song, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”), joins the highly celebrated Walt Disney Signature Collection. The Lion King roars to Its rightful place in the Walt Disney Signature Collection on Digital Aug. 15th and on Blu-ray™ Aug. 29th.
Audiences will fall in love all over again with the treasured classic, and a new generation of fans will laugh with Timon and Pumbaa, cry with Simba and Mufasa, burst into song, and find their place in the “Circle of Life.” The Walt Disney Signature Collection release includes over three hours of classic bonus material and exclusive, brand new features inviting viewers to sing along with the film’s award-winning music, observe recording sessions, step inside the story room, witness the evolution of a villain, and join Nathan Lane (voice of Timon) and Matthew Broderick (voice of Adult Simba) for an extended conversation regarding the legacy of “The Lion King.”
Check out the surprise entrance that Disney Legend Whoopi made for the event.
Co-creators and executive producers Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz reveal an exclusive photo of Cinderella and adult Henry from the upcoming season of “Once Upon A Time” at the D23 Expo 2017 as well as other photos from the season.
ONCE UPON A TIME – ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” stars Emilie de Ravin as Belle. (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
ONCE UPON A TIME – ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” stars Lana Parrilla as Evil Queen/Regina. (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
ONCE UPON A TIME – ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” stars Josh Dallas as Prince Charming/David. (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
ONCE UPON A TIME – ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” stars Colin O’Donoghue as Hook. (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
ONCE UPON A TIME – ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” stars Jared S. Gilmore as Henry Mills. (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
ONCE UPON A TIME – ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” stars Robert Carlyle as Rumplestiltskin/Mr. Gold. (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
Today, during a presentation at D23 Expo 2017, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media revealed new details about the biggest games in its upcoming slate, and offered first-looks at never-before-seen digital experiences. Hosted by YouTube stars JackSepticEye and Strawburry17, the presentation included discussions with developers from Star Wars™ Battlefront™, KINGDOM HEARTS III, Marvel’s Spider-Man, plus groundbreaking VR and AR gaming experiences for Marvel and Star Wars™. “It’s our mission to bring the magic of Disney into the daily lives of families and fans around the world and, when it comes to games, we’re working with the best developers in the world to create experiences that put fans at the center of the story,” said Jimmy Pitaro, chairman of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. “Gamers and fans of our stories have never had more to look forward to—and our slate has never been stronger.” Highlights from today’s presentation include: · KINGDOM HEARTS III: Square Enix’s famed game director Tetsuya Nomura, revealed KINGDOM HEARTS III will feature the franchise’s first-ever Disney•Pixar world, “Toy Story,” featuring an original story developed exclusively for the game. Disney and Square Enix also surprised fans with the news that the game will release in 2018. · MARVEL Powers United VR: Marvel and Oculus announced MARVEL Powers United VR, a first-person, multiplayer, action virtual reality game where players team up with friends to engage in immersive, explosive cooperative fights from across the Marvel Universe. YouTube star Markiplier made a surprise appearance, as he and Head of Oculus Studios, Steve Arnold, offered the crowd a first look at gameplay. Fans can demo the game next week at San Diego Comic-Con by visiting the Marvel Booth. · Star Wars Augmented Reality Experience: A new chapter in Star Wars experiences was introduced, as Disney and Lenovo gave a first glimpse at a new augmented reality product designed to give fans an opportunity to recapture some of their favorite moments from Star Wars films in ways never before possible.
· Star Wars Battlefront II: Star Wars Battlefront II is bringing an all new hero into the fold with the introduction of Iden Versio, Commander of the Imperial special forces team known as the Inferno Squad. Fans were treated to an appearance by the game’s lead actress Janina Gavankar, who plays Iden, and a member of the Lucasfilm Story Group, Steve Blank. In addition to discussing the single player campaign that tells a story from the unique perspective of the empire, Janina and Steve introduced a new behind-the-scenes look at the development of this original Star Wars story featured in the game.
Today at D23 Expo Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, announced the next planned development for Disney Vacation Club will be an entirely new resort near Epcot called Disney Riviera Resort and that a new skyway transportation system will connect the new resort to other areas on Walt Disney World property. “We’re thrilled to announce plans for a new Disney Vacation Club property called Disney Riviera Resort coming to Walt Disney World Resort,” Chapek said. “Our Vacation Club Members are among our most loyal fans, and we think that they will love what we have planned, especially the rooftop restaurant that will offer unbelievable views of nighttime spectaculars at both Epcot and Hollywood Studios.” In addition, Chapek announced that a whole new transportation system of gondolas is planned, called the Disney Skyliner, to give guests a never-before-seen birds-eye view of Walt Disney World and connect the new Disney Vacation Club property, Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. Estimated to open in fall 2019, this new resort experience is slated to be the 15th Disney Vacation Club property with approximately 300 units spread across a variety of accommodation types. Disney also announced another new transportation system called the ‘Minnie-Van.’ These new cars will take people directly from point to point in Disney style.
Today at D23 Expo 2017, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced an extraordinary line-up of brand new attractions and experiences coming to its parks and resorts around the world as it continues to revolutionize the guest experience, starting from before guests even arrive for a Disney vacation to the many memories that last a lifetime. Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek welcomed nearly 7,000 fans as he unveiled more than a dozen new experiences coming to Disney parks and resorts and gave a sneak peek at much-anticipated projects in development. Several Imagineers joined the presentation by providing details of the creativity, imagination and innovation in development around the world. Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios John Lasseter also shared his enthusiasm for plans to include a larger Pixar presence at Disneyland Resort. In addition to the announcement that Fantasmic! will return to Disneyland Park tonight, two nights early in honor of the Expo, fans were treated to a glimpse of the new “Beauty and the Beast” musical production coming to the Disney Dream on Disney Cruise Line, currently in production in Toronto, and a special one-night-only medley of nostalgic entertainment numbers showcasing the heritage of Disney Parks. “On the heels of the many new and incredibly popular experiences that just debuted this year, the best is yet to come. We have ambitious plans for our parks and resorts around the world,” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We’re investing in the guest experience like never before, and we’re doing it all in way that is only possible at Disney!” From new lodging and transportation options that make getting around more fun, to original storytelling and immersive experiences based on guests’ favorites, Disney continues to provide unparalleled vacation destinations for guests across the globe in even more exciting ways than ever before. Immersive Theme Park Experiences and Attractions An Unprecedented First Look at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Fans were elated to hear their Star Wars stories will come to life in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the newly announced name for the Star Wars-themed lands. Chapek shared exciting new details and a glimpse inside the two anchor attractions, including one that puts guests right in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance where guests will feel like they are inside a hangar bay on a Star Destroyer. Guests will also have the chance to fly the Millennium Falcon, where each guest is critical to the mission’s success. Chapek also revealed many characters that guests will meet, including BB-8, Chewbacca, Rex and Kylo Ren. Representing the largest single-themed land expansion at 14 acres each, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in 2019, with the first land debuting at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, then at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando.
Timeless Transformation of Epcot Revealed Looking ahead to the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, there are grand plans to complete the transformation that started with the debut of New Fantasyland in 2014. Chapek announced exciting plans across Epcot to realize the original vision of the park while making it more timeless and relevant than ever before. Patterned after the number one family attraction at Disneyland Paris, Ratatouille will be added in an all-new space in the France pavilion at World Showcase. Epcot will also see the addition of a brand new E-ticket attraction based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of Guardians of the Galaxy, the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at Walt Disney World Resort. In Future World, a new Green Mission at Mission: SPACE will take guests on a stunning tour around the Earth, and an updated Orange Mission will make the trip to Mars even more spectacular. Adjacent to Mission: Space will be a new restaurant that will invite guests to travel high above the earth for an unforgettable dining experience. More Thrills than Ever Planned for Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom Disney remains at the cutting edge of deeply immersive, creative storytelling that draws guests into new worlds, and it is a legacy that lives on in every new Disney Parks experience. The first-ever Mickey-themed ride-through attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, will come to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With a new original story and lovable attraction theme song, this new state-of-the-art ride-through attraction will take guests on a journey inside the wacky and unpredictable world of Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts using new technologies that transform the flat cartoon world into an incredible dimensional experience. Chapek also announced that the highest rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is coming to Walt Disney World Resort. A thrilling, Tron-themed attraction will be added in a new area near Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom. Additionally, a new live entertainment theater coming to Main Street, U.S.A., based on the iconic Willis Theater in 1920s Kansas City, will bring world-class entertainment to the world’s most popular park.
Pixar Fun at the Happiest Place on Earth In addition to announcing the summer 2018 opening of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Chapek was joined by Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios John Lasseter to unveil plans for Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure, where the pier will take on a brand new look as more favorite Pixar characters and stories come to life, from The Incredibles, to Inside Out to even more Toy Story. Chapek also announced there is more Pixar in store during Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort. Starting in 2018, this limited-time offering will include a new fireworks spectacular as well as special characters and entertainment moments. As part of the celebration, the Pixar Play Parade will return to Disneyland Resort – this time at Disneyland Park – and the fan favorite Paint the Night Parade will move to Disney California Adventure, one of Disney’s longest parade routes. Disney Cruise Line to Double the Size of its Fleet by 2023 Chapek surprised the crowd by announcing that Disney Cruise Line will add one more ship in its expansion to take family cruise vacations to a whole new level. Joining the other two new ships that were announced just last year, all three ships will be powered by one of the cleanest-burning fuels available, liquefied natural gas. When all three ships are completed by 2023, Disney Cruise Line will have nearly doubled the size of the fleet. Immersive Hotel Concepts Among the announcements were projects that infuse even more exciting experiences for resort hotel guests in ways that are only possible at Disney. To the delight of fans, Chapek confirmed ambitious plans to create the most experiential concept ever in an immersive Star Wars-themed hotel at Walt Disney World Resort. Dedicated entirely to the galaxy of Star Wars, it will be a one-of-a-kind experience where a luxury resort meets a multi-day adventure in a galaxy far, far away. Adding to the immersive resort hotel slate, Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel at Disneyland Paris will transport guests to the action-packed world of Super Heroes, including Iron Man, The Avengers, Spider-Man and more. Guests will be able to explore the Marvel Universe through its comic art, films, Super Hero costumes and more, displayed in the style of a contemporary art gallery. Leading up to the July 17 opening of Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, Chapek also announced the proposed 15th Disney Vacation Club property, Disney Riviera Resort, coming to Walt Disney World Resort near Epcot. Seamless Transportation Options Completing the immersion so guests never have to leave the story while on a Disney vacation, Chapek announced plans that will make getting around Walt Disney World Resort even more fun. An all-new Minnie Van service will provide a point-to-point transportation service in a way that only Disney can do, giving guests an even more seamless resort vacation from start to finish. Additionally, a whole new transportation system called Disney Skyliner will give guests a birds-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort. This brand new system will connect Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts, as well as the proposed new Disney Riviera Resort, with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot.
With so many new attractions and experiences coming, its hard for us to decide which is our favorite! Which of these are you most excited about?
Disney Legend, author and Cal State Fullerton alumna Martha Blanding will speak at a CSUF commencement ceremony for the College of Humanities and Social...
