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Sunday, April 30, 2017

Inside Look at Pandora: The World of Avatar; Jungle Cruise to be Re-Imagined at All Parks

Inside Look at Pandora: The World of Avatar:



Yesterday, Walt Disney World gave a few media members an all-day preview of Pandora: The World of Avatar, the new world opening in less than a month at Disney's Animal Kingdom. During the preview a select group got to experience the new world including riding both new attractions in The Na'vi River Journey and Flight of Passage. 

The group also got to taste the new amazing and exotic cuisine and drinks from the Satu'li Canteen and Pongu Pongu. They even got a chance to step into Windtraders and see the brand new merchandise coming to Pandora: The World of Avatar.






Disney also released another sneak peak of the Na'vi Shaman of Songs inside the new attraction of the Na'vi River Journey where boats seat up to 8 guests.


During Na’vi River Journey, guests float down the river searching for the Shaman of Songs, an incredibly lifelike, nearly ten-foot tall Na’vi woman that plays music and sings as they float by. Music and a connection with nature are so important to the Na’vi in the world of Pandora, and the ride really helps guests feel that connection. - Oh My Disney
Check out this new clip released of the Na'vi Shaman of Songs:



See the Na'vi Shaman of Songs on the Na'vi River Journey and experience Pandora: The World of Avatar when it opens inside Disney's Animal Kingdom on May 27.

Jungle Cruise to be Re-Imagined at Disney Parks Around the World:

Earlier this month, it was revealed officially that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson would be starring in a live-action film based on the classic Disney attraction. Yesterday, Johnson revealed in an Instagram post that he was working with Walt Disney Imagineering to update and re-imagine the classic attraction at Disney Theme Parks around the world. Here is the post:

Grateful SOB to have Walt and Mickey watching over my shoulder as @danygarciaco and I embark on this amazing project. For our big #JungleCruise creative meeting at DISNEY's highly secure R&D facilities, me and @danygarciaco were escorted into THE VAULT. A legitimate vault where all of Disney's biggest secrets and plans are kept. Curtains were pulled back for us to reveal the actual drawn up plans that Walt Disney had his brother, Roy Disney take to New York to present to the bankers in 1950 for the potential loan to build what's now known as Disney Land. Cant imagine what that meeting with bankers was like. Roy: Alright gentlemen, so me and my brother Walt, want to build the greatest multiple theme park attraction in the world. Banker: Oh that seems fun, Mr. Disney. Roy: *smiles in a playful mischievous manner, Oh yes my good man, it will have a few things that are in fact, fun. Well, clearly I don't know how the hell men were actually talking in the 50's, but what I do know is being able to star in and produce #JungleCruise is a dream come true. BUT what takes this to the next level, is that we'll partner with Disney's brilliant Imagineers to help re-engineer and re-design the #JungleCruise ride in all the Disney theme parks around the world. A very special opportunity for us and our @sevenbucksprod to create an unforgettable and fun EXPERIENCE for families around the world. And as Walt Disney himself would say... it's magical. Next step is finding our visionary director. Exciting times. #JungleCruise #TheExperience #DisneyStudios #Imagineers #SevenBucksProds #WaltAndRockWouldveBeenBesties #AndWorkoutBuddies #WaltWouldveLovedMyJackedUpPickUpTruck 😉🤙🏾
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I hope they don't to much to the Jungle Cruise as I like it just the way it is. I just viewed this attraction as untouchable on the MouseLife podcast last week. What does everyone think, do you want to see the Jungle Cruise re-imagined.

Friday, April 28, 2017

New Mickey Mouse Celebration Cakes, The Music of Pixar Live! Dining Packages, & More

New Mickey Mouse Celebration Cakes Coming Soon:

Brand new Mickey Mouse celebration cakes are coming soon to Walt Disney World. The new cakes will be available to order beginning May 17 at Walt Disney World table-service restaurants in decadent chocolate or white chocolate.


Guests celebrating milestones, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and more can purchase the cakes where they can be left blank or a special message such as "Happy Birthday" and "Congratulations" can be added to the left ear of the cake. Each of the cakes serve 4-6 people and costs $35 plus tax and gratuity is possible (where applicable). Advance payment is not required.

Celebration cakes can be added to a new or existing dining reservation by calling 407-WDW-DINE or by inquiring in person at a Walt Disney World Resort concierge desk or restaurant podium. Day-of quantities are limited, so make arrangements prior to dining.


The Music of Pixar LIVE! Dining Packages Now Available:


Dining packages are now available for 'The Music of Pixar Live!', the new limited-time concert debuting at Disney's Hollywood Studios on May 26. Guests who reserve the dining package will receive a voucher for reserved seating to redeem at the theater. You can also combine the package with Fantasmic! and guests will receive reserved seating for both "The Music of Pixar Live!" and "
"Fantasmic!"

Participating locations include Hollywood & Vine (Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine and Minnie’s Seasonal Dine), The Hollywood Brown Derby and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Dining must occur no later than 2.5 hours prior to show time or 1.25 hours after show time; vouchers can be picked up at the restaurant (if dining prior to show time) or at the theater (if dining after the show). “The Music of Pixar LIVE!” Dining Package is Disney Dining Plan eligible and counts as one (1) table-service entitlement for Hollywood & Vine and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, two (2) table-service entitlements for The Hollywood Brown Derby.

Guests can make reservations for the dining package by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Incredibles Super Dance Party to be Replaced with 'Cosmic Dance Party':


The Incredibles Super Dance Party is ending and is being replaced with a new dance party in Tomorrowland called, 'Cosmic Dance Party.' The new dance party will debut later this spring and will include a refurbishment of RocketTower Plaza Stage.

Guests still will be able to meet Mr. Incredible in Tomorrowland for a limited time from May 1 through May 18. 

Source: Blog Mickey


Thursday, April 27, 2017

Panels at Hall D23 Announced for D23 Expo 2017


Yesterday, we received details on what panels will be held inside Hall D23 (the main expo hall) for this year's D23 Expo. The lineup is filled with some amazing panels and presentations including Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Animation, and one from Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Let's check out the lineup below:

Friday, July 14:

Disney Legends Awards Ceremony (10 a.m.)––Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger will kick off this year’s D23 Expo with the special ceremony that honors this year’s Disney Legends Award recipients. See the full list of 2017 honorees here.

Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios (2:30 p.m.)––See what the artists behind these two acclaimed animation studios are dreaming (and drawing) up. With such an exciting lineup of films––Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-it Ralph 2, Coco, and The Incredibles 2, just to name a few––we’re sure this presentation will be full of surprises.


Saturday, July 15:

The Walt Disney Studios Live-Action Films (10:30 a.m.)––The wonderful worlds of Disney, Marvel and Lucasfilm come together to showcase their exciting slate of upcoming films. At D23 Expo 2015, we got our first glimpses at Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Beauty and the Beast, Doctor Strange, and more fan favorites… We can’t wait to see what’s on deck for this year’s presentation!

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts (3 p.m.)––Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek will take the stage during this presentation to share what’s new and what’s next at Disney Parks and Resorts around the globe.

Sunday, July 16:

A Whole New World of Alan Menken (1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.)––Celebrate the magic of Disney music with Disney Legend and eight-time Oscar®-winner Alan Menken in his brand-new one-man show. Alan will perform his own music and tell tales from his storied career.

All panels are subject to change and more detailed list of all panels and presentations will be out soon. Hall D23 seats 6,800 so tickets will be limited for most panels. The 2017 D23 Expo begins July 14 and runs through July 16 at the Anaheim Convention Center. 

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Final "Cars 3" Trailer Released; Setlist for Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission Breakout! Revealed

Final "Cars 3" Trailer Released:



We are less than two months away from "Cars 3" racing into theaters and today we got a look at the final trailer. It is one last chance and one more dream for Lightning McQueen. Is this the end of a career for the once lightning fast race car?

Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez, with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage!




"Cars 3" races into theaters on June 16, 2017.

Setlist for Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission BREAKOUT! Revealed:


The setlist has been revealed and Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission BREAKOUT! looks to be a rocking hit. The new attraction at Disney California will rise and fall to the tune of some amazing tunes from the 60's, 70's, and early 80's. Check out the list:

  • “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar (1980)
  • “Give Up The Funk” by Parliament (1975)
  • “Born To Be Wild” by Steppenwolf (1968)
  • “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 (1969)
  • “Free Ride” by The Edgar Winters Group (1973)
  • “Burning Love” by Elvis Presley (1972)
Here is what the imagineers had to say about the new attraction:
The multiple ride experiences are the result of extensive research, experimentation and ride testing by the creative team at Walt Disney Imagineering. The team worked from a list of nearly 100 fun, high-energy songs, narrowing the list down to the final six by testing each one in action. Boarding a gantry lift, they donned their own headsets – just like Star-Lord – and played each track to see which songs worked best with potential ride profiles.
“A strong identifiable rhythm and a memorable hook were key points,” explained John Dennis, Executive Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “For example, ‘Free Ride’ has an iconic guitar hook, a killer bass line in the verse and, in the chorus, the backing vocals have a great ascending line. The rock n roll music playing on board the ride is just plain fun. The songs, each paired with its own ride profile, give us six unique experiences.”
The songs enhancing the adventure of Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! aren’t the only ways in which the attraction acknowledges the importance of music in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies. “Guardians of the Galaxy” film composer Tyler Bates wrote the music for The Collector’s Fortress lobby and office scenes, as well as for the attraction exit.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission BREAKOUT! rocks its way into California Adventure on May 27.

Source: Disney Parks Blog


Tuesday, April 25, 2017

From The Lion King to Frozen 2 to Cars 3 to Indiana Jones 5 and More Movie News


Today, Walt Disney Studios made a few major announcements considering release dates for future films. "Frozen 2" will be released on November 27, 2019 and that was just the start of the news announced today. They announced that Star Wars 'Episode IX' will be released May 24, 2019 and most notably in 2019, the live-action version of "The Lion King" will be released on July 19, 2019. 

Also in separate news for "The Lion King," Disney is in talks with Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner to play Timon and Pumbaa. Rogen would play Pumbaa while Eichner would voice Timon. They would join the cast that already consists of Donald Glover Jr. (Simba) and James Earl Jones (Mufasa). 

It was also announced that several films have either been pushed up or pushed back with their release dates. "Indiana Jones 5" was supposed to be released on July 19 but now has been pushed back to July 10, 2020. "A Wrinkle in Time" has been moved up from its original date of April 6, 2018 to March 9, 2018. "Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2" originally held that March 9 release date and has now been moved to November 21, 2018. Finally, "Gigantic" (the animated retelling of Jack and the Beanstock) originally was supposed to be released on November 25, 2020.

2019 will be a big year for Disney as The Lion King, Episode IX, and Frozen 2 will join Toy Story 4 (June 2019), Captain Marvel (March 2019), and Avengers 4 (May 2019). 

More news came out as a new "Cars 3" trailer will be released tomorrow. Check out the teaser for the trailer below:
Pixar's "Cars 3" is set to race into theaters June 16, 2017.

Monday, April 24, 2017

Free Dining Confirmed Plus New Room Only Offer at Walt Disney World


Yesterday, I reported that free dining at Walt Disney World would be announced today and that has been official. The major change has happened with Deluxe Resort guests only receiving the Free Basic Dining Plan and Value and Moderate Resort guests receiving the Quick Service Dining Plan for free. Please Note: Guests can upgrade to the Basic Dining Plan for a fee. 

Here are the full details and dates for the free dining offer:
Receive a Free Quick Service or Disney Dining Plan when you purchase a three night minimum non-discounted package that includes a room at a select Walt Disney World Resorts and a minimum  2-day ticket with the Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus Option for arrivals most nights during the following time periods:

  • August 21st to September 30th, 2017 (August 13 for Disney Visa Cardmembers & Canadian guests)
  • November 14th to November 20th, 2017
  • November 25th to November 27th, 2017
  • December 8th to December 23rd, 2017
Offer Exclusions:
  • Little Mermaid Room at  Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
  • Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
  • The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter
  • Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
  • Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows
  • Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • 3 Bedroom Villas
  • Disney’s Port Orleans- Riverside is excluded from November 14th to December 23rd, 2017
HURRY! Rooms are very limited and will fill up quickly. To take advantage of this special offer, guests must make your reservation by July 7th, 2017.

Along with Free Dining, Walt Disney World also announced a room only offer with up to 25% off select resorts. This is for stays most nights from August 1 through October 7, 2017 and rooms must be booked by August 31, 2017. 

With this offer, you can enjoy distinctive Disney Resort Guest benefits and amenities – including early access to Disney FastPass+ planning, Extra Magic Hours, complimentary Resort transportation, standard parking and entertaining amenities!

*The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Length-of-stay requirements may apply. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than two adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. Offer excludes 3-bedroom villas, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and the Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. 25% savings for select Disney Deluxe and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts; lower savings may be available at other select Disney Resort hotels.

Happy Savings everyone, 
John

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Free Dining to be Announced Tomorrow with Major Change


It's that time of year again where Walt Disney World announces their yearly deal for Free Dining. This year will bring one major change as guests staying at Moderate Resorts will no longer be receiving a free Basic Dining Plan instead they will receive a free Quick Service Plan. Guests staying at Deluxe resorts will now be the only ones to receive the Basic Dining Plan for free. 

Guests must book a minimum 3-night stay and a 2 day Park Hopper/Park Hopper + option with their ticket purchase. While this hasn't been made official, booking is set to begin tomorrow, April 24. Booking dates unofficially are from August 21, 2017 (it will be August 13 for Disney Visa Cardmembers and Canadian guests) and will run through September 30, 2017, plus select dates from November 14 through December 23. 

Again this is not official and the official announcement for the Free Dining offer is expected sometime tomorrow morning. 

Friday, April 21, 2017

Special Offers for DVC Members at Disney Springs; Classic Space Mountain Returning to Disneyland

Special Offers for Disney Vacation Club Members at Disney Springs:


Beginning May 3 and on every Wednesday for the rest of 2017, Disney Vacation Club members will receive special discounts at a different Disney Springs store each week. Members will be able to enjoy early access to a featured store from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. before the store opens to the general public. 

The store's offer will be available to Vacation Club members all day during the shopping event AND throughout the event day during the store's operating hours. Here is the list of stores through July 5 more will be announced at a later date.
  • Wednesday, May 3rd, Kate Spade New York: save 15% on purchases
  • Wednesday, May 10th, Origins: save 15% on purchases
  • Wednesday, May 17th, Pandora Jewelry: Save 10% and receive a cosmetic bag with purchase of $100 or more
  • Wednesday, May 24th, Basin: Spend $30 and get one Bath Bomb; Spend $50 and get 2 Bath Bombs; spend $150 and get a Bath Bomb Barrel
  • Wednesday, May 31st, Vera Bradley: Complimentary monogramming and gift with a purchase of $100 or more
  • Wednesday, May June 7th, UGG: Complimentary Disney customization (up to $35) with any purchase
  • Wednesday, June 14th, Sephora: Complimentary makeover (by appointment) and gift with a $50 purchase in product; complimentary gift with a $25 purchase in product
  • Wednesday, June 28th, L’Occitane en Provence*: Save 15% on purchases of $65 or more
  • Wednesday, June 28th, American Threads: Save 10% on purchases
  • Wednesday, July 5th, Sugarboo & Co.: save 15% on purchases
It should be noted that L'Occitane en Provence will not be open early for Members; however, the store will feature a private shopping area for Members from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

More details on the events and the offers can be found here.

Classic Space Mountain Returning to Disneyland:


Disneyland guests will be saying goodbye to Hyperspace Mountain as the classic version of Space Mountain will be returning. The classic Space Mountain will returning to Disneyland on June 1. Just days after the celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Tomorrowland favorite, Space Mountain will be back to blast off on an intergalactic adventure. 

A variation of a concept Walt Disney developed in the 1960s, Space Mountain first opened at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in 1975. Construction on Space Mountain at Disneyland park began soon after. The attraction went on to become a guest favorite, seeing special themed versions such as Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and most recently Hyperspace Mountain.
 

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

D23's Epcot Fanniversary for 35th, A Look at Specialty Beverages for Pandora, & More

D23 Holding Epcot Fanniversary for 35th Anniversary:



D23 will be holding a special event in honor of Epcot's 35th Anniversary on October 1 called "D23's Disney FaNNIVERSARY". Here are the details on the event that will cost $135/person plus a $5 per person processing fee. Tickets for the event will go on sale on May 2 at 1 p.m. ET/ 10 a.m. PT. 

OVERVIEW
D23’s Fanniversary kicks off a month-long celebration with a one-of-a-kind event on the 35th anniversary of the fan-favorite theme park. The event will include a series of presentations celebrating the magic of Epcot over the past 35 years.

DETAILS:
Check-in location and timing details to come. Lunch will be provided to all attendees during the event.

Available to Gold and Gold Family Members
You will be required to show a photo ID. Members will be required to show their D23 Membership Card.

Join The Official Disney Fan Club as we celebrate the 35th anniversary of Epcot during D23’s annual Fanniversary celebration throughout the month of October! Inspired by Walt Disney’s vision for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, EPCOT Center opened on October 1, 1982, as the second theme park at Walt Disney World Resort.

Gold and Gold Family Members have the chance to kick off Fanniversary with a visit to Epcot on October 1 for a D23-exclusive celebration event!

The event will take place at the World Showplace Events Pavilion and includes three presentations that celebrate the magic of this fan-favorite theme park over the past 35 years.  The presentations will include rare content and stories from Disney luminaries who played an influential role in the development of Epcot!

All attendees will also have the chance to enjoy a lunchtime look back at Epcot over the years while snacking on a boxed lunch at your table.  No event would be complete without a one-of-a-kind gift created exclusively for this celebration.

Learn more about our D23 progressive dinner, celebrating 35 years—which takes place later that evening—here! This separate ticketed event has very limited seating.

NOTE:
D23 Gold and Gold Family Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest.
Due to the nature of this experience, all attendees must be at least 12 years of age or older to partake in this D23 event.

This event does not include admission to Epcot. Guests will need to have or purchase admission to Epcot to attend. If planning to use a Walt Disney World Annual Passport to attend, each guest should check blockout dates to verify that the pass is valid for admission on Sunday, October 1, 2017.
Admission includes a prix fixe boxed lunch. Food allergy and restrictions must be communicated to our Guest Services team prior to the event.

There is a limited number of tickets available. D23 Members will be required to provide their membership number when reserving tickets. Tickets may be picked up only with a valid photo ID AND D23 MEMBERSHIP CARD. D23 Members who do not bring their membership cards may not be admitted to the event. Ticketed Members who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event.

All D23 Special Events are subject to change without notice. There are no cancellations or refunds, and tickets are not transferable.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Filming, photography, and other recording will take place at Walt Disney World Resort during the event you will be attending. By entering the premises, you irrevocably consent to and authorize The Walt Disney Company, its affiliates, successors, and assigns (collectively “Producer”), to photograph you, make sound recordings of you, and use such photographs and recordings throughout the world, for any purpose whatsoever in perpetuity, including, but not limited to, television broadcasts and home entertainment products, including, but not limited to, home video and DVD. All such photographs and sound recordings will be the sole property of Producer.

Also, D23 will be holding a Behind the Scenes dinner that will be celebrating 35 years of Epcot on the same day. Details for that event can be found here.

Source: D23

A Look at Specialty Beverages that will be Exclusive to Pandora:



Today, the Disney Parks Blog featured some of the specialty drinks that will be exclusive to Pandora: The World of Avatar when it opens at Disney's Animal Kingdom next month. To start off with the Satu'li Canteen with the Pandoran Sunrise which is a non-alcoholic beverage a mix of tropical juices blended with Powerade Melon and you can get it in a souvenir Satu'li Canteen Flute Flask. 


Wine by the glass is Banshee, a small Napa Valley winery with a serendipitous name (guests fly on the back of a mountain banshee on the exciting Avatar Flight of Passage experience). A Banshee Chardonnay and Banshee Pinot Noir are on the menu by the glass. And there’s a refreshing Dreamwalker Sangria with a splash Blue Curaçao.

Two ales round out the beverage menu: Hawkes’ Grog Ale with a fruity hop character (a taste of apricot and peach, a hint of wheat on the finish), and Mo’ara High Country Ale, a malty amber ale with the aroma of herbal spice hops and tastes of caramel, toffee, and nuts.


At the Pongu Pongu try a Night Blossom which a frozen non-alcoholic mixture of limeade with apple and pear dessert flavors topped with passion fruit boba balls, this will also be served in a souvenir mug. Also the Mo'ara Frozen Margarita, a frozen drink with Sauza Conmemorativo Añejo Tequila with strawberry and blood orange flavor topped with strawberry boba balls (also available in a souvenir mug).

Both the Satu'li Canteen and Pongu Pongu open May 27 when Pandora: The World of Avatar debuts at Disney's Animal Kingdom.


Splash Mountain to Close for Lengthy Refurbishment:


Splash Mountain will close for a long 3 month refurbishment at the end of the summer. It is quite unusual for the refurbishment to be happening this early as it usually takes place during the winter months. Splash Mountain will close August 28 and be closed through November 16. 

The attraction will reopen to guests on November 17. No details have been announced as to what will happen during the refurbishment.






Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Gondolas Confirmed, Exclusive Star Wars Resort on the Way?, and More

Gondolas Confirmed for Walt Disney World:

Just a few weeks ago it seemed the Gondola system for Walt Disney World was just about to become a reality when Imagineering filed permits to start building. Today, through the media the Reedy Creek Improvement District confirmed that the Gondola system rumored for months is coming to Walt Disney World.


The route which was picked up in a permit filed just a few weeks ago will connect Epcot's International Gateway, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Caribbean Beach, and stop by Disney's Pop Century and Disney's Art of Animation. Rumors have been saying this will be completed by 2019 but I believe this will be done closer to the 50th Anniversary in 2021. Stay tuned for details on Walt Disney World's new transportation system. 

Exclusive Star Wars Resort on the Way?:


A survey is being conducted by a contracted third party of Disney asking guests about letting them stay in an actual Star Wars starship. This was first reported by WDW News Today. The survey includes concept art and details on what would be an all-inclusive resort. Here is what the resort would include:

  • The opportunity to experience a 2-day story set in the the Star Wars universe
  • Be surrounded in a continuous, story-driven entertainment experience as it unfolds over the course of the 2-night stay
  • Have personal interactions with Star Wars characters, live performers throughout the starship (experience the story or simply observe the action according to personal preference)
  • Engage in the story with programs such as flight training, ship exploration, lightsaber training, and personalized secret missions (both on the starship and throughout the Star Wars themed planet)

The all-inclusive resort would include meals that would include buffets for breakfast and lunch and a signature dining event. It will also include featured entertainment and dinner shows and exclusive park admission to Star Wars Land that will open in 2019. Amenities will include a pool, fitness area, a Cantina-themed area for snacks outside of meal times, and robotic droid butlers. 


Right now the Star Wars hotel and experience would cost roughly between $900-$1000 a night. While this is not confirmed the concept art being added to the survey seems to make this a serious project under consideration. As always stay tuned.

Walt Disney Archives to Celebrate Pirates of the Caribbean at D23 Expo:


Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced that the Walt Disney Archives will be paying tribute to the 50th Anniversary of Pirates of the Caribbean at this year's D23 Expo. This year's pavilion will be titled, "A Pirate's Life for Me: Disney Rascals, Scoundrels and Really Bag Eggs." The exhibit will pay tribute to Disney's most memorable pirates from Captain Hook to Captain Jack Sparrow. 
The Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, beloved around the world from Anaheim and Orlando to Paris, Tokyo and Shanghai, will have its own section featuring iconic props, Audio-Animatronics and ephemera. Along with some familiar figures, look for concept art for the Disneyland park attraction, classic merchandise items, and canons from the original attraction.
This year's D23 Expo will be held July 14 through July 16, 2017 at the Anaheim Convention Center across from Disneyland.

Source: Disney Parks Blog





Monday, April 17, 2017

Frozen Summer Games Returning to Blizzard Beach; Frozen on Broadway Cast Announced

Frozen Summer Games Returning to Blizzard Beach:


The Frozen Summer Games will be returning to Disney's Blizzard Beach on May 26. After the success of its inaugural year last year, the games return pitting guests against each other with Team Kristoff vs. Team Olaf. Guests will play different games such as the Ice Pail Relays, Snowball Toss, Ski Pole Limbo, and slide races. 

New this year, guests will be able to meet and take photos with Kristoff and Olaf at Blizzard Beach. Either Kristoff or Olaf will be at the designated photograph location inside the water park. Here you can take photos with them telling them which team you chose to play on.

Between crafts, the games, and a DJ spinning some up-tempo tunes, the Frozen Summer Games are sure to be highlight of the day for guests visiting Disney's Blizzard Beach this summer. 


Frozen on Broadway Cast Has Been Announced:


Disney's Frozen the Broadway Musical won't open until 2018, but today the cast has been announced for the musical. The musical will premiere next year at the St. James Theater.  Here is the stars of the show:

Cassie Levy as Elsa:
Levy has starred on Broadway in Ghost, Wicked, and the 2014 revival of Les Misérables.

Patti Murin as Anna:
Murin was in the original Broadway productions of Lysistrata Jones and Xanadu.

Jelani Alladin as Kristoff:
This will be Alladin’s Broadway debut, and what a debut it will be.

Greg Hildreth as Olaf:
Hildreth previously stared in Peter and the Starcatcher and Cinderella on Broadway.

John Riddle as Hans:
Riddle previously starred in The Visit’s Young Anton.

Robert Creighton as the Duke of Weselton:
Creighton previously starred on Broadway in The Little Mermaid and Anything Goes.

Frozen on Broadway will be directed by Tony-award winner Michael Grandage and choreographed by Tony-award winner Rob Ashford. Music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.  The show will start out of Broadway later this year at the Buell Theatre, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, beginning August 17 through October 1, 2017. It will then join The Lion King and Aladdin on Broadway in Spring 2018.

Source: Oh My Disney


Saturday, April 15, 2017

New Star Wars Land Details Revealed, New Planet Stop for Star Tours Announced


Today at Star Wars Celebration, Walt Disney Imagineers along with Lucasfilm shared new details on Star Wars Land. We already knew that the land will be based off a planet never seen before in the Star Wars Universe. Today, they elaborated a little bit more on the new planet that lies somewhere on the Outer Rim lying on the edge of the Unknown Regions. 

The remote village was once a busy crossroads along the old sub-lightspeed trade routes, but the prominence of the outpost has been bypassed with the rise of hyperspace travel. Now home to those who prefer less attention, it has become a thriving port for smugglers, rogue traders and adventurers traveling between the frontier and uncharted space. It’s also a convenient safe-haven for others intent on avoiding the expanding reach of the First Order.


Check out the video that was shared during the presentation on just how immersive the land will take you into the Star Wars Universe.



That's not all as guests will be able to choose their reputation as they step aboard the Millennium Falcon. Here they will board the ship with their crew and they will be able to control their destiny and reputation in the planet with how well they commandeer the legendary ship. The First Order ride is said to be the most epic attraction that Walt Disney Imagineering has ever undertaken.



Both new and old characters will be encountered throughout the land. They have landed there from across the galaxy, preferring the "no questions asked" environment along with the easy access to exotic supplies and an abundant supply of ready rogues looking to join the crew for their next adventure. 

Star Wars Land will open sometime in 2019 in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios. More details should be coming in the next few months when the D23 Expo occurs in Anaheim in July.

New Planet Stop for Star Tours Announced:

That's not all that was announced as it was revealed that the planet stop based off "The Last Jedi" was revealed.

The planet guests will be visiting will be the mineral planet of Crait. The new stop should debut in late December 2017.

Season 4 will be Final Season for Star Wars Rebels, Warwick Davis Joins Cast


"Star Wars Rebels" Season 4 will be the final season for the animated series. Director Dave Filoni announced during the Rebels panel today at Star Wars Celebration Orlando. Filoni said he wanted to end the series on his own terms. He said, "We've done something really special here, I'm very proud of these characters."

During the panel, we also got our first look with the first trailer for season 4 which can be seen below:



Also of note, Warwick Davis will be joining the cast for the final season. Davis will play Rukh, who is Grand Admiral Thrawn's bodyguard assassin.


Guests of the panel were shown the first episode of Season 4. The final season of "Star Wars Rebels" premieres this fall on Disney XD.

Friday, April 14, 2017

Carrie Fisher Won't Appear in Episode IX, First Trailer for "The Last Jedi", and More from Celebration

Carrie Fisher Will Not Appear in Episode IX:




For months since the passing of our beloved princess, Carrie Fisher, it has been speculated whether she would appear in Star Wars Episode IX. At first, it was said she definitely would not appear. In recent weeks leading up to Star Wars Celebration Orlando, her brother Todd revealed that she would be appearing in the final film of the saga.

However today, in an exclusive interview with ABC's Paula Faris, LucasFilm President Kathleen Kennedy revealed that Carrie Fisher will not appear in the film. Here is the part of the interview where Kennedy is asked about Fisher's role in the final film:


First Poster and Trailer of "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" Released:

Finally, today the long awaited first trailer of "The Last Jedi" was released along with a new poster during Star Wars Celebration Orlando. Director Rian Johnson, LucasFilm President Kathleen Kennedy, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Mark Hamill showed off the trailer today during the amazing panel detailing the film. Here is the poster:


The poster shows off Rey holding a lightsaber up flashing with half of Luke's face and half of Kylo Ren's face. Now here is the trailer:


"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" hits theaters December 15, 2017.

Several Stills Released for "The Last Jedi" Revealed:

Also during today's panel several stills from the film were released, check them out below.






I am so excited for this film and I know most are just as excited. December cannot get here fast enough.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Club 33 Coming to Walt Disney World


Disney announced today that Club 33 will be coming to Walt Disney World. The exclusive restaurant in Disneyland will finally be coming to Florida. That's not all as each of Walt Disney World's four theme parks will get a separate location. Each location will be themed to Walt and Lillian's world wide adventures, plus other unannounced benefits.

Here is a letter of the announcement:


It is also be said that each of the establishments will carry the same name or each will have a similar name. Club 33 members from the location in Disneyland will not have membership carry over to any of the new locations. Membership for the new locations will have to be purchased separately. 

More information on the new Club 33 locations at the Walt Disney World Resort will be released sometime this Fall. Guests are encouraged to email WDWClub33@disneyworld.com for information if they are interested in joining. 

Are you excited that Club 33 is coming to Walt Disney World? Is anyone interested in becoming a member of the exclusive Club/Restaurant?