ICYMI: Be Our Guest Becoming Signature Dining for Dinner Plus a Brand New Menu

News broke mid-week with a blog post on the Disney Parks Blog that a new enhanced dining experience would be coming to Be Our Guest. With this new menu the restaurant that has been highly popular since it opened almost 5 years ago will now become a Signature Dining experience for dinner and if you are on the Disney Dining Plan it will cost 2 Table-Service credits. The restaurant will remain a quick service location for lunch and will remain serving breakfast as well. 

Back to dinner as now the new menu will be a prix fixe menu that will boast delectable French-inspired dishes and new offerings. The new and unique experience will allow guests to enjoy a wonderful 3-course meal with there choice of an appetizer and an entree, and then ending with a personal dessert platter. 

To start off the meal, the appetizer menu will include favorites like the French Onion Soup in addition to rich new offerings like Charred Octopus with citrus-laced fingerling potatoes, pickled hearts of palm and red pepper coulis; Escargot with herb garlic butter and toasted gremolata (pictured above); and a selection of assorted meats and artisanal cheeses such as chicken liver pâté, chorizo sausage Manchego, and truffle tremor.

For the main course, feast on mouth-watering entrées such as Grilled Center-Cut Filet Mignon with potato au gratin, Romano beans, Cipollini marmalade and a cherry-laced red wine reduction(pictured below) and the Smoked Black-Eye Pea Tortellini with roasted seasonal vegetables, tomato relish and basil-scented tomato water. Other enticing dishes include Poulet Rouge Chicken, Saffron-Infused Seafood Bouillabaisse, Roasted Lamb Chops and Kurobuta Pork Tenderloins (pictured above).

The chefs are currently working on a new dessert menu as well as a kids menu for this new and exquisite dining experience. Stay tuned in the coming months for updates on those menus as well. The new enhanced dining experience will begin July 27 and you now can make reservations by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or by booking online.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Coco, The Last Jedi and More Nominated for 10 Academy Awards

The nominations are in and the Walt Disney Company and its films have been nominated for 10 Academy Awards for this year's awards show. Here are the nominees:

"Beauty an the Beast" secured 2 nominations for:

• Production Design - Production Design: Sarah Greenwood Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
• Costume Design - Jacqueline Durran

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" secured 4 nominations for the 90th Academy Awards, they are:

• Sound Editing - Matthew Wood and Ren Klyce
• Sound Mixing - David Parker, Michael Semanick, Ren Klyce, and Stuart Wilson
• Original Score - John Williams
• Visual Effects - Ben Morris, Mike Mulholland, Neal Scanlon, and Chris Corbould

"Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" brought in one nomination for Visual Effects for Christopher Townsend, Guy Williams, Jonathan Fawkner, and Dan Sudick.

Pixar's "Lou" along with Dave Mullins and Dana Murray were nominated for Best Animated Short.

"Coco" was nominated for 2 Academy Awards, they are:

• Original Song - "Remember Me" - Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez
• Animated Film - Lee Unkrich and Darla K. Anderson

The 90th Academy Awards airs SundayMarch 4, 2018 at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT on ABC and will once again be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel. 

Two #DisneyParksLIVE Events Later This Week; Stitch's Great Escape Returning

Two #DisneyParksLIVE Events to be Streamed Later This Week:

This week the Disney Parks Blog will be live streaming two events. The first being on Thursday with a live stream of "A Frozen Holiday Wish" and the lighting of Cinderella Castle. The live stream will begin at 8:10 p.m. EST. 

“A Frozen Holiday Wish” stars the royal sisters Anna and Elsa, and their friends Olaf and Kristoff. In this show, Queen Elsa uses her incredible powers to present a gift to everyone in the kingdom by transforming Cinderella Castle into a glimmering ice palace, perfect for the holiday season. Trust me, this must-see show will give you chills!

This is on November 9 during the first Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party of the season. 

The next live stream will happen on Friday, November 10 when we will get our first look at the new "Beauty and the Beast" musical production live from the Disney Dream. This live stream will take place at 10:40 a.m. EST. 

Here we will get a sneak peek at the newest Broadway-style musical. The new show brings the timeless fable to life like never before, featuring a style of theater that interlaces classic storytelling elements along with cutting-edge technology. 

Fans are encouraged to use #DisneyParksLIVE during the live stream to follow along on Twitter.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Stitch's Great Escape Returning for Holiday Season:

Much to the chagrin of many, Stitch's Great Escape will return for seasonal operation during the holiday season. The attraction which has been closed since the end of August will operate from December 23, 2017 through January 6, 2018 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily. 

The ride has been turned into a character meet & greet for Stitch most recently. Rumors are still hot saying the ride will eventually close for good. 

New Magic Coming to Disneyland's 'Fantasmic!'; Beauty & the Beast Blu-Ray Release Date

New Magic Coming to Disneyland's 'Fantasmic!':

While one nighttime spectacular is getting ready for its debut here on the East Coast, the West Coast will soon see the return of another with some new magic added to it. 

Upon its return, “Fantasmic!” will feature new magic, including new mist screens that will combine with innovative, state-of-the-art projection technology for brighter and more vibrant visuals than ever before. The show will also feature new scenes inspired by Disney animated classics such as “Aladdin”; one of the dazzling new scenes finds Aladdin and Jasmine floating over a bed of fog on their flying carpet during “A Whole New World.”

When it returns this summer, an official date has not been set, “Fantasmic!” will still be the treasured Disneyland park experience guests have loved for 25 years. It will be complete with its original fanfare and theme song. but all taken to brilliant new heights! Stay tuned for official details on the return of "Fantasmic!" to Disneyland.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

"Beauty and the Beast" Coming to Blu-Ray & Digital HD on June 6:

"Beauty and the Beast" waltzed to the top of the box office now it will soon be dancing into our own homes. The film will be released on Blu-Ray and Digital HD on June 6. Here is the list of Special Features on the film that we will enjoy:

• Enchanted Table Read – Join the cast for the movie’s elaborately staged table read, complete with singing and dancing to live music, set pieces and more.
• A Beauty of a Tale – Explore the process of transforming a beloved animated film into a new live-action classic.
• The Women Behind “Beauty and the Beast” – Emma Watson introduces several of the talented women in all aspects of production who helped bring this enchanted tale to life.
• Making a Moment with Celine Dion – Celine Dion shares what it’s like to sing “How Does a Moment Last Forever” – and be a part of the legacy of “Beauty and the Beast.”
• From Song to Screen: Making the Musical Sequences – See what goes into making some of the best-known moments from “Beauty and the Beast.”
• Extended Song: “Days in the Sun” – Learn more about Beast’s childhood in an alternate version of this beautiful song, introduced by director Bill Condon. “Beauty and the Beast”
• Music Video – Award-winning artists Ariana Grande and John Legend perform a moving version of this iconic song.
• Making the Music Video – Go on set to capture the magic as it happens in Ariana Grande and John Legend’s “Beauty and the Beast” music video.
• Disney Song Selection – Jump directly to all your favorite songs and sing along with the movie.

Movie Review: "Beauty and the Beast" is Magnificently Done, Still a Classic

After seeing "Beauty and the Beast" it brought me back to a place of my childhood a rebirth of Disney animation back in 1991. I was just a young toddler back then but seeing the re-make into the fine piece of a motion picture into a live-action film. I won't lie I may have shed a tear towards the end of the film. Bill Condon did a wonderful job directing and the cast was just amazing.

Many had doubts about Emma Watson portraying the role of Belle, but she held her own. I was simply amazed, how well she played the role. Her voice while not perfect was good enough for me to make me satisfied that they had picked her. The true star is Dan Stevens playing the Beast. I can listen to him sing "Evermore" all day long if I had too. I will be humming songs from this film not just the old songs but the new one's as well. 

Back to the cast Luke Evans as Gaston and Josh Gad as LeFou were perfectly cast for their roles. The controversy before the film came out was unnoticeable to the common eye. Josh Gad was perfect and I'm not sure anyone else fit for the role. Emma Thompson as Mrs.Potts while she is no Angela Lansbury who voiced the role in the animated classic, was amazing in singing "Days in the Sun" and even "Beauty and the Beast." I was quite surprised how beautiful of a voice she had. 

I can go on and on about the music from the film as I will be humming and singing the songs for the foreseeable future. Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice have all done it again and the addition of Josh Groban and Celine Dion have brought this music to a whole new level. 

I end with saying go see this film and its magnificent and will be a classic just as its animated predecessor was. Relive your childhood as well and you may even shed a tear too. 

First Look at Santu'li Canteen Menu Plus Mobile Ordering; Beauty and the Beast Dazzles at the Box Office

First Look at Santu'li Canteen Menu Plus Mobile Ordering:

Today, the Disney Parks Blog gave us our first look at the menu of the Santu'li Canteen that will open inside Pandora: The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The Santu'li Canteen was once the main mess hall of the Resources Development Administration (RDA) but now is owned and operated by Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE). 

The interior of the restaurant has been transformed with colorful Na'vi items filling the walls and hanging from the ceiling. This includes hand-woven tapestries, natural Pandoran elements, and even cooking tools. 

Look for familiar dishes with a twist in the fast-casual restaurant, with bowls that allow diners to customize their lunch or dinner. Diners start with a base of quinoa and vegetable salad; red and sweet potato hash; mixed whole-grain and rice or romaine and kale salad. Next is either with wood-grilled chicken, slow-roasted beef, sustainable fish or chili-spiced fried tofu. And the bowl is finished with charred onion chimichurri, black bean vinaigrette or creamy herb dressing. 

The menu also offers steamed “pods” – bao buns with either cheeseburger or vegetable curry and served with root vegetable chips and crunchy vegetable slaw. 

For little ones, there’s an option of grilled chicken or beef, fish or tofu with greens or rice; a hot dog wrapped in Parker House dough; cheese quesadilla, or a steamed “pod” (cheeseburger bao bun).

Walt Disney World will also debut Mobile Ordering with Santu'li Canteen. Mobile Ordering will allow guests to order and pay for meals-on-the-go through the My Disney Experience app allowing guests to bypass the queue to order when they arrive at the restaurant. Guests will be able to customize their order, pre-pay, and upon arrival guests will tap the "I am here" button on the app to alert the kitchen to begin preparing the food.

Once the food is ready, guests will receive an alert through the app to to pick up their meal at a designated window. Right now Credit Cards are the only accepted form of payment for Mobile Ordering. More Walt Disney World restaurants will debut Mobile Ordering later this year.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

"Beauty and the Beast" Dazzles at the Box Office on Opening Weekend:

"Beauty and the Beast" dazzled at the box office in its opening taking in $174 million domestically and $357 million total worldwide. This was the largest March opening ever overtaking Batman v. Superman last year which took in $166 million in its opening last year. 

It also landed in the #6 spot on the all-time opening weekend chart that, placing it just above the opening of Marvel's Iron Man 3. This gives Disney 6 of the top 7 spots on the chart. After just one weekend, it is already number 2 on the top-grossing live-action musicals behind Grease. Although it is sure to take over the top spot after next weekend. 

Source: The Laughing Place

Two New Clips from "Beauty and the Beast" Released; New "Cars 3" Trailer Released:

Two New Clips from "Beauty and the Beast" Released:

Over the last two days, we got a new tv spot as well as a new clip for the upcoming release of the live-action re-telling of "Beauty and the Beast." Today's clip gives us our first glimpse of Josh Gad as LeFou and Luke Evans as Gaston showing off their pipes singing the famous song from the animated tale, "Gaston." Check it out below:

Last night, a new television spot aired during the Oscars, where we catch a glimpse of what will be the beginning of the song "Be Our Guest" as several other new scenes we haven't seen before.



"Beauty and the Beast" will waltz into theaters in less than 3 weeks on March 17.

New "Cars 3" Trailer Released During Daytona 500:

It was very fitting yesterday that a new "Cars 3" trailer was released during yesterday's opening Nascar race in the iconic and legendary Daytona 500. The new trailer states, "The Next Generation is Coming." You hear someone telling Lightning he'll never be the racer he once was and he can't turn back the clock but he can wind it up again. Check out the new trailer below:

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

Hear a Clip of "Belle" from Beauty and the Beast; Strike a Pose with an Oscar at Walt Disney World

Hear a Clip of "Belle" from "Beauty and the Beast":

Sing along and get ready for "Beauty and the Beast" with this clip of Emma Watson singing "Belle" from the film. In this clip from the beginning of the film shows several of the amazing townspeople that we know and love from the animated classic now in live-action form. The costumes in this clip just look amazing. Check out the clip and sing along to "Belle":

Sing along with Emma Watson as Belle when "Beauty and the Beast" hits theaters March 17.

Strike a Pose with an Oscar at Disney's Hollywood Studios:

This Sunday is the Oscars and from now until Sunday at Disney's Hollywood Studios, guests can strike a pose with an actual Oscar statuette. Guests can visit One Man's Dream at the park where a Disney PhotoPass photographer will be available during regular park hours to take the photos as you strike a pose. 

The Oscars will air on ABC this Sunday February 26 at 7 p.m. EST/4 p.m. PST with Jimmy Kimmel hosting. Guests are encouraged to share their poses using "My Oscar Moment" using #Oscars by tweeting their photos to @WaltDisneyWorld. 

Hear a Clip of Josh Groban's "Evermore"; Disney Parks Unboxed: Rivers of Light

Hear a Clip of Josh Groban's "Evermore" from "Beauty and the Beast":

Last night, Grammy-winning artist Josh Groban gave us all a Valentine's gift with a clip from his original song, "Evermore." The song will be included on the soundtrack for the live-action remake of the Disney animated classic "Beauty and the Beast." The film is due out in theaters March 17, 2017. Here is his announcement from his Twitter account:

A Valentine's Day gift for you!! Hope you enjoy this snippet of my recording of "Evermore" from @beourguest! 💙 https://t.co/I24kcllqka

— josh groban (@joshgroban) February 14, 2017

You can listen to the 30-second clip here on soundcloud.

Disney Parks Unboxed: Rivers of Light Merchandise:

We are all anxiously awaiting for the official debut of Rivers of Light at Disney's Animal Kingdom on Friday. The new nighttime spectacular will finally debut after months of delay. Yesterday, Steven Miller, the merchandise guru on the Disney Parks Blog, shared with us some of the merchandise that is now for sale at the park specifically made for Rivers of Light. Let's check out the new episode of Disney Parks Blog Unboxed.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New 'Beauty and the Beast' Stage Show on Disney Dream; Wishes to be Replaced by 'Happily Ever After' Fireworks

New 'Beauty and the Beast' Stage Show Coming to the Disney Dream:

A brand new 'Beauty and the Beast' stage show is coming to Disney Cruise Line aboard the Disney Dream. The new musical production that will be a live-action adaptation of the animated classic. 

“Beauty and the Beast” aboard the Disney Dream will bring the timeless fable to life like never before, featuring a style of theater that interlaces classic storytelling elements with cutting-edge technology, to create a unique, theatrical experience in the 1,340-seat Walt Disney Theatre. An innovative take on the story will transform renowned songs into spectacular, show-stopping numbers, and lavish costumes and puppetry will bring a fresh perspective to beloved characters."

The show will debut aboard the Disney Dream voyage on November 6, 2017. It will be joining an already show-stopping lineup that includes "The Golden Mickey's" and "Disney's Believe." Stay tuned for more information in the coming months on the new "Beauty and the Beast" musical stage show.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Wishes to be Replace by New Nighttime Fireworks Spectacular 'Happily Ever After':

"Wishes" will perform for its final time on May 11 with a brand new nighttime fireworks spectacular, "Happily Ever After", will debut on May 12. Here are the details from the Disney Parks Blog:

The spectacular will inspire guests to seek out and find their own “Happily Ever After” by showcasing some of the greatest adventures Disney characters have taken to achieve their dreams. The show will feature the latest fireworks and pyrotechnics and original animation, plus a heart-tugging original score. And thanks to the inclusion of state-of-the-art projection mapping technology, more Disney characters than ever before will be featured in the show, including moments from “Moana,” “Brave,” “Big Hero 6,” “Zootopia,” “The Princess & The Frog,” “Aladdin” and many others.

The Fireworks Dessert Parts that takes place at the Tomorrowland Terrace will continue to take place for guests to enjoy a spectacular view of the new "Happily Ever After" fireworks. Check out this video previewing the show:



Source: Disney Parks Blog

Final "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released

Tonight, during ABC's "The Bachelor,"  Luke Evans (Gaston) and Josh Gad (LeFou) helped debut the final trailer for "Beauty and the Beast." The trailer did not disappoint as I am still unsure my emotions can handle seeing this film (Don't Judge). Check it out below and try not to cry:

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action re-telling of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs. “Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Oscar® winner Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric, but lovable father; Josh Gad as Lefou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.

"Beauty and the Beast" will waltz into theaters March 17.

Disney Files Patent that Will Sense Guests Emotions; D23 to Hold Advanced Screening of Beauty and the Beast

Disney Files Patent that will Sense Guests Emotions Altering Ride Experience:

I love when new patents are filed by Disney because you just never know what they are going to come up with next. Today, the Orlando Business Journal discovered another Disney wonder in a patent filed that will alter a guests' ride experience by sensing their emotions while riding. The patent is called, "Sensing and Managing Vehicle Behavior Based on Occupant Awareness." For example from what was filed, from a camera on the vehicle or from a wearable device (aka the MagicBand), the ride system will read the rider's facial expressions such as being excited or bored. Then it will alter the course of the attraction to increase or decrease speed, spin more or less often, changing the tone of display scenery and/or more to improve the ride for guests.

"The technology would allow rides to adjust show content appropriate for pre-teens, teenagers or adults; or for thrill-seeking and non thrill-seeking passengers. The control system may also operate the vehicle to address (e.g. even solve in some cases) motion sickness issues for passengers such as by adjusting speed or movement patterns of a vehicle. [Through RFID or some other identifying system] access one or more ride experience goals (or expectations) for the occupant. For example, the occupant may simply desire transportation while in the automated trackless vehicle and, hence, will not be wanting to interact with to be entertained by external display systems. In other cases, though, the occupant may have provided goals/expectations (e.g. by completing a questionnaire on a website or the like) that indicate they want to be educated during the ride, be entertained in a particular manner during the ride, be informed of sales on services or merchandise during the ride, and so on. In the same or other cases, the goals/expectations may indicate whether the ride experience" should be thrilling, as smooth as possible, or something in between, said the patent.

Besides the motions of the ride the patent also stated that it will be able to sense the passengers comfort levels such as temperature by altering the air-conditioning on the ride vehicle to make it more pleasant. What do you think or should I say how do you feel about this new patent filed by Disney?

D23 to Hold Advanced Screening of "Beauty and the Beast":

D23 will be holding an advance screening of "Beauty and the Beast" for members before it is released on March 17. On March 8, members will have a chance to see the film in advance on the afternoon of Disney's Annual Shareholder Meeting at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center. Before the screening, a limited number of D23 Gold and Gold Family members will be treated to a complimentary "Be Our Guest" luncheon. Here are more details on the event:

DETAILS
The “Be Our Guest” luncheon will begin for Gold and Gold Family Members at 12:30 p.m., following the Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Check-in will begin at 12:15 p.m.; please do not arrive before 12:15 p.m. RSVP is required.

The screening will begin at 2 p.m. at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. Check-in will begin at 1:45 p.m.; please do not arrive before 1:45 p.m.

Join us for a special preview of Walt Disney Studios’ upcoming live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic Beauty and the Beast, a stunning, cinematic event celebrating one of the most beloved tales ever told. On the afternoon of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado, all D23 Members are invited to see the film before its release on March 17!

Beauty and the Beast is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a Beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart of the true Prince within.

Before the screening, a limited number of D23 Gold and Gold Family Members will have the opportunity to put our service to the test and join us for a complimentary “Be Our Guest” luncheon. This opportunity is a great time to mix and mingle with fellow D23 Gold Members!

NOTE:
D23 General and Gold Members may reserve a space for themselves and one (1) guest for the Beauty and the Beast screening. D23 Gold Family Members may reserve a space for themselves and up to three (3) guests for the Beauty and the Beast screening. D23 Gold Members may reserve a space for themselves and one (1) guest for the “Be Our Guest” luncheon. D23 Gold Family Members may reserve a space for themselves and up to three (3) guests for the “Be Our Guest” luncheon. There are a limited number of spaces 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. D23 Members who do not bring their valid photo ID 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. D23 reserves the right to cancel and refund tickets not purchased by verified D23 Gold Members. Reservations are non-transferable and non-refundable. Photography will be permitted at specific points during the event. No video or audio recording of any kind will be permitted.

Tickets for the event will go on sale this Thursday, February 2, at 10 a.m. PT. Go to D23.com for link to ticketing. 

Stay tuned later this evening as the final trailer for Disney's live-action remake of its animated classic "Beauty and the Beast" will debut during tonight's airing of ABC's "The Bachelor" at 8 ET/7 CT. Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" dances into theaters March 17, 2017. 

Planet Hollywood Observatory is Finally Opened; Preview of Beauty & the Beast Coming to Disney Parks

Planet Hollywood Observatory is Finally Opened:

After weeks of speculation and delays, the Planet Hollywood Observatory officially opened today. The re-imagined restaurant transformed from its iconic globe into a 4-story stargazing observatory with new spaces including an outdoor terrace, a new menu with the help of Food Network's Guy Fieri, and an exciting new look and feel to the restaurant. 

Inside it’s an immersive theatrical dining experience, with each floor providing a different ambience, including the fabulous curated collection of film-making memorabilia and a 4,500-square-foot video wall the uses trompe l’oeil 3D technology – images with such realism that they appear to be in three dimensions.

Classic dishes remain on the menu but it is the new over the top burgers and sandwiches inspired by Fieri that highlight the new menu. Of course, we can't forget the hand-dipped milkshakes and generous sweets that highlight the dessert menu. Beer, wine and cocktails offer a little something for every taste, and Stargazers Lounge has a beverage menu that focuses on Florida craft beers (with 20 on tap) and 10 signature cocktails. The Stargazer Lounge has yet to open but will be soon.

Check out this quick video of Guy and a look inside the Planet Hollywood Observatory:



Source: Disney Parks Blog

Preview of 'Beauty and the Beast" Coming to Disney Parks:

Beginning February 10, guests visiting Disney Parks will get a special sneak peak into the live-action remake of Disney's animated classic, "Beauty and the Beast."

At Disney California Adventure park, the preview of “Beauty and the Beast” will be presented in 3D with special in-theater effects at the Sunset Showcase Theater in Hollywood Land, while guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get to see this advance look at a segment from the film as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction. Each sneak peek location will also include a display featuring a collection of props and costume pieces actually used in the film’s production.

You can catch the 8-minute sneak peak of the film at Disney Parks beginning February 10 then experience the film as it waltz' into theaters March 17, 2017.

Special 2-Year Anniversary Note:

Today, marks the two year anniversary of It All Started With a Mouse and I just wanted to send a special thank you to you the readers. Never did I think two years ago, how I would continue to blog almost everyday. I also never thought I would be so involved in the Disney community which is amazing. Year 2 brought even more changes with the addition of me joining the podcast world.

The MouseLife family has helped me improve It All Started With a Mouse. Speaking of the MouseLife, I cannot wait to share with all of you what's coming very soon. Stay tuned. Thank you all so much don't forget that it was all started by a mouse and please continue living the MouseLife.

- John

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster; Permits Filed for Disney's Caribbean Beach Expansion

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster:

A brand new poster for "Beauty and the Beast" was released today featuring a triptych image packed with characters that we haven't seen before as well as some familiar ones. Yahoo had the details on the new poster which you can check out below:

Check out the larger image of here. Here is what we can see from the image:

"At the center of the poster are Belle (Emma Watson) and the Beast (Dan Stevens), dancing in the iconic title-song sequence. Instead of the ballroom from the actual scene, they appear to be in a dilapidated, crumbling tower. To the left is an image of Belle wandering through the snow, approaching the castle as wolves close in on her. On the far left are characters from Belle’s life in the village: Her father Maurice (Kevin Kline) at the top, her devious suitor Gaston (Luke Evans) at the bottom, and Gaston’s sidekick Le Fou (Josh Gad) in the center. 

At the bottom of the poster are the servants who have been transformed into castle objects — from left to right, Plumette the feather duster, Lumière the candelabra, Garderobe the wardrobe, Cogsworth the clock, Chip the teacup, the coat rack (whose name, if he has one, has not been announced), and Mrs. Potts the teapot. 

Finally, to the right is a scene from a ball; it seems to be taking place at the castle, in happier times. The towers in the background are bright and shimmering, not like the dark and foreboding image to the left. Among the dancers are the human versions of Lumière (Ewan McGregor) and Plumette (Gugu Mbatha-Raw). To the left, we see the human Cogsworth (Ian McKellen), and to the right, from the top, the human versions of Cadenza (Stanley Tucci, playing a musician-turned-grand-piano), Garderobe (Audra McDonald), and Mrs. Potts (Emma Thompson)."

 The live action remake of Disney's animated classic "Beauty and the Beast" waltzes into theaters March 17.

Permits Filed for Disney's Caribbean Beach Expansion:

Permits have been filed for an expansion of the Disney Vacation Club at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. The project is set to begin this year with a completion date sometime in 2019.

The details are that the permits show a large, multi-story building that will part of the Disney Vacation Club wing of the resort. Six new structures will be built replacing some of the existing Barbados Village. Finally, there is a series of roadway and waterway improvements that have been planned. 

Source: WDW News Today

New Poster and Sneak Peak of "Beauty and the Beast Released

Earlier today, the cast along with Disney released a brand new poster for the upcoming live-action remake of the animated classic, "Beauty and the Beast." The poster features a huge depiction of Belle (Emma Watson) and Beast (Dan Stevens) overhanging many of the other characters from the film. Check it out below:

During tonight's 74th Annual Golden Globes, we also got a new look of the film. We got an extensive look at Emma Watson singing in the new sneak peak. Check it out:

Disney's live action version of "Beauty and the Beast" dances into theaters on March 17, 2017.

First Still from Disney Pixar's "Coco" Released; First TV Spot for "Beauty and the Beast"

First Still from Disney Pixar's "Coco" Released: 

Today, we got our first still release from next year's film in Disney Pixar's "Coco." The film chronicles the journey of Miguel, who dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like the celebrated Ernesto de la Cruz (voiced by Benjamin Bratt). When Miguel strums his idol's guitar he will set off a chain of events that are a mystery.  Here is the still:

In the still we see Miguel strumming on the guitar and what appears to be some bright orange flower petals scattering everywhere as he plays his idols' guitar. "Coco" is being directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3) and co-directed by Adrian Molina. The film is being produced by Darla K. Anderson. Disney Pixar's "Coco" and Miguel will be strumming into theaters on November 22, 2017. 

First Television Spot for "Beauty and the Beast" Airs:

We are just about 3 months away of maybe one of the most anticipated films of the year of the live-action remake of Disney's "Beauty of the Beast." The first tv spot aired during yesterday's Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration and again in the evening during the airing of the animated classic on ABC. 

It appears the tv spot is just a condensed version of the trailer but we are still in love with it. It does have one additional never before scene in it featuring Belle (played by Emma Watson). I can't wait to see this film when it hits theaters March 17, 2017. 

Disney Springs Black Friday Preview, "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer, and More

Disney Springs Black Friday and Saturday Preview:

Thanksgiving is next week and that means the holiday shopping season is fast upon us when Black Friday kicks it off. Disney Springs will open two hours earlier on both November 25 and 26, opening at 8 a.m. 

World of Disney and other familiar favorites will feature great deals while supplies last: a Vera Bradley “Midnight with Mickey” hipster bag for $24.99 at Marketplace Co-Op, Storm Trooper Action Figures for $14.99 at Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and a holiday wreath with lights for $16.99 at Disney’s Days of Christmas, just to name a few. 

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to buy tickets to see “La Nouba” by Cirque du Soleil, this could be it. Visit the Box Office on November 25 and purchase a ticket to the show – any category available – for just $39 plus tax. (Tickets can be used November 25, 2016 – December 16, 2017.)

Here is a full list of stores participating in the Black Friday weekend and some of the deals they will have:

American Threads – First 50 Guests receive a FREE Piko sweater with a purchase of $75 or more (one per Guest while supplies last). Plus, get $20 off every purchase of $100 or more. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

APEX by Sunglasses Hut – Save 60% off original prices of select styles. Offer valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Arribas Brothers – Receive free domestic shipping on purchases. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Basin – Get one free bath bomb with any purchase over $50 and 3 free bath bombs on purchases over $100. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Chapel Hats – Save 20% off entire store. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Characters in Flight – Save $10 on tickets purchased before 10:00 AM (weather permitting).

Cirque du Soleil Boutique – Save 50% off already discounted merchandise and 25% off ornaments and gift wrap. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Coca-Cola Store – Save 15% off purchases of $25-29.99; 20% off purchases of $30-34.99; 25% off purchases of $35 or more. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Columbia Sportswear – Save 25% on select styles and brands. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Curl by Sammy Duvall – Save up to 40% off on select merchandise and gift-with- purchase items throughout the store.

Dino-Store at T-REX – Get $10 off purchases of $50 or more and a free Build-A-Bear Workshop cinch with purchase of DINO Experience Bundle from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016. 

Edward Beiner – Save 25% off entire purchase. Not valid on Cartier and cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Happy Hound Kiosk – Receive a free Bow Wow magnet with every $20 purchase. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

havaianas – Save 30% off sale merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

House of Blues Gear Shop – Save 25% off regular price purchases before 1:00 PM and save $5 off $35 purchases. Offer only valid November 24 to November 25, 2016.

Filthy Rich Kiosk – Save 20% off all jewelry. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Ghirardelli Chocolate and Ice Cream Shop – Between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, enjoy a free coffee with a $4.95 or more purchase. Plus, get a free Intense Dark Mango Bar with a $20 or more purchase or a free 100-count mini caramel bag and thermal bag with $60 or more purchase. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Kipling – Save 25% off select purchases. Offer only valid November 23 to November 27, 2016.

Fit2Run – First 10 Guests receive a free one-year membership to Club Fit2Run. Plus, enjoy special savings on select merchandise, including 50% off cold weather jackets and half zip ups and up to 70% off select sandals and running shoes. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Johnny Was – Save 25% off merchandise in the entire store. 

Johnston & Murphy – Save on men’s fashion and accessories, including up to 33% on select shoe styles, 40% off lowest ticketed price sweaters and up to 50% on select outerwear. Plus, all briefcases are $199.99; all scarves are buy one, get one free and all shirts and pants are buy one, get one half off.

LACOSTE – Save 20% to 30% off select items throughout the store. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Levi’s – Save 40% off entire purchase. Offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Lilly Pulitzer – Spend $75 and receive one pair of free earrings, spend $150 and receive a free necklace or spend $500 and receive a free jewelry box. Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

LittleMissMatched – Get 50% off apparel and an additional 25% off clearance items. Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

L’Occitance en Provence – Luxury travel set $18 (with $45 purchase). Plus, receive an “Ultimate Black Friday Gift” free with any $145 or more purchase. Offer only valid November 23 to November 27, 2016.

Lucky Brand – Save 40% off purchases (excludes “rare finds”). Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

Luxury of Time by Diamonds International – Enjoy free battery changes for watches up to 30-meter water resistance and free jewelry cleaning. Plus, scope out deals on select pieces! Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

MAC Cosmetics – Swing by Waterside park stage to see ballet performances in celebration of 2 new exclusive holiday kits: Nutcracker Sweet Plum Retro Matte Kit and Nutcracker Sweet Mineralize Kit (available while supplies last).

Melissa Shoes – Save 25% off all merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Origins – Scoop up Origins Superstar Sets for $65 ($130 value) and Origins Superstar Minis for $25 ($90 value). Available while supplies last. Offers only valid November 20 to November 25, 2016.

Orlando Harley-Davidson – Stop by for great deals on select styles, including 30% off men’s styles and logo T-shirts for $49. Plus, get a $10 duffle bag with the purchase of 4 Orlando Harley-Davidson tees! Offer only valid November 20 to November 28, 2016.

Pandora Jewelry – Receive a free bangle with a $125 purchase. Limitations apply. Offer only valid while supplies last November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Pop Gallery – From 8:00 AM to noon, save 20% off all purchases over $150 and an additional 30 to 50% off select merchandise. Some exclusions apply. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Rainforest Café Retail Village – Enjoy $10 off purchases of $50 or more. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Savannah Bee Co. – Receive a free jar of Whipped Honey with Passion Fruit with every purchase! Plus, spend $35 or more and receive a free gift set.

Sephora – Look for $10 deals throughout the store and limited-edition gift sets (exclusive to Sephora) for $25. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Shore – First 150 in-store Guests on November 25, 2016 will receive a secret savings percentage (between 10% and 30%) off their purchase. Plus, on November 25 and November 26, 2016, receive a free gift with a purchase of $300 or more.

Sound Lion – Save 15% off entire store. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Sprinkles – Available for a limited time— the Black Velvet Cupcake—their deepest, darkest, most “chocolatey” cake topped with chocolate ganache. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Sugarboo & Co. – Get 10% off purchases of $100-$199, 15% off purchases of $200-$299 and 20% off purchases $300 or more (discount applied to total purchase). Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Sunglass Icon – Save 60% off original prices of select styles. Offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Superdry – Buy 2 items, get 1 item free. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

The Art of Shaving – Drop by for great deals on select kits! 

The LEGO® Store – Save up to 50% off while supplies last—offer valid only on November 25, 2016. Plus, get an exclusive snow globe with a $95 purchase—offer only valid November 25 to November 28, 2016.

Tommy Bahama – Limited time “Flip Side” offer: Receive a $50 award for every $150 you spend in store to use toward a future purchase. Offer only valid November 23 to November 28, 2016. Additional restrictions apply; see store for details.

TROPHY ROOM – Save 23% off select merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

TUMI – Save 25 to 40% off select collections. Offer only valid November 16 to November 27, 2016.

UGG – Save 30% off select women’s, men’s and kid’s styles. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

UNDER ARMOUR BRAND HOUSE – Get $25 off every $150 purchase until 11:00 AM—offer only valid November 25, 2016. Plus, get 25% select fleece jackets—offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

UNOde50 – Save 30% off all styles. Offer only valid November 25 to November 28, 2016.

Vince Camuto – Save 40% off entire purchase. Offer only valid November 26 to November 27, 2016.

United World Soccer – Save 50% off select jerseys.

Volcom – Save 40% off all Volcom brand merchandise. Offer only valid November 24 to November 25, 2016. 

All discounts and offers are subject to change without notice.

First "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released:

This morning on Good Morning America, the very first full trailer of "Beauty and the Beast" was released. Oh and will it bring up all your emotions of the animated classic. Emma Watson is the perfect Belle and just the little things that Disney does so perfectly. Here is the trailer:

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action re-telling of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs. “Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Oscar® winner Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric, but lovable father; Josh Gad as Lefou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.

The tale that is old as time in "Beauty and the Beast" will hit theaters March 17, 2017.

Anthony Mackie Announced as Final Narrator for Candlelight Processional:

"Avengers" star Anthony Mackie (Falcon) has been announced as the final narrator of Epcot's Candlelight Processional. He will be narrating on the dates of December 7-9. Here is the full list of narrators:

• Steven Curtis Chapman – November 25 to 27, 2016
• Neil Patrick Harris – November 28 to December 1, 2016
• Whoopi Goldberg – December 2 to 3, 2016
• Edward James Olmos – December 4 to 6, 2016
• Anthony Mackie – December 7 to 9, 2016
• Robby Benson – December 10 to 12, 2016
• Meredith Vieira – December 13 to 15, 2016
• Jim Caviezel – December 16 to 18, 2016
• Joe Morton – December 19 to 21, 2016
• Ming-Na Wen – December 22 to 24, 2016
• Jodi Benson – December 25 to 27, 2016
• Cal Ripken, Jr. – December 28 to 30, 2016

Epcot's Candlelight Processional begins next Friday, November 25 and will run through December 30, 2016. It is performed nightly three times a night at the American Gardens Theatre in the America Pavilion at Epcot.