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. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

Reservations Open Now for DCA Food & Wine Premium Events; #DisneyParksLIVE from the Disney Wonder

Reservations Now Open for Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Premium Events:

The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returns next month running from March 10 through April 16. Today, reservations opened for the premium events that will be held during this year's festival. Here is what the Disney Parks Blog released on 4 of the events:

The popular “In the Kitchen with…” series debuts for the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. See your favorite celebrity chefs Guy Fieri, Robert Irvine, Cat Cora, G. Garvin, Graham Elliot and Jet Tila demonstrate their skills in the kitchen, try a tasting menu created by the chef and even get an autograph! Cost is $99 per person, plus tax and gratuity. 

The popular Sweet Sundays events are back! Join celebrity pastry chefs Duff Goldman, Emily Ellyn and Keegan Gerhard as they show how to make some of their delectable desserts. Cost is $79 per person, plus tax and gratuity. 

Winemaker Dinners highlight wines from California vintners Duckhorn Vineyards and Flora Springs Winery, with a four-course meal carefully selected to enhance the flavor of the wine. While you dine, enjoy insights and inspiration behind the pairings by a knowledgeable winemaker. Cost is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. 

A special Winemaker Dinner featuring Disney Family of Wines includes Fess Parker Winery, GoGi Wines, Lasseter Family Winery and Silverado Vineyards. The wineries at this event each have a special connection to the Disney legacy. Cost is $200 per person, plus tax and gratuity. 

Beer lovers, rejoice! New to this year’s festival, Brewmaster Beer Dinners feature prix fixe dinners where hand-selected beers from California-based breweries will be paired and served with a four-course specialty menu prepared by Disney chefs. Knowledgeable brewmasters present each beer and describe the chef’s inspiration for the pairing. Cost is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

There will be plenty more to do during the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival such as learning cooking techniques and sample taste testings from visiting local chefs as well as Disneyland chefs in Culinary Demonstrations. Experience Beverage Seminars featuring guided tastings of wine, beer, or spirits. Let's not forget the kids as kids ages 3-11 will partake in a returning event called Jr. Chef, that is complimentary and will occur daily during the festival.

Events taking place March 10 through April 1 are now available to book, and reservations will continue to become available 60 days prior to each event’s date. To view a full listing of Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival events or to make reservations visit Disneyland.com/FoodAndWine.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

#DisneyParksLIVE Stream of "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular" Aboard Disney Wonder:

Tune in tomorrow morning, February 2, on the Disney Parks Blog for special sneak peak of "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular" aboard the Disney Wonder in a special #DisneyParksLIVE stream. The stream will begin at 10:50 a.m. EST with a fresh blog post on the blog.

"Frozen, A Musical Spectacular" is the latest Broadway-style musical by Disney Cruise Line. The new show features an innovative combination of traditional theatrical techniques, modern technology, and classic Disney whimsy. 

They are encouraging fans to follow along on social media using the hashtags #DisneyParksLIVE and #DisneyCruise. This will be the first time #DisneyParksLIVE will be streamed aboard Disney Cruise Line. 

Movie Review: Disney's "Moana" is a Masterpiece from Disney Animation (Spoiler Free)

What can I say about "Moana" that has already been said, the film is a masterpiece from Walt Disney Animation. I was filled with joy last night as I finally got to see the film. Between the music and the storyline and the amazing characters, this film was amazing from start to finish. My favorite characters were Maui and Hei Hei, but our heroine, Moana (played by Auli'i Cravalho) is clearly the star of the film.

"Moana" gives us the lesson of following our hearts and that nothing is impossible. Moana follows her heart to the ocean, her true calling, despite her father's wishes against it. She chose her own path and in the end what was thought to be impossible was possible because she followed her heart. The story was perfect for the film and it played out perfectly just as Disney always makes its movies. No matter what the trouble the characters may find themselves in, they find their way to a better place. Walt Disney Animation gets even the little details in the movie right and that is why the film was so good. 

I can go on and on about Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Maui and how we the perfect demigod but I feel like many of you already feel the same way. Really, I want to tell everyone how funny Hei Hei the chicken was during this movie. Everyone can relate to Hei Hei, well at least I can, I mean he is awkward and kind of dumb, but he's actually very heroic and does have some wit to him. They were definitely my two favorite characters. 

Also, I'm just going to say that Lin-Manuel Miranda is a genius. The music that he wrote for the film was perfect. The songs have been stuck in my head all day as I sing along to "You're Welcome" and "We Know the Way." Is "You're Welcome" the next hit that takes the country and the world by storm, because I think it is. I was singing the song for days even before I saw the film. 

"Moana" is truly a masterpiece and should win many awards for how great the film is. If you haven't seen it yet, please go see it and enjoy it. Many have said how "Moana" is better than "Frozen" and I agree. 

"Moana" Tops Thanksgiving Weekend Box Office; Second Best Thanksgiving Opening Ever

"Moana" says "You're Welcome" to Disney as it topped the box office on it's opening weekend with an $81.1 million 5-day opening due to the Thanksgiving holiday. It was the second best Thanksgiving weekend opening, second only to Disney's hit film "Frozen" which made $93.6 million during it 5-day opening 3 years ago.

Additionally, the film took in $16.3 million overseas with a limited release internationally. The film builds on Disney's success this year, who has released 5 of the 10 year's highest grossing films, is the leader in terms of market share, and is poised to set a new record for annual grosses. Hits this year included: Zootopia, Captain America: Civil War, The Jungle Book, Finding Dory, Doctor Strange and now Moana. Disney still has one more huge hit that awaits the box office this year when "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" the first standalone film in the saga soars into theaters on December 16.

Disney's Distribution Chief Dave Hollis told Variety about Disney's success this year at the box office:

“We are working with the greatest brands and we’re doing big, broad storytelling that resonates domestically, but has the power to transcend borders and languages and cultures around the world."

Three thousand years ago, the greatest sailors in the world voyaged across the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, for a millennium, their voyages stopped – and no one knows why.

From Walt Disney Animation Studios comes “Moana,” a sweeping, CG-animated feature film about an adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana (voice of Auli’i Cravalho) meets the once-mighty demigod Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson), who guides her in her quest to become a master wayfinder. Together, they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds, and along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she’s always sought: her own identity.  

 

 

'Rogue One' Tickets Go On Sale Monday; Tokyo Disneyland's 'it's a small world' Adding 40 Characters

'Rogue One' Tickets Go On Sale Monday:

We are just three weeks away from "Rogue One: A Star Wars" soaring into theaters. The Star Wars twitter account announced today that we are just 3 days away from tickets from going on sale Monday, November 28. 

Lord Vader, we've been expecting you. Tickets for #RogueOne: A Star Wars Story are available on Monday, November 28. pic.twitter.com/is1lIw9W4u

— Star Wars (@starwars) November 25, 2016

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" flies into theaters December 16, 2016.

Tokyo Disneyland's 'it's a small world' Adding 40 Characters:

When Tokyo Disneyland's 'it's a small world' goes under refurbishment in March 2017 it will get a major update by adding 40 Disney characters to the attraction including characters from Frozen. The ride is scheduled to be updated and completed by Spring 2018.

This will be the first major update to the attraction since it opened in 1983. The attraction was originally supposed to be knocked down and moved to a new space in the park as part of the Fantasyland expansion, those plans have since been cancelled. 

Hong Kong Disneyland Announces Plan for Multi-Year Expansion; New "Tiana's Riverboat Party & Parade Viewing" to Debut

Hong Kong Disneyland Announces Plan for Multi-Year Expansion:

Today, Hong Kong Disneyland announced a multi-year expansion that will begin in 2018 and be completed by 2023. The expansion will include new lands based off of "Moana", "Frozen", and Marvel. The expansion will cost $1.4 billion. Here is a rundown of what's coming in phases beginning in 2018:

• A transformed Castle and Hub area to showcase new daytime and nighttime spectaculars and entertainment experiences (2019)
• An all-new Frozen-themed land with two new attractions (a major E ticket and Oaken’s Enchanted Sleighs, similar to Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters at Disneyland Resort) where guests can experience the characters and stories from the beloved films in ways never before at a Disney park (2020)
• Dedicated Marvel themed area featuring exciting new Marvel attractions and entertainment from one of the most popular Super Hero franchises in history. New attractions will replace Autopia (2023) and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (2018)
• A new entertainment venue, Moana’s Village Festival in Adventureland, which will feature a lively stage show (2018) Credit: MouseInfo

“This proposed expansion brings the best of The Walt Disney Company to this wonderful tourist destination, giving guests an experience only Disney can deliver and infusing some of Disney’s most beloved characters and stories into this unique destination,” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

The expansion includes for the first time a rebuilding of a Disney castle in Hong Kong Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty castle that will create a canvas for never before seen daytime and nighttime spectaculars. Entertainment experiences like the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will also be added.

Are you excited about the new attractions and lands being built in Hong Kong? Do you think any of this will eventually be coming to Disney World? Let us know in the comments.

New "Tiana's Riverboat Party & Parade Viewing" to Debut:

Beginning next week, guests will be able to experience a new dessert and parade viewing party at the Magic Kingdom. "Tiana's Riverboat Party - Ice Cream Social & Parade Viewing" will debut on November 29 in a special event held on the Liberty Square Riverboat. Here are the details:

Treat your senses to a Liberty Square Riverboat “sundae fun-day” and reserved viewing of one of our grandest processions.

Make the most of your next visit to Magic Kingdom park, where Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen are throwing an unforgettable party… and you’re invited! The occasion begins on the dock as your royal hosts welcome you and your sweet tooth to an ice cream social, complete with ice cream and toppings, drinks, and sweet treats.

Then board the Liberty Square Riverboat and relax while enjoying the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade—all from the comfort of your special viewing location!

After the parade, Tiana and Naveen will join you to continue the party as you all cruise around the Rivers of America, circling Tom Sawyer Island.

The event will cost $49 for adults and $29 for children ages 3-9 (tax included). To make reservations you can call (407)WDW-DINE (939-3463) or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/Dining. 

Finding Dory, New Parade, & More Coming to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea; Stitch's Great Escape Going to Seasonal Operation

Finding Dory, New Parade, & More Coming to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea:

Tokyo Disneyland was already getting some exciting new attractions with the announcement of the Big Hero 6 and Beauty and the Beast inspired attractions that were announced earlier this year. Today, even more details were revealed as more of our favorite characters will be heading over to the Japanese Disney Parks.

First off during Spring 2017, a new Easter-themed parade starring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde from Disney's "Zootopia" in Tokyo Disneyland. At Tokyo DisneySea the entire park will be "festooned with colorful springtime decorations. Mickey and his friends will also be dressed in their Easter finery.

Photo Credit: Disney/Pixar

Also in the Spring in the Port Discovery area of Tokyo DisneySea, a brand new attraction called Nemo & Friends SeaRider will open. The new attraction will "immerse guests into the underwater world of the popular stories by using a ride system that will seamlessly blend glorious new visuals with a dynamic motion-base system." The storyline will find guests boarding a submersible that will shrink you to the size of a fish.

"Also opening in the spring of 2017 at Tokyo DisneySea is the “renewed” Turtle Talk, where Dory and Squirt join Crush while additional characters like Destiny the whale shark and Hank the octopus will stop by. Nemo & Friends SeaRider sounds incredible and the updated Turtle Talk, which has already hit the domestic Disney Parks, is a hoot that Tokyo DisneySea guests will surely adore as much as we do." 

In the Summer, a "Special Event at Tokyo DisneySea" will be themed to the new movie releasing next year, "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" and the the Pirates film series. It will be located in the Mediterranean Harbor area of the park. Guests will enjoy the show on the harbor featuring the likes of Captain Jack Sparrow, pirates, and tons of splashing water, as well as atmosphere entertainment presented by a crew of pirates. Special merchandise, menu items, and decorations inspired by the event will transform the park into a Pirates of the Caribbean world. Specially themed decor and entertainment will also transform Tokyo Disneyland.

Finally coming July 11, 2017, will be the renewed version of the Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights. For the first time ever a brand new icy castle float featuring Anna and Elsa from Disney's "Frozen" will join the parade. Cinderella will have two brand new floats one featuring her pumpkin coach and the other will showcase the grand ballroom featuring Prince Charming. Returning will be the "Beauty and the Beast" float that has been absent from the parade since 2011. The new version will have enhanced LED lighting and will bring even more color to the park at night. 

Stitch's Great Escape Moving to Season Operation, Is this the End for the Attraction?:

Beginning October 2, Stitch's Great Escape will be moving to seasonal operation in Tomorrowland of the Magic Kingdom. The attraction will then be opened as attendance demands moving forward. Here are the hours of operation going forward into January 2017:

• October 2 through November 18 – CLOSED
• November 19 through November 26 – OPEN
• November 27 through December 16 – CLOSED
• December 17 through January 2 – OPEN
• After January 2 – CLOSED

The attraction which has never really gained popularity with guests could be seeing the end of the road very soon. It has recently been rumored that a brand new Wreck-It-Ralph attraction featuring Sugar Rush would be taking its place. Stay tuned for more developments on this story. 

Guy Fieri to Design Part of Planet Hollywood Observatory's New Menu; Disney PhotoPass Now at Frozen Ever After

Guy Fieri to Design Part of Planet Hollywood Observatory's New Menu:

Planet Hollywood Observatory will re-open this Fall inside Disney Springs with a new menu designed by Food Network Chef Guy Fieri. He will introduce a flavor-packed burger and sandwich menu as part of the restaurants of the larger offerings on its menu. Robert Earl, the entrepreneur, restaurateur, and star of Cooking Channel's "Robert Earl's Be My Guest," reached out to Fieri because of their shared passion for food. Besides Fieri's section on the menu, Planet Hollywood Observatory will soon be sharing their full new menu that will feature a variety of offerings and bold flavors. 

Earl, who is Planet Hollywood's International Founder and Chairman said this on the partnership, "Guy Fieri has created an impressive culinary empire and has built an incredible TV following with several food-themed shows, so it was a no-brainer to invite him to create a special menu for Planet Hollywood Observatory. This partnership only furthers our commitment to refresh our guest experience while continuing to offer freshly-prepared, pleasing dishes."

Fieri added, " It’s awesome to be working with Robert Earl and the Planet Hollywood Team. For the Planet Hollywood Observatory, I’m bringing a big time burger and sandwich menu with real deal flavors for everyone.”

The new restaurant is centrally located and will overlook the heart of Disney Springs with a newly expanded terrace and bar. The exterior of the restaurant will be reminiscent of a turn-of-the-century observatory with a modern design aesthetic. The interior's refurbished upholstery, spherical planet-shaped lighting fixtures, and stylish finishing will create a welcoming atmosphere for fans to celebrate a new generation of superstore entertainers.

Planet Hollywood Observatory will open sometime this Fall. Stay tuned for the official opening date to be announced soon.

Disney PhotoPass Now at Frozen Ever After:

You can now relive your adventure to Arendelle on Frozen Ever After with the new on-ride photo capture thanks to Disney PhotoPass. While enjoying your journey through the kingdom during a special, "Summer Snow Day," with Queen Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and friends, a camera will capture a photo of you during an exciting moment of your journey through Arendelle. 

To preview, purchase and download this attraction photo, you must be wearing a MagicBand during your adventure. Your photo will be automatically associated to your My Disney Experience account, where it can be viewed at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com or in the My Disney Experience mobile app alongside all of your vacation memories from Disney PhotoPass Service.

So why don't you step aboard a Norwegian vessel and chill out while Disney PhotoPass Service captures your fantastically “Frozen” adventure!

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Princess Elena of Avalor's Royal Welcome Live Stream; Frozen Musical Coming to Disney Cruise Line

Prince Elena of Avalor's Royal Welcome Live Stream:

We just came off a month of amazing live streams on the Disney Parks Blog. Today, the next one was announced as Disney Parks Live will be live from the Magic Kingdom next Thursday, August 11 for Princess Elena of Avalor's Royal Welcome. The live stream will begin at 10:45 a.m. ET. 

The "Royal Welcome of Princess Elena of Avalor" is a new stage show on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage that will be presented several times daily beginning August 12. Here is a description of what will happen during the stage show for Disney's newest princess:

Cinderella and Prince Charming appear on the stage of the castle, dándole la bienvenida (giving a welcome) to everyone to this magical kingdom and introducing their special guest from Avalor. Princess Elena arrives accompanied by a troupe of regal banner carriers and musicians and when asked to share her historia, Elena picks up a guitarra and joins her musicians in a performance of the song “My Time,” recounting her magical adventures and triumphant return to Avalor.

You can also catch Princess Elena on her new Disney Channel original series, "Elena of Avalor," that airs Friday's at 7:30 p.m.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Frozen Musical Coming to Disney Cruise Line:

"Let it go, Let it Go," if you haven't figured it out more "Frozen" is on the way this time on the Disney Cruise Line aboard the Disney Wonder. This time in the form of a musical called, "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular." The new show will debut beginning November 10, 2016 along with other new enhancements on the ship sailing from Galveston, Texas. 

Here is what the Disney Parks Blog had to say in its announcement today:

"The story of royal sisters Anna and Elsa will be presented like never before, with an innovative combination of traditional theatrical techniques, modern technology and classic Disney whimsy, completely unique to the Disney Wonder production. The show features dynamic costumes and sets, remarkable special effects, and spectacular production numbers that expand upon the most imaginative elements of the film.
To adapt this blockbuster animated feature into a quintessential stage production, Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Executive Kevin Eld assembled a team of distinguished creative talent with Broadway credits and theatrical accolades. The production is led by Tony Award-nominated director Sheryl Kaller (“Next Fall,” “Mothers and Sons”). Joining the creative team are Tony Award-winning costume designer Paloma Young (“Peter and the Starcatcher”), choreographer Josh Prince (“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”), scenic designer Jason Sherwood (“Paint Your Wagon”), and writer Sara Wordsworth (“In Transit”).
“Frozen, a Musical Spectacular” will feature music direction by Marco Paguia, projection design by Aaron Rhyne and lighting design by Rui Rita. Dynamic puppetry by Michael Curry, whose designs are featured in Disney’s Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “The Lion King,” will bring exciting physicality to characters like Sven and Olaf."

Stay tuned though because in coming months the Disney Parks Blog promises to give us an inside look at the production of the new musical coming to the Disney Wonder.

Watch Elena of Avalor Premiere for Exclusive Previews of Pete's Dragon, Beauty & the Beast, and More

The premiere of Disney's newest and first Latina Princess in "Elena of Avalor" is just days away from its premiere this Friday, July 22. First however, Disney will air one of its animated classics in "Frozen" at 5:15 p.m. During "Frozen" we will get a first look of the new animated short-series, LEGO Frozen Northern Lights, which premieres this fall in November on Disney Channel.

That's not all as we will get an exclusive first look at a scene from the upcoming release of the Disney's live action film in Disney's "Pete's Dragon" hitting theaters on August 12. There's more as we will get a look at a new trailer from Disney's live action remake of its animated classic, Beauty and the Beast, with narration from its star Emma Watson (Belle). "Beauty and the Beast" opens in theaters on March 17, 2017. 

Just last week we got our first teaser for the sequel to "Descendants" in "Descendants 2." We will be getting our first trailer for the Disney Channel Original Movie sequel that is set to premiere next year in Summer 2017. 

"Elena of Avalor" will premiere this Friday on Disney Channel at 7 p.m EST. The first episode will be available on the Disney Channel and Disney Junior app, Disney VOD platforms, and the Disney YouTube channel tomorrow, July 20th. Following the US debut of the new show, it will roll out in 163 countries on the Disney Channel and Disney Junior. 

Disney on Ice Presents Follow Your Heart Featuring Finding Dory, Inside Out, and So Much More

The new Disney on Ice show will be called "Follow Your Heart" will begin its production with shows this Fall beginning in Orlando. This year it will feature Pixar's record breaking animated film, "Finding Dory." It will also feature "Inside Out," Disney's "Frozen," and many other of our beloved Disney and Pixar stories.

• Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Pixar’s Finding Dory as they embark on a life-changing excursion to find her parents and discover the true meaning of family.
• Cheer with the Emotions from Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out–Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust– as they help Riley find the confidence to win the hockey championship and experience the emotional rollercoaster of growing up.
• Venture to wintery world of Arendelle where Olaf and Kristoff help reunite royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen and learn love is the most powerful magic of all.
• See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana and the Disney Princesses make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and The Toy Story gang.
• Make unforgettable memories with Mickey, Minnie and all your Disney friends when Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart skates into your hometown!

Besides Orlando, here are the other cities Disney on Ice: Follow Your Heart will be hitting:

Sunrise, Florida
Miami, Florida
Atlanta, Georgia
Charlotte, North Carolina
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Huntsville, Alabama
New Orleans, Louisiana
Raleigh, North Carolina
Greensboro, North Carolina
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Hampton, Virginia
Fairfax, Virginia
Baltimore, Maryland
Indianapolis, Indiana
Houston, Texas
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cleveland, Ohio
Newark, New Jersey
Brooklyn, New York
Auburn Hills, Michigan
Chicago, Illinois
London, Ontario
Rosemont, Illinois
San Antonio, Texas
Hidalgo, Texas
Kansas City, Missouri
Toronto, Ontario
Worchester, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts
Montreal, Quebec

Are you excited for this year's Disney on Ice production, Follow Your Heart?

D23 Expo 2017 Tickets on Sale Next Week, Star Wars Show Live from Star Wars Celebration: Europe, and More

D23 Expo 2017 Tickets on Sale Next Week:

While we are still a year away from the 2017 D23 Expo, tickets will go on sale beginning next week, July 14 for next year's expo at 10 a.m. PT. Today we got prices for the expo which will take place on July 14-16, 2017 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Next year will be the 5th expo which is a biennial event. 

The event will of course celebrate the past, present, and future of Disney with live events, celebrity appearances, panels, presentations, sneak peeks, and immersive experiences. It will return with fan favorites such as the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony, exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives, and the Mousquerade Costume Contest plus so much more. 

Tickets for D23 Expo 2017 will be available at a discounted price for a limited time. From July 14–December 31, 2016, tickets are $67 for a one-day adult admission and $46 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $57 for a one-day adult admission and $41 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available. D23 Members can save as much as $296 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for members and general admission, visit D23Expo.com.

Here is more information on the VIP Sorcerer Package from the release from D23:

A limited number of VIP Sorcerer Packages for D23 Expo 2017 will be available. The Sorcerer Package includes:

• Three-day admission ticket and commemorative Sorcerer credential
• Reserved seating at presentations in Hall D23, Stage 23, and Stage 28
• Limited-edition D23 American Tourister boarding bag
• Pre-Expo tour of select exhibits including Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives
• Exclusive shopping time in the D23 Expo Dream Store, Disney Store, and Mickey’s of Glendale
• Tour of the D23 Expo show floor the day before the Expo is open to the public
• Welcome Reception on Thursday evening
• Exclusive entrance to the Expo each morning
• A voucher for an appointment with an on-site massage therapist
• Exclusive D23 Expo gift pack including gifts from D23 and the rest of The Walt Disney Company
• Meet and Greet with a special Disney guest
• “Fond Farewell” reception on final day of Expo
• Plus, access to the Sorcerer Member Lounge and other benefits

Sorcerer Package tickets are available exclusively to both D23 Gold and Gold Family Members at $2,250 per ticket. Members have the option to purchase up to two Sorcerer tickets. Additional details and benefits are highlighted at D23Expo.com.

As always stay tuned to It All Started With a Mouse as more information the 2017 D23 Expo is released in the coming months.

Star Wars Show to Live Stream Star Wars Celebration Europe:

We are all excited for Star Wars Celebration Europe which is next weekend, July 15-17 in London. Today we received amazing news from The Star Wars Show that they will be live streaming the event beginning Friday, July 15 through Sunday July 17. 

The live stream will feature celebrity guests, interviews with Star Wars creators, must-see panels, and so much more. The show of course will be hosted by Star Wars Show hosts Andi Gutierrez and Peter Townley. 

That's not all as there will also be a live stream of the special Rogue One: A Star Wars Story panel (11  a.m. EST/ 8 a.m. PST) presented by Verizon. It will feature director of the film Gareth Edwards who will be joined by Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy along with other special guests for a live discussion on the much anticipated film this winter. 

We can't wait to hear all the the news coming out of Star Wars Celebration Europe next weekend.

Tokyo Disney Resort to Debut Frozen Forever Nighttime Spectacular:

Disney really just won't "Let It Go" as today Tokyo Disney Resort a new nighttime spectacular called "Frozen Forever" set to debut next year. "Frozen Forever" will run from January 13 through March 17, 2017 and will be presented as part of the Tokyo Disneyland special event, "Anna and Elsa's Frozen Fantasy." Here are some details released from Oh My Disney:

“Frozen Forever” will involve scenes from the hit Disney film, Frozen, being projected onto the exterior of Cinderella Castle, which will bring a one-of-a-kind experience to guests at the park. It will focus on the film’s themes, showing Anna and Elsa’s childhood and adventures, with an emphasis on family ties. Hit songs like “Let it Go,” “For the First Time in Forever,” and “Love Is an Open Door” will be included, with the grand finale featuring exciting pyrotechnics over the castle.

Reserved Seating for "Frozen Forever" will available via a lottery system. For more details on the show and the lottery you can visit the Tokyo Disney Resort website.

Frozen Ever After Opens; Frozen Goes LEGO with "Frozen Northern Lights" Animated Shorts

Frozen Ever After Opens:

The wait is over...... 'Frozen Ever After' is opened and people are waiting and waiting and waiting. For the people that have gotten to ride the newest attraction it has gotten some rave reviews. The problem is with no soft opening of the attraction there have been some kinks and shut downs of the ride have occurred throughout the day.

At one point today, Epcot stopped accepting people in the stand-by line and were only accepting guests with FastPass+ reservations were allowed in line. The wait time posted reached the maximum 300 minute wait. Cast Members were seen handing out cold water and Mickey ice cream bars while guests waited in the hot sun waiting to get on the newest attraction. 

I haven't watched any video of 'Frozen Ever After' as I am trying not to spoil the surprise when I return to Disney World in just 89 days. Again reviews are saying the attraction is well improved over Maelstrom and the animatronics added to the attraction are absolutely amazing. We will see if the kinks get worked out of 'Frozen Ever After' over the next few days and weeks. 

Frozen Goes LEGO with "Frozen Northern Lights" Animated Shorts:

Frozen will be going LEGO with a new animated short series beginning in this fall called, "Frozen Northern Lights." The new series will also include a companion collection of books which will begin release in July. It will be an original story from Arendelle where Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff, and Sven will embark on an epic journey to restore the glimmer of the Northern Lights.

"Natural phenomenon meets cultural phenomenon in this all new story, Frozen Northern Lights. We're excited to share this new adventure and offer fans great new ways to connect with their favorite characters thanks to a host of related books, digital games, and activities," said Andrew Sugerman, Executive Vice President of Disney Publishing Worldwide.

The new story, which is entitled Disney Frozen Northern Lights: Journey to the Lights, will be introduced as a deluxe novelization in July, ahead of an extended collection of books. In the book series, we’ll see some of our favorite characters return alongside a brand new protagonist named Little Rock. 

Back to the shorts, even more exciting news is that the original cast will be reprising their roles for the series. Here is Josh Gad, voice of Olaf, announcing "Frozen Northern Lights."

The shorts will air on Disney Channel this fall.

Details on Disneyland's FastPass+ System, Disney Park Pack is Expanding, and More

Details on Disneyland's FastPass+ System:

We already know that Disneyland will not be getting Magic Bands when their FastPass+ system is rolled out in the parks out west. Last night it appears as WDW News Today found out just how the system will work and it looks like it won't change too much from their regular FastPass system they currently have.

With the FastPass+ system at Disneyland guests will only be able to make the reservations for the FastPasses the day of and none will be available in advance like in Disney World. Guests will make the reservations via the mobile app, website, or in-park kiosks. Concerning the kiosks, guests won't have to go to each individual attraction kiosk, there will be a few kiosks around the park for guests to make reservations.

Guests will make reservations for one attraction at a time just like the old paper FastPass system. Essentially, Disneyland's FastPass+ system will just be the paperless version of the old version. There is no word on when Disneyland will switch over to the new system.

Disney Park Pack is Expanding:

If you love the Disney Park Pack - Pin Trading Edition, get ready because Disney is expanding the service. The Park Pack which is essentially a mystery-box that no one knows what's inside until it is opened. On May 9, they will be releasing a one-time only box with collector's memorabilia that will take the collector back to opening day at Disneyland, July 17, 1995. 

The special one-time only box will have an edition size of only 1,200. Guests may purchase this item with a limit of 2 per household. That's not all as Disney will releasing a new special Disney Park Pack this July.

As you can tell by the sneak peak of the packaging above will give collector's that Christmas feeling. This was specially designed for a new collection of specially designed ear hat ornaments. Disney gave a hint that fans of birds that are orange, ghosts, attractions, and more will go wild over this new Disney Park Pack. I can't wait for this Disney Park Pack.

'Frozen' Games Begin May 27 at Blizzard Beach:

The Summer is about to get a lot cooler at Blizzard Beach beginning May 27. Kristoff and Olaf are set to host the inaugural 'Frozen' Summer Games that will run through August 21 at the water park. Kristoff and Olaf are inviting guests to join Team Kristoff or Team Olaf each day  to participate in a variety of winter-themed activities. They include:

• Ice Pail Relays where teams line up and pass pails of water to one another, trying to be the first to fill a container at the end.
• A “Snowball” Toss where pairs compete in a snow-themed water balloon toss.
• Ski Pole Limbo, a snowy twist on traditional limbo—using a ski pole as the limbo bar!
• Slide Races that allow teams to race down one of the signature water slides at Blizzard Beach

Olaf and Kristoff will be on hand every day appearing on the observation deck of Summit Plummet as they will take part in the opening and closing ceremonies each day, and giving updates on their team's progress throughout the day. The games will be an all-day event. Guests can sign up for the events when they arrive at the park's entrance. All activities will be included with park admission. 

Will you be visiting Blizzard Beach this summer for the 'Frozen' Summer Games?

Details on Amorette's Patisserie Opening May 15; Behind-the-Scenes Look at 'Frozen - Live at the Hyperion'

Details on Amorette's Patisserie Opening May 15 at Disney Springs:

Amorette's Patisserie will be opening up in Disney Springs on May 15 and today we got a few details today on the Disney Parks Blog including the story behind it. Here is the story as told on the blog:

"Established as one of the first shops in Town Center (circa 1900s) and passed down through the generations, the patisserie is currently owned by artistic sisters Kara and Sara, where they pour great care into designing and creating the most unique and artistic pastries. In fact, “Amorette” means “little love” in French."

Classic and contemporary cakes and pastries will be the stars of the high-end pastry shop. Guests will be able to watch the pastry chefs as they decorate signature cakes in the on-stage finishing kitchen. The cakes will even be boxed in unique fashion in boutique-style packaging, inspired by old-fashioned hat boxes.

Other desserts and pastries to look forward to macaron, light and crisp pavlova, several different cookies, New York-style cheesecake, opera cake, and sacher torte. Specialty sweets have names like "Reflection in Memphis" which is peanut blondie with bacon, banana, and chocolate or "Strawberry Fields of OC' which is strawberry mousse with basil sugar and lemon curd. 

Amorette's will also feature some delicious beverages as well. Why not sip on a glass of champagne or sparkling wine, or Amorette's Hot Chocolate Ganache (a cupful of chocolate with Chantilly with shaved dark chocolate on top) or why not a glass of milk, coffee, and tea. 

Of course Amorette's will open with the rest of Disney Springs' Town Center on May 15. Also of not beginning May 22, you will be able to pre-order Amorette's cakes by calling 407-934-3500 with at least 72 business hours advance notice.

Behind-the-Scenes Look at 'Frozen - Live at the Hyperion':

"Frozen - Live at the Hyperion" won't debut until May 27 at Disney California Adventure but that doesn't mean we have to wait that long until we see it. Today, the Disney Parks Blog gave us a behind the scenes look at just how the set came together for the all-new musical. Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Entertainment team along with Tony Award-nominated scenic designer Robert Brill (Guys and Dolls, Cabaret) to produce set pieces that will bring out the story of "Frozen" to life in a unique way.

A video was released showing Technical Director Mitch Atkins giving us just a glimpse at some of the thrilling work in progress, check it out:

With the combination of the set pieces, lighting and sound design, special effects, and the remarkable cast that will be performing, the complete production will transport you to Arendelle for a completely unforgettable hour experience for the guest. "Frozen - Live at the Hyperion" hits the stage beginning May 27, 2016.