Shanghai Disneyland's Toy Story Land to Open April 26; DCA Food & Wine Expands to Six Weeks

Shanghai Disneyland's Toy Story Land to Open April 26:

Last week, we got our first look at concept art for Shanghai Disneyland's first expansion for its 7th themed land in Toy Story Land. Yesterday, during Day 3 of the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas on the Disney Parks Blog an opening date was revealed for the land.

Toy Story Land will open on April 26, 2018. The expansion includes three brand new attractions in Slinky Dog Spin, Rex's Racer, and Woody's Roundup, a restaurant called the Toy Box Cafe, and a meet and greet area in Old West where you can meet your favorite Toy Story characters. You can read our story about the expansion here. 

The new land will bring unparalleled storytelling and creativity, making this international destination bigger and better than ever. Stay tuned for updates on this Toy Story Land opening in Shanghai and our own Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios right here on It All Started With a Mouse. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Expands to 6 Weeks in 2018:

The first story in yesterday's Day 3 of the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas was that the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival will expand to 6 weeks in 2018. It will run from March 2 through April 12, 2018 bringing delicious cuisine, specialty beverages, and exciting entertainment as it makes it return for the third straight year. 

More than a dozen Festival Marketplaces will feature California-inspired tastes and sips. Guests will experience presentations and demonstrations with celebrity chefs such as Robert Irvine and Alex Guarnaschelli; food and beverage tastings; winemaker dinners; beer, wine and spirit seminars – all in addition to live music, entertainment and special activities throughout the festival.
The festival’s signature events will include new experiences such as the Disney Family of Wines Dinner, as well as returning favorites like Sweet Sundays and the Winemaker or Brewmaster Dinners. Another guest-favorite returning to the festival is the Junior Chef experience, with hands-on fun led by Chef Goofy, for children ages 3 to 11.

Stay tuned for more details on the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival as they are revealed in the future.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Details and Concept Art Released for Shanghai's Toy Story Land

We are all anticipating the opening of Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios this Summer. This morning we got a look at Shanghai Disneyland's plans for what will be its own Toy Story Land. Here is the press release from Shanghai:

Based on the Disney•Pixar motion picture series, Disney Toy Story Land will be a high-spirited, colorful world where guests will feel as if they’ve been shrunk down to the size of their favorite Toy Story toys for laughter and fun with family and friends in the backyard of Andy. Woody, Buzz and their Toy Story friends come to life and play in this fully immersive land, which features three new attractions and a uniquely themed character greeting area.

Slinky Dog Spin: Slinky Dog has been amusing the toys all day long by chasing his own tail round-and-round a giant dog dish filled with toy bones – and soon Shanghai Disneyland guests will be invited to become the “honorary toys” in Disney Toy Story Land, where they will be able to take a seat inside Slinky Dog’s springy spirals and race around a wavy roundabout.

Rex’s Racer: Rex, Andy’s insecure Tyrannosaurus Rex toy enjoys playing with RC Racer almost as much as he likes playing video games. With help from his Triceratops friend Trixie, Rex will invite guests to climb into RC for a thrilling ride on the U-shaped track. With Rex at the controls, RC Racer, with guests aboard, zips forward and backward at ever increasing heights and exhilarating speed.

Woody’s Round-Up: Sheriff Woody has rounded up a herd of ponies, each one pulling a cart, in a ranch set up by Andy. Guests can climb aboard the carts as the ponies start a little square dance swinging their carts to and fro in time to the lively music.

Meeting Post: Next to Woody’s Round-Up is Old West, a town made up of a hitching post and façades for various enterprises, such as the sheriff’s office, the saloon, and the bank. Here, guests can meet and pose for photos with some of their favorite Toy Story characters, including Woody, Jessie, and Bullseye.

Guests can extend their Disney Toy Story Land experience with the fun, immersive shopping and dining opportunities in Al’s Toy Barn, the merchandise shop where some of Andy’s toys have been purchased, just like in the movie, and Toy Box Café, a restaurant themed to Andy’s packing boxes for Buzz Lightyear, Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head and Lotso Hugging Bear.

Shanghai Disney Resort has the only Toy Story-themed hotel in the world, while Shanghai Disneyland is home to the popular Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue attraction, a guest favorite which features the most advanced Buzz Lightyear targeting system at any Disney park in the world.

Shanghai's 7th land will open next year in Summer 2018. 

Rumor: Will TRON Lightcycle Rollercoaster be Replacing Tomorrowland Speedway?

I am still classifying this as a rumor, even though Disney Twitter was on fire yesterday with reports that it was confirmed by multiple sources by WDW News Today. The TRON Lightcycle Power Run Rollercoaster that debuted last year in Shanghai Disneyland is rumored to be replacing the Tomorrowland Speedway in Magic Kingdom in time for the parks 50th Anniversary. According to the sources it will be announced this Saturday during the D23 Expo.

Disney of course has not made any official announcement as that is expected not to come until Saturday. Rumors are always swirling especially around the D23 Expo where Disney usually runs out the red carpet for announcements on what's coming to its parks. Two years ago, rumors were running wild about Star Wars Land, and Disney didn't disappoint with the announcement as well as Toy Story Land.

This year we've already seen multiple rumors surface with the possible announcements like the Brazil Pavilion coming to World Showcase and Guardians of the Galaxy replacing Ellen's Energy Adventure just to name a few. Back to the TRON lightcycle coaster possibly coming to Tomorrowland. This would be two E-ticket attractions right next to each other with this coaster being right next to the very popular and classic Space Mountain. The coaster has been very well received over in Shanghai since the park opened last year.

Rumors of the coaster were first brought to surface last year shortly after Shanghai opened that the coaster would be either coming to Magic Kingdom or Epcot. While it sounds all but confirmed I continue to say to take these reports with a grain of salt as Disney could pull a fast one on us and not even announce it this weekend.

As always stay tuned as I am sure even more rumors will surface through out the week leading up to this weekends D23 Expo.

2016 Year-in-Review from It All Started With a Mouse

2016 was certainly an exciting year in the world of Disney and Disney Parks. We saw Disney break records at the box office, Shanghai Disneyland opened, and so much more. Here is our year in review for 2016.

Magic Kingdom Celebrates 45 years, Shanghai Opens, and More From Disney Parks:

2016 was a crazy year in Disney Parks around the world. We saw Hollywood Studios become literally half the park it used to be when ground was officially broken for Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land. The same for Disneyland where we saw the closure of Rivers of America temporarily and many other parts of the park to prepare itself for the massive 14-acre expansion of the park.  We also saw many attractions and shows close in 2016 they included:

• Phineas & Ferb Meet & Greet (Hollywood Studios)
• Lightning McQueen & Mater Meet & Greet (Hollywood Studios)
• Habit Heroes and Innoventions West (Epcot)
• Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show (Hollywood Studios)
• Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure Play Area (Hollywood Studios)
• Mike & Sulley Meet & Greet (Hollywood Studios)
• Studio Catering Co. (Hollywood Studios)
• Dream Along with Mickey (Magic Kingdom)
• Shark Reef (Typhoon Lagoon)
• Main Street Electrical Parade (Magic Kingdom)

With those closures though we saw so many new shows and openings. We saw Soarin' 2.0 open as Soarin' Around the World, Frozen Ever After opened, Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire debuted, and we saw Animal Kingdom light the night with new nighttime experiences.

In June, we saw Bob Iger's pride and joy finally open in the Shanghai Disney Resort. Inside Shanghai Disneyland lie six themed lands, each one a unique experience, imagined and created especially for China: Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Tomorrowland and Treasure Cove. At the heart of the park is Enchanted Storybook Castle, the tallest, biggest and most interactive of all Disney castles the world over.

Over in Disneyland, some news broke the hearts of many fans as it was announced in July that the Hollywood Tower of Terror would close at Disney California Adventure. In it's place will be the brand new Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! The very first Marvel-themed ride in a Disney Park in the United States. Eventually a more expansive Marvel Land will be built over at Disney California Adventure. Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! will open in Summer 2017. 

Over in Tokyo Disneyland, an expansion was announced in a new "Finding Dory" attraction will be opening in 2017 along with a new parade during the day and at night. They also are getting a new "Big Hero 6" attraction, a Fantasyland expansion, and Soarin' which was announced back in April.

In October, Magic Kingdom celebrated its 45th Anniversary in which we saw special merchandise and so much more. Just days later Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney World would be closed for the day due to the effects of Hurricane Matthew hitting Florida. Thankfully, there was no lasting effects or damage to the parks.

November was a big month as Destination D was held at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Here it was revealed that Pandora: The World of Avatar would open at Disney's Animal Kingdom would open Summer 2017, MagicBand 2.0 was introduced, and possible the biggest news is that Epcot will be receiving some major updates and expansion over the next few years. 

Also in November, Hong Kong Disneyland announced a multi-year expansion. This expansion will include a brand new redesigned castle, a Frozen-themed land with two new attractions, a dedicated Marvel themed area, and Moana's Village Festival over in Adventureland in the park. 

Rivers of Light, Where Are You?:

Did you really think I was going leave one of the biggest stories of the year and one of the biggest mysteries? 2016 was supposed to be the year when Rivers of Light, the amazing nighttime spectacular, was set to debut at Disney's Animal Kingdom. It was set to debut back in April alas Disney had other ideas for the nighttime spectacular. Through sources it appears as one of the Lotus flowers had sunk causing the delay.

First, they said it was delayed and would have another update on the show by the end of May. In it's place came Jungle Book: Alive with Magic, which ran through the summer months. The music was amazing but the concept felt rushed considering what Rivers of Light was supposed to be. No update ever came. Many questions and rumors began swirling if Rivers of Light would open by the end of the year. 

Disney had another golden opportunity to debut Rivers of Light in November during D23's Destination D: Amazing Adventures. They were having an in-park gathering where guests of event would take part in something inside the parks. Alas, not even a word of Rivers of Light was mentioned at the event. No official debut of Rivers of Light has been announced.

However, Disney has run several Cast Member previews over the last few weeks as well as stating in a "What's Coming in 2017" press release that Rivers of Light will debut sometime in the new year. Disney is even releasing a soundtrack for the music from the nighttime spectacular along with music from the Tree of Life Awakenings when the show debuts. Here's to seeing Rivers of Light sometime in 2017.

Disney Dominates at the Box Office Making History in 2016:

2016 was a record breaking year for Walt Disney Studios at the box office by being the very first studios to cross over the $7 billion threshold in a calendar year. "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" pushed the studio into the history books after its debut in mid-December.

Disney had several films cross over the $1 billion mark at the box office which included Zootopia, Captain America: Civil War, and Finding Dory. The Jungle Book, the live-action remake of the animated classic, came very close to crossing the $1 billion mark at the box office making  $966 million. Other major contributors to Disney's history making year include more recent films like Walt Disney Animation Studios Moana and Marvel's Doctor Strange.

Here's hoping 2017 is another hit at the box office for Disney.

Thank You:

Finally, it was quite the year hear at It All Started With a Mouse. I would like to thank you, all the readers, who have supported me over the now almost two years of blogging. This year we have double our views since the blog started and that is all thanks to you. This year, I have had the pleasure of joining an amazing group of people in the MouseLife podcast crew. They have really broadened our horizons for the future. I can't wait to see what 2017 brings for both It All Started With a Mouse and the MouseLife. 

Happy New Year to all of you,

John

Shanghai Disneyland Expanding with Toy Story Land Opening in 2018

Toy Story Land is coming to Shanghai Disneyland in the parks first expansion since it opened in June. Ground was broken for the expansion with Chairman and CEO Bob Iger, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Bob Chapek, and Fan Xiping who is chairman of the Shanghai Shendi Group. The expansion is expected to open in 2018.

Here is what the Disney Parks Blog shared about Toy Story Land coming to Shanghai Disneyland:

We started the expansion even before opening Shanghai Disneyland in anticipation of its immense popularity in Mainland China. The characters from Toy Story have been well liked in China ever since the release of the first film in the franchise back in 1995, and Shanghai Disney Resort already has the only resort hotel in the world dedicated to the characters and stories from Toy Story. Our guests can’t get enough of Buzz, Woody and all of their pals, which made Toy Story an obvious choice for Shanghai Disneyland’s first expansion.
As you can tell from the logo, Toy Story Land at Shanghai Disneyland will be both authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for our guests. Everyone’s favorite toys from one of the most popular franchises ever will come to life and play in a fully immersive land with three attractions and a themed character greeting area.
Shanghai Disneyland’s new Toy Story Land will be an experience guests can only have in Mainland China. It will be the perfect setting for all toys – old and new – to gather together for a day that’s more fun than a Barrel of Monkeys!

This expansion is exciting and there is to be at least 3 new and unique attractions once Toy Story Land is completed. Will you be visiting Shanghai Disneyland to see their version of Toy Story Land? Will it be completed before Toy Story Land opens in Disney World's Hollywood Studios? Stay tuned for more details.

Shanghai Disney Resort has Officially Opened

Last night here in the United States it may have been June 15, but over in China it was already June 16 which meant that the Shanghai Disney Resort was opened. At around 10:30 a.m. in Shanghai the resort was officially dedicated by Bob Iger, Wang Yang (the vice premier of China), and many Chinese dignitaries and Disney executives along with thousands of guests.

Tune in tonight on Disney Channel, Disney Junior, and Disney XD will air the special, Shanghai Disney Resort Grand Opening Special at 8 p.m. ET. It will be hosted by Disney Channel star and singer Sofia Carson (Descendants). It will re-air tomorrow on Freeform. The Walt Disney Company released this press release on the opening of Shanghai Disneyland:

Shanghai Disney Resort Opens in Mainland China

“This is one of the proudest and most exciting moments in the history of The Walt Disney Company,” said Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger on stage at the Grand Opening ceremony of Shanghai Disney Resort on Thursday, June 16.

Chinese dignitaries, Disney executives and thousands of guests were also in attendance to welcome the latest addition of the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts family—and Disney’s first destination resort in Mainland China.

Iger continued a tradition started by Walt Disney himself—one that has occurred at the opening of every Disney park around the world—by reading the park’s dedication: “To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Shanghai Disneyland is your land. Here you leave today and discover imaginative worlds of fantasy, romance and adventure that ignite the magical dreams within all of us. Shanghai Disneyland is authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese. It was created for everyone, bringing to life timeless characters and stories in a magical place that will be a source of joy, inspiration and memories for generations to come.”

During the ceremony, Iger read a congratulatory letter from U.S. President Barack Obama that stated the resort blends “American business with the beauty and rich cultural heritage of China.” President Obama also wrote that Shanghai Disney Resort “captures the promise” of the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and China.

Wang Yang, the vice premier of China, also shared a letter of congratulations written by Chinese President Xi Jinping. In the note, President Jinping congratulated “the successful cooperation between Shanghai and The Walt Disney Company.” He also mentioned, “By adding to the classic Disney style a stroke of Chinese characteristics, and by blending international standards with best local practices, the resort demonstrates our commitment to cross-cultural cooperation and our innovation mentality in the new era.”
In 1955, Walt Disney envisioned Disneyland, a place where millions of guests could interact with beloved stories and characters—and with their families—in new ways. More than 60 years later, with the opening of the most technologically innovative theme park Disney has ever built, Shanghai Disney Resort continues this time-honored legacy.

Inside Shanghai Disneyland lie six themed lands, each one a unique experience, imagined and created especially for China: Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Tomorrowland and Treasure Cove. At the heart of the park is Enchanted Storybook Castle, the tallest, biggest and most interactive of all Disney castles the world over.

Beyond the park, the resort boasts Disneytown and two imaginatively designed hotels—the elegant Art Nouveau-influenced Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and the colorful Toy Story Hotel, inspired by Disney·Pixar’s hit films. Wishing Star Park offers a relaxing natural escape with a promenade and lake.

“It’s the privilege of a lifetime to lead this phenomenal company as we continue to find new ways and new places to bring our stories to life and to bring people together to create cherished memories that last forever,” Iger said. “Today is a celebration of creativity and collaboration, commitment and patience, the triumph of imagination and innovation, and a testament to the strong partnership between Disney and China. Together, we have created an extraordinary destination.”

Just watching the dedication ceremony last night brought me to tears and made wish I was there to join in on the celebration of the grand opening of this amazing theme park. I could only hope that one day I will get to experience Shanghai Disneyland in person. I believe in my heart that Walt would be proud of this park. 

The Making of Shanghai Disneyland, Anthony Daniels at Star Wars Celebration, and More

The Making of Shanghai Disneyland:

We are just hours away from the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland. I could only wish I was there to be joining in on the fun and excitement of Disney's newest theme park. Today, Disney released a six-minute plus video on how the new Shanghai Disney Resort became authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese. Check it out:

See how Shanghai Disney Resort became authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese:https://t.co/qUbfiLQTiQ

— Disney (@Disney) June 15, 2016

 Anthony Daniels Joining the Fun at Star Wars Celebration London:

Anthony Daniels, the only actor to work on all 7 Star Wars films as C-3P0 will be joining many of his fellow all-star cast members next month at Star Wars Celebration in London. He will meet with fans in the Celebration Autograph Hall and will join the fun on stage with host Warwick Davis.

Daniels not only appeared in all seven movies as the lovable droid also in television appearances, in animation, and public service announcements. He is the arms, legs, and voice of one of favorite droids of the saga. He also toured as host of "Star Wars in Concert" in presenting the wonders of music from the movies to audiences around the world.

Also appearing with Daniels in the Celebration Autograph Hall for all three days of Star Wars Celebration will be: Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Peter Mayhew, Jeremy Bulloch, and Daniel Logan. Star Wars Celebration in London takes place July 15-17, 2016.

Body of 2-Year Old Recovered in Seven Seas Lagoon After Horrific Gator Attack at Grand Floridian:

As many of you know the horrible week in Orlando continued last night when a 2-year old (which I will not name for privacy of the family) on vacationing at Disney's Grand Floridian with his family was tragically dragged into Seven Seas Lagoon by an alligator. His body was recovered fully intact this afternoon by divers around 3:30 p.m. this afternoon and turned over to a medical examiner.

Disney had closed all beaches at its resorts and water transportation while in search for the remains of the boy. The body was found about 15 yards from shore where the water is about 6 feet deep. George Kalogridis, President of Walt Disney World released this statement on the tragedy: 

"There are no words to convey the profound sorrow we feel for the family and their unimaginable loss. We are devastated and heartbroken by this tragic accident and are doing what we can to help the family during this difficult time. On behalf of everyone at Disney, we offer our deepest sympathies."

I questioned whether I would even write this story after the horrible tragedy this weekend. I pray for the family of this child that they may heal. I can't imagine the pain they are going through as no parent should have to go through the loss of a child. Please join me in sending thoughts and condolences to the family in their time of need.

New "Pete's Dragon" Photos, Trailer Out Tomorrow; New Look Inside Shanghai Disneyland Ahead of Grand Opening

New "Pete's Dragon" Photos, Trailer Out Tomorrow:

We will be getting a new trailer for "Pete's Dragon" tomorrow live on Access Hollywood with Bryce Dallas Howard there for the debut. We also got a new poster as well as a new still from the film featuring both Pete and Elliott. Check them out below:

Synopsis: For years, old wood carver Mr. Meacham (Robert Redford) has delighted local children with his tales of the fierce dragon that resides deep in the woods of the Pacific Northwest. To his daughter, Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard), who works as a forest ranger, these stories are little more than tall tales… util she meets Pete (Oakes Fegley). Pete is a mysterious 10-year-old with no family and no home who claims to live in the woods with a giant, green dragon named Elliot. And from Pete’s description, Elliot seems remarkably similar to the dragon from Mr. Meacham’s stories. With the help of Natalie (Oona Laurence), an 11-year-old-girl who father Jack (Wes Bentley) owns the local lumber mill, Grace sets out to determine where Pete came from, where he belongs and the truth abut this dragon.

Disney's remake of its cherished family film will be released on August 12, 2016 in theaters.

New View of Shanghai Disneyland Ahead of Grand Opening:

We are just days away from the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland this Thursday. Today, Disney released a new look inside the new theme park (the first of its kind on the main land of China). In almost time lapse of a day inside the park it travels through each and every land of the new park including an ending of fireworks above Enchanted Storybook Castle. Check it out below:

Get a new view of Shanghai Disney Resort.https://t.co/RyM9UFybbn

— Disney (@Disney) June 13, 2016

Shanghai Disneyland Grand Opening to be Telecasted, Celebrated at DCA; Experience a Brand New Adventure in the Enchanted Tiki Room Comic

Shanghai Disneyland Grand Opening to be Telecasted, Celebrated at DCA:

We are just one week away from the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland, Disney's first theme park to open on the main land of China. Today, we found out that the grand opening of the brand new theme park will be simultaneously presented on the Disney Channel, Disney Junior, and Disney XD from 8:00 - 8:30 p.m. in a music-filled television celebration called, "Grand Opening Celebration of Shanghai Disney Resort." The show will air without commercial interruption. On Friday, June 17 it will air again on Freeform from 10 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

The show will be narrated by Sofia Carson with Disney CEO Bob Iger who will be joined by nearly 3000 distinguished guests, celebrities, and government officials in front of the world's largest, tallest, and most interactive castle at the heart of any Disney Park, The Enchanted Storybook Castle. Mickey Mouse will also join in on the fun of the grand opening. 

World-renowned pianist Lang Lang will perform a custom arrangement of the musical sensation “Let It Go” (Disney’s “Frozen”) and China’s television and movie superstar Sun Li will take center stage. Each is a Shanghai Disney Resort Honorary Ambassador. The historic event includes the debut of an original song, “Ignite the Dreamer Within,” written especially for the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland. Acclaimed composer and conductor Tan Dun, widely known for his stirring scores for the films “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and “Hero,” will lead the Shanghai Symphony with an original composition of the new song, celebrating the occasion’s poetic message. Additional featured music includes “Once Upon a Dream,” “Heigh Ho” and “Some Day My Prince will Come.”  - The Laughing Place

The show will be produced by Disney Parks in partnership with IMG, the special will be directed by the award-winning Hamish Hamilton.

That's not all as Disney California Adventure will join in the celebration of the grand opening as from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. in Hollywood Land guests will enjoy special entertainment and photo opportunities. The festivities will include colorful performances by local community groups, along with character appearances by Mulan and Mushu. Some of the best Asian food and beverage options  will be available to purchase including pork bao, almond cookies, and pot stickers.

The park will also be giving out a commemorative button to celebrate the grand opening of Shanghai Disney Resort to all Disneyland Resort guests, while supplies last. Join the fun in just 7 days on June 16, 2016.

Experience a Brand New Adventure in the Enchanted Tiki Room Comics This Fall:

A brand new 5-part comic series of the Disney Kingdoms comics will feature the Enchanted Tike Room debuting this fall. It will be released inside Disney Parks. The series will be written by Jon Adams. Artwork will be penned by Horacio Domingues with cover artwork by Brian Kesinger.

Recently Steven Miller of the Disney Parks Blog did an interview writer Jon Adams, Brian Crosby with Disney Kingdoms, and Walt Disney Imagineers Tom Morris, Executive Creative Director; Andy DiGenova, Associate Producer; and Josh Shipley, Creative Services Specialist. Check it out below:

Steven: What makes the Disney Kingdoms series unique?

Tom: “The Disney Kingdoms series gave us an opportunity to build on stories from our classic Disney Parks attractions that guests love. We’re hoping the books inspire readers to revisit favorite attractions with a new perspective. For this series, we’re taking guests to a tropical island filled with everything loved from the original attraction and introducing some new characters, stories and places to discover.”

Steven: How is the storytelling in this series different from previous series?

Jon: “The Enchanted Tiki Room is a place of legend, fantasy and mystery. I grew up watching shows where new characters were introduced each week into a familiar setting that had previously established characters. I wanted to apply that vignette storytelling concept to this new series. In each issue, new visitors will arrive by boat to an isolated island populated by singing birds, plants, and ancient Tiki gods.”

Andy: “We loved Jon’s fresh approach to storytelling. It was different than our previous [Disney Kingdoms] comics that had more linear stories.”

Brian: “There’s a sense of mystery about the island and Jon’s idea had us asking questions: Why is the island enchanted? How does it connect the people who visit the island? There will be a nice connection for guests who read all five issues in this series.”

Steven: I love collecting all things Tiki-related including artwork. What will readers see when they pick up an issue?

Josh: “The illustrations will be extremely colorful and the images will pop off the page. They will make readers feel like they are on that mysterious island. We pulled reference images from the Walt Disney Imagineering Resource Library to really connect the comic illustrations to the Disney Parks experience. We’ll also feature variant covers by other artists such as a cover with José by Walt Disney Imagineer Jason Grandt.”

Disney Files Plans for Hollywood Studios & Magic Kingdom; New Disney twenty-three Focuses on Shanghai Disneyland

Disney Files Plans for Hollywood Studios & Magic Kingdom:

Blog Mickey has found that Disney has filed plans for a new entrance into Hollywood Studios and a possible new exit to the Magic Kingdom parking lot. First, the new entrance into Hollywood Studios.

The plan for the new entrance into Hollywood Studios has been rumored ever since the announcement of Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land. While this hasn't officially been announced by Disney it definitely seems it is official with them filing for permits. In the plans it appears as it would exchange at the corner of Victory Way and Osceola Parkway and that the World Drive entrance would be demolished.

The plans then seem to show that the exchange would dump traffic into what now only a wooded area. There is also rumors that the parking lot could be expanded and that a possible parking garage would be added. This would allow the accommodation for guests to be much easier entering into the park once the new lands are open. The plans were filed to the South Florida Water Management District. 

More plans were discovered as Disney appears to have filed plans for an overhaul of the Magic Kingdom parking lots. Originally thought an overhaul of the parking entrance it has been corrected by Blog Mickey to be the exit of the lots. 

The exit would be a part of a larger road widening project of Floridian Way that has already begun by the North Entrance near Reams Road. As for the overhaul of the parking lot, Disney appears to want to build a flyover that would allow busses and resort traffic to bypass the toll and just continue onto northbound World Drive that would take guests to the Magic Kingdom Resort area. Then it also shows a southbound connection, this connection would greatly relieve traffic congestion on Seven Seas Drive, especially around shift changes. 

Of course none of this has been confirmed, just the plans filed for both projects. Stay tuned for more details. 

New Disney twenty-three Issue Focuses on Opening of Shanghai Disneyland:

The next issue for D23's Disney twenty-three magazine should be arriving soon for D23 Gold Members. Once again it should be quite the read as the new issue focuses solely on the upcoming opening of Shanghai Disneyland on June 16. D23 is giving its members a sneak peak of the park ahead of its opening. Here is the release from D23:

"On June 16, Disney will officially open Shanghai Disney Resort, and Disney twenty-three is giving fans an advance peek at this breathtaking one-of-a-kind destination. From its opening pages, with a welcome from Disney Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger, to the back cover, featuring a map of the park—in Chinese—the issue is packed with exciting details about this new resort that celebrates everything guests love about Disney, while honoring China’s distinct cultural heritage.

The issue, exclusively for D23 Gold Members, provides a detailed look at how Shanghai Disney Resort was built from concept to concrete, including fascinating insights into the partnership between Walt Disney Imagineers and the incredibly talented artisans of mainland China. Readers will be able to explore all the exclusive attractions opening at the park including Voyage to the Crystal Grotto, which recreates moments from beloved Disney animated films as riders travel by boat through, around, and under the Enchanted Storybook Castle—the largest castle in any Disney park. The thrilling adrenaline rush of TRON Lightcycle Power Run puts guests in the driver’s seat of a high-tech race, and the high seas adventures of Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure boasts some of the most advanced technologies of any Disney attraction.

More than 30 pages of exclusive interviews and vibrant photography come together to highlight this jewel in the Disney Parks crown, from all-new shows, experiences, merchandise, and dining options to a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the creation of the resort.

Plus, Disney twenty-three turns up the heat with its annual summer movie preview. Highlights include exclusive interviews with Ellen DeGeneres discussing the upcoming Finding Dory as well as her first trip to Disneyland, Bryce Dallas Howard talking about the reimagining of Pete’s Dragon, and Academy Award®winner Steven Spielberg revealing details about his Disney directorial debut, The BFG.

Also included in the summer issue of Disney twenty-three is a look at how The Reluctant Dragon, celebrating its 75th anniversary, was able to give audiences a peek at the making of Disney animated films, while paving the way for the Disney Studio’s respected documentary films."

We are just over a month away from Shanghai Disneyland opening on June 16.

New Details & Casting Revealed for "Tangled" TV Series, Team Iron Man Posters Released, and More

New Details & Casting Revealed for "Tangled" TV Series:

Today, Disney released new details as well as the cast for their future television series on Disney Channel for the reprise of "Tangled" in, "Tangled: Before Ever After." The gorgeous first image was released (pictured above) provided by Claire Keane, daughter of Disney Legend Glen Keane, who consulted and did design work for the television series. The series will utilize a traditional 2D animation. 

We already knew that Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Jeffrey Tambor, Paul F. Tompkins, and M.C. Gainey will all be reprising their roles for the television series. Here is who else is joining the cast for the show that will hit the Disney Channel in 2017 as provided by Disney:

"Joining these returning favorites are Ashley Judd as Rapunzel’s mother Queen Arianna; Broadway star Eden Espinosa as Rapunzel’s handmaiden and confidant, Cassandra; comedian Jeff Ross as Hook Hand’s brother Hook Foot; Richard Kind as Uncle Monty; Sean Hayes, as Pete the Guard; Peter MacNicol as Nigel the Advisor; Clancy Brown as Rapunzel’s father King Frederic; Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as blacksmith Xavier; Diedrich Bader as Stan the Guard; Charles Halford as Pub Thug Vladimir; Steve Blum as Pub Thug Attila Buckethead; James Monroe Iglehart as Eugene’s friend Lance Strongbow; Jeremy Jordan as teen alchemist Varian; and Jonathan Banks as Quirin, Varian’s father. That’s right: get ready for brand new pub thugs."

It certainly is an exciting cast of stars for the show the will take place in between the hit film (2010) and the animated short "Tangled: Ever After" in 2012.

Team Iron Man Posters Released for "Captain America: Civl War":

Yesterday, we saw the posters released for Team Captain America. Today, Disney and Marvel released the posters for Team Iron Man. The posters once again say, "Divided We Fall." They feature Iron Man, Black Panther, Black Widow, Vision, and War Machine. Check them out:

Notes from Bob Iger's Q & A at Deutsche Bank 2016 Media, Internet, & Telecom Conference:

Bob Iger today did a Q & A at the Deutsche Bank 2016 Media, Internet, & Telecom Conference. Here are some highlights:

• Iger said upcoming Han Solo film will also highlight Chewbacca's back story in 2018.
• "Rogue One" will be marketed differently then "The Force Awakens" to help the audience figure out where it fits in the Star Wars franchise.
• Commented that Shanghai Disneyland is 90% completed as it is 100 days away from opening. Also highlighted the the new park will have its own branded subway station. 
• More Shanghai Disneyland: 330 million income qualified guests are a 3.5 hour distance from the park. 
• Disney took about a $75 million dollar loss on "The Finest Hours" which failed to find an audience.
• He also talked about the early success on "Zootopia" and how it was based on the acquisition of Pixar 10 years ago. 

Disney Parks Blog Holding Vacation Club Meet-Up, New Shanghai Disneyland Video Released, and More

Disney Parks Blog Holding First Vacation Club Meet-Up to Celebrate 25th Anniversary:

The event filled its capacity of 100 Disney Parks Blog readers within minutes of the announcement. The Disney Parks Blog will be holding its first meet-up for 100 Disney Vacation Club member this Thursday, February 25, 2016 to celebrate the Vacation Club's 25th Anniversary.

The event will begin at 4 p.m. EST with a party at the Top of the World Lounge on top of Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort. The celebration will continue onto Sunset Pointe at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort for an appetizer buffet inspired by Trader Sam's Grog Grotto, sunset photos, Dole whip samples, and entertainment. Here you will also be able to tour Vacation Club accommodations, including one of the famous bungalows.

To cap off the event, the guests will be able to gain entry to the DVC 25 and Beyond Bash, an exclusive after-hours event at Magic Kingdom. Here participants will have access to select attractions in Tomorrowland and Fantasyland, as well as the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square, special fireworks, a DJ dance party, and more. Congratulations to all those who have the chance to attend the event.

New Shanghai Disneyland Video Released During Disneyland 60 Last Night:

During last night's "Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60" special, we got a closer look at Shanghai Disneyland with a new video released by Disney. In the video, we got a special look into the TRON coaster, a look at what will be the largest Disney castle ever in the Enchanted Storybook Castle, and some never-before-seen attractions inside the lands of the park that were designed specifically for the people of China. 

The park is set to open on June 16, 2016 with six different lands. Tickets for Shanghai Disneyland will go on sale to the public at the end of March on March 28th. 

Limited-Release Ear Hat for Make-A-Wish "Share Your Ears" Campaign Available Now:

Last week, Disney announced the "Share Your Ears" campaign that benefits the Make-A-Wish foundation. For every picture post on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook that a person shares a photo of them wearing Mickey/Minnie or any character ears, Disney will make $5 donation (up to $1 million) to the foundation. 

Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced that their merchandise team has been working hard on a really special set of ears featuring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Here is what they look like:

Even better news, the ears which cost $19.95, 100% will all go to Make-A-Wish, helping make dreams come true for children with life-threatening medical conditions. No discounts and purchase limits will apply and will only be available at Disneyland. Specific locations to find the ears are at Disneyland in the Disney Showcase and the Emporium, Disney California Adventure inside Elias & Co., and Downtown Disney District at World of Disney. 

Disney Releases Behind the Scenes Video of Disneyland 60, What's Coming to Disney Infinity 3.0?, and More

Disney Releases Behind the Scenes Video of Disneyland 60 Special:

This Sunday will be a huge night for Disney fans as ABC will air its special "The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60." The special which begins at 8/7 p.m. CST will feature tons of celebrities and even a behind the scenes look of Shanghai Disneyland and the upcoming Star Wars Land.

The two-hour special will also take note in the celebration of Disneyland's 60th Diamond Celebration and will be hosted by ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" Derek Hough. Today, the Disney Parks Blog gave us a little sneak peak with a behind the scenes video of the special. Check it out:


What's Next for Disney Infinity 3.0 to be Announced March 1:

What's next for Disney Infinity 3.0 you ask? We will find out in a live stream on YouTube on March 1st. The live stream will be hosted by John Blackburn and John Vignocchi in the titled show, "Disney Infinity Next." The show will begin at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST.

We will be receiving an update on the game and possibly a reveal of some new characters. We still have not officially heard on announcements on new characters such as Marvel's Ant-Man, Black Panther, and Vision as well as Disney characters Baloo or Alice in Wonderland. We may even see some new Star Wars characters. What are you most looking forward to in the announcement of what's next for Disney Infinity 3.0?

Animal Kingdom Begins Lighting Tests on Rivers of Light:

Last night, Animal Kingdom appeared to be testing the lights for its new nighttime spectacular, Rivers of Light, that is set to debut this Spring. This photo courtesy of @braedon_godin on Twitter, shows what was going on last night:

.@Attractions They're doing lighting tests for #RiversofLight tonight. pic.twitter.com/cCT4kv0Z2L

— Braedon Godin (@braedon_godin) February 18, 2016

The photo shows what appears to be vessels out on the water as well as lighting being tested for the show. It can't be more than a few weeks away from debuting and I couldn't be more excited. An announcement on the official debut of "Rivers of Light" should be coming soon.

Garden Rocks Concert Slate Announced for Flower & Garden; Shanghai Disneyland Announces Pricing Structure

Garden Rocks Concert Slate Announced for Flower & Garden:

This year's concert series for Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival will be called, Garden Rocks. This year's concert slate features thirteen pop bands including four new acts and two additional weekends (with the festival being 90 days). The concerts will take the stage each weekend during the festival at the America Gardens Theatre from March 2- May 30. New acts include Blood, Sweat, & Tears featuring Bo Bice, Brian Howe (former lead singer of Bad Company), Georgia Satellites, and Darlene Love will make their debut.

Here is the remaining slate of bands to hit the festival this year:

• March 4-6 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
• March 11-13 – Starship starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
• March 18-20 – Little River Band “Reminiscing”
• March 25-27 – Village People “Y.M.C.A.”
• April 1-3 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry the VIII, I Am”
• April 8-10 – The Guess Who “American Woman”
• April 15-17 – NEW! Blood, Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice “Spinning Wheel”
• April 22-24 – NEW! BRIAN HOWE, former lead singer of Bad Company “Can’t Get Enough”
• April 29-May 1 – NEW! Georgia Satellites “Keep Your Hands to Yourself”
• May 6-8 – Gin Blossoms “Hey Jealousy”
• May 13-15 – NEW! Darlene Love “Wait ‘Til My Bobby Gets Home”
• May 20-22 – Night Ranger “Sister Christian”
• May 27-30 (Monday) – The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”

Concerts at the America Gardens Theatre will occur at 5:30, 6:45, and 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Shanghai Disneyland Announces Pricing Structure; Tickets on Sale Beginning March 28:

This morning we got a surprise in seeing the first pricing structure released for Shanghai Disneyland that is opening on June 16. Tickets for the theme park will officially go on sale on March 28. With the release of the pricing structure, you'll notice for the first time ever a Disney park will have demand pricing or dynamic pricing as it is also known. 

For the first two weeks of the park being opened the cost will be 499 RMB or $75 from June 16-30. During regular season tickets will cost 370 RMB or $56. Children, Seniors, and guests with disabilities will be eligible for a 25% discount and a two-day pass will include a 5% discount. Infants will be able to enter the park for free. Here is the remaining look of the pricing structure:

To purchase tickets, guests are encouraged to visit the website, www.shanghaidisneyresort.com or by calling 400-180-0000 or 86-21-31580000.

Opening Date for Shanghai Disneyland Set; Happy Lunar New Year Celebration Returning to DCA

Opening Date for Shanghai Disneyland Set:

We have an opening date for the first theme park to be built on the Mainland of China with the opening of Shanghai Disneyland. The date currently is set for June 16, 2016 according to the Wall Street Journal. Here is a piece from the article:

"After more than a decade of planning and five years of construction, Walt Disney Co.plans to open its first theme park in mainland China on June 16, according to people close to the project.

After initially setting a plan to launch it in 2015, Disney said last year that the Shanghai Disney Resort would open in the first half of 2016. The official date, on the tail end of that time frame, represents not only the significant construction challenges of a $5.5 billion, 963-acre theme park, hotel and entertainment complex, but the political and cultural barriers of such a massive project undertaken in partnership with a state-owned consortium."

UPDATE: The Walt Disney Company Press Release -

JANUARY 12, 2016
Opening Date Set for Shanghai Disney Resort, Disney’s Newest World-Class Destination


The Walt Disney Company and Shanghai Shendi Group announced today that Shanghai Disney Resort will host a multi-day, grand opening celebration, culminating in a spectacular welcoming ceremony for the resort’s first official guests on June 16, 2016. The world-class resort, located in the Pudong District of Shanghai, will be Disney’s first destination resort in mainland China, featuring classic Disney storytelling and characters with all-new experiences tailored for the people of China.



“When it opens in June, Shanghai Disney resort will be a one-of-a-kind, world-class destination that is authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese,” said Robert A. Iger, chairman and chief executive officer, The Walt Disney Company. “The resort reflects Disney’s legendary storytelling along with China’s rich culture, and showcases some of the most creative and innovative experiences we’ve ever created. We’re looking forward to showing it to the world and sharing it with the people of China for generations to come.”

In 2014, Disney and Shanghai Shendi Group, joint shareholders of the Resort, announced an accelerated expansion plan to capitalize on the tremendous growth in China’s tourism sector – adding additional attractions, entertainment and other offerings to increase capacity at the theme park. On opening day, Shanghai Disney Resort will include:

– Shanghai Disneyland, a world-class theme park with six themed lands: Adventure Isle, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Tomorrowland, Treasure Cove and Fantasyland, all centered around the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest and tallest castle at any Disney theme park. Guests will enjoy numerous thrilling attractions and live entertainment spectaculars – many of them first-of-a-kind for a Disney park.

– The Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel, imaginatively themed resort-hotels conveniently located near the theme park. The Shanghai Disneyland Hotel is an elegant Art Nouveau-inspired resort with a touch of Disney magic and imagination, while the Toy Story Hotel immerses guests in a world inspired by the toys from the Disney•Pixar series of Toy Story animated films.

– Disneytown, an international shopping, dining and entertainment district, adjacent to the entrance of Shanghai Disneyland. Disneytown will include the Walt Disney Grand Theatre, home to the first-ever Mandarin production of the Broadway hit Disney’s THE LION KING. Another “must-see” for guests will be the World of Disney Store, offering an impressive collection of Disney merchandise, including many products designed especially for Shanghai Disney Resort.

– Wishing Star Park, a recreational area with beautiful gardens, a walking path and a glittering lake. With approximately 40 hectares, Wishing Star Park presents guests with awe-inspiring natural views and beautiful sunsets.

The resort represents the largest foreign investment project in Shanghai, and one of the largest foreign investments in the history of China. The opening of Shanghai Disney Resort will mark a key milestone in the development of tourism in Shanghai, changing the landscape of the industry and delighting guests for generations to come.

Shanghai Disney Resort broke ground in 2011 and has celebrated numerous construction milestones since then, including the topping off of the iconic Enchanted Storybook Castle in spring 2015. In October, the resort kicked off the first of several large-scale job fairs aimed at ultimately recruiting thousands of cast members from across China to provide Disney’s legendary service to guests on opening day.

Now of course this is tentative and no word on if the actual whole park will be done by this date. Disney's Animal Kingdom opened partially in 1998 but the Asia section of the park wasn't completed until 1999. We will just have to see if Shanghai Disneyland will be totally complete when it opens on June 16. 

Happy Lunar New Year Celebration Returning to Disney California Adventure:

2016 is the Year of the Monkey and with the turn of the new year the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration is returning to Disney California Adventure. The event will take place next month at Paradise Gardens from February 5-8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The event celebrates the time-honored traditions of the Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures all while inviting guests of all backgrounds to join in on the festivities. 

The Disney Parks Blog said, "Mulan and Mushu will join friends Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Chip n’ Dale during the festivities, celebrating the Year of the Monkey. Special merchandise and authentic food offerings will be available, and colorful live performers, musicians and local artisans will enrich the celebration. Local community groups will perform throughout the day at the Paradise Garden Stage and on the performance corridor outside Paradise Gardens."

Will you be visiting the fun of the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration?