Permit Reveals Placement of TRON Coaster and Main Street Theater

A permit filed by Walt Disney Imagineering has shown just exactly where the Main Street Theater and the TRON Coaster will be placed in the Magic Kingdom. Both projects are considered to be a part of Tomorrowland.

The Main Street Theater is labeled as MK1 and is behind the old Galaxy Palace Theater in Tomorrowland but guests will access the theater via Main Street, USA. The Theater will occupy most of what is a parking lot Southwest of Carousel of Progress.

The TRON Lightcycle Power RUN coaster at least the show building is labeled as MK2 in the permit. The footprint of the building is almost due north of Space Mountain and is larger than Space Mountain. It will be very visible from afar just like Space Mountain is now.

The Main Street Theater is expected to be completed by sometime in 2020 as filed in an earlier permit while the TRON Coaster won't be completed until 2021.

Destination D & More on D23's Slate of Events for 2018; Rumor: Stitch's Great Escape to Become Meet & Greet

Destination D & More on D23's Slate of Events for 2018:

Today, we all celebrated Epcot's anniversary as it opened on this day 35 years ago on October 1, 1982. One of the events was the D23 Epcot Fanniversary and during this event D23 just named some of the events they would be having in 2018 for its members. They later announced the full slate of events for next year.

Next year, 2018 will be Disney's Animal Kingdom's 20th Anniversary and D23 will be hosting an event at the park sometime in April. Also next year, during the Summer D23 members will be getting a sneak peak of Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios and the new Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure. Also returning for 2018 will be the Sip & Stroll and holiday events at Walt Disney World. 

Just last year, members had a blast during D23's Destination D: Amazing Adventures the event will return to Walt Disney World next November with the theme of Happy Birthday Mickey Mouse. This will celebrate the main man himself and his 90th Birthday and his debut in Steamboat Willie. The event will include panels, presentations, an all-new exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives, a pop-up store from Walt Disney Imagineering’s Mickey’s of Glendale, and so much more. Additional details, including special hotel rates and ticketing information, will be announced in the coming months.

Here is the full schedule of events:

January 12 - Lunch With a Disney Legend - TBA  in Burbank, CA

January 13 - The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour in Burbank, CA

February 2 - D23 Night at Disney’s Aladdin in Hollywood, CA

Feb 3 D23’s Magical Screening Series: Peter Pan Burbank, CA

Feb 10 D23’s Magical Screening Series: Peter Pan Orlando, FL

March 24 - D23 Night at Disney’s Frozen New York City, NY

April D23 Celebrates 20 Years of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Apr 7 The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour — Presented by D23 Burbank, CA

May 25 D23’s Return to Marceline Marceline, MO

Summer D23 Members Visit Toy Story Land Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Summer D23 Members Visit Pixar Pier Disney California Adventure

June 23 D23’s Magical Screening Series: Robin Hood Burbank, CA

Jun 29 Lunch with a Disney Legend: TBA Orlando, FL

Jun 30 D23’s Magical Screening Series: Robin Hood Orlando, FL

July 20 D23 Member Mixer San Diego, CA

August 10 Lunch with a Disney Legend: TBA Burbank, CA

Aug 11 D23’s Saturday Morning on the Lot Burbank, CA

September 8 The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour—Presented by D23 Burbank, CA

Sep 8 D23’s Magical Screening Series: Mary Poppins Orlando, FL

Sep 15 D23’s Magical Screening Series: Mary Poppins Burbank, CA

October D23’s Spell-tacular Disney Fanniversary Burbank, CA

Oct 3 Sip & Stroll Epcot, WDW

Oct 5 Lunch with a Disney Legend: TBA Orlando, FL

November 16-18 D23 Destination D: Happy Birthday Mickey Orlando, FL

December D23 Holiday Event at Walt Disney World Resort Orlando, FL

Dec Light Up the Season with D23 Burbank, CA

Dec 1 The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour—Presented by D23 Burbank, CA

Source: D23 and Disney Parks Blog

Rumor: Stitch's Great Escape to Become Alien Encounter Meet & Greet:

Stitch's Great Escape seems to be going away for good with a new sign where the seasonal operating attraction has appeared. Thanks to @1ben_laurence on Twitter where the sign now says Stitch's Alien Encounter Character Greeting. 

While no details on this have been announced or available at this time it does seem that the new Stitch Meet & Greet will take the place of an attraction that just never gained popularity. Will this character encounter stay forever. I don't think so as the attraction has long been rumored to be replaced with a Wreck-It-Ralph attraction. 

Stay tuned for more details on the new Stitch's Alien Encounter Greeting when they are announced.

Source: WDW News Today

TRON Lightcyle Power Run Coaster Confirmed; New Theater Coming to Magic Kingdom

TRON Lightcylce Power Run Coaster Confirmed for Tomorrowland:

What was rumored to be confirmed earlier in the week is officially confirmed. The TRON Lightcycle Power Run rollercoaster, that debuted last year when Shanghai Disneyland opened, is coming to Tomorrowland in Walt Disney World. 

The attraction will be placed right next to Space Mountain in an entirely new area. The Tomorrowland Speedway which was rumored to be going away will be staying and be re-routed due to the new attraction. 

The TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders board a train of two-wheeled Lightcycles. It offers access into the energy, lights and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe and is one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park.

The attraction will open in time for Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary in 2021. 

New Theater Inspired by the Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City Coming to Magic Kingdom:

A brand new theater inspired a very famous theater from Kansas City is coming to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. The theater inspired by the famous Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City, near Walt's hometown of Marceline. The new theater will be built right off Main Street, USA. 

“Across Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we’ve been upping the game in Entertainment with shows like Frozen Live at the Hyperion. It’s been a huge hit at the Disneyland Resort, and I’m sure many of you have seen it. This new theater at Walt Disney World continues that streak by bringing a new venue for world-class entertainment to the world’s biggest park," said Bob Chapek, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. 

As to what will be performed here, that was not announced so stay tuned for future updates on the new theater coming to Main Street, USA. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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.

Permits Filed Around Universe of Energy Pavilion; Stitch's Great Escape to Open for Summer Months

Permits Filed Around Universe of Energy Pavilion at Epcot:

Months ago in fact last year, reports began surfacing of the demise of Ellen's Energy Adventure at the Universe of Energy Pavilion in Epcot. Those rumors included a rumored TRON coaster and a Guardians of the Galaxy coaster replacing the ride and pavilion. Rumors kind of died down for a while as the fate of the attraction was rumored to be saved.

That is until Friday when permits were filed by Walt Disney Imagineering with South Florida Management District. In the permits filed it showed plans to reroute a drainage canal behind Universe of Energy and creating two new retention ponds to hold additional runoff from “onsite improvements that will add impervious area.”

While this doesn't confirm what will happen to Ellen's Energy Adventure it does leave tons of questions and assumptions that the attraction will be going away sooner rather than later. Rumors have been swirling back to the TRON coaster since reports of Disney's fear of Universal's rights on Marvel characters and attractions not being built east of the Mississippi. Even though Guardians of the Galaxy never was part of Universal's parks. Fear is that once they appear in "Infinity Wars" that Disney will no longer have the rights to them. 

Disney of course files permits like this all the time and this could just be for an update to the attraction. One would think we might just hear the exact fate of the Universe of Energy Pavilion and Ellen's Energy Adventure during July's D23 Expo where we expect to hear some news on the overhaul of Epcot as a park. Stay tuned for future news on this subject right here on It All Started With a Mouse.

Stitch's Great Escape Returning to Operation for Summer Months:

Stitch's Great Escape, which has been in seasonal operation since late last year, will returning to operation for at least the upcoming busy Summer months. The attraction will be open daily from next week on May 27 through August 19, 2017 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. It will then be closed again for the Fall. 

Stitch and his meet & greet will also be moving from Town Square to Tomorrowland, outside Carousel of Progress, beginning today May 21. 

Source: WDW News Today

Mother's Day at Walt Disney World; Tomorrowland Skyline Lounge to Debut at Disneyland

Mother's Day at Walt Disney World:

Where will you and your mother be celebrating Mother's Day this year? Maybe you are visiting Walt Disney World this May 14 for the special holiday. Today, we found out just what Walt Disney World is doing for all the special mom's out there who will be celebrating with them.

Let’s start with brunch:

• Boma – Flavors of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. some favorites from the dinner menu are added to the buffet, and breakfast include one mimosa per adult.
• Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort is offering a Mother’s Day character brunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. with a Bloody Mary bar and generous buffet.
• Next door at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, the Mother’s day brunch is from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. with a holiday buffet.
• The Wave . . . Of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will host a buffet Mother’s Day brunch from 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Garden Grove Mother’s Day Character Brunch Buffet will be 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Walt Disney World Swan.
• Disney Vacation Club Members can book a Mother’s Day Brunch at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in the Fantasia Ballroom. Inspired by the Disney animated film “Tarzan” (and the film’s song, “You’ll Be in My Heart”), the brunch is 11 a.m-1 p.m. and can be reserved by calling 800-800-9800. Includes special entertainment. Members can also visit www.dvcmembershipextras.com for more details.
• For something sweet, Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom Park is offering a Magic Kingdom Mother’s Day chocolate raspberry cupcake. And Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a triple chocolate cupcake just for mom with an edible Mother’s Day plaque for decoration.

You can call 407-WDW-DINE to book Mother's Day brunch or you can make reservations online at DisneyWorld.com/Dining.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Tomorrowland Skyline Lounge to Debut at Disneyland:

The new Tomorrowland Skyland Lounge experience will debut on May 26 at Disneyland giving guests a unique view of the skyline to help celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Space Mountain. It will feature bothsweet and savory, as well as both hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages. The lounge area will be open to guests from 8-10 p.m. If a fireworks spectacular is scheduled, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse right from your seat.

In the lounge an interstellar snack box will be available for guests and it includes:

• Mickey Cloud Cake: Cream-filled sponge cake
• Chocolate Eclipse: Cream-filled chocolate cake drenched in chocolate
• Coconut Comet: Coconut-strawberry iced sponge cake filled with cream
• Planetary Pie: Mini cherry-filled pie
• Moon Rocks: Boursin herbed cheese, cream cheese, shredded cheddar and jack cheese, chives, pimentos, bacon

Cost for everything will be $45 for ages 3 and older, tax included. Reservations are now open and can be booked by visiting Disneyland.com/Dining or by calling 714-781-DINE.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

New Mickey Mouse Celebration Cakes Coming Soon:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

The Music of Pixar LIVE! Dining Packages Now Available:

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

"Fantasmic!"

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

Source: Blog Mickey

New TV Spot Airs for Rogue One; Disney to Begin Tracking Custodial Cast Members

New TV Spot Airs for "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story":

We are just 40 days away from 'Rogue One' hitting theaters so we should be seeing new TV spots pretty regularly now. Today, we got a new one with some new footage called, "Together." In it we hear Jyn Eyrso (Felicity Jones) conversing with Saw Gererra (Forest Whittaker) asking him for his help and that is his chance to make a huge difference in the rebellion together. 

In the clip we see several new clips, check it out below:

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" hits theaters December 16.

Disney to Begin Tracking Custodial Cast Members?:

According to a report in the Orlando Sentinel, Disney is set to begin tracking its custodial cast members with some new technology by using iPhones to direct custodial members to do certain tasks. The experiment begins today, November 6, and is called "Custodial of Tomorrow" as a test with 40 cast members in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom. The test will run through January 14.

Unite Here Local 362 which represents the custodial cast members at Disney World has raised several questions on the new experiment including the lost of seniority and what the potential discipline is if a cast member lost or damaged the phone. Disney executives weren't available for comment but did release a statement saying, "This new approach will enable us to deploy Cast Members in real time, to areas that need service, ultimately making the Cast and Guest experiences even better."

More on the experiment that began today, cast members when clocking in will receive an iPhone, which the will return at the end of their shifts. More from the article:

"A system of electronic sensors will determine when a restroom needs cleaning or a garbage can needs emptying. A certain number of people entering a bathroom will trigger a search for the nearest available custodian. Sensors will also be tripped when trash cans get to be about three-quarters filled."

A custodial worker voiced his concerns in the article, Juan Alfonseca said, "Most of the employees are very concerned." He and his colleagues feel Disney hasn't told them enough information about the issues including the repercussions. Some Custodial Cast Members are already protesting. On Halloween, some cast members delivered a pumpkin saying, "Rest in Peace, Seniority" to Magic Kingdom vice president Dan Cockerell.

Stay tuned as this story develops.

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. 

Live Music Returning to Tomorrowland Terrace Stage at Disneyland; Disney Infinity Closure Timeline Released

Live Music Returning to Tomorrowland Terrace Stage at Disneyland:

Live music is returning to the Tomorrowland Terrace Stage at Disneyland. Guests will be able to enjoy an evening of performances from great music acts that will bring music to your ears. 

Guest favorites return such as: 80z All Stars, Scot Bruce, Suburban Legends and so much more. They will perform on Friday's through Sunday's beginning August 6 for a limited time. Different bands will appear from day to day and you can check the entertainment schedule before you visit. 

So get ready to hit the dance floor and enjoy some great music under the moonlight at Disneyland. 

Disney Infinity Closure Timeline Released:

Just a few months ago, we received the sad news that Disney Infinity would be ending and no longer continue production. Today, we received the timeline of how the game would end its online features and the wonderful online communities that we know and love. Here is the letter received in an email this morning:

Attention, Toy Box Builders: 

Since announcing that we will discontinue the production of Disney Infinity, we've been exploring timelines for the closure of the game's online versions and community features. Our goal has been to offer extended access to these services, while also providing clear communication about what you can expect. It's important to note that: 

• The console versions of Disney Infinity will continue to operate as usual with full access to figures and play sets only with the exception of community content features and online multiplayer 
• Until September 30, 2016, Community Content will still be available and you will be able to upload and download any of your favorite Toy Box creations 

Below is an overview of the timelines and additional details are available on our FAQ pages. 

As of today (July 29, 2016) 

• No in-game purchases can be made within the PC, Steam version of Disney Infinity 2.0, iOS, Google Android, Amazon Android and Apple TV versions of the game as this feature has now been removed 
• You can continue to make in-game purchases within the Steam version of Disney Infinity 3.0. 

As of September 30, 2016 

• You will no longer be able to log in to play the PC, iOS, Google Android and Amazon Android versions of Disney Infinity, these will no longer be available on the respective app stores 
• The Steam versions of Disney Infinity 2.0 & 3.0 will remain operational with the exception of all online services and community features as these will be discontinued 
• Apple TV versions of Disney Infinity will be removed from the AppStore 
• The Disney Infinity Community team will no longer be reviewing or approving any new Toy Boxes that are submitted to Disney for all console, mobile and PC versions of the game. However if you are playing on any console, Apple TV or Windows 8/10 versions of the game, you can continue to download your favorite Toy Boxes from the Community Content section until March 3, 2017 

As of January 3, 2017 

• No in-game purchases can be made within the Windows 8/10 versions of the game as this feature will be removed 

As of March 3, 2017 

• Apple TV and Windows 8/10 versions will no longer be available, supported or playable 
• All Disney Infinity online services and community features for all versions will be discontinued 

To learn more about which services of Disney Infinity are being removed or information related to your game version, visit our Closing FAQs located here for additional information. 

Please check the Disney Infinity website frequently prior to March 3, 2017 as we will provide the Disney Infinity community with news and status of the game across all platforms should the status change. 

Thank you for your support and enthusiasm through the years. 

The entire Disney Infinity team

It is sad that we have to say goodbye to this amazing game and the fun it brought to families and gamers everywhere. 

Big Expansion Announced for Tokyo Disneyland; Details on Disney Pin Celebration 2016 Pixar Party

Big Expansion Announced for Tokyo Disneyland:

Today, a huge expansion was announced by Tokyo Disneyland and the expansion is expected to be completed by 2020. What are the details you may ask of this amazing expansion? A new Beauty and the Beast-themed area that will expand Fantasyland is possibly the biggest part of the expansion. A new attraction in Tomorrowland based off "Big Hero 6." A new character greeting facility will be built at the entrance to Toontown. Finally, across the way at Tokyo DisneySea a new version of Soarin' will be built. Here are the full details:

The major attraction being built in the new Beauty and the Beast-themed area will have the newest technology and last for a genuinely incredible 8 minutes. According to the press release, guests will board enchanted serving dishes that will dance in rhythm to the film's well-known music. It will follow Belle on a romantic musical journey inside the Enchanted Castle where she dances into the heart of Beast, just in time to break the fateful spell. Also included in the new themed land will be a new shop and restaurant, details on both were not announced. 

The new land isn't all that's coming to Fantasyland as a new 1,500-seat live Fantasyland Theaters will be built. It will be the first full-scale indoor theater for live entertainment at Tokyo Disneyland. According to the press release, the theater will be, "Signature Disney entertainment unique to Tokyo Disneyland and featuring the Disney Friends will be presented in this storybook theater environment." 

The theater will be built near the Beauty and the Beast-themed area, towards Space Mountain and behind the new Tomorrowland attraction. That new Tomorrowland attraction will be based off of Disney's Academy-Award winning film "Big Hero 6." The first attraction based off the film inside a Disney Park.

The attraction will be much like Mater's Junkyard Jamboree at Disney California Adventure. It will be an exciting musical 'whip ride' that will swing guests unpredictably round and round. The ride should last for about a minute and a half. The attraction will tentatively open in Spring 2020. 

Besides the "Big Hero 6" attraction a new outer space-themed shop will open, a first for Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, will be selling multiple flavors of popcorn. The story behind the popcorn at Tokyo Disneyland is that throughout the park that sells popcorn with crazy flavors that are supposedly amazing.

Guests will be able to meet Minnie in the new character greeting facility being built at the entrance to Toontown. Announced in the press release, "After walking through Minnie’s design studio and her work area with interactive elements, guests can meet Minnie in person, take pictures with her, and generally spend a memorable time together." Again it is set to tentatively be completed by Spring 2020. 

Soarin' will make its debut across the way inside the Mediterranean Harbor section of the park and will open by fiscal year 2019. The attraction will premiere with original scenes and the newest visual images. If you notice though in the concept art the ride vehicle is much different that previous Soarin' attractions that use a hang glider. It almost looks like the flying machine developed by Leonardo Da Vinci. The attraction will be located across from Mysterious Island that is home to the iconic attraction, Journey to the Center of the Earth. 

Elsewhere inside Tokyo DisneySea, "newer versions of current attractions and entertainment programs" are also being developed. Who's ready to book a trip to Tokyo Disneyland in 2020?

Details on Disney Pin Celebration 2016 Pixar Party at Disney World:

Let's celebrate 30 years of Pixar magic with a party. The Disney Parks Blog today released details on this year's Disney Pin Celebration 2016 Pixar Party. The event will take place August 26-27, 2016 at World Showplace in Epcot. Here are the details from the Disney Parks Blog:

This “totally wicked” event is slated to take place August 26 (from 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.) and August 27, 2016 (from 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.) at World ShowPlace in Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort. Join us as we celebrate 30 colorful years of Pixar Animation Studios! This award-winning studio has produced a myriad of full length feature films, shorts, (Car) Toons, and television specials full of colorful characters that we love and cherish. The pins for the Pixar Party will feature characters from “Cars” to “Brave” to “infinity and beyond.” The event team shared as many details as they could with me, so here’s the scoop!

Admission to Pixar Party is $140 per guest and includes the following:

• Trading Board Games (four (4) vouchers per day)
• Pixar Party Scavenger Hunt
• Auction Opportunity (includes pre-production pins, artist proof pins and more)
• Meet Disney Pin Merchandisers
• Artist Signings with Disney Design Group Artists
• One (1) $30 Disney Gift Card

Other event offerings include:

• First opportunity to pre-purchase select themed Pixar Party merchandise via the Random Selection Process 
• Limited Edition Commemorative Gifts 
• Welcome Pin
• Pixar Party Scavenger Hunt Six (6) Pin Gift Set (previously found on trading boards)
• Goodbye Pin Set

Here’s a look at the Pixar Party event merchandise catalog. Some of these designs are absolutely “incredible!”

Hungry for more? There’s even a “Little Chef” Breakfast you can sign up for, which includes a breakfast buffet, trading time inside the Pixar Party venue (from 8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.) and a limited-edition commemorative gift pin – available only to breakfast attendees. Keep in mind this package sells out fast.

Sign up for the Pixar Party beginning Thursday, April 28, 2016. Ticket Sales begin at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on DisneyParksMerchandise.com. Reminder: Event admission does not include theme park admission to Epcot but theme park admission is required to attend the event. Package limited to availability. No discounts will be offered in conjunction with this package.

So “just keep swimming” towards the Pixar Party date and in no time, you will be saying … “mine, mine, mine.”

Captain EO Says Goodbye Again?; Colortopia Opens at Epcot; and More

Captain EO Says Goodbye Again?:

UPDATE: Disney has confirmed the closing of Captain EO. The Disney Parks Blog has announced that the "Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival" will debut in the Magic Eye Theater. Guests will experience beloved Disney and Pixar animated shorts in a new 4D experience. The film festival will have a look into the visionary minds behind some of the world's most iconic animated films today. Inside the theaters guests will put on their 3D glasses and experience the imaginative worlds of 3 animated shorts, which will burst onto the screen.

Guests visiting Epcot this morning got a surprise with a sign that was quickly covered by cast members. It appears that Captain EO will be closing for good on December 7 with its last performance being held on December 6, 2015.

Adios Caption EO. Closing 12/6. #epcot pic.twitter.com/9IiHXJpeKp

— Marc (@marcglorioso) November 13, 2015

Captain EO just recently was opened again after being on hiatus for a few months with its theater showing previews of "Tomorrowland" and "Inside Out" during the summer months. Captain EO has long been rumored of closing for good and being replaced with different attractions including a rumor of an attraction based on Disney Pixar's "Inside Out." Disneyland's version of Captain EO has been closed since July of 2014.

Disney has yet to confirm the closing of the attraction in Epcot but as you can see on the sign it will be ending. We should hear confirmation within the next few days as the closing date is only 3 weeks away.

Colortopia Opens at Epcot:

The Colortopia presented by Glidden exhibit has opened officially today in Innoventions East at Epcot. There three different zones that show off the power of color. The first area takes place in the 'Power of Color' Theater. Here vibrant hues along with harmonious sounds and narration guide guests as they explore the psychology of color. 

The second zone is called "The Color Lab" that has two interactive stations. The first station is called Color Mix 'n Match where you can mix colors to create new colors. The second interactive station is called Spinning Spectrums. Here you will be able to test your color perception using revolving multi-colored discs that go at different speeds. 

The third and final zone is called 'Color Our World' and features color shadows and magic paintbrush. With the magic paintbrush you'll be able to choose a color palette to create a scene and story on the digital screen. Depending on which color you use, the scene and storyline changes. Colortopia doesn't just stop in the exhibit it expands into World Showcase with the new mobile app. Here you'll be able to collect colors from around the world to add them to your own personal color palette.

Exclusive Star Wars Imperial Meet 'N' Greet Locations Revealed for Chase Disney Cardholders:

Its been a full week of Star Wars news and what would Friday be without some more news from the popular franchise just breaking the barriers entering into Disney Parks. Months ago it was announced a special and exclusive Meet 'n' Greet would be available to Chase Disney Visa Cardholders. Today, we found out just where the meet 'n' greets would take place inside Disney Parks.

Star Wars Launch Bay in Disneyland opened to previews last night. Beginning November 16 guests can meet Darth Vader from 4-8 p.m. inside Star Wars Launch Bay. Beginning December 1, inside Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney World's Hollywood Studios the meet 'n' greet will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Chase Card Services GM B.J. Mahoney said, "With excitement at an all-time high for the next chapter of the Star Wars saga, we are delighted to unveil this new experience for our Cardmembers. This immersive experience will delight fans and continues our efforts to bring the magic and wonder of Star Wars to Cardmembers."

No word has been heard if any other Star Wars characters will be available for the exclusive meet and greets. 

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" News, Previews for Seasons of the Force Begin Tonight at Disneyland, and More

"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" News:

It seems we can't go a day without more news about "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" as it is only 36 days away from release. Today, we got a release of the IMAX poster featuring Rey and BB-8 with the sunset on Jakku in the background. Will you be seeing "Star Wars: The Force Awakens in IMAX 3D. Here is the poster:

As you already have seen the TV spot that was released last Sunday with new footage it appears as a much shorter TV spot has also been released that is only 15 seconds. There is some new footage including scenes that we saw stills in the Entertainment Weekly exclusive. Here is the second 'Force Awakens' TV spot:



During the next two nights we will see some exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Tonight, as we wrote on the blog earlier this week we will get an 'Exclusive Special" look during #TGIT with Shonda Rhymes and the casts of "Grey's Anatomy," "Scandal," and "How to Get Away With Murder" hosting.

UPDATE: Here is the TV spot that debuted tonight during ABC's #TGIT. There is some new footage and dialogue. This would include Han giving Rey what appears to be either a lightsaber or a blaster saying she may need it. Check it out:


Tomorrow night on Disney Channel we will also get a behind-the-scenes look where it appears we will get some snippets and interviews. Here is the preview:



Previews for Seasons of the Force Begin Tonight at Disneyland:

Tonight, previews for Star Wars Seasons of the Force begin at Disneyland. We now have even more details on the event that were released by Disneyland Resort. Here is what they released:

STAR WARS LAUNCH BAY
Located on the lower level of the Tomorrowland Expo Center, Star Wars Launch Bay is the central space for fans to celebrate all things Star Wars. Star Wars Launch Bay is the central locale for guests to celebrate all things Star Wars. Guests will be welcomed to this multi-sensory space with the iconic phrase, “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.…” Once inside, they may encounter beloved Star Wars characters, play the latest Star Wars interactive video games, explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, step into a Star Wars-themed cantina, and have access to Star Wars merchandise.

• First Order stormtroopers patrolling the area outside Launch Bay and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue are on a mission to find members of the rebel alliance
• After entering a themed atrium with authentic replicas of Star Wars props, guests may Journey to the dark side and come face to face with Darth Vader, or they may choose the light side by stopping in at a makeshift Rebel base to meet the most famous co-pilot in the galaxy, Chewbacca.
• Inside, guests may encounter iconic characters Darth Vader, Chewbacca or even Boba Fett.
• Inspired by the iconic opening crawl in every Star Wars film, a welcoming text scroll on the carpet will greet guests as they enter the building
• Launch Bay Theater – Guests will hear directly from the creative minds behind the Star Wars saga in a short video that includes exclusive interviews with the directors, writers, producers and other key crew members who continue to bring the saga to life.
• The Cantina is a unique experience inspired by the “hive of scum and villainy” guests will recognize from the Star Wars From bounty hunters and smugglers to aliens, guests never know who they may meet here.
• The Cantina becomes the gathering place to take memorable photos with a holochess or sabacc (Sabacc is a popular card game played throughout the galaxy, often with high stakes. Holochess is a chess-like game that utilizes holographic representations of the playing pieces.)
• Guests may join the Resistance or come to the dark side, choosing a path that takes them into one of two character greeting
• When it’s time to meet the character, portal doors open to welcome guests into a fully immersive 360-degree space, inspired by a Rebel base or Star (Destroyer?)
• Throughout the space, guests will find Aurebesh writings in the Aurebesh is a writing system used to transcribe Basic, the most used language in the Star Wars galaxy.
• Guests may play current and upcoming Star Wars video games at the Game Center, including new and exclusive Disney Infinity toy box levels created exclusively for this experience.
• Exploring the Light Side Gallery, guests will find replicas of iconic helmets and lightsabers once wielded by Jedi heroes, including Luke And in the Dark Side Gallery, they’ll discover replicas of helmets and lightsabers used by the Sith, mortal enemies of the Jedi.
  • The Dark Side Gallery features pieces of Stormtrooper armor and Sith lightsabers.
  • The Light Side Gallery displays rebel flight helmets and Jedi lightsabers.
  • Authentic replicas of props and costumes from both the light and dark sides of Star Wars: The Force Awakens will appear in the Preview Gallery.
  • Models of famous starships and their pilots will be on display in the Starship Gallery.
• Large-scale replicas of film props, costumes, ship models, droids, artwork and other notable items are on display for Star Wars fans to enjoy.
• Star Wars Launch Bay Cargo – Guests may bring home high-end artifacts and treasures, including signed memorabilia, studio models and personalized D-Tech on Demand mobile device cases.

STAR TOURS – THE ADVENTURES CONTINUE

• A new adventure awaits guests as they climb aboard a Starspeeder 1000 and blast off on a thrilling tour of the Star Wars universe.
• The new adventure includes scenes and characters from the upcoming film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens

HYPERSPACE MOUNTAIN

• The popular Space Mountain attraction is reimagined as Hyperspace Mountain, thrusting guests into an X-wing Starfighter battle as they race through the galaxy
• The guest experience is enhanced by a new soundtrack, inspired by the films’ musical themes and re-orchestrated to match every move in the film
• The soundtrack was recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra

JEDI TRAINING: TRIALS OF THE TEMPLE

• This re-imagined battle experience takes younglings to the secret site of an ancient Jedi temple, where they discover if they have the makings of a true jedi
• It debuts December 8, 2015
• Villains such as Darth Vader and the Seventh Sister Inquisitor from the popular Disney XD series ‘Star Wars Rebels’ join the battle

STAR WARS: PATH OF THE JEDI

• Guests can relive stories from the Star Wars saga – or discover them for the first time – through this short, film compilation at Tomorrowland
• It includes moments from the new film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
• This cinematic short connects iconic scenes from the films in fun new ways, following the journey of Luke Skywalker

GALACTIC GRILL AND STAR WARS-INSPIRED MENUS

• The Force takes over the Tomorrowland Terrace to offer dark side and light side menu items
• For breakfast, guests may enjoy a blue corn Darth Tamale, with scrambled eggs and chorizo, red chili sauce and For lunch and dinner, the First Order Specialty Burger is tempting with a patty of angus beef and chorizo, topped with fried cherry peppers and spicy-lime aioli on a dark bun.
• Fun collectible items to take home include the BB-8 sipper cup and TIE Fighter premium popcorn bucket
• Pizza Port in Tomorrowland also will offer new Star Wars-inspired menu items

Walt Disney World Releases New 360 Video Hosted by Goofy:

A new 360 degree video was released by Walt Disney World on their Facebook page. The tour of the parks by Goofy in a helpful and accidental way. The tour highlight the thrills, sights and you may even run into a few familiar friends. You the guest controls the full-circle tour of all four theme parks. 

It is almost as if your are visiting the most magical place in the world in person. To note though the video is not supported on all browser. I got the best experience by using my phone.