The process of making a Disney park feel alive is most easily encapsulated in animatronic figures. These hydraulic, pneumatic and now electric figures have been a fixture at Disneyland since the 60s. Since then, massive advancements have been made in control systems, movement architecture and programming.
Journey Behind the Scenes of Disney’s New Broadway Musical, Frozen, with Disney Twenty-Three
This winter, audiences will be able to experience the worldwide phenomenon that is Frozen in a completely new way when Frozen: The Broadway Musical opens in New York City. Disney twenty-three spoke exclusively with the company bringing this magnificent musical to the stage, including the Tony® Award-winning creative team of Michael Grandage, Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez, Rob Ashford, and Christopher Oram and its stars Caissie Levy (Elsa) and Patti Murin (Anna). The group spoke about their excitement for expanding the show’s story, score, and characters—including a dazzling, all-new opening number.
This month, Black Panther hits theaters, and director Ryan Coogler and executive producer Nate Moore whisk readers off to Wakanda to get the inside story behind the making of the thrilling Marvel film. Disney twenty-three also visited the set of A Wrinkle in Time, speaking with director Ava DuVernay about her dazzling adaptation of the exhilarating adventure which opens this March.
Plus, in honor of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 20th anniversary, legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde shares 20 ways this innovative theme park—which he has worked on since its inception—broke the mold.
Also included in the spring issue of Disney twenty-three:
- A look inside D23’s 2018 Gold Member Gift, Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse
- The imagination and origination of Tokyo Disney Resort
- The inside-the-nursery story of Disney Junior’s all-new Muppet Babies
- Spectacular artwork that inspired Peter Pan, which celebrates its 65th anniversary this year
- A visit to the office of Disney’s Animal Kingdom vice president Djuan Rivers
- Regular features including Character Analysis, D Society, and Ask Dave
Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in mid-February.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($74.99), Gold Family Membership ($99.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com and at shopDisney.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube.
The Walt Disney Company Reports First Quarter Earnings for Fiscal 2018
The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) today reported quarterly earnings for its first fiscal quarter ended December 30, 2017. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter increased 88% to $2.91 from $1.55 in the prior-year quarter. Excluding a $1.6 billion one-time net tax benefit associated with new U.S. federal income tax legislation (Tax Act) and certain other items affecting comparability(1), EPS for the quarter increased 22% to $1.89 from $1.55 in the prior-year quarter.
FULL FOOD BOOTH MENUS for 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
Get ready for SPRING to arrive at Epcot when the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival kicks off on February 28th!
Jose and Panchito will Join Discovery Island Canivale at Disney’s Animal Kingdom February 4
José and Panchito, Donald’s feathery friends from “The Three Caballeros,” join the fun of Discovery Island Carnivale at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park starting Feb. 4, 2018.
José and Panchito will join this nightly street party through May 5, 2018.
Watch – Super Bowl LII Parade at Magic Kingdom
B-ROLL: Super Bowl LII Parade at Magic Kingdom
http://disneysportsnews.com/videos/2018/02/06/b-roll-super- . . .
14 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World Resort
“Love is an open door” to all kinds of options for the most romantic week of the year at Walt Disney World Resort, giving a whole new meaning to the popular duet from Frozen. Whether it’s a night out with that special someone, a “galentine’s” evening or special moments shared with friends, the options for romance and fun are practically endless. Here are 14 enchanting and memorable things to do this Valentine’s Day at the Most Magical Place on Earth.
- Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Guests can celebrate romance with a brush stroke of sense-tempting activities during this Epcot festival that celebrates the visual, culinary and performing arts. The festival runs now through Feb. 19 and offers everything from sparkly, bubbly drinks to imaginative works of art and performances by Broadway stars. Some of the enticing festival tastes include Le Coucher de Soleil at L’Art de la Cuisine Food Studio in the France Pavilion. This sunset mango and raspberry cake is a must-have!
- The Edison: Swing by this lavish, “industrial gothic”-style hotspot for classic American cuisine, craft cocktails, live music and jazz-inspired performances. There’s no better place to evoke the romantic, adult side of Disney Springs than this new restaurant and bar inspired by the decadent lifestyle of the Roaring ‘20s.
- Delicious Dinner Experiences:The magic of Disney dining brings romance to the table with special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menus that include optional wine pairing, themed desserts and drinks at select restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Couples can share unforgettable meals at some of the swankiest restaurants on property such as Narcoossee’s and Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club, Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. For reservations, call (407) 939-1947 or visit disneyworld.com/dining.
- Sneak a Smooch at the Parks: Disney theme parks are filled with countless romantic spots to share with a loved one. But some of them might not be on lovers’ radars! The Magic Carpets of Aladdin at Magic Kingdom provides the perfect place to sneak a romantic kiss while flying high over Agrabah.
- Dreamy Photo Ops: A stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park can quickly turn into an impromptu photo session, and Mickey-shaped balloons are the perfect prop. After the sun sets, guests can pose under the lanterns of Rapunzel’s tower in Fantasyland for another Insta-worthy shot. There are literally hundreds of unforgettable photo locations.
- Sweets at Amorette’s Patisserie: Experience romance in all its sugary deliciousness at this artsy and sophisticated pastry shop located at Disney Springs. Chocolate covered strawberries? Check. French champagne? Check. Eleven layers of red velvet cake? Yes, please.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris at Sunset: At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can experience this popular attraction in a whole new light. Travel to the tranquility of the African savanna and see an array of exotic animals under the setting sun. After all, nothing says romance like the glow of twilight’s golden hour.
- Venezia Champagne Cruises: It’s a whole new world aboard a beautiful, 40-foot Italian water taxi that launches from Disney Springs to sail the waters of Lake Buena Vista. Each sailing comes complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast to christen the occasion in style. No trip to Italy necessary! To book call (407) 939-2628.
- Get Pampered at Senses Spa: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort are both home to the finest, most indulgent experiences at Walt Disney World Resort – Senses Spa. At either location, guests will find a full selection of therapies and treatments. Couples can enjoy a romantic massage for two. The spas are also great for creating an unforgettable girls’ day out.
- Creative Gift Ideas at Disney Springs: It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the special guy who needs a little pampering, The Art of Shaving is the place. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.
- Carriage Rides at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: Couples looking for rustic romance can relax on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the pine and cypress forests of Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground where deer, rabbits, ducks and even wild turkeys like to roam. To learn more, visit disneyworld.com/recreation
- Unforgettable Engagements: The romantic and magical ambiance of Walt Disney World makes it the perfect place to pop the big question. Those looking for new and creative places for a truly memorable proposal should consider proposing at Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom or during IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth near the Italy Pavilion at Epcot. The Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons team can also help guests plan the perfect proposal. To learn more, visit disneyweddings.com/engagements. Adding even more magical romance, Freeform TV will broadcast a special airing of “Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings” on February 14, featuring an unforgettable engagement at Walt Disney World Resort (check local listings for broadcast times).
- Romantic Stroll at Disney’s BoardWalk: Guests can experience the timeless charm of Disney’s BoardWalk, a quarter-mile promenade of exquisite dining, unique shops and exciting nightlife. And only on Valentine’s Day, the recently redesigned Flying Fish will offer diners a magical prix fixe menu that includes everything from filet mignon, lobster tail and even a delicious fondue for two. For reservations, call (407) 939-1947 or visit disneyworld.com/dining.
- Happily Ever After Fireworks: An evening around the Most Magical Place on Earth isn’t complete without experiencing Happily Ever After – the newest and most spectacular fireworks showcase in Magic Kingdom history. Guests can experience the magic of beloved Disney movies firsthand—and be inspired to find their own happily ever after.
Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Hero Nick Foles “Going to Disney World’’ Following His Team’s Upset Victory To Capture The NFL Championship
In the frenzy of the on-field merriment after helping lead his Philadelphia Eagles to a 41-33 upset win over New England in Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis, quarterback Nick Foles turned to the cameras and shouted five famous words etched in sports lore:
“I’m going to Disney World!”
Foles’ pronouncement followed a standout performance Sunday in which he threw three touchdown passes and he, himself, caught a TD pass on a trick play – becoming the first quarterback in Super Bowl history to do that – to help bring Philadelphia its first league championship. A backup quarterback most of the season, Foles lived out a true Cinderella story, passing for 373 yards in a game that saw the most combined yards ever gained in an NFL post-season game.
And the performance anchors a remarkable broadcast achievement: a Disney Parks commercial that will be produced and aired in the immediate hours following the game on network and cable TV, the latest example from Disney Parks of the true power of magic.
Foles’ visit to Disney World will continue a Disney Parks tradition that began 31 years ago, in 1987. Foles is scheduled for a celebration parade Monday at the Magic Kingdom before throngs of cheering Eagles fans and park guests lining Main Street, U.S.A.
Monday marks the first time an Eagles player will participate in the Super Bowl parade at Disney. The team was winless in two previous Super Bowl appearances.
Foles joins a distinguished history of heroes from the sports world and beyond who have celebrated a major achievement at either Walt Disney World Resort in Florida or Disneyland Resort in California.
Celebrate the Season of Love and Friendship at Disney Springs
This February, take a fresh approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) or any fun night out with friends by exploring what’s new at Disney Springs.
Recently recognized by The New York Times as one of the top places to go in 2018, Disney Springs is home to Central Florida’s hottest new restaurant and entertainment venues. It’s the place to set sail for romance aboard a stunning 40-foot Venetian water taxi or treat friends to a vintage amphicar ride. And it’s the destination for one-of-a-kind entertainment that ranges from a hyper-reality Star Wars experience and luxury bowling to an eclectic array of street performers and live entertainment.
Here are some memorable ways to surprise your Valentine, gal pals or best friends this month – or any other time of the year.
From Romantic to Electrifying Dining
In honor of Valentine’s Day, a number of restaurants at Disney Springs are offering special menu items. The list includes surf-and-turf for two at STK Orlando, fresh catch selections at Paddlefish, a delectable special menu at Paradiso 37 and a specialty cocktail at Morimoto Asia.
Friends and lovers can also check out some brand-new Disney Springs restaurants. Guests can share plates of spaghetti and other tasty Italian dishes at the new Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante. Following the Disney Springs story line, this chic restaurant is set in a once-abandoned airline terminal from the 1930s. The open and airy dining room features 50-foot ceilings and views of Lake Buena Vista. For a more casual experience, head below ground to Enzo’s Hideaway – a speakeasy located in storied rum-runner tunnels – that serves up Prohibition-era cocktails and hearty Roman dishes.
Next door, The Edison dials up the excitement with electrifying entertainment, craft cocktails and contemporary American fare. At night, this “industrial Gothic”-themed space transforms into a nightlife hot spot with weekends featuring live bands, cabaret dancers and aerialists. Visit TheEdisonFLA.com for more details.
These are just some of the options at Disney Springs, which is home to more than 50 food and beverage locations including five by James Beard Award-winning chefs. To book dining reservations, call 407-WDW-DINE or contact the restaurants directly.
More to See and Do Together
Shared time together is arguably the best gift of all. At Disney Springs the options for sharing time with friends or that special someone are off the charts.
Venture to The VOID and embark on the new hyper-reality, multi-sensory experience, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire. In groups of four, teams suit up and go undercover as Stormtroopers to capture imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival. The experience is untethered and unbelievable. Tickets are available now at TheVOID.com.
At The BOATHOUSE, couples can set sail on The Venezia, a breathtaking Italian water taxi, for a romantic guided tour of Disney Springs complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast. There are also vintage amphicar rides – rare vehicles that travel both on land and in the water.
Other favorite hotspots for a fun night out include Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a modern upscale bowling alley, and AMC Fork & Screen Dine-in Theatres. Or, simply stroll the promenade and catch some of live performers and entertainment – more than 25 acts nightly.
Indulgent treats
Nothing says Valentine’s Day better than chocolate. Stop by The Ganachery and watch expert chocolatiers create richly exotic treats. Sample in store and take home an elegant, hand-packaged gift box for that special someone. Decadent hot-fudge sundaes – perfect for sharing – can be found at the world-famous Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. There is also a gallery of goodies at Amorette’s Patisserie – a sophisticated pastry shop filled with Disney-inspired cakes, cookies, cheesecake, macarons and eclairs.
Step beyond everyday gift giving
It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the guy who likes a little pampering there’s The Art of Shaving. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.
Ladies will enjoy the fairytale ambiance of Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, the ultimate destination for Disney-themed baubles, handbags and fashion. For elegant fine jewelry and designer watches, Luxury of Time by Diamonds International offers a wide selection in their upscale boutique.
Complimentary self-parking is available at all Disney Springs garages and surface lots. Walt Disney World Resort guests enjoy complimentary transportation between their Disney Resort hotels and Disney Springs.
Which Disney Movie Trailers Will Debut During the Super Bowl?
Will Han Solo make an appearance at Super Bowl LII on Sunday, alongside the Eagles and the Patriots? What about The Incredibles?
