BB-8 NOW GREETING GUESTS AT DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

BB-8, the loyal droid from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, is now greeting Guests at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®.

BB-8 appears in addition to Kylo Ren and Chewbacca, two characters from the Star Wars galaxy who guests regularly encounter at Star Wars Launch Bay. In addition to character greetings, the location also offers guests the chance to explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, including some from the latest film in the franchise, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

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The Hotels Of The Disneyland Resort: Fact Sheet

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Capturing the spirit of early California through inspiring design and daring architecture, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a deluxe 948-room resort hotel property, offering a premium option for business or pleasure visits to the Disneyland Resort. This AAA Four-Diamond hotel is the first Disney resort hotel in the world to be located inside a theme park—Disney California Adventure—making stays at the deluxe hotel a uniquely themed experience.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa celebrates the romantic Arts & Crafts movement of early 20th century California.  Designed to capture the artistic exploration of California’s coastlines with its Monterey pines and redwood forests, the hotel is layered with the memories of the arroyo craftsmen, the mission pioneers and the Plein Air school of painters.

Disneyland Hotel

At the Disneyland Hotel, guests will find a family vacation resort brimming with Disney magic and benefits.  Offering 973 rooms, the hotel features a variety of restaurants and lounges, shops, and three swimming pools, among other amenities.

Recent renovations to the Disneyland Hotel include a new pool and water play area, featuring slides and a splash pool in an architectural design reminiscent of the 20th Century Disneyland Hotel Monorail Station. Guests can grab a bite near the pool at Tangaroa Terrace, or sip on tropical cocktails and flavorful juices at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar.

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel  

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel overlooks Paradise Pier, one of the most colorful sections of Disney California Adventure, making the hotel’s name and theme a natural fit.

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel prides itself on being one of the finest hotels in its class.  The 15-story, high-rise structure encompasses 481 guest rooms, including suites and poolside cabana rooms, as well as 15 meeting rooms totaling 30,000 square feet of space.  The hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool and whirlpool, a fitness center, dining in the mellow PCH Grill, quick bites and refreshments at the lobby Surfside Lounge or the poolside Sand Bar, gift shops and a game arcade.

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New Magic Arriving at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in 2017

An exciting, hotel-wide refurbishment is bringing new magic to the luxurious Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort, with completely redesigned guest rooms plus a refreshed lobby, pool areas and the concierge-level Craftsman Club. The most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2001 opening will elevate the premium guest experience and bring a contemporary approach to the Arts & Crafts design style.

The renovations will roll out in phases, with expected completion by the end of 2017. Guests will begin to enjoy the first phase of refreshed guest rooms starting this spring.

Recently named a AAA Four Diamond hotel by the Automobile Club of Southern California for the sixteenth year in a row, the 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa captures the romantic spirit of California’s Arts & Crafts movement in the early 20th century.

“Our renovation adds more luxury to this iconic Southern California hotel, while staying committed to its signature Arts & Crafts design,” said Dan Coleman, General Manager of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. “We want our guests to feel they are staying in a Disney hotel that’s distinctly situated in beautiful California. The revitalized design helps convey this feeling and allows us to continue exceeding guest expectations.”

Redesigned Guest Rooms
Every single element in the redesigned guest rooms will be new, creating a fresh sense of luxury – from floor and walls to furnishings, bedding and linens, as well as upgraded bathrooms. Upon entry, guests will notice beautiful hardwood flooring transitioning into soft, bright-toned carpeting. Linens and pillows are restyled in a bright, white palette and upgraded bathrooms include new fixtures. The room decor is a contemporary take on the Arts & Crafts style featuring all-new furniture made of natural oak, specially designed for each room, as well as California-inspired artwork created by artists and Disney Imagineers, including beautiful headboard walls with wood inlay designs featuring Chip ‘n Dale climbing orange trees! Guests with sharp eyes will catch other uniquely Disney details throughout these newly enhanced rooms.

Other Enhancements

  • Pools: The pools and surrounding areas have been redesigned with new hardscapes that reinforce the Arts and Crafts feeling of this premier Disney resort. A variety of natural stones were chosen to create a warm and welcoming environment at each pool.
  • Lobby: The already spectacular six-story Grand Hall lobby will continue to impress guests with new, stylish furnishings to complement the existing Arts and Crafts décor.
  • The Craftsman Club: The new design for The Craftsman Club, the hotel’s concierge-level lounge, will draw inspiration from the architectural and furniture designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a visionary of the Glasgow Style of the Arts and Crafts movement. New hardwood flooring, custom-designed rugs, finely-crafted artisanal furniture and specially-commissioned art will add to the sophisticated, upscale tone of the Club.

Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa is the first Disney resort hotel in the world to be located inside a theme park, providing guests with an exclusive entrance to Disney California Adventure Park. Guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels also enjoy Extra Magic Hour, which provides early entry to select Disneyland and Disney California Adventure attractions.

For updates and progress reports on Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa refurbishment, visit www.disneyparksblog.com.

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VIDEO: CREATING PANDORA – THE WORLD OF AVATAR AT DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM

When Pandora – The World of Avatar opens at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park this May, guests will be able to explore a brand-new world unlike they’ve ever experienced before.

In the film AVATAR, the planet of Pandora featured an ecosystem all its own, with lush bioluminescent flora, precious fauna, and a culture of people who saw and respected the value of their precious planet. In order to create this new land for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, the project team approached bringing Pandora to life as if they were building a real world – unlike one anyone had experienced before – based on the world in the film.

In this video, Walt Disney Imagineering shares how Imagineers and Animal Programs worked together to create a uniquely interactive ecosystem exclusively for Pandora – The World of Avatar. The park’s Animal Programs department, which includes conservation biologists and scientists, lent their expertise in order to help the land seem as authentically real as possible. Check it out!

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Disney and Lucasfilm Celebrate Iconic Heroes from a Galaxy Far, Far Away….with Star Wars Forces of Destiny

Disney and Lucasfilm today announced Star Wars Forces of Destiny, a new initiative celebrating the inspiring stories of iconic heroes from across the Star Wars universe. An original series of animated shorts (each 2-3 minutes in length) will explore exciting, all new adventures of key characters including Rey, Jyn Erso, Sabine Wren, Princess Leia, Ahsoka Tano and others, ahead of books and a TV special later in the year. The stories will also be supported by a line of toys from Hasbro, including new ‘Adventure Figures’ – a fusion between traditional dolls and action figures, creating a whole new way to play Star Wars.

“Star Wars Forces of Destiny is for anyone who has been inspired by Leia’s heroism, Rey’s courage, or Ahsoka’s tenacity”

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“Star Wars Forces of Destiny is for anyone who has been inspired by Leia’s heroism, Rey’s courage, or Ahsoka’s tenacity,” said Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm. “We’re thrilled that so many of the original actors are reprising their roles in these shorts which capture the small moments and everyday decisions that shape who these characters are. It is a fun new way for people to experience Star Wars.”

Developed by Lucasfilm Animation, Star Wars Forces of Destiny will remain true to the Star Wars canon, showing how choices both big and small ultimately shape the destinies of beloved characters. Launching in July, the animated micro-series will be available on Disney YouTube ahead of a two-part TV special featuring eight additional shorts on Disney Channel in Fall 2017. Fans will be delighted to hear familiar voices in the series, including: Daisy Ridley (Rey), Felicity Jones (Jyn), Tiya Sircar (Sabine), Ashley Eckstein (Ahsoka Tano) and Lupita Nyong’o (Maz Kanata as narrator).

Star Wars Forces of Destiny will also be supported by global product extensions, such as books, apparel, bedding, and toys – including the new line of ‘Adventure Figures’ created by Hasbro, which bridges the gap between traditional action figures and dolls. Each individually designed figure features dynamic action, like Rey swinging her lightsaber, along with multiple points of articulation to help recreate the characters’ adventures and heroic moments with different poses.

“From Princess Leia to Sabine Wren, Star Wars heroines are unique, and we wanted to represent that in the product line for Star Wars Forces of Destiny,” said Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. “The result is the creation of our new ‘Adventure Figures’ that celebrate the power and stories of these incredible characters and allow kids to recreate their most heroic moments at home.”

The 11-inch figures will depict characters including Rey, Jyn Erso, Princess Leia, Sabine Wren, plus loveable sidekicks and epic villains like BB-8, Chewbacca, Kylo Ren and many more. Hasbro is also rolling out Star Wars Forces of Destiny role play and accessories—from Rey’s Extendable Staff, to a new, electronic Jedi Power Lightsaber toy, which are part of the Star WarsBladebuilders system.

Adds John Frascotti, President of Hasbro: “As the Star Wars fan base has broadened over the last 40 years, we have continued to add new and exciting play experiences to the Star Wars brand, to engage fans across generations. We’ve worked closely with Disney to bring the storytelling from Star Wars Forces of Destiny to life through this innovative toy line to help connect with new audiences as well as appeal to existing fans.”

Fans attending Star Wars Celebration in Orlando will see a sneak peek of Star Wars Forces of Destiny during the “Heroines of Star Wars” panel on Friday, April 14. The panel, moderated by Amy Ratcliffe – host of “Lattes with Leia” podcast, will feature Carrie Beck – vice president of animation at Lucasfilm and Dave Filoni – executive producer of Star Wars Rebels, as well as Ashley Eckstein, Tiya Sircar and other surprise guests. For a first look at the new Star Wars Forces of Destiny Adventure Figures, stop by Hasbro booth #2744.

Stay tuned to StarWars.com for more details.

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VIDEO: BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE NEW ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ MUSICAL COMING TO THE DISNEY DREAM

As we previously shared, a new production of “Beauty and the Beast” is coming to the Walt Disney Theatre on the Disney Dream.

To develop this new version of “Beauty and the Beast,” Disney Cruise Line assembled an all-star creative team, including a talented collection of Broadway artists, to create an imaginative, new approach to this iconic story. Check out this video to get an inside look at how they’re bringing this tale as old as time to life like never before …

“Beauty and the Beast” will debut during the Disney Dream voyage departing Nov. 6, 2017, joining an incredible lineup of Broadway-style state productions aboard the ship, including “The Golden Mickeys” and “Disney’s Believe”

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AMY GRANT, STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, MERCYME, KIRK FRANKLIN TO PLAY 35TH DISNEY NIGHT OF JOY AT ESPN WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS COMPLEX SEPT. 8, 9

Today we’re excited to share the line-up for this year’s Disney Night of Joy event featuring 15 of the greatest performers in Contemporary Christian music – Friday, Sept. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017.

With Country Christian Music legends like MercyMe, Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman and Kirk Franklin joining a new generation of Christian hit makers like Danny Gokey, Jordan Feliz and Rend Collective, the complex will be filled with two nights of awe-inspiring music. And, word has it that Amy and Steven might sing a couple of songs together!

Disney is also thrilled to welcome Night of Joy favorite, Matthew West as the host for the two-night event this year. Matthew will be running around the complex, introducing artists and just generally keeping things hopping.

This year’s event – our 35th actually – will feature one of the greatest concert lineups in Contemporary Christian music history. (Entertainment subject to change.)

  • Friday, Sept. 8 – MercyMe, TobyMac, Natalie Grant, Danny Gokey, Matt Maher, Colton Dixon, Rend Collective, Zach Williams.
  • Saturday, Sept. 9 – Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman, Kirk Franklin, Jordan Feliz, Crowder, Jeremy Camp, Tye Tribbett.

Tickets will go on sale in early June.

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MEET THE HEROES OF GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY – MISSION: BREAKOUT! COMING TO DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK MAY 27

The Guardians of the Galaxy are coming to Disney California Adventure® Park at Disneyland® Resort! Opening May 27, 2017 the new Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will blast guests straight into this story for the first time ever as they help Rocket bust his pals out of the Collector’s Fortress.

Guests can come face-to-face with the Guardians of the Galaxy this summer, at Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! Deep inside his fortress-like collection, the mysterious Taneleer Tivan (aka The Collector) has the Guardians of the Galaxy on display as his newest acquisitions. Unbeknownst to their captor, Rocket has escaped and is enlisting the Collector’s VIP guests for help. Guests board a gantry lift, which launches them into a chaotic and hilarious adventure as they join Rocket in an attempt to break his fellow Guardians out of captivity.

After breaking out of the Collector’s Fortress, guests may run into Star-Lord and Gamora on their way to escape aboard the Milano, with Star-Lord stopping to fire up his old-school boom box and get a dance party started. And for the first time, citizens of Earth will have the chance to meet Groot!

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DISNEY FANS AND D23 MEMBERS ENJOY SPECIAL DISNEY MAGIC AT D23 EXPO 2017

Disney fans and members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will enjoy more benefits than ever before at D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. There are new and returning opportunities for D23 Gold and Charter Members, including priority seating at the Expo’s premiere events, as well as other benefits for Disney fans of all ages during the event, July 14–16 at the Anaheim Convention Center. These special offers from D23 include:

D23 Fan Lounge: The D23 Fan Lounge, which will be located in the heart of the show floor, will feature décor inspired by one of Walt Disney’s first animated characters, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, who celebrates his 90th anniversary this year. The lounge will include photo opportunities, complimentary charging stations, and the chance to learn more about D23, Disney’s official fan club. Open to all guests at the event, the lounge is located directly in front of Center Stage, which will host events, musical performances, and special appearances all weekend.

D23 Gold Member Benefits: Guests who are Gold or Gold Family Members will enjoy the following benefits at this year’s D23 Expo:
· Priority seating for presentations in Hall D23 and the D23 Expo Arena
· A complimentary Expo-exclusive print
· Special offers and discounts from Disney partners including Havaianas, Ozobot, Steiff, and Thomas Kinkade.

D23 Charter Member Lounge: Once again, D23 Charter Members (who joined in 2009 and have maintained their Gold Membership status) will have access to a private lounge off the show floor, where they can relax and purchase food and beverages.

Offers are subject to change. There are a limited number of priority seats available in Hall D23 and the D23 Expo Arena. Additional details are available at D23expo.com.

Ticketsfor D23 Expo 2017 are available for $81 for one-day adult admission and $59 for children 3–9. Membersof D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $72 for a one-day adult admission and $53 for children 3–9. Multi-day tickets are also available. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2017, visit D23expo.com.

About D23 Expo 2017
D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2017 news, visit D23expo.com. Presentations, talent, and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.

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 and General Membership levels at D23.com and at DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.

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New Attractions, Experiences and Dining Debut This Spring at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A new, limited-time concert event, “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters,” is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting May 26. It will showcase memorable music from Pixar Animation Studios films, complete with a live orchestra and appearances by beloved Disney•Pixar characters.

“The Music of Pixar LIVE!” will be presented three times nightly at Theater of the Stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (following the regular daily performances of “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage”). The show will also feature highlights from some of Pixar’s greatest scores, from films like “Toy Story” to “Cars 3.” Guests can also expect appearances by Woody, Jessie, Mike and Sulley, the Incredibles and more.

Several new Star Wars additions have recently taken center stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, starting with new displays inside Star Wars Launch Bay that feature authentic replicas from “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” The new AWR Troopers from “Rogue One” are also now appearing in the daytime stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.”

For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate experience: the all-new Star Wars Guided Tour. Guests are treated to a seven-hour immersion with character greetings, themed dining, attraction experiences, insider’s tours, a dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular. Offered for an additional fee, the tour is available Mondays and Saturdays and can be booked at DisneyWorld.com.

And coming later this year, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests will be immersed in new scenes from “Star Wars: Episode VIII” while onboard the Star Tours – The Adventures Continue attraction.

– See more at: http://wdwnews.com/releases/2017/02/09/new-attractions-experiences-and-dining-debut-this-spring-at-walt-disney-world-resort/#sthash.LFrhuvzu.dpuf

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