Princess Elena of Avalor’s Royal Welcome at Magic Kingdom Park

Princess Elena of Avalor is ready to make her debut at Walt Disney World® Resort!

On Aug. 11, 2016, Magic Kingdom® Park will welcome Elena, crown princess of Avalor, in a special ceremony taking place on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage. And, beginning Aug. 12, 2016, the royal welcome for Elena of Avalor will be presented several times daily at the park.

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

Guests can also see Princess Elena on the Disney Channel series “Elena of Avalor” every Friday at 7:30 p.m.

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Walt Disney World Fun Facts – Theme Parks

THEME PARKS

Boulder Builder . . . Here’s one to stump your friends with. How many stones are there in Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom? NONE. The whole shell of the building is fiberglass.

Green Thumb . . . More than 30 tons of fruits and vegetables grown at The Land pavilion at Epcot are served in Walt Disney World restaurants.

Finger Food . . . More than 1.8 million pounds of turkey drumsticks are consumed every year in four Disney theme parks — Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Spaced Out . . . Spaceship Earth, the visual and thematic centerpiece of Epcot, weighs 16 million pounds — more than three times that of a space shuttle fully fueled and ready for launch. The outer “skin” of Spaceship Earth is made up of 11,324 aluminum and plastic-alloy triangles. Also, did you know that rainwater never falls off the sphere? It’s channeled into the ball and funneled away.

Water, Water Everywhere . . . If you emptied the water from The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion in Epcot into one-gallon milk jugs and laid them side by side, they would stretch from here to New Orleans, Knoxville or Raleigh — 540 miles. And the recipe for the artificial seawater called for 27 truckloads of sodium chloride, or common table salt.

Ready, Aim . . . The fountain at Epcot Innoventions Plaza can shoot water 150 feet in the air — within 30 feet of the top of Spaceship Earth. If all of the shooters were fired at once, there would be 2,000 gallons of water in the air.

IllumiNations . . . More than 26,000 feet of lights outline the Epcot World Showcase pavilions — a string long enough to stretch across the Golden Gate Bridge more than six times.

It’s a Tall World, After All . . . Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (just under 200 feet) is the tallest attraction at Walt Disney World Resort, followed by The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (199 feet), Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle (189 feet), Spaceship Earth at Epcot (183 feet), Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom (180 feet) and The Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (145 feet).

Biggest Ever . . . Disney’s Animal Kingdom encompasses 403 acres, the company’s biggest theme park. The park’s centerpiece is The Tree of Life, 14 stories high and 50 feet wide at its trunk.

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NEW STAR WARS REBELS INTERACTIVE ADVENTURE AT DISNEY PARKS

Disney Floral & Gifts, in partnership with Lucasfilm, is happy to announce the launch of the new Star Wars Rebels Interactive Adventure. For those brave enough to answer the call for this mission, an adventure awaits.

Top Secret Mission Detail #1: The Mission

The Star Wars Rebels Interactive Adventure takes guests from your resort room “barracks” on an interactive role-playing mission to the Star Tours® Attraction. They’ll go “under cover” as an Imperial Security Officer, complete with rank bar, cap, satchel, and diversion tattoos.

Top Secret Mission Detail #2: The Tech

The adventure features unique technology exclusive to this experience. Through an augmented reality app on their smartphone, Ezra Bridger leads guests on a mission to thwart the Empire. By scanning targets or “wayfinders” featured around their resort room and Star Tours, Ezra leads guests to hidden information and gear needed to complete their mission.

The rebel tech on their phone allows guests to experience the adventure again and again, even after returning home from the Disney Parks!

Top Secret Mission Detail #3: The Gear

With equipment to help on their adventure, the mission includes a disguise and a data card to transmit information to the rebels at Star Tours. Other collectibles include a Jedi holocron, lightsaber, Rebel journal, 4 Empire recruitment posters, and an Empire door banner.

And if guests have multiple rebels in your party, they can add-on elements of this adventure for everyone to experience!

Top Secret Mission Detail #4: The Reward

Once guests have completed their mission, they’ll be rewarded like any true hero with a Medal of Bravery. Presented in a rebel lock box wrapped with a Phoenix symbol, this medal can only be recovered upon completion of the mission. Like the one seen in the film Star Wars: A New Hope, the medal’s design features a lanyard, which can be personalized, to identify guests victory.

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DISNEYLAND RAILROAD AND RIVERS OF AMERICA ATTRACTIONS TO REOPEN SUMMER 2017 AT DISNEYLAND PARK

The Rivers of America and the Disneyland® Railroad at Disneyland Park are temporarily closed as Disney prepares to make room for the all-new Star Wars-themed land. Today, we’re excited to share that these two areas will reopen summer 2017 at Disneyland Park. This includes all attractions along the Rivers of America, including:

  • “Fantasmic!”
  • Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia
  • Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
  • Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes

When these areas reopen in summer of 2017, the north bank of the Rivers of America will feature a beautiful new waterfront. The new riverbank will also include an elevated trestle over which the Disneyland Railroad will travel. Take a look at this Walt Disney Imagineering artist rendering for a sneak peek!

Don’t forget … while the Disneyland Railroad is temporarily closed, Guests at the Main Street and New Orleans Square Train Stations will be able to get up-close with the historic steam engines that have circled Disneyland Park for decades, learn about these amazing machines firsthand from our own train engineers and even take a picture with an engine! Each engine will be accompanied by knowledgeable train engineers, who will share fun facts, details on how the engines operate, stories from the history of the Disneyland Railroad and more.

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Live Music Returns to the Tomorrowland Terrace Stage at Disneyland Park

For a limited time, beginning Aug. 6, 2016, live music will return to Tomorrowland Terrace at Disneyland® Park. Guest favorites such as 80z All Stars, Scot Bruce, Suburban Legends and more will be performing on weekends, Friday through Sunday. Different bands will appear from day to day, so be sure to check the entertainment schedule before their visit.

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Re-Imagined Flying Fish Now Open on Disney’s Boardwalk at Walt Disney World

After a major re-imagining, the Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort is now open. The entire interior, including the on-stage kitchen, has been beautifully redesigned, along with an all-new menu crafted by Chef Tim Majoras, a veteran of the Flying Fish kitchen.

The seafood-centric menu features entirely sustainable fish and shellfish, and includes Chef Majoras’ creations such as corn-crusted wild Gulf shrimp, wild Alaskan king salmon and plancha-seared Hokkaido scallops. For carnivores, there’s Wagyu filet mignon, Kurobuta pork belly and bison striploin. General manager and sommelier Stig Jacobsen has crafted a new wine list with nearly 80 selections by the glass.

The new interior design is inspired by the beloved flying fish of Disney’s BoardWalk Resort, which are displayed subtly throughout the location – from upholstery patterns to kitchen tiles. The updated look includes some sparking architectural accents, such as golden-winged room panels and a glittering chandelier that mimics a school of flying fish swimming overhead. The restaurant also features boardwalk-inspired mementos like carnival art, vintage games and a nod to the legendary “Flying Turns” rollercoaster.

And, as we’ve previously mentioned, the new AbracadaBar lounge will open soon next door, taking the spot formerly occupied by Seashore Sweets candy and ice cream shop. This new “curious cocktail lounge” combines the Golden Age of Magic with the magic of Disney storytelling. From enchanted magic show posters and mystifying mirrors to vintage props and tricks, AbracadaBar promises to be just as surprising and magical as its name suggests.

Book reservations at the Flying Fish for guests today by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

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“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” Takes the Stage Aboard Disney Cruise Line

For the “first time in forever,” the beloved animated hit “Frozen” is getting the Disney Cruise Line theatrical treatment as a new stage show exclusively aboard the Disney Wonder. “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” debuts, along with a wave of new enhancements to the ship, on cruises starting Nov. 10, 2016, from Galveston, Texas.

The story will be presented like never before, with an innovative combination of traditional theatrical techniques, modern technology and classic Disney whimsy, completely unique to the Disney Wonder production.

“We’re so excited to bring ‘Frozen, A Musical Spectacular’ to the stage of the Walt Disney Theatre on the Disney Wonder.  The production is going to delight each one of our guests because it’s a story for absolutely everyone in the family,” said Jim Urry, Vice President, Entertainment, Disney Cruise Line.

“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” will follow the captivating adventure of royal sisters Anna and Elsa as they embark on a journey to discover the meaning of sisterhood, inner strength and true love. Fans of the film and newcomers alike will be enchanted by favorite characters brought to life onstage along with beautiful renditions of the movie’s iconic music.

The show features dynamic costumes and sets, remarkable special effects, and spectacular production numbers that will delight Disney Cruise Line guests in new and surprising ways. The creative disciplines blend to create a seamless environment – blurring the lines between costume and scenic, set piece and video, puppet and puppeteer – and expand upon the most imaginative elements of the film.

“The story of ‘Frozen’ is one of the most iconic animated movies ever, so this is a unique and special opportunity to retell the story onboard the Disney Wonder, transporting guests right into the world of Arendelle,” said Kevin Eld, Creative Portfolio Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering.

To adapt this blockbuster animated feature into a quintessential stage production, Eld assembled a team of distinguished creative talent with Broadway credits and theatrical accolades.

The production is led by Tony Award-nominated director Sheryl Kaller (“Next Fall,” “Mothers and Sons”). Joining the creative team are Tony Award-winning costume designer Paloma Young (“Peter and the Starcatcher”), choreographer Josh Prince(“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”), scenic designer Jason Sherwood (“Paint Your Wagon”), and writer Sara Wordsworth (“In Transit”).

“Frozen, a Musical Spectacular” will feature music direction by Marco Paguia, projection design by Aaron Rhyne and lighting design by Rui Rita.

Dynamic puppetry by Michael Curry, whose designs are featured in Disney’s Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “The Lion King,” will bring exciting physicality to characters like Sven and Olaf.

The production features the popular music and lyrics by the creators of the “Frozen” film score, Kristen Anderson-Lopez (“In Transit,” “Up Here”) and Robert Lopez (“Avenue Q,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Up Here”), and is adapted from the screenplay by four-time Tony Award nominee Chad Beguelin (“Gotta Dance,” “Aladdin,” “The Wedding Singer,” “Elf”).

The 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre provides the perfect setting to immerse audiences in the kingdom of Arendelle and showcase the renowned score. Songs like “For the First Time in Forever” and “Love is an Open Door” will be expanded into ensemble pieces, and the film’s wintry wizardry will be realized in lavish production numbers of “In Summer” and “Fixer Upper.”

A stand-out moment, the emblematic ballad “Let it Go” will be transformed into a full-fledged stage spectacle. Complete with real-life magic – transformative scenery, snow flurries and state-of-the-art video technology – this show stopping number will bring Elsa’s enchanted icy blasts to reality like never before.

“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” is based on the Walt Disney Animation Studios “Frozen,” which is the number one animated feature of all time. The acclaimed film earned two Academy Awards (2014) for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.

An entirely separate two-act Broadway production of “Frozen” is currently being prepared by Disney Theatrical Productions and is slated to join Disney Theatrical’s New York productions of “Aladdin” and “The Lion King” for spring 2018 at a theater to be announced. It will have a pre-Broadway engagement starting in summer 2017 in Denver.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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DISNEY TWENTY-THREE CELEBRATES THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

2016_DisneyTwentyThree_Fall_lores.jpgThis year, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast—the first animated film ever to be nominated for an Academy Award®for Best Picture—celebrates its 25th anniversary, and Disney twenty-three is giving fans a spectacular look at the film from its inception to its timeless legacy. The issue features interviews with Paige O’Hara (Belle), Robby Benson (Beast), Angela Lansbury (Mrs. Potts), David Ogden Stiers (Cogsworth), Richard White (Gaston), composer Alan Menken, screenwriter Linda Woolverton, producer Don Hahn, and many more, as well as stories about how the film has been equally successful in Disney theme parks and on stage. Plus, readers will learn more about the live-action adaptation of the film, coming to theaters in 2017.

The issue, exclusively for Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, also features a Fall TV Preview, which includes interviews with ABC’sOnce Upon a Time creators Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz; the producers and stars of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.; and Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh (who created Phineas and Ferb), who reveal details about their new Disney XD show, Milo Murphy’s Law. Plus, Hayley Atwell ofAgent Carter and Cinderella gives fans a preview of her new ABC show, Conviction, and shares with readers her favorite Disneyland attractions.

Also included in the fall publication of Disney twenty-three is an exclusive interview with Benedict Cumberbatch about his upcoming Marvel filmDoctor Strange; a look at how Disney Theatrical Group creates spectacular shows for Broadway and beyond; a peek at the creation of Disney’s newest princess, Elena of Avalor; and a story focusing on the timeless artwork of Dumbo to toast the film’s 75th anniversary. The issue also includes regular columns such as Ask Dave, From the Vault, A Walk with Walt, and a special “From the Desk of” to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.

The celebration of Beauty and the Beast’s 25th anniversary continues on September 5, when D23 Members—and Disney fans—are invited to join the festivities as the club kicks off its annual Fanniversary event. D23 will be holding member screenings of the groundbreaking film around the country, Gold Members will receive special “selfie kits” with the fall publication, and D23.com will offer fans exclusive features, new videos, printables, recipes, and much more. Fans are invited to “be our guest” for this 25-day event, and to use the hashtag #D23Fanniversary on social media to join the conversation. More details will be available in the coming weeks at D23.com/D23Fanniversary.

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 late August.

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

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Favorite Entertainment Spectaculars Return to Disneyland Resort This Fall

This fall, two favorite nighttime spectaculars will return to Disneyland® Resort, as the dazzling Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration comes to a close on September 5.

At Disney California Adventure® Park, the original version of “World of Color” will be presented, beginning September 6. Guests will enjoy all the great sequences of Disney animation and music, from WALL-E and Eve zipping through the cosmos to Pocahontas exploring just around the riverbend.

World of Color

Across the Esplanade at Disneyland Park, guests will once again be able to enjoy the timeless soundtrack of Disney’s “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks spectacular when it lights up the sky over Sleeping Beauty Castle Friday through Sunday evenings starting September 9. Versions of “Fantasy in the Sky” date back to 1958, when Walt Disney envisioned the show as a spectacular “kiss goodnight” for his Disneyland guests.

“World of Color” and “Fantasy in the Sky” will each be presented through the early November kickoff of Holidays at the Disneyland Resort.

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NEW ‘MISS FORTUNE FALLS’ ATTRACTION COMING TO DISNEY’S TYPHOON LAGOON SPRING 2017

A brand new attraction called Miss Fortune Falls is coming to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon at Walt Disney World® Resort in spring of 2017!

Miss Fortune Falls will be a family-style raft attraction that takes Guests on a splashing journey through the fabled Captain Mary Oceanear’s past. Legend has it that Captain Oceanear, a treasure-hunting heroine, travelled across the sea collecting unique artifacts before she became stranded at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon many years ago by a rogue storm.

Miss Fortune Falls

Onboard treasure rafts, Guests will ascend to the top of the attraction before plunging into a white-water adventure where they will be able to spot some of the treasures Captain Oceanear gathered from around the world.

With a ride time of two minutes, Miss Fortune Falls will be among the lengthiest attractions at both Disney Water Parks.

Stay tuned for more details about this exciting new addition to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon.

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