Backstage Magic - June 2010

[adambomb85]

Hi All -

I am a first time poster and this forum seems terrific! My boyfriend and I just booked ourselves on the June 20 Backstage Magic Adventure. Is anyone else planning to go at this time? Just figured I'd ask and see if there are other crazy planners out there like me!

Thanks!

~Adam

[AStamm]

:welcome: to DisBoards.

We're booked on the June 20 BSM tour also (DH, DS11, and me along with my BFF). Planning to fly into LAX on June 19 to try and adjust to the 3-hour time change. Following the ABD, we're going to relax and enjoy some more time at DL, staying on DVC points at VGC.

Is this your first ABD? First one for us and I can't wait to see and do it all. I wish there were more trips reports to read since I'm not much for suprises. From all that I've read the trip sounds fantastic though.

When DH called to book the trip two weeks ago he was told it was already 1/2 full. I wouldn't be surprised if we're up to the 40-person mark for this trip since the free cruise is thrown in. Have you picked any potential dates for your cruise yet? We're pretty much set on November 21 so we can spend Thanksgiving at WDW when the cruise is over.

[Tozzie]

:welcome: to DisBoards.

We're booked on the June 20 BSM tour also (DH, DS11, and me along with my BFF). Planning to fly into LAX on June 19 to try and adjust to the 3-hour time change. Following the ABD, we're going to relax and enjoy some more time at DL, staying on DVC points at VGC.

Is this your first ABD? First one for us and I can't wait to see and do it all. I wish there were more trips reports to read since I'm not much for suprises. From all that I've read the trip sounds fantastic though.

When DH called to book the trip two weeks ago he was told it was already 1/2 full. I wouldn't be surprised if we're up to the 40-person mark for this trip since the free cruise is thrown in. Have you picked any potential dates for your cruise yet? We're pretty much set on November 21 so we can spend Thanksgiving at WDW when the cruise is over.


I went on this trip this past June and it was awesome you will have a great time.

[AStamm]

I went on this trip this past June and it was awesome you will have a great time.
What was the highlight of the trip for you?

[nunzia]

I went last January and it was wonderful. There were so many highlights. I think Walt's apartment and Imagineering topped it for me. You'll have a great time.

[Tozzie]

What was the highlight of the trip for you?

Imagineering!!! I could have stayed there for hours!

[Bobo912]

Hi All -

I am a first time poster and this forum seems terrific! My boyfriend and I just booked ourselves on the June 20 Backstage Magic Adventure. Is anyone else planning to go at this time? Just figured I'd ask and see if there are other crazy planners out there like me!

Thanks!

~Adam

Welcome to the board, adambomb85. I like your screen name. I haven't been on Backstage Magic, but I've been on two other ABD trips, so far, and they have been great. Happy planning!

[adambomb85]

Well I am looking forward to sharing the adventure with you and your family AStamm! We are flying into LAX on the 20th and staying a post night at the GC and departing the next day. My DBf is not exactly a Disney-fanatic (like me!), but is looking forward to seeing all the behind the scenes tours!

I am a first timer with ABD too! I have read so many wonderful things about this trip that it was just something I had to jump on board with! I have found quite a lot of trip reports and blogs from other sites (I'm not one for surprises either, I enjoy the anticipation). I can send you some links of some excellent blogs if you like!

When we called two weeks ago we were told, with the two of us the trip was over the 60% mark! We are hoping to use the cruise in December 2011 and combine it with a trip to Disney World (my home away from home!).

I hope other adventurers sign on here - always fun to make a connection before travelling together!

Thanks everyone for the great welcome! I am excited to look around the forums more tonight!

[soarin three]

We are also booked for the June 20th trip and was told it is 3/4 full. It will be our 3rd ABD trip.

[adambomb85]

That's great news Soarin'! I think that often times the more the merrier on these trips. Are you a single travellor or are others going to be joining you?

[soarin three]

Adam
We are three traveling (soarin three) - me, my wife and daughter.

[rstamm]

Adam
We are three traveling (soarin three) - me, my wife and daughter.

Our son will turn 11 right before the trip how old is your daughter?

[soarin three]

She is 11 as well!

[Birdie1981]

Hi All -

I am a first time poster and this forum seems terrific! My boyfriend and I just booked ourselves on the June 20 Backstage Magic Adventure. Is anyone else planning to go at this time? Just figured I'd ask and see if there are other crazy planners out there like me!

Thanks!

~Adam


My bestfriend, her family and I are heading on that Adventure as well. I can't wait. Backstage Magic is one that I wanted to do for a long time now and it's finally happening!

[AStamm]

My bestfriend, her family and I are heading on that Adventure as well. I can't wait. Backstage Magic is one that I wanted to do for a long time now and it's finally happening!

So...to clear up the confusion for anyone coming with us :rotfl:, AStamm (Amy) is me, RStamm (Rick) is my husband, and Birdie1981 (Roberta, aka Birdie) is my best friend. AJ is our son who will be 11 by that time.

[shellabell]

I just finished the Backstage Magic tour yesterday, it was so much fun. I am in withdrawals this morning:rotfl: Michael and Jaime were our guides and they were really great. I would take this tour again just to hang out with them some more. We had some bad weather (for California) but that didn't even damper the experience.

[rstamm]

I just finished the Backstage Magic tour yesterday, it was so much fun. I am in withdrawals this morning:rotfl: Michael and Jaime were our guides and they were really great. I would take this tour again just to hang out with them some more. We had some bad weather (for California) but that didn't even damper the experience.

How long were your park tickets good for?

Did they give them to you or did your guides take care of it each day?
Our tour will be Sunday till Friday and we have AP's but are blacked out on Saturday and didn't know how long these tickets are good for.

How many fastpasses did they give you at the park and did they have a date on them?

Glad you liked the tour, our time will be here soon.

[Tozzie]

How long were your park tickets good for?

Did they give them to you or did your guides take care of it each day?
Our tour will be Sunday till Friday and we have AP's but are blacked out on Saturday and didn't know how long these tickets are good for.

How many fastpasses did they give you at the park and did they have a date on them?

Glad you liked the tour, our time will be here soon.

I went last June, the park tickets are given to you when you arrive at the GCH, they are good for 4 days but there is an expiration date on it and that date is the last day of the trip.

[shellabell]

I went last June, the park tickets are given to you when you arrive at the GCH, they are good for 4 days but there is an expiration date on it and that date is the last day of the trip.

That was the same for us. We have annual passes but we used the hoppers since they expire on the last day of the trip. They gave us a couple of fast passes the first evening and then 5 on the day of the Disneyland tour and 5 on the day of DCA. They expired on the day given. I'm not sure if it works the same for every tour.

[jacksparrowfan]

I just finished the Backstage Magic tour yesterday, it was so much fun. I am in withdrawals this morning:rotfl: Michael and Jaime were our guides and they were really great. I would take this tour again just to hang out with them some more. We had some bad weather (for California) but that didn't even damper the experience.


Aren't they the BEST??!!!! They were our Guides in October as well. They both play off each other so well. Were so nice and just did anything for anyone. Very special, those two!!! Glad you had a magical experience. Even with the rain! :-)

P.S. Were you able to see fireworks after the final dinner?

[shellabell]

Aren't they the BEST??!!!! They were our Guides in October as well. They both play off each other so well. Were so nice and just did anything for anyone. Very special, those two!!! Glad you had a magical experience. Even with the rain! :-)

P.S. Were you able to see fireworks after the final dinner?

Unfortunately they were cancelled. Some of our group opted for the bar instead, which is the next best thing. We were able to see the fireworks earlier in the week after Fantasmic. We liked it so much we are thinking about doing it again next October. Though I really would like to have the same guides if we did.

[AStamm]

We liked it so much we are thinking about doing it again next October.
That's saying a lot about what to expect...I'd think there isn't a much higher recommendation than anyone who spends that kind of money and is willing to fork it over a 2nd time for the same Adventure.

Can't wait to experience it in June!

[Tozzie]

That's saying a lot about what to expect...I'd think there isn't a much higher recommendation than anyone who spends that kind of money and is willing to fork it over a 2nd time for the same Adventure.

Can't wait to experience it in June!

I feel the same way and will prolly do this trip again in 2011 maybe around Christmas Time.

[shellabell]

That's saying a lot about what to expect...I'd think there isn't a much higher recommendation than anyone who spends that kind of money and is willing to fork it over a 2nd time for the same Adventure.

Can't wait to experience it in June!

I don't want to hype it too much, but you'll have a great time:woohoo: The thing that impressed me the most was how great all the cast members we encountered were. Even the ones working early for our breakfasts were great.

[jacksparrowfan]

Unfortunately they were cancelled. Some of our group opted for the bar instead, which is the next best thing. We were able to see the fireworks earlier in the week after Fantasmic. We liked it so much we are thinking about doing it again next October. Though I really would like to have the same guides if we did.

My tour in October was my second Backstage Magic tour. It really was that good. I tried to go in not expecting the same experience. There were a couple of things that did not happen from the first time. Both my Guides told me each tour, each year, will be different. For my first tour, the current Disneyland Ambassador (Quinn) and Diana were our Guides. I even emailed Diana to see if she was working my tour. (Like you, wanting the same Guides.) I have to say it was such a pleasant experience because of Michael and Jaime. I feel like they became our brothers for the week! Fun times! A few of us are already talking about going again ourselves!

[shellabell]

My tour in October was my second Backstage Magic tour. It really was that good. I tried to go in not expecting the same experience. There were a couple of things that did not happen from the first time. Both my Guides told me each tour, each year, will be different. For my first tour, the current Disneyland Ambassador (Quinn) and Diana were our Guides. I even emailed Diana to see if she was working my tour. (Like you, wanting the same Guides.) I have to say it was such a pleasant experience because of Michael and Jaime. I feel like they became our brothers for the week! Fun times! A few of us are already talking about going again ourselves!

Wow, that really says something that you want to take a third trip. What did she say when you e-mailed her? I asked Jaime and he said they only know about 2 months out what they will be doing. Unfortunately, I am sure it would be sold out by that point. Did you do the adults only tour? Not having kids myself I thought it was a nice option.

I am sure other guides would be great too, but I am a creature of habit. They were so much fun that I would just prefer them again. I wonder how many different guides they have that do the Backstage Magic tours (trying to figure out my odds:rotfl:)

[jacksparrowfan]

Wow, that really says something that you want to take a third trip. What did she say when you e-mailed her? I asked Jaime and he said they only know about 2 months out what they will be doing. Unfortunately, I am sure it would be sold out by that point. Did you do the adults only tour? Not having kids myself I thought it was a nice option.

I am sure other guides would be great too, but I am a creature of habit. They were so much fun that I would just prefer them again. I wonder how many different guides they have that do the Backstage Magic tours (trying to figure out my odds:rotfl:)


When I emailed her, she said she was done for the year. At the time, I was bummed because we LOVED LOVED her and Quinn. We knew Quinn can't be there because he is now the Ambassador. But, I was good with it. A couple of friends from my first tour, just happened to be on a tour the week before mine (more people taking it a second time and they are talking a third). They both raved about Michael and Jaime, so I knew we were in great hands and were in for major fun. The first time, I was with my husband and we had wonderful kids on the tour with us. This last time as adults only as I went with girlfriends. Honestly, I didn't see a difference. The kids did the same as we did, pretty much. We really enjoyed the kids on our trip. I too am a creature of habit. But, all of the Guides train together and everyone in the past year who have been on the tour just rave about their Guides. You won't be disappointed with your Guide. Just don't be disappointed if a certain event you got to do this time is not available for next. I hope you go! I will send you a personal message next.

[shellabell]

I just typed out a long reply to you and found out I have to have 10 posts to send it:scared1:

[adambomb85]

Reading all of these great reviews is just making me more anxious for June! I love reading all the great experiences you all have had - and hearing you have gone back for seconds!

When do we find out our Guides? I assumed the day we arrive, but wasn't sure if we learned anything prior? All the guides sound terrific, so it really doesn't seem to matter!

This is my first adventure - I hope this experience inspires us to go on more in the future!

[shellabell]

Reading all of these great reviews is just making me more anxious for June! I love reading all the great experiences you all have had - and hearing you have gone back for seconds!

When do we find out our Guides? I assumed the day we arrive, but wasn't sure if we learned anything prior? All the guides sound terrific, so it really doesn't seem to matter!

This is my first adventure - I hope this experience inspires us to go on more in the future!

We found out the day we arrived. They were waiting in the lobby of the hotel. You will have to make sure and come back to tell us what you thought of the experience!

[Epcotforever]

When I emailed her, she said she was done for the year. At the time, I was bummed because we LOVED LOVED her and Quinn. We knew Quinn can't be there because he is now the Ambassador. But, I was good with it. A couple of friends from my first tour, just happened to be on a tour the week before mine (more people taking it a second time and they are talking a third). They both raved about Michael and Jaime, so I knew we were in great hands and were in for major fun. The first time, I was with my husband and we had wonderful kids on the tour with us. This last time as adults only as I went with girlfriends. Honestly, I didn't see a difference. The kids did the same as we did, pretty much. We really enjoyed the kids on our trip. I too am a creature of habit. But, all of the Guides train together and everyone in the past year who have been on the tour just rave about their Guides. You won't be disappointed with your Guide. Just don't be disappointed if a certain event you got to do this time is not available for next. I hope you go! I will send you a personal message next.

My husband and I have been thinking about doing our 2nd ABD vacation and noticed you did this one twice. We did this one over a year ago in Aug of 2008 and we've been toying with the idea of doing this one again instead of a new vacation. It sounded like you had a great time. What has changed since 2008.

[jacksparrowfan]

My husband and I have been thinking about doing our 2nd ABD vacation and noticed you did this one twice. We did this one over a year ago in Aug of 2008 and we've been toying with the idea of doing this one again instead of a new vacation. It sounded like you had a great time. What has changed since 2008.

I will send you a private message next. :)

[Epcotforever]

I will send you a private message next. :)

Thanks for the message and the info. Were leaning more towards this as our second abd trip. I was wondering when/if you were taking that vacation for the 3rd time or if there are any other people out there thinking about taking the Backstage vacation a 2nd time?

[jacksparrowfan]

Thanks for the message and the info. Were leaning more towards this as our second abd trip. I was wondering when/if you were taking that vacation for the 3rd time or if there are any other people out there thinking about taking the Backstage vacation a 2nd time?

We met a new friend from Australia on the October trip. (She is also on these boards.) Want to go with her and we are talking about 2011 sometime. We want to wait for the next schedule to be released in August before deciding. Might not be until Fall of 2011.

How exciting that you will go a 2nd time. :)

[shellabell]

Thanks for the message and the info. Were leaning more towards this as our second abd trip. I was wondering when/if you were taking that vacation for the 3rd time or if there are any other people out there thinking about taking the Backstage vacation a 2nd time?

We booked our second Backstage Magic for Halloween week:banana:

[Epcotforever]

My tour in October was my second Backstage Magic tour. It really was that good. I tried to go in not expecting the same experience. There were a couple of things that did not happen from the first time. Both my Guides told me each tour, each year, will be different. For my first tour, the current Disneyland Ambassador (Quinn) and Diana were our Guides. I even emailed Diana to see if she was working my tour. (Like you, wanting the same Guides.) I have to say it was such a pleasant experience because of Michael and Jaime. I feel like they became our brothers for the week! Fun times! A few of us are already talking about going again ourselves!

We were reading this post in depth as we prepare to book and I noticed you and Shellabell had Jamie and Diana as well. They were our tour guides over a year ago! Jamie was great with our kids, made us all feel like family. He had so many stories to tell about Disneyland history and Diana was just so sweet. They both made our vacation unbelieveable. It's good to see theyre still there. Maybe we'll be lucky and get them.

[CinderALLIE]

We met a new friend from Australia on the October trip. (She is also on these boards.) Want to go with her and we are talking about 2011 sometime. We want to wait for the next schedule to be released in August before deciding. Might not be until Fall of 2011.

How exciting that you will go a 2nd time. :)

Making me wish it was next year already!!

Everyone going will not be disappointed with this trip. I think when it finishes you'll all be trying to figure out when you can get back.

[soarin three]

We received our trip package today with our backpacks for the June 20th trip! Can someone who has been on this trip provide an idea of the best way the spend the free afternoon / evening in Los Angeles? Thanks

[AStamm]

We received our trip package today with our backpacks for the June 20th trip.
Nothing for us yet, but am so excited to know it'll be here soon. Can't wait to meet everyone and experience all that Backstage Magic has to offer. After reading the AL Lutz article about WOC at DCA http://miceage.micechat.com/allutz/al050410a.htm, I'll be interested to see if we're one of those "inflated egos" groups he's talking about and whether they'll have preferred seating for us.

[adambomb85]

Just received our trip package today! The backpacks are a lot nicer than I anticipated. I am hoping we get preferred seating for WOC - whether Al Lutz thinks we have inflated egos or not! ;)

Looking forward to meeting everyone in 46 days!

[meg8182000]

I go on this tour August 8th and I too am hoping that ABD will be able to secure us a preferred spot to view WOC. I'll be looking to hear all about it when you guys return. ;)

meg

[macman752]

We received our trip package today with our backpacks for the June 20th trip! Can someone who has been on this trip provide an idea of the best way the spend the free afternoon / evening in Los Angeles? Thanks

Just returned from the April 13-18 Adventure. Try to see a movie at the El Capitan. It looks like Toy Story 3 in 3-D will be showing when you are there.

We regret not taking the time to see Alice in Wonderland during our visit.

[DisneyCruisin']

I go on this tour August 8th and I too am hoping that ABD will be able to secure us a preferred spot to view WOC. I'll be looking to hear all about it when you guys return. ;)

meg

Ditto for the 8/8 tour!!!!

[AStamm]

Just returned from the April 13-18 Adventure. Try to see a movie at the El Capitan. It looks like Toy Story 3 in 3-D will be showing when you are there.

We regret not taking the time to see Alice in Wonderland during our visit.
That's been the idea in the back of my head for months, but I guess I waited a bit too long...there are only 18 seats available in the VIP section (and I'm in shock they're $32 per ticket!!!!) and no seats in the middle-level VIP/General Admission part of the seating chart for the 7 pm show.

What time are you back at the hotel and on your own on Monday? I can't see any of us actually making it until 9:30, since we're East Coasters and won't be totally readjusted to the time change yet.

[adambomb85]

That's been the idea in the back of my head for months, but I guess I waited a bit too long...there are only 18 seats available in the VIP section (and I'm in shock they're $32 per ticket!!!!) and no seats in the middle-level VIP/General Admission part of the seating chart for the 7 pm show.

What time are you back at the hotel and on your own on Monday? I can't see any of us actually making it until 9:30, since we're East Coasters and won't be totally readjusted to the time change yet.

ASTamm - ditto here! I really want to snag a pair of tickets to the 7:00pm show...I may call ABD later today if no one on here has any information. If i do, I'll post here with what they say.

[Tozzie]

That's been the idea in the back of my head for months, but I guess I waited a bit too long...there are only 18 seats available in the VIP section (and I'm in shock they're $32 per ticket!!!!) and no seats in the middle-level VIP/General Admission part of the seating chart for the 7 pm show.

What time are you back at the hotel and on your own on Monday? I can't see any of us actually making it until 9:30, since we're East Coasters and won't be totally readjusted to the time change yet.

I took this tour last year, you get back to the hotel between 4 and 5 pm, I am thinking we got back a little after 4 but depending on your group size it might be a little later as some of the activites only fit a certain amount of people so you have to go in smaller groups but you will be back in plenty of time to make the 7pm show.

[macman752]

I took this tour last year, you get back to the hotel between 4 and 5 pm, I am thinking we got back a little after 4 but depending on your group size it might be a little later as some of the activites only fit a certain amount of people so you have to go in smaller groups but you will be back in plenty of time to make the 7pm show.

We had the same experience. There was enough time to get to the 7pm show. The VIP tickets, while expensive, allow you to arrive at the last minute plus you get popcorn and drinks. The seats are very good too.

[AStamm]

Not trying to give anyone a high pressure sales pitch, but the number of available VIP seats was down to 16 when I went to the El Capitan theatre site, and I purchased 4, so the total available is now 12.

I finally hung up my D23 calendar this afternoon and guess what??? The 40th anniversary of the Walt Disney Archives is the day we're there!!! I hope there are special activities going on and we get to be part of them and that they don't pull Dave Smith from giving the normal presentation to do something else that day.

FWIW, not a major milestone, but the Tiki Room's 47th anniversary is the day we'll be touring DL. I wonder if Walt was there on that first day?

[adambomb85]

Not trying to give anyone a high pressure sales pitch, but the number of available VIP seats was down to 16 when I went to the El Capitan theatre site, and I purchased 4, so the total available is now 12.

I finally hung up my D23 calendar this afternoon and guess what??? The 40th anniversary of the Walt Disney Archives is the day we're there!!! I hope there are special activities going on and we get to be part of them and that they don't pull Dave Smith from giving the normal presentation to do something else that day.

FWIW, not a major milestone, but the Tiki Room's 47th anniversary is the day we'll be touring DL. I wonder if Walt was there on that first day?

I went for the VIP as well - it seemed like a smart move. I am really glad to see others who took this trip think this is a good move. Thanks for the helpful advice everyone!

AStamm - I must have purchased mine right before you - there was 18 left when I bought my pair. I am assuming we are in the same section of the theater. Good times, good times!

Wow - the 40th on the day we are at the Archives!!! I hope there is something special going on, maybe an anniversary party?

[AStamm]

I went for the VIP as well - it seemed like a smart move. I am really glad to see others who took this trip think this is a good move. Thanks for the helpful advice everyone!

AStamm - I must have purchased mine right before you - there was 18 left when I bought my pair. I am assuming we are in the same section of the theater. Good times, good times!

Wow - the 40th on the day we are at the Archives!!! I hope there is something special going on, maybe an anniversary party?

I'm almost positive we'll be right behind you. DH and I were talking about how expensive the evening will be when he commented "at least the popcorn and drinks are included" :rotfl:. In the grand scheme of things, what's another $32 per person, right?

[meg8182000]

I'm almost positive we'll be right behind you. DH and I were talking about how expensive the evening will be when he commented "at least the popcorn and drinks are included" :rotfl:. In the grand scheme of things, what's another $32 per person, right?

Ok - just checking in on this. I was looking up tickets for the El Capitan last night for either August 7th or 9th and they had VIP in both the orch (7th to 9th row) or the front mezz. What tickets are you guys going for? Being that I've never been to this theatre I'm not sure which seats would have the better view.

Thanks,

meg

[DisneyCruisin']

We looking at doing this on the night of the 9th (maybe the 7p.m. show) too. Figured the 7th might be a little crazy.

[AStamm]

Ok - just checking in on this. I was looking up tickets for the El Capitan last night for either August 7th or 9th and they had VIP in both the orch (7th to 9th row) or the front mezz. What tickets are you guys going for? Being that I've never been to this theatre I'm not sure which seats would have the better view.

Thanks,

meg

The only thing that was available as of last evening was 4 seats in the 7th row and 14 seats in the 8th row. Looks like adambomb got 2 seats in the 7th and we grabbed 4 directly behind him.

I haven't ever been in the theatre, just the ice cream shop next door, so can't really comment on which would be the better view. Hopefully someone else can give you an idea and you can book soon.

The 9:30 pm showing must be sold out the night of our ABD free time--it doesn't even show up as an option when I clicked on the date.

[soarin three]

I was out of town for a few days and checking the posts now. Thanks for the communication and update. We purchased three seats on the 8th row next to you all.

[meg8182000]

The only thing that was available as of last evening was 4 seats in the 7th row and 14 seats in the 8th row. Looks like adambomb got 2 seats in the 7th and we grabbed 4 directly behind him.

I haven't ever been in the theatre, just the ice cream shop next door, so can't really comment on which would be the better view. Hopefully someone else can give you an idea and you can book soon.

The 9:30 pm showing must be sold out the night of our ABD free time--it doesn't even show up as an option when I clicked on the date.

Thanks for responding. Still debating which seats to go for but I'll figure it out.

[AStamm]

We're at the one month mark :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:!

[meg8182000]

We're at the one month mark :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:!

How exciting! It'll be here before you know. :cool1:

I'm at the 80 day mark which still feels so far away but with the summer almost here - it'll go by quick.

meg

[AStamm]

I finally hung up my D23 calendar this afternoon and guess what??? The 40th anniversary of the Walt Disney Archives is the day we're there!!! I hope there are special activities going on and we get to be part of them and that they don't pull Dave Smith from giving the normal presentation to do something else that day.

While I'm happy it doesn't appear our day at the Studios isn't going to be screwed up, it's also disappointing to think we're not going to be part of any of this cool stuff...unless you cough up another $50 and have a way to get to the Studios on Friday, June 25...

D23's "Walt Disney Archives 40th Anniversary Celebration"
Event Information

DATE
Friday, June 25, 2010

LOCATION
Studio Theatre,
The Walt Disney Studios
Burbank, California

TICKETS
Available June 4, 2010, 10 a.m. PST. Please check this page for the ticket link.

COST
$50 per person (plus a $5 processing fee)

SCHEDULE
Check in begins at 3:30 p.m., presentations begin at 5 p.m.

It's been 40 years since Chief Archivist and Disney Legend Dave Smith founded the Walt Disney Archives — a collection that over the years has grown to house thousands of amazing props, costumes, sets and pieces of Disney history dating back to Walt's earliest days. D23 is proud to join Disney President and CEO Bob Iger and The Walt Disney Company as we honor the Archives for its astounding work preserving the Disney legacy for the past four decades.

Guests will be welcomed into the historic Studio Theatre, where Walt himself screened Fantasia back in 1940. Bob will present Dave with his 40th anniversary service award, honoring his personal and professional contributions to Disney.

The night's festivities will also include the premiere of the Archives' first "home movie" — four decades in the making — Archiving the Archives: Forty Years of Preserving the Magic, which details some of the highlights of the Walt Disney Archives from Roy O. Disney's hiring of Dave in 1970 to the fantastic exhibit and fan outreach programs of today. Film historian and critic Leonard Maltin will lead a question-and-answer session with Dave, revealing some surprising stories sure to delight Disney fans. And Archives Manager Becky Cline will give an overview of current Archives programs and introduce special guests who will be on hand to present several new spectacular pieces into the Archives' ever-growing collection. You will have to be there to see what they are!

Following the festivities is a champagne and dessert reception where guests can mingle in the tree-lined splendor of Disney's studio amidst some of the lot's historic buildings including the original Animation Building, which housed Walt's offices and was the stomping ground of the Nine Old Men.

Exclusive D23 merchandise, including a brand-new, limited-edition pin celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Walt Disney Studios as well as colorful polo shirts designed just for the Archives Anniversary event, will be available for sale at our new shopping kiosk.

And of course no D23 event would be complete without a special gift! To commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime experience, every guest will receive a limited-edition pin honoring the Archives' 40th anniversary.

We hope you will be a part of Walt Disney Archives history, which celebrates the past 40 years of preserving the magic and looks forward to the future of this important home for Disney's most treasured treasures.

NOTE: Available only to D23 Members in good standing. Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest. There are a limited number of tickets available. Dinner is not provided during the reception; we suggest attendees eat a light dinner or late lunch before the event. D23 Members will be required to provide their membership number when reserving tickets. Tickets may be picked up only with a valid photo ID AND D23 MEMBERSHIP CARD. D23 Members who do not bring their membership card may not be admitted to the event. Ticketed Members who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event. All D23 Special Events are subject to change without notice. There are no cancelations or refunds, tickets are not transferrable.

[adambomb85]

Alas...but maybe they will have something small...or use us as Guinea pigs for the festivities on Friday ;)

16 days!!!:cool1:

[AStamm]

Alas...but maybe they will have something small...or use us as Guinea pigs for the festivities on Friday ;)

16 days!!!:cool1:
I'm such a sucker for "exclusive" events that incorporate Disney...with very little hesitation from either of us, Birdie and I decided to go ahead and try to get tickets for this event. As DH works 2nd shift and was home still, it was up to him to score them as soon as they were released. Happy to report, we got them :banana:!

So...from having never been at the Studios before, we'll be there twice in one week and may get the chance to meet the Disney CEO. How totally cool.

Now if only the rumor about breakfast at Club 33 possibly being included in the Backstage Magic ABD came to fruition, I couldn't ask for anything more on this vacation.

See you in a little over TWO WEEKS!

[Birdie1981]

I'm such a sucker for "exclusive" events that incorporate Disney...with very little hesitation from either of us, Birdie and I decided to go ahead and try to get tickets for this event. As DH works 2nd shift and was home still, it was up to him to score them as soon as they were released. Happy to report, we got them :banana:!

So...from having never been at the Studios before, we'll be there twice in one week and may get the chance to meet the Disney CEO. How totally cool.

Now if only the rumor about breakfast at Club 33 possibly being included in the Backstage Magic ABD came to fruition, I couldn't ask for anything more on this vacation.

See you in a little over TWO WEEKS!

Well If you are a sucker I must be a BIGGER SUCKER for "exclusive" events!! I can't even pass by anything if it says limited addition or New! :banana:
If only to have something in club 33,I would even love it to use the bathroom and purchase something at the gift shop. I think I would pass out!

Two weeks from today I will be waiting for you to arrive in LA! Can't wait to meet eveyone on that Sunday!! I have already started to pack! :cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:

[micmous]

One week away....:cool1: It should be a good week.

[adambomb85]

One week away....:cool1: It should be a good week.

Hi Micmous - will you be joining us next week?!?!?

[micmous]

Hi Micmous - will you be joining us next week?!?!?

Yes, my wife and myself will be going next week on the Backstage Magic(start June 20).

[Birdie1981]

Yes, my wife and myself will be going next week on the Backstage Magic(start June 20).

See Everyone Next Sunday Afternoon!
I haven't needed a vacation as i need this one and I can't wait!:cool1:

My best friend Amystamm and her family are getting ready as well they are at Disney Star Wars weekend now!!

[adambomb85]

See Everyone Next Sunday Afternoon!
I haven't needed a vacation as i need this one and I can't wait!:cool1:

My best friend Amystamm and her family are getting ready as well they are at Disney Star Wars weekend now!!

How fun micmouse! Looking forward to meeting you and your wife next week!

I am with you on needing that vacation Roberta! Work has been crazy! It is going to be nice to get away and meet some new people! That is also pretty impressive how they are doin back to back Disney trips!

[AStamm]

How fun micmouse! Looking forward to meeting you and your wife next week!

I am with you on needing that vacation Roberta! Work has been crazy! It is going to be nice to get away and meet some new people! That is also pretty impressive how they are doin back to back Disney trips!
It's not impressive...it's more like being completely crazy :rotfl:. We just got back from an extremely quick weekend trip--flight left to go down on Friday morning, left to come back Sunday afternoon. It was SO hot there, but we had a great time at Star Wars Weekend and loved seeing the Hyperspace Hoopla.

Just checked the extended weather forecast for Los Angeles and Anaheim--it looks absolutely perfect for next Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Hopefully every day will be a repeat (and that Birdie doesn't jinx it with 100+ temps like she did 2 years ago :rotfl2:).

We should all be at our first dinner at this time next Sunday! How cool!!!

[DisneyCruisin']

Can't wait to hear all about your adventure when you get back. My family is taking the 8/8/10 Backstage Magic Trip. Also curious if you get reserved seating for WOC!

[cristeto1981]

Wow. This seems exciting. Maybe i'll take my kids. :)

[micmous]

It's not impressive...it's more like being completely crazy :rotfl:. We just got back from an extremely quick weekend trip--flight left to go down on Friday morning, left to come back Sunday afternoon. It was SO hot there, but we had a great time at Star Wars Weekend and loved seeing the Hyperspace Hoopla.

Just checked the extended weather forecast for Los Angeles and Anaheim--it looks absolutely perfect for next Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Hopefully every day will be a repeat (and that Birdie doesn't jinx it with 100+ temps like she did 2 years ago :rotfl2:).

We should all be at our first dinner at this time next Sunday! How cool!!!

Record heat in Anaheim....I remember being at DL in 08 with record highs everyday we were there. It was still worth it to go on Toy Story when it opened. I remember everyone complaining about the heat but kept thinking it was not nearly as bad as WDW in summer.

Let's hope for a nice mild week (mid 70's). Anyone staying extra??? We are staying until Sunday (figure if we are flying all the way to LA might as well stay a couple extra days).

[meg8182000]

Hey guys - can't believe that in less than 1 week you'll be on your tour! :goodvibes I hope that you all have a fab time and please do come back and let us know all about it. Well, ok don't give away all the spoilers but would love to know if they ABD does get you guys a preferred spot for WOC. ;)

meg

[AStamm]

Record heat in Anaheim....I remember being at DL in 08 with record highs everyday we were there. It was still worth it to go on Toy Story when it opened. I remember everyone complaining about the heat but kept thinking it was not nearly as bad as WDW in summer.

Let's hope for a nice mild week (mid 70's). Anyone staying extra??? We are staying until Sunday (figure if we are flying all the way to LA might as well stay a couple extra days).

My DH and I have an extremely hard time not turning every Disney vacation into an extravaganza, and this trip is no different. After the ABD ends we check into a one-bedroom DVC at VGC and stay there until the following Friday, July 2. In addition to trying to take recover from the whirlwind of the ABD trip, Birdie and I are going to the D23 Archives event and we're all going to Legoland for a day. (Birdie is leaving to head home on Tuesday, June 29) We've got a car rented the day we check out and are driving to Las Vegas until July 7. Obviously we've got the same frame of mind..."We'll be 3000 miles from home...might as well do as much as we can".

Hey guys - can't believe that in less than 1 week you'll be on your tour! :goodvibes I hope that you all have a fab time and please do come back and let us know all about it. Well, ok don't give away all the spoilers but would love to know if they ABD does get you guys a preferred spot for WOC. ;)

meg
You don't realize how difficult what you're asking is going to be for me, Meg. I'm all about knowing every single detail, but I'll try my dardest to keep from giving away too many spoilers :rotfl:.

[micmous]

My DH and I have an extremely hard time not turning every Disney vacation into an extravaganza, and this trip is no different. After the ABD ends we check into a one-bedroom DVC at VGC and stay there until the following Friday, July 2. In addition to trying to take recover from the whirlwind of the ABD trip, Birdie and I are going to the D23 Archives event and we're all going to Legoland for a day. (Birdie is leaving to head home on Tuesday, June 29) We've got a car rented the day we check out and are driving to Las Vegas until July 7. Obviously we've got the same frame of mind..."We'll be 3000 miles from home...might as well do as much as we can".


You don't realize how difficult what you're asking is going to be for me, Meg. I'm all about knowing every single detail, but I'll try my dardest to keep from giving away too many spoilers :rotfl:.

Nice to see others enjoy Disney as much as we do...I thought we are bad for staying extra days after the ABD and then staying a week at BCV in August.

See everyone in 6 days.

[DisneyCruisin']

My DH and I have an extremely hard time not turning every Disney vacation into an extravaganza, and this trip is no different. After the ABD ends we check into a one-bedroom DVC at VGC and stay there until the following Friday, July 2. In addition to trying to take recover from the whirlwind of the ABD trip, Birdie and I are going to the D23 Archives event and we're all going to Legoland for a day. (Birdie is leaving to head home on Tuesday, June 29) We've got a car rented the day we check out and are driving to Las Vegas until July 7. Obviously we've got the same frame of mind..."We'll be 3000 miles from home...might as well do as much as we can".


You don't realize how difficult what you're asking is going to be for me, Meg. I'm all about knowing every single detail, but I'll try my dardest to keep from giving away too many spoilers :rotfl:.


This person going in August wants to know all the details! Don't hold the spoilers back!!! :cool1:

[adambomb85]

Record heat in Anaheim....I remember being at DL in 08 with record highs everyday we were there. It was still worth it to go on Toy Story when it opened. I remember everyone complaining about the heat but kept thinking it was not nearly as bad as WDW in summer.

Let's hope for a nice mild week (mid 70's). Anyone staying extra??? We are staying until Sunday (figure if we are flying all the way to LA might as well stay a couple extra days).

We are staying one extra night and leaving Saturday late afternoon. I couldn't head all the way out there and not try Napa Rose! Plus, I think after the whirlwind of this vacation, a nice leisurely day and a half will be good!

My bf is not a huge Disney guy like me, but he is VERY excited for this trip - I just might be slightly more so ;)

Can't wait to meet everyone in person!

[thetallone]

I've have only been to Disney once and I had a blast! Your going less than a week which I know is very exciting! Have fun!(:

[soarin three]

We leave Los Angeles Friday but are taking a flight to San Francisco and staying until Monday night. We wanted to take advantage of being on the West Coast. My wife and I have been there and want to show a little of it to our daughter. See you Sunday!

[meg8182000]

[QUOTE
You don't realize how difficult what you're asking is going to be for me, Meg. I'm all about knowing every single detail, but I'll try my dardest to keep from giving away too many spoilers :rotfl:.[/QUOTE]

LOL - well, I'd be lying if I said I haven't read every word of every trip report that I've been able to find. :rolleyes1 OK - don't edit anything of my behalf - I mean who am I kidding, I'll waiting like crazy to read all about your trip. Which sounds amazing by the way with all the add-ons.

My mom and I will be arriving 1 day early in LA and staying 1 extra night in Disneyland following our tour. We are then flying to Vegas for 4 nights. I so can't wait for this trip.

meg

[AStamm]

Everyone all packed and ready to go??? The weather pattern continues to look fabulous--mid 70s and no chance of rain.

Can't wait to meet everyone Sunday.

[sayhello]

Have a great time, you guys!!!! :yay:

Sayhello

[TheTXTaylors5]

Tip for anyone going on the ABD CA Tour ...

COME RESTED!


That's all I am going to say! (Oh! and bring some good walking shoes. ;))

Have a magical trip! :wizard:

:goodvibes Jennifer

[micmous]

All packed and boarding passes printed....Now to work on that rest stuff between now and arriving in CA

[jacksparrowfan]

Have a magical time, everyone! Looks like you will have beautiful weather in Hollywood and Anaheim. Your Guides are the best!!! Looking forward to your trip reports. :goodvibes

[shellabell]

Have a great time! Jacksparrowfan is right, you have great guides!!

[jacksparrowfan]

Hi Shellabel! :wave2:

[shellabell]

Hi Shellabel! :wave2:

Hey there!! Are you still thinking about another adventure next year?

[jacksparrowfan]

Hey there!! Are you still thinking about another adventure next year?


Definitely! We are waiting to see the new schedule and are going to try and work it around the new Pirate of the Caribbean movie that is supposed to be out next May. We would love to see it at the El Capitan. I still have not seen a movie there. Are you excited about #2?

[shellabell]

Definitely! We are waiting to see the new schedule and are going to try and work it around the new Pirate of the Caribbean movie that is supposed to be out next May. We would love to see it at the El Capitan. I still have not seen a movie there. Are you excited about #2?

Yes! I am looking forward to being there at Halloween; I enjoy it almost as much as Christmas!

I know everyone's exhausted and busy, but I wish we would get an update:rotfl:

[jacksparrowfan]

Yes! I am looking forward to being there at Halloween; I enjoy it almost as much as Christmas!

I know everyone's exhausted and busy, but I wish we would get an update:rotfl:


My sister-in-law feels the same way. LOVES Halloween and really enjoyed seeing it last Fall for the first time.

I know...I am anxious to read how they are doing. I'm hoping they got to enjoy the Dream Suite? (Are you reading the same thing I'm reading some place else? lol!!) We can talk amongst ourselves until they return. Should be soon with tomorrow being the last morning. Hope they loved it as much as we did! :goodvibes

[shellabell]

My sister-in-law feels the same way. LOVES Halloween and really enjoyed seeing it last Fall for the first time.

I know...I am anxious to read how they are doing. I'm hoping they got to enjoy the Dream Suite? (Are you reading the same thing I'm reading some place else? lol!!) We can talk amongst ourselves until they return. Should be soon with tomorrow being the last morning. Hope they loved it as much as we did! :goodvibes

Yep, I was reading (I'm curious). I am hoping the Dream Suite has been added. I wonder too about Club 33. There was rumor of it being added (I hope).

[jacksparrowfan]

Yep, I was reading (I'm curious). I am hoping the Dream Suite has been added. I wonder too about Club 33. There was rumor of it being added (I hope).

I will send you a PM next....

[wdw4life]

Yep, I was reading (I'm curious). I am hoping the Dream Suite has been added. I wonder too about Club 33. There was rumor of it being added (I hope).

I'm hoping so, too.

[DisneyCruisin']

My sister-in-law feels the same way. LOVES Halloween and really enjoyed seeing it last Fall for the first time.

I know...I am anxious to read how they are doing. I'm hoping they got to enjoy the Dream Suite? (Are you reading the same thing I'm reading some place else? lol!!) We can talk amongst ourselves until they return. Should be soon with tomorrow being the last morning. Hope they loved it as much as we did! :goodvibes

Where are you all reading??? We're going on the BSM tour in August. I'm SOOO hoping for Club 33!!!!! Fingers crossed big time!

[shellabell]

Where are you all reading??? We're going on the BSM tour in August. I'm SOOO hoping for Club 33!!!!! Fingers crossed big time!

A lot of what I read is people who know people, who know people. Another words rumors:rotfl: Some info is from trip reports.

[DisneyCruisin']

A lot of what I read is people who know people, who know people. Another words rumors:rotfl: Some info is from trip reports.

Hopefully you have good sources and the rumors become reality!!!! :cool1:

[DisneyCruisin']

A lot of what I read is people who know people, who know people. Another words rumors:rotfl: Some info is from trip reports.

Hopefully you have good sources and the rumors become reality!!!! :cool1:

[shellabell]

Hopefully you have good sources and the rumors become reality!!!! :cool1:

Fingers crossed! Hope you have a great adventure!

[TheTXTaylors5]

A lot of what I read is people who know people, who know people. Another words rumors:rotfl: Some info is from trip reports.

DH and I were on the trip in April. On Day Three of our tour, a person from the ABD home office was tagging along. He was briefly introduced to us and our ABD Guides (Jaime and Michael) told us he was "observing" and would be with us through the rest of the Tour. DH and talked with him a little and he told us he was there to make sure some new things added to the tour went smoothly and were well received. If they did, they would "hopefully" be added to future tours (ie: dinner at Steakhouse 55, breakfast at Club 33, Dream Suite Tour, etc ... ) Nothing was ever confirmed. But, the tour bookings have been pretty slow and some even canceled due to low bookings. So, adding a perk like breakfast at Club 33 would definitely pique more people's interest (unless you know a Member ;) ).

Good luck on future trip itineraries. Sending pixie dust you have just as an amazing trip as we did! :wizard:

:goodvibes Jennifer

[jacksparrowfan]

DH and I were on the trip in April. On Day Three of our tour, a person from the ABD home office was tagging along. He was briefly introduced to us and our ABD Guides (Jaime and Michael) told us he was "observing" and would be with us through the rest of the Tour. DH and talked with him a little and he told us he was there to make sure some new things added to the tour went smoothly and were well recieved. If they did, they would "hopefully" be added to future tours (ie: Disney Archives, dinner at Steakhouse 55, breakfast at Club 33, Dream Suite Tour, etc ... ) Nothing was ever confirmed. But, the tour bookings have been pretty slow and some even canceled due to low bookings. So, adding a perk like breakfast at Club 33 would definitely pique more people's interest (unless you know a Member ;) ).

Good luck on future trip itineraries. Sending pixie dust you have just as an amazing trip as we did! :wizard:

:goodvibes Jennifer


I have had ABD bosses with my tours as well. They like to come along and see how things are going. I love that added touch in seeing them there. ABD Bosses and Guides are a great bunch of people! Disney Archives and the Dream Suite have been part of past tours. The thought is to continually change up this tour, which is awesome! I was able to experience the Archives and other things that wasn't available on the first tour. We are already planning #3 when the new schedule comes out. We are still excited about the experience again.

Shellabel...have a fabulous Backstage Magic #2 in the Fall!!! :)

[shellabell]

Thanks guys:flower3:

[adambomb85]

Just got back and working on my trip report - but I figured I would share what many have asked on here very briefly (SPOILER ALERT):



We did get a lot of upgrades from the normal tour, including: dinner at Steakhouse 55, Breakfast at Club 33 (AHHH!), Dream Suite Tour, and World of Color Fastpasses! I want to add this important disclaimer that we were told and asked to share: these experiences are NOT happening on every Backstage Magic. So if you are planning to go again or for the first time, these are not guaranteed, but, like us, you may get lucky!!!!

Look out for my full trip report to come out sometime this week =)

WHAT A FABULOUS EXPERIENCE!

[DisneyCruisin']

Just got back and working on my trip report - but I figured I would share what many have asked on here very briefly (SPOILER ALERT):



We did get a lot of upgrades from the normal tour, including: dinner at Steakhouse 55, Breakfast at Club 33 (AHHH!), Dream Suite Tour, and World of Color Fastpasses! I want to add this important disclaimer that we were told and asked to share: these experiences are NOT happening on every Backstage Magic. So if you are planning to go again or for the first time, these are not guaranteed, but, like us, you may get lucky!!!!

Look out for my full trip report to come out sometime this week =)

WHAT A FABULOUS EXPERIENCE!


Oh please, please, please, please let the August 8th group just get Clubb 33 and the WOC fastpasses - if we could just get those two things I would be one happy, happy, happy person!

[airplanegod]

Just got back and working on my trip report - but I figured I would share what many have asked on here very briefly (SPOILER ALERT):



We did get a lot of upgrades from the normal tour, including: dinner at Steakhouse 55, Breakfast at Club 33 (AHHH!), Dream Suite Tour, and World of Color Fastpasses! I want to add this important disclaimer that we were told and asked to share: these experiences are NOT happening on every Backstage Magic. So if you are planning to go again or for the first time, these are not guaranteed, but, like us, you may get lucky!!!!

Look out for my full trip report to come out sometime this week =)

WHAT A FABULOUS EXPERIENCE!



I have a question-Do you think we'll get to do this on our trip? We are going on the July Trip:confused:

[DisneyCruisin']

I have a question-Do you think we'll get to do this on our trip? We are going on the July Trip:confused:

I HOPE you do so that we get it on our August trip!!!! Let's just all hope and say a few prayers that these changes are being made to all the trips and they just don't want the information leaked. Considering the August trip is more expensive then the fall trips - I sure hope we get some extras!

[shellabell]

Just got back and working on my trip report - but I figured I would share what many have asked on here very briefly (SPOILER ALERT):



We did get a lot of upgrades from the normal tour, including: dinner at Steakhouse 55, Breakfast at Club 33 (AHHH!), Dream Suite Tour, and World of Color Fastpasses! I want to add this important disclaimer that we were told and asked to share: these experiences are NOT happening on every Backstage Magic. So if you are planning to go again or for the first time, these are not guaranteed, but, like us, you may get lucky!!!!

Look out for my full trip report to come out sometime this week =)

WHAT A FABULOUS EXPERIENCE!

Thanks for the update!

[TheTXTaylors5]

Just got back and working on my trip report - but I figured I would share what many have asked on here very briefly (SPOILER ALERT):



We did get a lot of upgrades from the normal tour, including: dinner at Steakhouse 55, Breakfast at Club 33 (AHHH!), Dream Suite Tour, and World of Color Fastpasses! I want to add this important disclaimer that we were told and asked to share: these experiences are NOT happening on every Backstage Magic. So if you are planning to go again or for the first time, these are not guaranteed, but, like us, you may get lucky!!!!

Look out for my full trip report to come out sometime this week =)

WHAT A FABULOUS EXPERIENCE!

:surfweb: I can't wait to read your Trip Report.

:goodvibes Jennifer

[Birdie1981]

Just got back and working on my trip report - but I figured I would share what many have asked on here very briefly (SPOILER ALERT):



We did get a lot of upgrades from the nomal tour, including: dinner at Steakhouse 55, Breakfast at Club 33 (AHHH!), Dream Suite Tour, and World of Color Fastpasses! I want to add this important disclaimer that we were told and asked to share: these experiences are NOT happening on every Backstage Magic. So if you are planning to go again or for the first time, these are not guaranteed, but, like us, you may get lucky!!!!

Look out for my full trip report to come out sometime this week =)

WHAT A FABULOUS EXPERIENCE!

You said it a amazing trip!!

Wishes Do Come True. I have made new friends and got to share it all with my best friend and her family as well.

No words can express how happy I was not only to ring the doorbell at club 33, but to have to honor of talking with Dave Smith and then heading back to the studios on Friday for D23 event.

So many special things happened and I know they won't happen again for the next tours as much. I thank Diana and Michael for all the special touches they added.

[meg8182000]

I'm so happy that the June 20th trip was a fantastic trip and tour! :thumbsup2 Can't wait to hear all the details.

I'm going on the Aug. 8th tour and would love to have the opt to eat at Club 33 and tour the Dream Suite but guess we'll just have to wait and see.

meg

[AStamm]

It was definitely an amazing trip full of lots of great memories. We're still here enjoying a very extended vacation...Birdie leaves tomorrow morning. She and I got to enter Club 33 again this morning (just the lobby this time :rotfl:) as she discovered they gave her the wrong size shirt when we ate there last Wednesday.

Our DVC 1-bedroom is fabulous--we're on the 6th floor overlooking Paradise Pier and I'm starting to like WOC more and more each evening we see it. For those of you going on this ABD and getting WOC FPs, I'd suggest going very early if you want to get close enough to see much. Most of us on the tour showed up around 8:00 and were at the very back of our viewing area and missed quite a bit of the show because of all the heads, children on shoulders, and tall people around us.

While I don't want to hijack Adam's thread, I'm definitely happy to answer any questions anyone else has about the tour. Don't think I'm ambitious enough to do a complete trip report and with another 9 days left to my vacation, probably wouldn't remember all the details when I get home.

Here's an odd one though--there's a group on the ABD this week with only 6 people. Michael is the only guide going and we were all shocked when he told us they were still having it with that small number of people.

[shellabell]

It was definitely an amazing trip full of lots of great memories. We're still here enjoying a very extended vacation...Birdie leaves tomorrow morning. She and I got to enter Club 33 again this morning (just the lobby this time :rotfl:) as she discovered they gave her the wrong size shirt when we ate there last Wednesday.

Our DVC 1-bedroom is fabulous--we're on the 6th floor overlooking Paradise Pier and I'm starting to like WOC more and more each evening we see it. For those of you going on this ABD and getting WOC FPs, I'd suggest going very early if you want to get close enough to see much. Most of us on the tour showed up around 8:00 and were at the very back of our viewing area and missed quite a bit of the show because of all the heads, children on shoulders, and tall people around us.

While I don't want to hijack Adam's thread, I'm definitely happy to answer any questions anyone else has about the tour. Don't think I'm ambitious enough to do a complete trip report and with another 9 days left to my vacation, probably wouldn't remember all the details when I get home.

Here's an odd one though--there's a group on the ABD this week with only 6 people. Michael is the only guide going and we were all shocked when he told us they were still having it with that small number of people.

That is pretty crazy, I am guessing that is the smallest group they have had. Wonder if it is the first time for one guide. Though I am sure Michael can handle it.

[TheTXTaylors5]

That is pretty crazy, I am guessing that is the smallest group they have had. Wonder if it is the first time for one guide. Though I am sure Michael can handle it.

:thumbsup2 Michael was one of our Guides. Since we had such a large group (44), they had to split us up into two group for parts of the tour. I believe they do it for the other "fuller" tours too. But at DL, we had to split into three groups, A Disneyland Embassador helped out and was the third Guide that day. DH and I were lucky enough to be in Michael's group. He is great and VERY knowledgeable. I was very impressed that after our first night name tags came off, he still called everyone by their first names. We gave him praises on the after trip survey. :surfweb:

:goodvibes Jennifer

[runskyhy]

That is pretty crazy, I am guessing that is the smallest group they have had. Wonder if it is the first time for one guide. Though I am sure Michael can handle it.

We only had 8 people in our group in January and Michael was the only guide then, too. At the time, they told us that 6 or 8 is the minimum they need for an adventure. Now that ABD can't cancel a trip within 75 days (I think thats the cut off) of the start date, it might become more common.

The BSM trip is such a wonderful adventure, I can't believe it isn't full every time.

[TheTXTaylors5]

The BSM trip is such a wonderful adventure, I can't believe it isn't full every time.

$$$$$

;) Jennifer

[shellabell]

We only had 8 people in our group in January and Michael was the only guide then, too. At the time, they told us that 6 or 8 is the minimum they need for an adventure. Now that ABD can't cancel a trip within 75 days (I think thats the cut off) of the start date, it might become more common.

The BSM trip is such a wonderful adventure, I can't believe it isn't full every time.

Interesting thanks for the info. I think we had about 15 last December for the adults only tour. We thought that was a pretty small group.

[shellabell]

:thumbsup2 Michael was one of our Guides. Since we had such a large group (44), they had to split us up into two group for parts of the tour. I believe they do it for the other "fuller" tours too. But at DL, we had to split into three groups, A Disneyland Embassador helped out and was the third Guide that day. DH and I were lucky enough to be in Michael's group. He is great and VERY knowledgeable. I was very impressed that after our first night name tags came off, he still called everyone by their first names. We gave him praises on the after trip survey. :surfweb:

:goodvibes Jennifer

He is great, we loved having him (and Jaime) on our tour. I read the trip reports your group was huge!

[lovin-life-chick]

Heyy I went to the Backstage Magic last year and it was soooooo fun!!! I loved every part of it! my guides were awesomeas well. Disneyland was so fun and California adventure park was so much fun!! I hope you had fun!

[meg8182000]

It was definitely an amazing trip full of lots of great memories. We're still here enjoying a very extended vacation...Birdie leaves tomorrow morning. She and I got to enter Club 33 again this morning (just the lobby this time :rotfl:) as she discovered they gave her the wrong size shirt when we ate there last Wednesday.

Our DVC 1-bedroom is fabulous--we're on the 6th floor overlooking Paradise Pier and I'm starting to like WOC more and more each evening we see it. For those of you going on this ABD and getting WOC FPs, I'd suggest going very early if you want to get close enough to see much. Most of us on the tour showed up around 8:00 and were at the very back of our viewing area and missed quite a bit of the show because of all the heads, children on shoulders, and tall people around us.

While I don't want to hijack Adam's thread, I'm definitely happy to answer any questions anyone else has about the tour. Don't think I'm ambitious enough to do a complete trip report and with another 9 days left to my vacation, probably wouldn't remember all the details when I get home.

Here's an odd one though--there's a group on the ABD this week with only 6 people. Michael is the only guide going and we were all shocked when he told us they were still having it with that small number of people.

I'm so glad that you had an awesome trip and still going! :cool1:

How many people were on the June 20th trip? I believe that the last time I spoke to ABD that my group (Aug. 8th) had already booked 35 people (11 kids ranging from 6 - 14 yrs. old) so we'll definitely have a full group.

Can you tell me which color group ABD's fastpasses were for the WOC show? I actually booked a dinner package for this show on our free night in case ABD didn't get us passes but I can cancel it if they do.

I can't remember who but believe a few people from the June group were going to see Toy Story 3 at the El Capitan. How was it? My mom and I have tickets for this our first night out in LA (we arrive 1 day early).

Thanks,

meg

[mouselike-harrier]

popcorn::Can't wait to hear more about this trip! We are going on the July 18th trip and although I realize that we can't expect it, we would love, love, love, love, to go to Club 33. That would be heaven to us:cloud9:(son is dying to see that toilet in person!). In any event, whatever happens, we are counting down the days and want to hear more!

[jacksparrowfan]

:thumbsup2 Michael was one of our Guides. Since we had such a large group (44), they had to split us up into two group for parts of the tour. I believe they do it for the other "fuller" tours too. But at DL, we had to split into three groups, A Disneyland Embassador helped out and was the third Guide that day. DH and I were lucky enough to be in Michael's group. He is great and VERY knowledgeable. I was very impressed that after our first night name tags came off, he still called everyone by their first names. We gave him praises on the after trip survey. :surfweb:

:goodvibes Jennifer

Which Ambassador assisted Michael and Jaime? Or, was it one of the Plaids? Yay for the Michael praises!!! I was amazed they can remember everyones names as well. Michael is one of the best!!! :goodvibes

[Miss SD]

popcorn::Can't wait to hear more about this trip! We are going on the July 18th trip and although I realize that we can't expect it, we would love, love, love, love, to go to Club 33. That would be heaven to us:cloud9:(son is dying to see that toilet in person!). In any event, whatever happens, we are counting down the days and want to hear more!

I'm right there with you about Club 33! We're also on the July 18 trip so we'll know soon enough. Can't believe it will be here in about three weeks.

[airplanegod]

Hi, I am going on the July 18-24 trip too, and along with the actual trip, I am hoping to see Club 33 too! That has been my dream forever. I hope we all have fun!

[AStamm]

How many people were on the June 20th trip? I believe that the last time I spoke to ABD that my group (Aug. 8th) had already booked 35 people (11 kids ranging from 6 - 14 yrs. old) so we'll definitely have a full group.

Can you tell me which color group ABD's fastpasses were for the WOC show? I actually booked a dinner package for this show on our free night in case ABD didn't get us passes but I can cancel it if they do.

I can't remember who but believe a few people from the June group were going to see Toy Story 3 at the El Capitan. How was it? My mom and I have tickets for this our first night out in LA (we arrive 1 day early).

Thanks,

meg

There were 38 of us in the tour. Overall I was really happy with the pace of everything, especially with that large of a group. We were usually within 15 minutes of leaving from whatever time we were told to meet, but I'm sure it could be much worse. There were a lot of us shoppers in the group, so we took much longer to get through the stops at Mickey's of Glendale and the Studios store.

Our fastpasses were in the blue section. As I posted earlier, you'll defiinitely want to get there by 7:30 if this will be your one and only shot at seeing WOC. While I'm starting to like the show more and more each time I see it (think I'm up to 5 or 6 times, all but one of them from the comfort of my DVC balcony), I just can't believe Disney didn't do more to ensure the maximum number of people could actually see the show. DH talked to someone in our ABD group who said they got there very early and thought they had a good area to stand only to have a person plop a kid on their shoulders when the show started).

Toy Story 3 was really fun at the El Capitan. When you tour the theatre in the morning they do the little curtain show they do prior to each movie, but it was really cool to be there in a full theatre and hear the appreciation everyone in the theatre had for that little extra touch. Everyone who has a ticket to the movie automatically gets admission to the little carnival-type experience they have set up across the street in the Hollywood High School parking lot--it was lots of fun with plenty of carnival games to play, Legos that DS was happy to spend lots of time building with, and characters to see.

[macman752]

Which Ambassador assisted Michael and Jaime? Or, was it one of the Plaids? Yay for the Michael praises!!! I was amazed they can remember everyones names as well. Michael is one of the best!!! :goodvibes

If I remember correctly it was Julie who assisted Michael and Jamie with the April group. I think she is a plaid.

[meg8182000]

There were 38 of us in the tour. Overall I was really happy with the pace of everything, especially with that large of a group. We were usually within 15 minutes of leaving from whatever time we were told to meet, but I'm sure it could be much worse. There were a lot of us shoppers in the group, so we took much longer to get through the stops at Mickey's of Glendale and the Studios store.

Our fastpasses were in the blue section. As I posted earlier, you'll defiinitely want to get there by 7:30 if this will be your one and only shot at seeing WOC. While I'm starting to like the show more and more each time I see it (think I'm up to 5 or 6 times, all but one of them from the comfort of my DVC balcony), I just can't believe Disney didn't do more to ensure the maximum number of people could actually see the show. DH talked to someone in our ABD group who said they got there very early and thought they had a good area to stand only to have a person plop a kid on their shoulders when the show started).

Toy Story 3 was really fun at the El Capitan. When you tour the theatre in the morning they do the little curtain show they do prior to each movie, but it was really cool to be there in a full theatre and hear the appreciation everyone in the theatre had for that little extra touch. Everyone who has a ticket to the movie automatically gets admission to the little carnival-type experience they have set up across the street in the Hollywood High School parking lot--it was lots of fun with plenty of carnival games to play, Legos that DS was happy to spend lots of time building with, and characters to see.


Thanks for all the information regarding the trip! :thumbsup2

So at Mickey's of Glendale, did they really only give you 30 minutes? Did you get any great buys? I'm a shopper like yourself so looking forward to visiting this store. :Pinkbounc

I'm really glad to hear that you liked Toy Story 3! :3dglasses I'm really looking forward to the whole experience of El Capitan!

Any tips you'd give to those of us going on this tour in the future? :)

Thanks,

meg

[shellabell]

Thanks for all the information regarding the trip! :thumbsup2

So at Mickey's of Glendale, did they really only give you 30 minutes? Did you get any great buys? I'm a shopper like yourself so looking forward to visiting this store. :Pinkbounc

I'm really glad to hear that you liked Toy Story 3! :3dglasses I'm really looking forward to the whole experience of El Capitan!

Any tips you'd give to those of us going on this tour in the future? :)

Thanks,

meg

My advice is rest up before you go and wear extremely comfortable shoes:rotfl:

[meg8182000]

My advice is rest up before you go and wear extremely comfortable shoes:rotfl:

Yeah, I know that would be great to be able to go well rested but somehow with working right up until I leave and getting ready for this trip don't think that's really going to be an option. It's a goal I'll try to work on though. :)

[AStamm]

Thanks for all the information regarding the trip! :thumbsup2

So at Mickey's of Glendale, did they really only give you 30 minutes? Did you get any great buys? I'm a shopper like yourself so looking forward to visiting this store. :Pinkbounc

I'm really glad to hear that you liked Toy Story 3! :3dglasses I'm really looking forward to the whole experience of El Capitan!

Any tips you'd give to those of us going on this tour in the future? :)

Thanks,

meg
I think they said 45 minutes for us, but it was much closer to 75 minutes until we all got out of there and were on our way.

My biggest tip for anyone going on the tour in the future is to tack on at least an extra day or two if you can swing it. We didn't have the opportunity to get on many attractions the two full days we had here and I felt bad for the 1st timers who weren't able to see and do it all.

Comfortable shoes are definitely a must. I wouldn't worry too much about what to wear--there was a great variety in everyone's clothing, but no one looked too overdressed or too underdressed. I'd say most of us had a little bit dressier shirt on for the farewell dinner, which was nice.

[DisneyCruisin']

I think they said 45 minutes for us, but it was much closer to 75 minutes until we all got out of there and were on our way.


Any specific merchandise we should look for? I would love to get some Disney items that aren't available any other place!

Glad you all had a great trip!

[AStamm]

Any specific merchandise we should look for? I would love to get some Disney items that aren't available any other place!

Glad you all had a great trip!
There were a ton of polo and varsity-style shirts at Mickey's of Glendale. Overall I was pretty disappointed with the selection of t-shirts--most were fitted--not flattering on a woman with any kind of a stomach! I bought a bunch of pins there, however...I think we got 11 Haunted Mansion ones and a Haunted Mansion mini-size pin bag. You should be getting one coupon for 40% off one item--we used our three (three of us in my family) to buy two polos and a Disney Imagineering pin bag.

The Studios store is odd--one side of it looks more like a traditional World of Disney store/Disney Store while the other side (very small) has Studios-specific merchandise. Again, there was a lot of varsity-style clothing there, something I have no interest in as a woman in my mid-30s!

My DL time is finally coming to a close--we're heading back to the parks shortly (just got done at an Aulani DVC presentation--and my DH actually resisted the "addonitis" urge he was feeling, so yay...I'm not broke) to see the special 4th of July holiday fireworks. Not sure why they have them starting July 1st, but works for me! Tomorrow morning we're leaving for Vegas for a few days and then it's finally back to PA.

[meg8182000]

AStamm - thanks for all the details and tips. I'm really glad that you all had such a great time and of course now I can't wait until my turn gets here to go. :cool1:

Have a fun in Vegas! My mom and I are actually heading to Vegas for a few days after our trip as well. I'm not a big gambler but like Vegas - I plan to take full advantage of laying out by the pool and the spa (need to rest up after my disney adventure). ;)

Enjoy the rest of your trip!

meg

[DisneyCruisin']

There were a ton of polo and varsity-style shirts at Mickey's of Glendale. Overall I was pretty disappointed with the selection of t-shirts--most were fitted--not flattering on a woman with any kind of a stomach! I bought a bunch of pins there, however...I think we got 11 Haunted Mansion ones and a Haunted Mansion mini-size pin bag. You should be getting one coupon for 40% off one item--we used our three (three of us in my family) to buy two polos and a Disney Imagineering pin bag.

The Studios store is odd--one side of it looks more like a traditional World of Disney store/Disney Store while the other side (very small) has Studios-specific merchandise. Again, there was a lot of varsity-style clothing there, something I have no interest in as a woman in my mid-30s!


Thanks for the info! I can't wait to go shopping!!!

[DisneyCruisin']

There were a ton of polo and varsity-style shirts at Mickey's of Glendale. Overall I was pretty disappointed with the selection of t-shirts--most were fitted--not flattering on a woman with any kind of a stomach! I bought a bunch of pins there, however...I think we got 11 Haunted Mansion ones and a Haunted Mansion mini-size pin bag. You should be getting one coupon for 40% off one item--we used our three (three of us in my family) to buy two polos and a Disney Imagineering pin bag.

The Studios store is odd--one side of it looks more like a traditional World of Disney store/Disney Store while the other side (very small) has Studios-specific merchandise. Again, there was a lot of varsity-style clothing there, something I have no interest in as a woman in my mid-30s!


Thanks for the info! I can't wait to go shopping!!!

[AStamm]

AStamm - thanks for all the details and tips. I'm really glad that you all had such a great time and of course now I can't wait until my turn gets here to go. :cool1:

Have a fun in Vegas! My mom and I are actually heading to Vegas for a few days after our trip as well. I'm not a big gambler but like Vegas - I plan to take full advantage of laying out by the pool and the spa (need to rest up after my disney adventure). ;)

Enjoy the rest of your trip!

meg

As I'm packing up this morning (a huge undertaking thanks to the MANY items purchased during the ABD!), I keep thinking, "I can't believe we're voluntarily going to a place where the forecast is 106 for today!". We're not huge gamblers either--on Sunday we're going on one of those Grand Canyon day tours and DS and DH are so excited to spend lots of time at the Pinball Hall of Fame in Vegas.

I'm more like you, Meg...the plan for me is to lay out by the pool and read a good book as I attempt to recuperate from the almost two weeks of Disney-touring!

[meg8182000]

As I'm packing up this morning (a huge undertaking thanks to the MANY items purchased during the ABD!), I keep thinking, "I can't believe we're voluntarily going to a place where the forecast is 106 for today!". We're not huge gamblers either--on Sunday we're going on one of those Grand Canyon day tours and DS and DH are so excited to spend lots of time at the Pinball Hall of Fame in Vegas.

I'm more like you, Meg...the plan for me is to lay out by the pool and read a good book as I attempt to recuperate from the almost two weeks of Disney-touring!


Yes, re-packing is not a lot of fun especially if you've done a lot of shopping while on vacation. Worth it but not a lot of fun. :headache: I've already discussed this with my mom and I think if we do any real amounts of shopping during the ABD portion of our trip that I may just have to ship some of it home so I don't have to lug it to Vegas.

We went to the Grand Canyon last year (stayed overnight at one of the lodges) and loved it! What an amazing view! Enjoy.

LOL - yeah, I'm going to Vegas in mid-August - can't wait to see what the temps will be then. Yikes! :scared1: Just remember that if laying out by the pool to do it either early morning or late afternoon. I'm not going to get into the whole dry heat thing (106 will still feel HOT) but you will not want to be out there at noon unless in the shade. ;)

Enjoy Vegas!

meg

[mathgeek]

Here's an odd one though--there's a group on the ABD this week with only 6 people. Michael is the only guide going and we were all shocked when he told us they were still having it with that small number of people.

Yup! I was one of those 6 and we had a great time! Michael did a great job, and I think we got a little more time on our own at the parks as a result of having such a small group. The one downside was that 4 of the 6 were not crazy Disney fans like me, and I was looking forward to meeting some other Disney geeks. :smickey:

[jacksparrowfan]

Yup! I was one of those 6 and we had a great time! Michael did a great job, and I think we got a little more time on our own at the parks as a result of having such a small group. The one downside was that 4 of the 6 were not crazy Disney fans like me, and I was looking forward to meeting some other Disney geeks. :smickey:


Nice to read that you had a great time. Michael is the best! What was your favorite part of the tour? Did you get to see the Dream Suite or experience Club 33? How did you feel when you saw Walts Apartment? Pretty overwhelming for the fan, right? I had alot of Disney fans on both my tours, so I really do understand what you are saying. My first tour was full of web site writers, travel advisors, podcasters, and major fans. Wonderful people on both tours. I hope you post a trip report?

[mathgeek]

Nice to read that you had a great time. Michael is the best! What was your favorite part of the tour? Did you get to see the Dream Suite or experience Club 33? How did you feel when you saw Walts Apartment? Pretty overwhelming for the fan, right? I had alot of Disney fans on both my tours, so I really do understand what you are saying. My first tour was full of web site writers, travel advisors, podcasters, and major fans. Wonderful people on both tours. I hope you post a trip report?

We were asked on the last night what our favorite part of the tour was, and I still can't pinpoint one specific thing that was my favorite. All of the things that the normal tourist doesn't get to experience were so special! Visiting Imagineering was a great experience, and of course getting to go inside Walt's apartment was overwhelming. I also enjoyed getting to see Jim Henson Studios since I'm a big Kermit the Frog fan too. But just getting to go backstage at the parks and having such a knowledgeable guide was wonderful too. And with so few people on the tour we were each able to get a lot of one-on-one informal discussion time with Michael, so that kind of made up for the lack of other Disney geeks on the tour for me.

We did get some special treats - we got to eat at Steakhouse 55 the first night, we did get to see the Dream Suite, and Michael was able to get us World of Color fastpasses, of course getting 6 fastpasses was probably easier than getting 38 or 44 like some of the other groups. No Club 33 though - that would have been nice, but I knew it wasn't happening with all of the tours.

All in all it was a wonderful week! I'm really glad I was able to have had such a great experience.

[pamjb]

, I keep thinking, "I can't believe we're voluntarily going to a place where the forecast is 106 for today!".

Not sure where in PA you are from, but the current temperature here in Allentown is 94. We hit a record of 101 yesterday.......

[rstamm]

Not sure where in PA you are from, but the current temperature here in Allentown is 94. We hit a record of 101 yesterday.......

Not realizing I was logged in as my DH...

Central PA. We're finally home and I've started to work on the mounds of laundry. At some point today I hope to start reliving the trip by watching the first hour or so of video while burning a copy and downloading my pictures to start editing them.

Being out in the sun in Vegas was almost painful--there wasn't a cloud in the sky! I haven't braved the heat here yet other than a few minutes last night waiting for a shuttle pickup and unloading the car once we got home.

AStamm

[AStamm]

Anyone get their CD with pictures that Michael and Diana took yet???

[soarin three]

We received the pictures Michael and Diana took and the CD from the final night Tuesday of this past week. While we were pleased with the quantity, we are disappointed that there were none of the farewell dinner. Please let me know if you have any of these when you receive them. Hope you are all well.

[micmous]

We received the pictures Michael and Diana took and the CD from the final night Tuesday of this past week. While we were pleased with the quantity, we are disappointed that there were none of the farewell dinner. Please let me know if you have any of these when you receive them. Hope you are all well.

We are still waiting for our CD with the pictures. How did the CD ship (USPS, UPS, Fedex)? Did anyone else get the CD?

[Birdie1981]

We are still waiting for our CD with the pictures. How did the CD ship (USPS, UPS, Fedex)? Did anyone else get the CD?


They where sent UPS! I got my package in the mail Thursday and then I recieved the Stamm's package in the mail when I returned from Las Vegas, so there came on Saturday. Which I shipped out by Mail yesterday to them.

Hope you get them soon.

[AStamm]

We received the pictures Michael and Diana took and the CD from the final night Tuesday of this past week. While we were pleased with the quantity, we are disappointed that there were none of the farewell dinner. Please let me know if you have any of these when you receive them. Hope you are all well.

We got our CD yesterday (sent first to Birdie in NY, then she had to send it off to us :confused3).

I was really disappointed with the quality of the pictures and the fact that they are read-only, so can't be edited. There are so many fuzzy pictures and many of the indoor ones have red-eye. The other thing that I'm not happy about is that the time stamp on one of the cameras doesn't appear to be set correctly and the pictures weren't in order to begin with between the two guides, so getting everything in order along with my own is going to be a monumental task.

Anyone know of any way to crop, reduce red-eye, etc. without having to purchase some additional program? I tried messing with the properties of the picture, but I don't have permission according to the message that popped up. So frustrating!

For any ABD employees that happen to read this thread--if you don't want to allow the customer to alter the pictures, you should hire someone whose only job is to fix the pictures your guides take and get everything in order! Or, at the very least, provide your guides with state-of-the-art cameras that automatically reduce red-eye, take crisp pictures, etc.

[jacksparrowfan]

We got our CD yesterday (sent first to Birdie in NY, then she had to send it off to us :confused3).

I was really disappointed with the quality of the pictures and the fact that they are read-only, so can't be edited. There are so many fuzzy pictures and many of the indoor ones have red-eye. The other thing that I'm not happy about is that the time stamp on one of the cameras doesn't appear to be set correctly and the pictures weren't in order to begin with between the two guides, so getting everything in order along with my own is going to be a monumental task.

Anyone know of any way to crop, reduce red-eye, etc. without having to purchase some additional program? I tried messing with the properties of the picture, but I don't have permission according to the message that popped up. So frustrating!

For any ABD employees that happen to read this thread--if you don't want to allow the customer to alter the pictures, you should hire someone whose only job is to fix the pictures your guides take and get everything in order! Or, at the very least, provide your guides with state-of-the-art cameras that automatically reduce red-eye, take crisp pictures, etc.


Are you trying to access the disk through the "auto" program it goes through? If so, try this...

Right click "Start", then click on "Explore". Go to the drive that shows the disk you are trying to access. There should be a folder "My Disney Folders". Then, you can copy all of the pictures to your computers hard drive and it's much easier to access and deal with. I am a Scrapbooker and I use Photoshop. I have been able to clean up and crop many of the Photopass photo's. They are now yours so you can do as you please. My friend has told me about something called picnik.com. She really liked it and did some nice things with her pictures. I haven't tried it or accessed it, but I am sure there are many freebie type of software online you can work with.

The Guides are given older cameras. I was so appreciative that they had something for us. They don't organize them by where we went. There is just no time. Every night they lock themselves in a room and go through the pictures. Talk about a monumental task when there are so many people on the tour and trying to sort through all the pictures for each family. Plus, they are creating that slideshow at the Farewell dinner to make sure everyone is a part of that show. They also plan the next days activities, so it's crazy for them. Kudo's to all ABD Guides and THANK YOU for taking pictures for us!!!

You mentioned that they sent the disk to someone else? Was the other person someone you stayed with in the rooms and on the reservation?

I hope that you can share pictures amongst your group that each of you took? We had a wonderful person on our tour create places on Flickr for all of us to upload our pictures and share with each other. He separated them by experience/location. It was such a great idea!

Did you happen to get the disk as part of the tour? Is it something they are now offering instead of the extra fee in paying for the Photopass?

Hope you enjoyed your trip! Diana and Michael were my Guides for two different tours. Love both of them!!!

[AStamm]

Are you trying to access the disk through the "auto" program it goes through? If so, try this...

Right click "Start", then click on "Explore". Go to the drive that shows the disk you are trying to access. There should be a folder "My Disney Folders". Then, you can copy all of the pictures to your computers hard drive and it's much easier to access and deal with. I am a Scrapbooker and I use Photoshop. I have been able to clean up and crop many of the Photopass photo's. They are now yours so you can do as you please. My friend has told me about something called picnik.com. She really liked it and did some nice things with her pictures. I haven't tried it or accessed it, but I am sure there are many freebie type of software online you can work with.

The Guides are given older cameras. I was so appreciative that they had something for us. They don't organize them by where we went. There is just no time. Every night they lock themselves in a room and go through the pictures. Talk about a monumental task when there are so many people on the tour and trying to sort through all the pictures for each family. Plus, they are creating that slideshow at the Farewell dinner to make sure everyone is a part of that show. They also plan the next days activities, so it's crazy for them. Kudo's to all ABD Guides and THANK YOU for taking pictures for us!!!

You mentioned that they sent the disk to someone else? Was the other person someone you stayed with in the rooms and on the reservation?

I hope that you can share pictures amongst your group that each of you took? We had a wonderful person on our tour create places on Flickr for all of us to upload our pictures and share with each other. He separated them by experience/location. It was such a great idea!

Did you happen to get the disk as part of the tour? Is it something they are now offering instead of the extra fee in paying for the Photopass?

Hope you enjoyed your trip! Diana and Michael were my Guides for two different tours. Love both of them!!!

Thanks for the advice. I was already accessing the pics the way you suggested, just didn't get the "make copy" part of it.

I certainly didn't want to sound ungrateful that the guides were there taking pictures, just disppointed that the quality of them isn't better, they aren't in chronological order, and that the red-eye wasn't photoshopped out first. I realize the guides don't have time to do all this each evening, which is why I suggested ABD employ someone who takes care of this following the adventure. It took 3 weeks until the CDs were sent out--plenty of time for an ABD employee in an office somewhere to give them a little TLC in organizing and touching up photos.

The disk addressed to my DH went to BFFs house--we had two reservations. She and I were in one room, with DH and DS in another. ABD definitely had all our correct addresses. The disk was sent without any charge--a nice touch for a very expensive trip.

[sayhello]

Did you happen to get the disk as part of the tour? Is it something they are now offering instead of the extra fee in paying for the Photopass?Yes, it appears that ABD now gives you a CD of all of the pictures taken by the Guides. It arrives with the DVD of the slideshow. It's included in the cost of the ABD. My understanding is, it's ALL the pictures, not just your family. The CD I got for the ABD/DCL Med cruise seems to be everything, but I haven't talked to anyone else to see if they got all the same pics that I did. I think it's nice, because I want pictures of the other travellers, too. And it certainly makes it less work for the Guides, if they don't have to separate the pictures out.

Sayhello

[jacksparrowfan]

Yes, it appears that ABD now gives you a CD of all of the pictures taken by the Guides. It arrives with the DVD of the slideshow. It's included in the cost of the ABD. My understanding is, it's ALL the pictures, not just your family. The CD I got for the ABD/DCL Med cruise seems to be everything, but I haven't talked to anyone else to see if they got all the same pics that I did. I think it's nice, because I want pictures of the other travellers, too. And it certainly makes it less work for the Guides, if they don't have to separate the pictures out.

Sayhello

Thank you, Sayhello! How wonderful!!! I, too, would love all pictures with all guests being a scrapbooker. A little extra off the Guides in the evening. (

[micmous]

They where sent UPS! I got my package in the mail Thursday and then I recieved the Stamm's package in the mail when I returned from Las Vegas, so there came on Saturday. Which I shipped out by Mail yesterday to them.

Hope you get them soon.

Everyone seems to be getting the CD. I guess it must take longer to get the CD to the Midwest. We are still waiting for our CD. I hope to have it before our trip the WDW in August.

[airplanegod]

Hello everyone, we just got back from the July Backstage Magic, and had Michael and Diana as our guides, and they're wonderful! We also got a ton of suprises like Walt's barn, the Dream Suite, Club 33, Steakhouse 55 etc. It was really great!

[rstamm]

Hello everyone, we just got back from the July Backstage Magic, and had Michael and Diana as our guides, and they're wonderful! We also got a ton of suprises like Walt's barn, the Dream Suite, Club 33, Steakhouse 55 etc. It was really great!

Nice to see that ABD is continuing to get Club 33 and the Suite into the tour. I felt bad that the group of 6 the week after this thread's tour didn't get to eat at Club 33. How many were in your group?

[airplanegod]

Nice to see that ABD is continuing to get Club 33 and the Suite into the tour. I felt bad that the group of 6 the week after this thread's tour didn't get to eat at Club 33. How many were in your group?


38 people.

[DisneyCruisin']

38 people.

I'm hoping the group that leaves on 8/8 gets Club 33!!! Fingers and toes crossed!!!!! :cool1::cool1:

[Miss SD]

Hello everyone, we just got back from the July Backstage Magic, and had Michael and Diana as our guides, and they're wonderful! We also got a ton of suprises like Walt's barn, the Dream Suite, Club 33, Steakhouse 55 etc. It was really great!

Hi Betsy, Ernie and family. It was wonderful meeting you on this fantastic trip! Yes, we got all the "upgrades" mentioned in previous posts. There were some other changes to the itinerary such as using a Renaissance meeting room for the first dinner instead of Trastavere and eating at Big Thunder BBQ instead of Cafe Orleans for our lunch at Disneyland. The guides also got us fastpasses for the World of Color show, which was fabulous.

I went on the tour last year, and this year offered a lot more surprises, but, in my opinion, we didn't get see as much at Jim Henson and Disney studios as we did last year. I remember getting a tour of the sound stage area of Disney studios (and visiting a sound stage) and seeing the shop where they keep the puppets at Jim Henson studios. Maybe they just weren't available last week, but it was a change I noticed.

[DisneyCruisin']

Hi Betsy, Ernie and family. It was wonderful meeting you on this fantastic trip! Yes, we got all the "upgrades" mentioned in previous posts. There were some other changes to the itinerary such as using a Renaissance meeting room for the first dinner instead of Trastavere and eating at Big Thunder BBQ instead of Cafe Orleans for our lunch at Disneyland. The guides also got us fastpasses for the World of Color show, which was fabulous.

I went on the tour last year, and this year offered a lot more surprises, but, in my opinion, we didn't get see as much at Jim Henson and Disney studios as we did last year. I remember getting a tour of the sound stage area of Disney studios (and visiting a sound stage) and seeing the shop where they keep the puppets at Jim Henson studios. Maybe they just weren't available last week, but it was a change I noticed.


I'm glad you all got a lot of upgrades to the trip! It makes me so much more hopeful for our trip in two weeks!

[AStamm]

Hi Betsy, Ernie and family. It was wonderful meeting you on this fantastic trip! Yes, we got all the "upgrades" mentioned in previous posts. There were some other changes to the itinerary such as using a Renaissance meeting room for the first dinner instead of Trastavere and eating at Big Thunder BBQ instead of Cafe Orleans for our lunch at Disneyland. The guides also got us fastpasses for the World of Color show, which was fabulous.

I went on the tour last year, and this year offered a lot more surprises, but, in my opinion, we didn't get see as much at Jim Henson and Disney studios as we did last year. I remember getting a tour of the sound stage area of Disney studios (and visiting a sound stage) and seeing the shop where they keep the puppets at Jim Henson studios. Maybe they just weren't available last week, but it was a change I noticed.

Our June 20th trip also ate in one of the conference rooms the first evening instead of Trastavere as well as Big Thunder BBQ--looks like this will be a regular part of the tour now. From what I read in other posts, I'm glad we didn't eat at Trastavere. It was also nice to be in the hotel for this--after dinner, DH and DS went back to the room (still on East coast time!) while BFF and I walked around a bit.

At Jim Henson studios I remember the guide saying we weren't going into the creature shop because they had pretty much cleared it out and were using it for "Sid the Science Kid". He said there wasn't much to look at since this is a digitial show :confused3.

Seeing a sound stage would have been really cool. The ultimate Studios offering would be to see Walt's actual office. I also wish we had more time in the Legends plaza for pictures--we were pretty much rushed out of there in order to get on the bus and head to DL--and only had about 15 minutes to spare before heading to Steakhouse 55 as it was!

[mouselike-harrier]

Hi Betsy, Ernie and family. It was wonderful meeting you on this fantastic trip! Yes, we got all the "upgrades" mentioned in previous posts. There were some other changes to the itinerary such as using a Renaissance meeting room for the first dinner instead of Trastavere and eating at Big Thunder BBQ instead of Cafe Orleans for our lunch at Disneyland. The guides also got us fastpasses for the World of Color show, which was fabulous.

I went on the tour last year, and this year offered a lot more surprises, but, in my opinion, we didn't get see as much at Jim Henson and Disney studios as we did last year. I remember getting a tour of the sound stage area of Disney studios (and visiting a sound stage) and seeing the shop where they keep the puppets at Jim Henson studios. Maybe they just weren't available last week, but it was a change I noticed.

Hi Sandy! That's Devlin who was posting. I'm still too tired to be saying much. We really appreciated all the upgrades mentioned and the surprises, including talking with Dave Smith and receiving the 55th anniversary maps. But even if there were no upgrades, it still is a fantastic trip! The people on our trip were the greatest. I'll post more when I catch up on some sleep. Say hello to your family from us.

[meg8182000]

OMG - just 13 days until I leave for my Backstage trip! Woo Hoo! After hearing about the June and the July trips - I'm really getting excited for the August trip. DisneyCruisin - our turn is almost here. :cool1:

meg

Crossing fingers for breakfast at Club 33. :goodvibes