Disney News, Discussion & an Element of Fun - 2023 Edition

[princesscinderella]

We are at Epcot today and they are doing a soft opening of Moana, The journey of water. You have to join a VQ for it in MDE

 

[HokieRaven5]

Disney announced earlier this year the restoration of 27 Walt Disney Animation Studios classic shorts. The final 7 were added to Disney+ today:

Fiddling Around | Old MacDonald Duck | Wynken, Blynken and Nod | Camping Out | Inferior Decorator Chips Ahoy | When the Cat’s Away



Scott Gustin

 

[BrianL]

Disney announced earlier this year the restoration of 27 Walt Disney Animation Studios classic shorts. The final 7 were added to Disney+ today:

Fiddling Around | Old MacDonald Duck | Wynken, Blynken and Nod | Camping Out | Inferior Decorator Chips Ahoy | When the Cat’s Away

View attachment 799775

Scott Gustin

This is great - why stop at 27?

 

[only hope]

This is great - why stop at 27?

Also need an easier way to find them, unless I’m missing something? When D+ first debuted there was a classic shorts section but that vanished.

 

[Gusey]

Disneyland Paris Twitter
In 2024, Disney Symphony of Colours is coming to Disneyland Park. Here's a glimpse of the first novelty that will be launched on January 8: an electric parade in the sky, with a drone sequence inspired by the iconic Main Street Electrical Parade.

 

[hhhisthegame]

Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom Hours Extended in Late October 2023

On October 22, 24, and 27, Magic Kingdom will now open at 8:00 a.m. instead of 9:00 a.m. Early entry for Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests will begin at 7:30 a.m. The park will still close at 6:00 p.m. for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on these days.

On October 23, Magic Kingdom will stay open for an extra hour, until 11:00 p.m. The park will still open at 9:00 a.m. on this day.


Disney’s Animal Kingdom will open an hour earlier at 8:00 a.m. from October 22 through 28. Early entry will begin at 7:30 a.m. The park will still close at 7:00 p.m. on these days.

Yay! Finger crossed for just one more 11PM night. im going from the 20-31 but we have the Halloween party on the 22nd so the 23rd is one of the only nights we probably wouldn't be in magic kingdom at night. But we'll see, maybe we'll go then too if that's the only day it stays open until 11.

 

[HokieRaven5]

Disneyland Paris to Add ‘Frozen’ and more to Storybook Land

We’re excited to share Le Pays des Contes de Féesat Disneyland Paris will welcome two new scenes, “Frozen” and “Winnie the Pooh,” in 2024 in celebration of its 30-year anniversary!

Since 1994, Le Pays des Contes de Fées has delighted Disneyland Paris guests of all ages with its whimsical atmosphere. This peaceful boat journey is a celebration of beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios stories and fables through music, landscape, and miniatures. Based on an original idea from Walt Disney himself, the attraction is a reinvention of the classic Storybook Land Canal Boats that debuted at Disneyland in 1956. The Paris version has several unique touches with recreations of Night on the Bald Mountain from “Fantasia,” Belle’s Village from “Beauty and the Beast” and Rapunzel’s Tower from “Tangled.”

A Cool, ‘Frozen’ Addition is on its Way​

Before inviting guests to Arendelle over at Walt Disney Studios Park, “Frozen” will come to life in miniature form as one of the familiar fairy tale locales in Fantasyland. Imagineers are closely working with Disneyland Paris Central Shops to create a detailed model of the majestic North Mountain covered in a thick white blanket of snow and Elsa’s iconic Ice Palace at its peak. Guests will even be able to spot Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven on their way to Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post (and Sauna)!

Hip Hip Pooh-Ray!​

As your boat takes you through these enchanted realms, another timeless place will take root along the way, one full of charm, wisdom and … honey. Think, think, think … it’s the Hundred Acre Woods, of course! Storybook Land will soon offer a new home to Winnie the Pooh and friends, located not far from the cozy cottage of the Seven Dwarfs.

“There’s something magical about taking something full scale and displaying it in miniature, it’s something Walt himself was obsessed with,” shares Keith Rector, Art Director at Walt Disney Imagineering Paris. “I grew up near Disneyland in California and Storybook Land has always been my favorite attraction. When I joined the team in Paris, we started a conversation about how we can bring new stories to Le Pays des Contes de Fées. I wanted to introduce new characters to this realm of storybook classics.”

These new additions, as well as a complete refurbishment of the attraction, will take place over the course of next year. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more magical Disneyland Paris updates!

 

[HokieRaven5]

He's a beautiful butterfly!Check out the new Chocolate Piñata Heimlich with Candy Corn Crackle to celebrate its matching Disney Munchling! You can pick one up starting today, at Amorette's Patisserie at @DisneySprings while supplies last. #DisneyEats




Disney Parks

 

[Moliphino]

He's a beautiful butterfly!Check out the new Chocolate Piñata Heimlich with Candy Corn Crackle to celebrate its matching Disney Munchling! You can pick one up starting today, at Amorette's Patisserie at @DisneySprings while supplies last. #DisneyEats

View attachment 800384


Disney Parks

Why is he blue? Shouldn't Heimlich be green?

 

[firefly_ris]

Why is he blue? Shouldn't Heimlich be green?

When he becomes a butterfly at the end of the movie he has blue tinting on his top half. Not quite that much but I guess that is what they were going for.

 

[HokieRaven5]

The 4K digital restoration of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" will be available on Disney+ worldwide on Oct. 16.



Scott Gustin

 

[HokieRaven5]

Heroic Set of runDisney Medals Revealed for 2024 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend

Whether you’re a seasoned runner who could finish a race in glass slippers or a rookie with big dreams of a fairy tale finish, there’s a place — and a race — for you at the 2024 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by CORKCICLE. Returning to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 22 – 26, 2024, join some of Disney’s most beloved Princesses and Queens for an unforgettable race weekend celebrating the ways we are all heroes, every day.

Being a hero is not just about the happily ever after at the end of the story. For our Princesses and Queens, it’s the courage to embark on the journey, jump out of the tower, open the restaurant, and find the fifth spirit. As a runner, it’s the sweat and determination that goes into each training run, the resilience to rise after every fall, and the unwavering commitment to reach our goals.

Today, we’re excited to reveal a first look at what will be awaiting runners at the finish line:

Disney Princess 5K presented by CORKCICLE

Make a splash in “Part of Your World” during the Disney Princess 5K presented by CORKCICLE! Merfolk and land-dwellers unite in this fin-tastic race! When you can dash past the finish line, you’ll snag a beautiful medal that’ll get you beaming—and bragging.

Disney Princess 10K presented by CORKCICLE

It’s time to let down your hair and race to new heights with Rapunzel during the Disney Princess 10K presented by CORKCICLE. Celebrate what makes life so special—family, friends, and the freedom to be who you are. Your handsome prince of a reward? A medal like no other.

Disney Princess Half Marathon presented by CORKCICLE

Your fairytale finish can come true – it all depends on you! Join Tiana for the Disney Princess Half Marathon presented by CORKCICLE, where you can chase dreams and savor every step on a course flavored with music and magic and finish with a beautiful finisher medal.

Disney Princess Fairy Tale Challenge presented by CORKCICLE

Embrace the frosty thrill of the Disney Fairytale Challenge with Anna and Elsa! Conquer the 10K and Half Marathon distances in this cool challenge to earn a prestigious Queens’ royal medal.

From 3.1 to 19.3 miles, you can also plan to join the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend fun virtually! Whether you’re looking for motivation to train for a future runDisney race or get a taste of the magic wherever you run, virtual race events are a great way to reward yourself for staying active! Head over to runDisney.com to learn more about the 2024 Virtual Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by CORKCICLE.

 

[Gusey]

Disneyland Paris to Add ‘Frozen’ and more to Storybook Land

We’re excited to share Le Pays des Contes de Féesat Disneyland Paris will welcome two new scenes, “Frozen” and “Winnie the Pooh,” in 2024 in celebration of its 30-year anniversary!

Since 1994, Le Pays des Contes de Fées has delighted Disneyland Paris guests of all ages with its whimsical atmosphere. This peaceful boat journey is a celebration of beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios stories and fables through music, landscape, and miniatures. Based on an original idea from Walt Disney himself, the attraction is a reinvention of the classic Storybook Land Canal Boats that debuted at Disneyland in 1956. The Paris version has several unique touches with recreations of Night on the Bald Mountain from “Fantasia,” Belle’s Village from “Beauty and the Beast” and Rapunzel’s Tower from “Tangled.”

A Cool, ‘Frozen’ Addition is on its Way​

Before inviting guests to Arendelle over at Walt Disney Studios Park, “Frozen” will come to life in miniature form as one of the familiar fairy tale locales in Fantasyland. Imagineers are closely working with Disneyland Paris Central Shops to create a detailed model of the majestic North Mountain covered in a thick white blanket of snow and Elsa’s iconic Ice Palace at its peak. Guests will even be able to spot Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven on their way to Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post (and Sauna)!

Hip Hip Pooh-Ray!​

As your boat takes you through these enchanted realms, another timeless place will take root along the way, one full of charm, wisdom and … honey. Think, think, think … it’s the Hundred Acre Woods, of course! Storybook Land will soon offer a new home to Winnie the Pooh and friends, located not far from the cozy cottage of the Seven Dwarfs.

“There’s something magical about taking something full scale and displaying it in miniature, it’s something Walt himself was obsessed with,” shares Keith Rector, Art Director at Walt Disney Imagineering Paris. “I grew up near Disneyland in California and Storybook Land has always been my favorite attraction. When I joined the team in Paris, we started a conversation about how we can bring new stories to Le Pays des Contes de Fées. I wanted to introduce new characters to this realm of storybook classics.”

These new additions, as well as a complete refurbishment of the attraction, will take place over the course of next year. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more magical Disneyland Paris updates!

Just in case you're wondering, Frozen will be replacing Peter and the Wolf, and Winnie the Pooh will replace Hansel and Gretel:

 

[Gusey]

Rumor
Going to mark it as rumor as it was something mentioned but nothing official yet.
Just listening to the recent episode of Connecting With Walt on Bambi Part 2. At the end, Michael Bowling mentioned that he saw Kim Irvine's talk at the Walt Disney Family Museum. As part of her talk, Kim Irvine claimed that Adventureland Treehouse would open mid next month. Again, nothing confirmed yet but she mentioned it at a public event so we'll probably get a confirmed opening date soon

 

[HokieRaven5]

‘Tiana’ Disney+ Animated Series Sets Joyce Sherri as Lead Writer, Director

The “Tiana” animated series in the works at Disney+ has enlisted Joyce Sherri as the show’s lead writer and director, Variety has learned exclusively.

The musical project was originally announced in 2020 during a Disney investor day. The series has previously been described as a followup to the 2009 animated film “The Princess and the Frog,” which introduced the character of Tiana. Anika Noni Rose will once again provide the voice of Tiana. The series was originally expected to debut in 2023 but is now said to be launching in 2024.

Sherri’s most recent TV writing credit was on the Netflix horror miniseries “Midnight Mass” from Mike Flanagan. She has also written and directed short films like “Beauty,” “Forever,” “Down, Down, Baby” and “The Family Romance.” She also won the 2020 Slamdance screenplay competition for her feature, “Sweet Sixteen,” and was selected for the 2021 Sundance Institute Screenwriters Intensive.

 

[HokieRaven5]

Muddy Hitching Post Themed Pavement Added to Frontierland

 

[HokieRaven5]

Disney Patents Robotic Transfer of Ride Vehicles Between Two Different Ride Systems During Attraction Experience

A newly filed Disney patent outlines the use of a robotic tool to transfer a passenger compartment from one ride system to a secondary ride system. In the patent, Disney describes a variety of uses for this technology, including improving efficiency on omnimover-style attractions, or even creating a single experience that uses a variety of ride systems such as an attraction that starts as a slow-moving dark ride, but then transforms into a suspended roller coaster.

First, here’s a look at the implementation, complete with passenger compartments on one track, a robotic tool in the middle of the tracks, and a secondary track with a different attraction experience.



Disney describes a common connector on two different tracks that secures the passenger compartment, but a robotic arm tool that safely transfers the ride vehicle between the two tracks.

In the patent, Disney says that this technology would have a variety of use cases, including a use case aimed at making rides more accessible and creating a better experience for all guests. While it’s not included in the patent specifically, we can see this system creating a better experience for guests riding The Haunted Mansion. Currently, the ride must slow down or stop for guests who require more time to load into the ride. This puts pressure on the guests to load in a timely manner, while creating a hiccup in the ride experiences for guests “downstream” as the attraction comes to a stop.

With this new technology, guests would be able to load into a stationary ride vehicle taking as much time or care as they need before being loaded onto the continuously moving second track. This is essentially what is in place with the Disney Skyliner gondola system where the accessible vehicle is on a secondary track that is stopped while guests load. When the accessible vehicle is ready, it merges onto the main loop with very little disruption to the flow of guests and no stoppage in the ride experience.



Taking this technology a step further, Disney outlines a couple of use cases that exist solely for storytelling and not accessibility. In the patent Disney describes using the robotic arm for “implementations [that]…enable a combination of multiple ride systems, thereby providing a unique passenger experience”. Some examples they provide include

• Transferring a passenger compartment between a dark ride vehicle ride system and a suspended coaster
• Transferring a passenger compartment between a boat system and a road-based system
• Picking up a dark ride vehicle with a robotic arm
• Passing a passenger compartment between two robotic arms

One patent image (seen below) appears to show an implementation where a robotic arm picks up a ride vehicle before setting it back down again.

 

[HokieRaven5]

Moana Broadway Style Show Coming to the Disney Treasure

In December 2024, the curtain will open on a brand-new original Broadway-style production on the Disney Treasure. Joining a dazzling lineup of fan-favorite shows including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure,” will be none other than “Disney The Tale of Moana.” Debuting exclusively at the Walt Disney Theatre onboard the Disney Treasure, “Disney The Tale of Moana” will bring the adventurous journey of Moana, inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film, to center stage for the first time. The show will follow Moana as she embarks on an incredible journey to save her island after she is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti. Fans of the original film will recognize many beloved characters like Gramma Tala, Maui and Tamatoa when they appear on stage, as well as songs from the film’s iconic soundtrack.

Disney Cruise Line casting directors will soon begin the search for performers looking to take on the role of a lifetime onboard the Disney Treasure. Those interested in auditioning for “Disney The Tale of Moana” can find more information on DisneyAuditions.com.

More about this imaginative, one-of-a-kind show will be announced at a later date so keep following along on the Disney Parks Blog and the Disney Treasure Ship’s Log for details.

 

[Smugpugmug]

Disney Patents Robotic Transfer of Ride Vehicles Between Two Different Ride Systems During Attraction Experience

A newly filed Disney patent outlines the use of a robotic tool to transfer a passenger compartment from one ride system to a secondary ride system. In the patent, Disney describes a variety of uses for this technology, including improving efficiency on omnimover-style attractions, or even creating a single experience that uses a variety of ride systems such as an attraction that starts as a slow-moving dark ride, but then transforms into a suspended roller coaster.

First, here’s a look at the implementation, complete with passenger compartments on one track, a robotic tool in the middle of the tracks, and a secondary track with a different attraction experience.

View attachment 800514

Disney describes a common connector on two different tracks that secures the passenger compartment, but a robotic arm tool that safely transfers the ride vehicle between the two tracks.

In the patent, Disney says that this technology would have a variety of use cases, including a use case aimed at making rides more accessible and creating a better experience for all guests. While it’s not included in the patent specifically, we can see this system creating a better experience for guests riding The Haunted Mansion. Currently, the ride must slow down or stop for guests who require more time to load into the ride. This puts pressure on the guests to load in a timely manner, while creating a hiccup in the ride experiences for guests “downstream” as the attraction comes to a stop.

With this new technology, guests would be able to load into a stationary ride vehicle taking as much time or care as they need before being loaded onto the continuously moving second track. This is essentially what is in place with the Disney Skyliner gondola system where the accessible vehicle is on a secondary track that is stopped while guests load. When the accessible vehicle is ready, it merges onto the main loop with very little disruption to the flow of guests and no stoppage in the ride experience.

View attachment 800515

Taking this technology a step further, Disney outlines a couple of use cases that exist solely for storytelling and not accessibility. In the patent Disney describes using the robotic arm for “implementations [that]…enable a combination of multiple ride systems, thereby providing a unique passenger experience”. Some examples they provide include

• Transferring a passenger compartment between a dark ride vehicle ride system and a suspended coaster
• Transferring a passenger compartment between a boat system and a road-based system
• Picking up a dark ride vehicle with a robotic arm
• Passing a passenger compartment between two robotic arms

One patent image (seen below) appears to show an implementation where a robotic arm picks up a ride vehicle before setting it back down again.

View attachment 800516

This reminds me a lot of that patent Universal filed for the Zelda attraction that was scrapped. Would be interested to see how this is implemented if ever used for an attraction.

 

[HokieRaven5]

Disney Eats: Tasty New Bites Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Oct. 11

Grab your appetite and take a walk on the wild side of flavor because Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is introducing quite a few new menu items to various dining locations throughout the park starting Oct. 11. The talented culinary teams have put their creativity to the test and put together a combination of dishes that will delight your taste buds with each and every bite.

From new breakfast items like the Stuffed Pancake Sandwich to dinner delights like the Chicken and Shrimp Rice Bowl, and even a snack (or two) from Tamu Tamu, there’s something for everyone to indulge in. Once you see all these items, you’ll be roaring with excitement (and hunger).

I won’t keep you waiting anymore. Let’s see “what’s cooking” over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park starting Oct. 11!

We’re kicking things off over at Harambe Market, an open-air quick-service location that’s filled with African-inspired fare. This location is bursting with excitement, flavor, and fun – and the newest additions to the menu are no different. Starting this week, hungry visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of new rice bowls – the Chicken and Shrimp Rice Bowl, Chicken Rice Bowl, and Shrimp Rice Bowl. Each dish features jollof rice with kachumbari tomato salad and tzatziki sauce and you can choose between chermoula-marinated chicken, peri peri-marinated shrimp, or both to top it off. There’s also a new kid’s version available – the Shrimp and Rice Bowl with peri peri-marinated shrimp, white rice, and a Cuties Mandarin Orange.

That’s not all. The new Beef and Lamb Kofta Pita is a must-try. It combines house-made beef and lamb kofta with a deliciously refreshing tzatziki sauce, chermoula, and house-made chips that you won’t be able to get enough of. If you’re interested in a plant-based option, the chefs have also created the IMPOSSIBLE Kofta Pita. This plant-based bite showcases IMPOSSIBLE kofta accompanied by a plant-based aïoli, chermoula, and house-made chips.

Salad fans will be more than pleased with the latest dish to join the menu. The Harambe Salad with Chicken perfectly combines chermoula-marinated chicken with quinoa, grilled corn, black-eyed peas, and crispy chickpeas topped with a tasty chermoula-herbed vinaigrette. You can also get this salad topped with shrimp if you prefer.

And don’t worry dessert lovers. The brand-new Mango Passion Fruit Cheesecake is refreshing, delicious, and beautiful. What could be better than mango and passion fruit in cheesecake form?

Are you ready to kickstart your day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? If you weren’t sure, you will want to once you see this new bite. The salty-sweet combination has been taken to the next level with the Stuffed Pancake Sandwich. It’s filled with sausage, guava paste, egg, and cheese. If guava isn’t your thing, you can get this breakfast sandwich without it, so don’t worry. I don’t know about you, but this one is making my mouth water already. This new item will be available for breakfast at Drinkwallah, Pongu Pongu, Trek Snacks, and select outdoor vending carts.

Also serving up some new breakfast items and new snack bites is Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery. Whether looking for those early morning treats or midday cravings fix, the latest items here are going to impress. First up, joining the menu for breakfast is the Egg and Bacon Croissant Sandwich with Tomato Pepper Relish. This item features a croissant with a cheese omelet, crispy bacon, and tomato-pepper relish served with potato barrels. Also for breakfast is the Breakfast Totchos with Eggs, Bacon, and Cheese. It combines potato barrels, scrambled eggs, nacho cheese sauce, cheese curds, and crumbled bacon. I personally will be bringing my appetite for breakfast on my next outing to try everything.

But that’s not all for Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery – there are two more dishes on the way. The plant-based IMPOSSIBLE Gatsby fills a pita pocket with plant-based picadillo, tomato-pepper relish, and crispy potato sticks and tops it off with a plant-based aïoli. The Harissa Chicken Wrap brings together harissa chicken salad with vegetables and an avocado spread rolled in a spinach tortilla. Both items are served with house-made potato chips too!

In addition to the Stuffed Pancake Sandwich (which sounds incredible), Pongu Pongu will also have another item joining the menu. This fan-favorite spot nestled within Pandora – The World of Avatar serves up Na’vi-inspired refreshments and bites, like the Night Blossom. Starting Oct. 11, it will add a decadent new Cinnamon Roll. What a perfect sweet pairing to go with one of its tasty refreshments.

Barbecue lovers, are you (and your taste buds) ready for some exciting new bites? I sure hope so because Flame Tree Barbecue also has some additions on the way. The IMPOSSIBLE Burnt Ends are a can’t-miss plant-based dish whether you eat plant-based all the time or simply want to try something new. It’s paired with french fries and coleslaw on the side. If you fancy yourself a french fry fan, then I have the plate for you – the French Fries with Pulled Pork and Cheese. Need I say more?

We’re not done yet! Pizzafari is joining in on the menu updates. Here, you’ll find yet another plant-based item coming on Oct. 11. Add the Plant-based Italian Sausage to your list of things to try on your next Disney’s Animal Kingdom outing. This new offering is served alongside a side salad with Italian dressing. If you’re looking for another side option to pair with any of the tasty items already on the menu at this location, the Antipasto Side Salad will soon be available to complete your meal.

Last, but certainly not least, we’re trekking back over to Africa for one of my personal favorite snack spots at the park – Tamu Tamu Refreshments. Found in the heart of Harambe Village, those with a sweet tooth will rejoice at the options here. Joining the already delicious menu are four new snacks. First up, the DOLE Whip Orange Soda Float with strawberry syrup on top. Few things are as refreshing as pineapple, strawberry, and orange. Did you know you can also get the classic DOLE Whip Float at Tamu Tamu Refreshments already? This treat features DOLE Whip with DOLE pineapple juice for pineapple perfection. For those over the age of 21, you can enjoy the DOLE Whip Float with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum currently or the DOLE Whip Hard Cider Float featuring DOLE Whip and ACE Pineapple Craft Cider starting Oct. 11.