Villians Sinister Soirée

[Yonich2501]

See, I didn't know how this worked in the system. Good to know its the same process.

Thank you!!!

 

[keishashadow]

Just getting around to posting our experience on 10/5.

I lined up at 'the hut' (can't help but thinking of jabba/pizza lol) at 3:20 pm sharp. There were already 5 groups ahead of me. I needed to pick up our will-call MNSSHP tix and the soiree admission. was surprised to be processed and in line at the turn-style by 4 pm.

MNSSHP was even more crazy-crowded than the same date the year prior. I couldn't believe the event wasn't sold out there were so many people! Many I spoke to had run the races. It is my understanding that the race will not be offered next year, hopefully the crowds will lighten for the time period overall back to pre-race days.

It was very well-worth it to us (just DH & myself) to not have to fight to hold down a piece of turf. We could relax, move around a bit and had great sight lines. We secured a spot at the far left side facing the castle shortly after 7:30 pm. Overall, a nice crowd in the hub area and most seemed to be having a great time.

There were many adult-only couples in full costume. I would estimate that at the late soiree time slot, the guests were at least 75% adults. Seemed odd to see so few children at the soiree, but will venture many with more than a child or two were priced out since there wasn't much lead time as to the event being announced.

I will mention a group that arrived after 8 pm with 2 large strollers and a women in an ECV who put up quite the fuss with the CMs complaining they didn't have a spot on the rope. Perhaps they thought if they got loud enough somebody would move...it didn't happen. After the parade we segued over to one of the benches and watched the fireworks seated woohoo! That hasn't happened in the MK since they closed our 'secret' spot to be repurposed as the dessert party area. We thought the view was just fine and got many fine shots to complement those we have of the prior years.

After the FW the CMs went around the hub and asked those who were waiting for the crowd to disperse before venturing out into the throng if they had the early party. They advised many they needed to hurry over and escorted them at least partially on their way. A nice touch imo.

We had no issue with late seating other than it appeared as though everybody lined up at the earliest possible time. imo there were far too many people jammed into 'Cinderella's room' downstairs, it felt claustrophobic. People were aggressively jostling to get to the characters but, even though we hung back by the wall, the characters were able to squeeze thru the throng and pose for pictures for all who seemingly asked.

Upstairs was a real treat! The overall vibe was very cool to have the face time & we didn't feel particularly (more than any character meal) rushed. Malificient (sp) was very impressive as to make-up/costume & demeanor. I actually got a chill.

Our table was along the stained-glass window but back in corner, felt a bit out of the main 'show' but all the characters made their way back to us. I liked the punch, the desserts were inventive but just so so as to our tastes. You don't go for the food. A surprising touch was when the manager of CRT stopped by my our table and engaged in conversation as to our 'take' on the event and asked if he could do anything to enhance our experience. Classy, ala the old skool Disney difference.

I was concerned my DH would think I had lost my mind if I told him what the soiree cost in addition to the party tickets. Not that he's one to nickel and dime things but I am fond of traveling but need to stay within a budget. When we left the castle and looked out over main street from the balcony area, he turned to me and said whatever I paid for was worth it and to make sure to book it again next year.

 

[Luvchefmic]

Priceless Keishashadow thank you !

 

[keishashadow]

Priceless Keishashadow thank you !

almost your turn, have a great time!

 

[Luvchefmic]

almost your turn, have a great time!

getting very excited and we have the later seating too

 

[DannyDisneyFreak]

If anyone is going to cancel their soirée for 10/30 or 10/31, please let me know. I have been trying non-stop to get a reservation since I found out about it (a few days after announced), literally calling 5 times a day, every day. I only need 2 people! Thank you!!!!

Too bad you're not going on the 28th, I have tickets for the early seating that day and trying to get the late seating, I haven't had luck so I'm thinking I may cancel.

 

[Yonich2501]

Too bad you're not going on the 28th, I have tickets for the early seating that day and trying to get the late seating, I haven't had luck so I'm thinking I may cancel.

Darn it! We will still be at home which is all the way in PA.

Hoping it works out for you and I!

 

[Purplejewel]

Hi
I wanted to post what my family's experience was with this event. We had late seating on 10/16. I loved the viewing area. We did not do early check-in and arrived at the Castle Hub at 7:30 p.m. They gave us laminated lanyards that make a great souvenier. The check-in process only took minutes and we were able to get great spots by the rope on the far side of the viewing area directly in front of the bridge entrance to Frontier Land. My four daughters loved seeing the parade come straight at them and we also got a great view of the Headless Horseman who paused for several minutes on the middle of the bridge before starting his ride. Several of the characters came directly over to them and interacted with them because of where they were positioned - they liked that. We all really enjoyed the freedom to move about and stretch our legs between the parade, villians stage show, projection show and fireworks. We all found great viewing spots farther back from the rope for all the events after the parade and my daughters actually sat down and had plenty of room to spread out without being in anyone's way. I left the viewing area once to go to the bathroom and that is when I really appreciated have a reserved viewing area - it was horribly crowded and people were standing 3-4 people deep along all the sidewalks. We did the special "Magic Shot" while we were in the viewing area and it is really cute. We didn't get just one photo either - we got several group photos. The photographer did not rush us at all and let us take as many photos as we wanted. They passed out water and candy suckers during our time in the viewing area which was a nice touch. We had approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes after the fireworks before having to go to the castle for the soriee. We were able to get on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and the Haunted Mansion. I really wanted the "Magic Shot" of the hitchhiking ghosts that they were doing by the Haunted Mansion ride but the line was really long and we opted not to do it. We arrived at the castle right at 11:25 pm and waited approximately 10 minutes before being allowed into the castle lobby. The two evil stepsisters were there as well as the Queen of Hearts. I wish it had been a little more organized because we are not a pushy family so we ended up waiting awhile before being able to get a photo with the characters. There was still plenty of time to get photos taken I just thought it would have been easier if they had a cast member organizing a line for photos instead of just having everyone jump in whenever there was an opening. We were not rushed at all and were told to go upstairs once we had gotten our photos taken with the characters. Captain Hook and Jafar were already in the main dining area greeting people at their tables. They made it to everyone's table for photos. The Chef was actually waiting at our table when we arrived to discuss one of my daughter's allergies to nuts with us. He assured us that he had prepared a separate dessert plate for her that would be safe. My entire family loved the cheese and cracker plate that they had on the table when we arrived. Although I have read reports that the "Not so Poisenous" drink that they serve is not good, my entire family loved it. In fact, my husband had several goblets of the stuff. My daughters loved the light up glow cube shaped like a poisenous apple and the light up drink stirrer that came in the souvenier dragon goblet. The dessert plate had four separate desserts on it - each one themed for one of the four main villians at the Soriee. I thought, for the most part, all of them were quite good. They were full size desserts so I could not finish all of them but I tried because they were so tasty. My daughter who has the nut allergy could not eat the dessert themed after Malificient because it was made with pistachios but the substituion dessert that she got in place of that one looked fantastic and she claimed it was delicous. I was worried that we would run out of time and all the villians would not have a chance to visit our table but each one of them did and they did not just pose for a quick photo, they interacted with us which made the experience very memorable. Lady Tremaine and the evil stepsisters did a fantastic job of hosting the event. The singing was very amusing and during one of the songs the evil stepsisters proceeded to run through the dining area, leaping and singing off key which was hillarious. I was not sure if Lade Tremaine and the evil stepsisters would visit each table but they did and we got great photos with them. I would have to say that Dr. Facilier was our favorite villian at this soriee. He was "spot on" with his character acting and voice almost to the point that it creeped me out he was so realistic. They provided all of us with bags to carry out all of our "loot" which included laminated cards that all the villians had signed, candy that was in the dragon goblets, and a personalized menu with our family name on it which I thought was a very classy touch. We were not rushed out at all and left shortly after Lady Tremaine said her farewells and exited the dining area. I loved getting to leave the Magic Kingdom when it was almost totally deserted. All the cast members we passed wished us a good night and we did not have to wait long at all for a bus which I had worried about with it being so late. All in all, I thought this event was totally worth the $99.00 per person cost. I would totally pay to do this event again and my four daughters have already asked if we can do it again the next time we are at Disney World for Halloween. I hope they continue to offer this event in the future because it was a highlight of our trip. If anyone has any specific questions about this event, please feel free to ask me.

 

[Luvchefmic]

I've been going to WDW since the 1980s and have probably been to every MNSSHP since they started, sometimes 2 in a year, I am most fortunate I know I am only telling you this because I am admitting I SHOULD know the MK like the back of my hand I am feeling " not so smart".

I am loving the reports and I definitely have a plan but I am stumped I keep reading the spot to stand is facing the castle, on the left, and looking toward the bridge ?

Priority is Headless Horseman when he briefly stops so I can get pictures. I can't even picture what bridge right now ? I still don't understand where I need to put myself. HELP we go tomorrow.

Talk me through in your best " Sesame Street " voice, I promise I will not be offended

 

[Cluelyss]

I've been going to WDW since the 1980s and have probably been to every MNSSHP since they started, sometimes 2 in a year, I am most fortunate I know I am only telling you this because I am admitting I SHOULD know the MK like the back of my hand I am feeling " not so smart". I am loving the reports and I definitely have a plan but I am stumped I keep reading the spot to stand is facing the castle, on the left, and looking toward the bridge ? Priority is Headless Horseman when he briefly stops so I can get pictures. I can't even picture what bridge right now ? I still don't understand where I need to put myself. HELP we go tomorrow. Talk me through in your best " Sesame Street " voice, I promise I will not be offended

You will enter the viewing area to the right of the castle....there's a purple sign that says soirée check in, or something similar. Once inside, go about 180 degrees around the castle so that you are now on the left side, by the Princess Minnie bronze statue. I believe the bridge you are looking down goes to Liberty Square. You'll know the spot when you see it, as there will be a mass of people outside the ropes flanking this spot!! Also, this is where the ropes "turn" for the parade to pass in front of the castle. We arrived to the viewing area late (missed the Horseman....so sad!!!) and were able to get right on the rope at this exact spot. It was amazing. (As a side note, we were late because we had trouble getting through the throng of people around the hub. If you can, enter the hub from the Tomorrowland side, as that's where the check in spot is and you won't have to fight as many people to get through!! We tried to cross the entire hub and it was miserable.)

 

[Mommy2Corinne]

I just have to say, we've been home for a month, and my kids are *still* talking about this. (We went to the second soirée ever...I posted our review and pics way back in the thread.) It was by far one of the highlights of our trip.I hope they offer it again next year (and don't scale it back and/or dumb it down). Such a great event!!!

 

[Purplejewel]

As the other poster mentioned, just enter the viewing area and then go all the way around the circle until it almost dead ends. You will see the bridge in front of you and a roped off area to the left outside the viewing area. Masses of people will be piled up behind the roped off area outside the viewing area to the left of where you will be standing because that is probably one of the best viewing areas for those not in the reserved area. You should be able to get a great photo opt of the Headless Horseman as he pauses on the bridge before starting his ride. Because we were some of the first people to check-in at the viewing area at 7:30 pm, my four daughters were fortunate enough to get this prime spot (although in my opinion all areas of the viewing area are good). Around 8:00 pm, they wandered over to where me and my husband were standing about 4 feet away from them to ask us a quick question, and several people immediately tried to steal their spots but luckily a Cast Member who had been standing nearby the entire 30 minutes they were in that spot, told the people that my daughters had been patiently waiting there for 30 minutes and that those spots belonged to them. There were two people in wheelchairs that arrived right before the start of the parade and they seemed to be upset that there were no areas right up against the ropes left available to them. From what I heard of the conversation they were having with a Cast Member, the Cast Member was politely informing them that viewing in the reserved area is on a 1st come/1st serve basis and they should have arrived earlier to ensure a spot by the ropes. My daughters heard the conversation and offered to sit down and/or squish together during the parade so that these two people could get an unobstucted view of the parade. I was very proud of them that they thought to be so nice. Hope you enjoy everything! Please post about your experience.

 

[Luvchefmic]

Something occurred that was out of my control ( aw life ) no one died thank God, just all I can say right here that is making me miss tonight. So to confirm YES with the right notice, yesterday afternoon, the Soiree' is refundable just like many have already confirmed.

This morning I did get some magic on my MNSSHP non-refundable ticket, the sweetest CM I ever had the pleasure of speaking with at the ticket office directly ( and I would say that even if she couldn't give me what I asked ) allowed either a refund or a transfer to a MVMCP ticket. I went with the MVMCP ticket as I haven't done that event in over 10 yrs I believe.

Anyway, I thank everyone for the reviews, for the advice, and for the new friends I made here.

Would LOVE to plan to do it all again next year and co-ordinate the ultimate Dismeet

Ruthie

 

[MVC1225]

Hi
I wanted to post what my family's experience was with this event. We had late seating on 10/16. I loved the viewing area. We did not do early check-in and arrived at the Castle Hub at 7:30 p.m. They gave us laminated lanyards that make a great souvenier. The check-in process only took minutes and we were able to get great spots by the rope on the far side of the viewing area directly in front of the bridge entrance to Frontier Land. My four daughters loved seeing the parade come straight at them and we also got a great view of the Headless Horseman who paused for several minutes on the middle of the bridge before starting his ride. Several of the characters came directly over to them and interacted with them because of where they were positioned - they liked that.

We were also at the 10/16 event and I am positive your daughters were right in front of us for the parade. My GF and I use a wheelchair and a scooter and your daughters graciously sat or stood to the side a little so we could see while sitting behind them. I agree that the view from that spot was excellent especially the Headless Horsemen.

We saw your daughters at the Soiree as well downstairs as we recognized their costumes from earlier. Like you, we had a great time and thought the event was well worth it.

 

[Purplejewel]

We were also at the 10/16 event and I am positive your daughters were right in front of us for the parade. My GF and I use a wheelchair and a scooter and your daughters graciously sat or stood to the side a little so we could see while sitting behind them. I agree that the view from that spot was excellent especially the Headless Horsemen.

We saw your daughters at the Soiree as well downstairs as we recognized their costumes from earlier. Like you, we had a great time and thought the event was well worth it.

Glad to know that both of you enjoyed the view of the parade as much as we did. We only go to Disney World for Halloween every other year so it will be October of 2016 before we are back. I hope they are still offering the Villians Soiree Event in 2016 because we will definitely do it again even though with 4 kids and having to purchase 6 tickets it was expensive. Some things are just worth the money.

 

[elliececil]

I attended back to back Villain Soirees Oct 23 and 24. I was lucky enough to book a table for 1 both nights the morning the event was announced. Given the liberal cancellation policy I figured I'd cancel one as the date got closer, depending on the weather, keeping the better weather day for the parade viewing advantage. But the weather was wonderful and going into the 23rd I still had both booked.

Both days I checked in at the kiosk when it opened at 4. Only had to wait a few minutes each time.

The first night I watched the 7:45 Villains Mix and Mingle up at the stage for a better view then entered the area. I got a spot in the second row looking over the bridge. All the front row spots were taken. I ended up watching behind a boy sitting on the ground so I had a great view. The Headless Horseman stopping and then riding from the bridge was awesome. After the parade I went and bought a party pin for a coworker and did various Main Street photopass shots including the one near the the flagpole. When I returned to the area I did the poison apple magic shot and then joined others sitting on the ground waiting for Celebrate the Magic. It really was luxurious to stretch out with plenty of room and sit, especially with all the crowds standing pressed together like sardines elsewhere. Knowing I had two nights of fireworks I stayed seated for HalloWishes. The view is not great for the fireworks as the centers are behind the castle but how often do you get to sit? CMs as folk mentioned were diligent about keeping those without credentials out of the area. At one point a CM approached a young lady sitting on the ground and asked if she had a ticket - no lanyard apparent. She didn't and she had to leave.

After the fireworks I moved quickly from the area around the left path but got halted near Sleepy Hollow as the remainder of the path to the rear of the castle was closed while they checked for any firework hot spots. I was the first in line at the Soiree at 9:51 but that just meant I got to wait in line until they opened the doors at 10. I changed that tactic the second night. I was first with the Queen of Hearts. Did a selfie and then did a picture with the stepsisters at 10:03. I waited for the family restroom on the ground floor and later as folk were heading upstairs I asked someone to take a picture of me with the Queen.

I had been assigned table 18 which is one row away from the window in the middle. There was a ton of food on the table. I mentioned that and my server, Jimmy, said that they do the same amount on each platter. I ate all the sliced meat and pickles and nibbled on the bread and cheese, all of which was excellent. I liked the special drink but it was sweet and I only finished half. CMs kept circling offering more or water. There was a large glass of water on the table which I did drink most of.

Hook and Jafar were circling. I had plenty of time with all the characters and either CMs or folk sitting at nearby tables took pictures for me. By 10:52 the desserts were on the table. I didn't care for the apple at all. Anything chocolate is good! I also enjoyed the pistachio mousse. Lady Tremaine, Dr. Facilier (I really have to watch the Princess and the Frog someday), Cruella, Malificent, Evil Queen, Drizella, and Anastasia made the rounds. Same characters both nights, including Queen of Hearts and sisters downstairs beforehand.

I went as a Disney runner and had an orange fake race bib with "WDW Cupcake Challenge" and number 1031. And pictures of Disney cupcakes. It was a good conversation starter with the characters and other guests.

The number with Lady Tremaine and her daughters was very funny but even more hilarious the second night. They have so much energy!

At 11:15 LT announced the evening was over. I didn't have any dessert leftovers and didn't want the remaining cheese. I did take the dragon cup, stirrer, and poision apple light sphere but ended up leaving the dragon cup and stirrer in my resort room when I changed resorts the next morning.

On the way out I considered cancelling Friday's night soiree but I had so much fun and the viewing area was so good for the parade that I decided to keep it.

The second night I was in Frontierland listening to the Cadaver Dans at 7:40. I got to the parade area about 8 again but this time there were front row seats on the right side, about 2 o'clock looking at the castle, so I ended up sitting on the ground there for the parade. I liked the Liberty Sq view better of the two. But once again, sitting is a different experience and it was relaxing to sit for the entire parade, stretching my legs now and then. The parade was definitely closer this time being a fairly narrow area going around the curve.

After the parade I headed back to Frontierland for another Cadaver Dans set. Some of the songs were different and a few the same.

Back to the hub viewing area for the projection show. Once again sitting on the ground. Tons of open space. A CM came by and offered me a bottle of water. Once the projection show was over I headed further down Main Street away from the castle - yes, it was super crowded and I wouldn't have tried this with little ones or a stroller but no problem for an unencumbered adult - and ended up a bit 'north' of the Plaza/Casey's on the Main Street bridge. The fireworks view was about 500% better from there.

This time I was in no hurry to head and wait in line at the castle so I headed over to Tomorrowland. I got on the People Mover at 9:44. Love it at night. Got to see the Monsters Inc characters over at the Tomorrowland stage from the PM. Then I got in line for Lotso, getting pictures at 10:04. Then I made my way easily to the castle arriving at 10:10. No guests outside or downstairs. Queen of Hearts and the sisters were just heading out. "You're back!" "Runner!" the sisters cried out to me. They couldn't believe I'd returned for a second party. The CMs at the kiosk hadn't believed it either and were amused to see I was at table 18 again.

The CMs recognized me and shortly after I sat down I was approached and asked if I wanted a different table but the one offered up on the side wasn't as good as the one I had. It was noticeably quieter Oct 24 night. Two tables set for 6 (not just tables of 6 but with placesettings out for 6) near me were dismantled and there was another empty table for 4.

I had an even better time interacting with the characters the second night as the face ones were all the same and recognized me. Cruella had me do a "kiss kiss" with her. Drizella and I did an action kick shot - she had been teasing the Evil Queen with kicks that night. I got a lot of questions about how the cupcake consumption was going. The sisters said of course their mom threw the best parties and I needed to tell everyone how good a time I had. This time I only ate the meat, pickles, some bread, and the cheese spread. I packaged up the big hunks of cheese and more bread and the desserts I liked (two separate boxes) to go home. This time I left the dragon cup and the stirrer but took the poison apple light sphere again. Are you sure? my new table CM kept asking. Yes, I told him. Both nights I just took the good chocolate candy and left the remainder as well.

So all in all a fabulous time and I didn't regret at all keeping the second reservation. As the empty tables showed, even for a sold out party night, it can't hurt to check the morning of to see if reservations are available after cancellations up to midnight the night before. I wonder if they'll change the cancellation policy next time.

This is my third year in a row attending MNSSHP. First time I've done back to back parties. Having to plan so far ahead I wanted a better chance of good weather for at least one night. I only came down from Baltimore Thu-Sat. I have an AP right now so I did Food Wine Fri for brunch and late lunch and went back to MK Sat for FoF and Anna/Elsa FP+s. I think I'll be back next year!

 

[Luvchefmic]

elliececil Brilliant costume and tremendous report

I am SO hoping that you will post pictures I am getting more excited than ever for NEXT year

 

[elliececil]

 

[elliececil]

I added some pictures, a mix from both nights. The skeleton head table decoration was the second night. The Mickey ghost shirt night 1. The Mickey spider web head night 2.

 

[Luvchefmic]

Thank you so very much. I imagined your costume exactly as you described it look at your adorable self ! I like both versions. Really nice shots with the villains, of the desserts and goodies.