“Mickey and the Magical Map” is now open in the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland park, and thousands of guests have already fallen under its spell. The new show features live performers, beloved Disney characters and a huge magical map – all interacting with each other to bring to life the story of Mickey Mouse’s journey to become one of Yen Sid’s mapmakers. Almost as magical are the stories of what has happened behind the scenes to create this amazing show. Here are some of my favorite highlights:

• More than 900 hopefuls auditioned for the show, and the final company includes more than 50 dancers and singers.
• The magical map is created by nearly 1 million pixels and more than 35,000 square inches of LED screen surface.
• The six sections of the map are moved on wagons that weigh more than 9,000 pounds each.
• The total weight of the scenery for the show is approximately 71,000 pounds.
• Tiana’s showboat in the finale scene reaches 18 feet tall, stretches 11 feet wide and weighs nearly 1,200 pounds.
• More than six miles of cable run between the lighting, show control, audio and video systems.

Tagged: BtS, DL, DLR

Filed: Behind the Scenes, Disneyland Park, Disneyland Resort

Earlier today, we officially reopened the Main Street Bakery at Magic Kingdom Park – a favorite stop for many Disney Parks Blog readers. And on the menu for the first time at Walt Disney World Resort, you’ll now find Starbucks drinks and food along with delicious Disney house-made treats.

After this morning’s official opening ceremony, Main Street Bakery served up Disney cookies, brownies and cupcakes to Magic Kingdom Park guests. Starbucks offerings include coffee and espresso beverages and Frappuccino® blended beverages, as well as breakfast sandwiches and pastries.

Main Street Bakery, which is designed to fit with the current theme of Main Street, U.S.A., won’t be the only Walt Disney World Resort location to serve Starbucks. As previously announced, other locations are coming to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

And, at the Disneyland Resort in California, the Market House, serving Starbucks, is scheduled to reopen on Main Street, U.S.A., in September.

Let us know what you’re looking forward to ordering during your next visit to the Main Street Bakery in the comments below.

Tagged: Dining, MK, WDW

Filed: Disney Dining, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort

In my last post, I told you about how excited I was when I found out Disney Cruise Line is going to Jamaica, a destination full of history, flavor and nature-filled experiences!

Today, I want to tell you about our Signature Collection Port Adventures, tours that have been specifically designed for and are exclusive to Disney Cruise Line guests.

Bamboo Raft Captain for a Day – Traveling down the Martha Brae River on a two-person bamboo raft is quite a popular excursion in Jamaica, but have you ever wondered what it is like to be the captain? On this experience, only Disney Cruise Line guests will follow a bamboo raft captain, learn how to build the raft and navigate these clear waters.

Family Pottery Painting and Studio Tour – Local art is one of the best ways to understand Jamaican culture, past and present. On this amazing experience nestled around an 18th Century Great House, families will enjoy a hands-on pottery painting activity hosted by a local renowned artist.

Chukka’s Amazing Race – Combining some of the most exciting experiences offered around the Plantation estate, guests will solve clues and experience a multitude of thrills: kayaking, tubing and zip lining. Lots of fun!

No matter what you decide to do there, a visit to Jamaica is certain to be a memorable one. Now that you’ve seen some of the great options, which Port Adventures are the most appealing to your family?

Tagged: DCL

Filed: Disney Cruise Line