A Grand Staircase for a Grand Ship
posted on September 16th, 2010 by Jason Lasecki, Public Relations Director, Disney Cruise Line
The atrium lobby is the heart of every Disney cruise ship. On the Disney Dream, the atrium lobby, including the grand staircase, is quickly taking shape at the Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
Take a look at these construction images showing the sheer size of the lobby and a closer shot of the grand staircase structure.
Reminiscent of splendid ocean liners from 1920s and 1930s, the stylish sophistication of the atrium is highlighted by a sweeping grand staircase, oversized portholes and stunning, three-story fluted columns with glowing capitals. An exquisite marble floor inlaid with an intricate Art Deco pattern and hand-tufted custom rugs in rich blues, reds and golds span the atrium floor and staircase.
Opulent furnishings complement the atrium design, with a grand piano providing atmosphere. Overhead, a dazzling chandelier, more than 13-feet wide and descending more than 13 feet from the ceiling, sparkles with hundreds of hand-crafted crystal beads.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Scheduled to Open in 2012
posted on September 16th, 2010 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
If you cheered when we unveiled plans to open Disney’s Art of Animation Resort at Walt Disney World – then take a look at this. It’s a new artist rendering showing the one-of-a-kind resort with a few faces you should certainly recognize. The image is part of a new web page that we’ve just launched on the WaltDisneyWorld.com site.
On the page there are some details you may not have seen yet and more will be coming. Booking dates haven’t been announced but the resort is still scheduled to open Summer of 2012. Let us know if this resort has your attention.
Minnie’s Moonlit Madness
posted on September 15th, 2010 by Betsy Sanchez, Manager of Media Relations, Disneyland Resort
It was a night of clues and trivia as 350 teams of cast members, family and friends scavenger-hunted their way through Disneyland Park looking to be the “big cheese” at this year’s Minnie’s Moonlit Madness. The event, which began 21 years ago, is an opportunity for cast to get together for a fun night of charity and showing off their knowledge of all things Disney – even the teeny, tiny details such as how many pairs of snowshoes are there in Frontierland are a part of the clues. This year’s winning team was led by Stephanie Mandelsberg who works in Fantasyland attractions. The top three teams receive medals and bragging rights!
Each year a local nonprofit organization is chosen to receive the proceeds from the event and this year Mercy House received $5,500 to help them in their quest to provide supportive services to homeless families in Orange County and the city of Ontario.
New Parade Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
posted on September 15th, 2010 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
Disney/Pixar fans, we’ve got some great news to share today. The entertainment team at Walt Disney World Resort is in the midst of developing a new parade for Disney’s Hollywood Studios featuring some favorite Pixar pals. While details are still being worked out, we do know that four Pixar characters not currently seen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Remy and Emile from “Ratatouille” and Carl and Russell from Disney/Pixar’s “Up” – will be added to the lineup.
For those who want to be sure to celebrate the last dance with their favorites from Block Party Bash, make sure to mark January 1 for the final performance. The new show is scheduled to open January 16. Keep your eye on the blog for more future parade updates.
New Merchandise ‘In Store’ at Disney Parks this Fall
posted on September 15th, 2010 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
Don’t Miss Out!
For most of you, September means back to school, but for me it means new merchandise, events and offers to share with you, especially with Halloween and the Holidays just around the corner.
Here are a few things that you might not want to miss over the next few weeks.
“TRON: Legacy” inspired tees and hats. Available in late September only at D Street in Anaheim. What’s the coolest part about these new items? Some of the details on the shirts and hats actually glow, which should certainly make ElecTRONica even more fun. Tip: This is the first phase of TRON-inspired merchandise to appear at the Resort. Watch for future posts on more fun TRON merchandise in the coming weeks.
Precious Moments Artist Signings at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort. On October 9 Hiko Maeda will be on hand for a special appearance and signing at the Disneyland Resort, while Debbie Butcher joins our Walt Disney World team on October 22 and 23. I know Dara will be sharing more with you about this special signing, so be sure to save the dates.
Toys, Toys, Toys… Everyone always needs something fun or that special gift, so check out some of the newest toys that have just hit our store shelves at Disney Parks. The Disney Heroes Collection features Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and Stitch ready to hit the streets, all decked out with skateboards and ready to show you some tricks. If speed is more your thing, then keep an eye out for the new Lightning McQueen Infrared Remote Control Cars. It’s so cool! Last but not least, we will have a new collection “in store”called “Tails” – featuring some of Disney’s most playful pups and kittens, complete with accompanying accessories.
Trick or Treat? This year’s Mickey’s Halloween Party merchandise is a real scream, a Halloween Scream that is. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of your favorite Disney Characters and Villains on adult and kids apparel, as well as festive headwear that I know will get you in the “spirit” of the season.
Reminder: If you are looking to transform your little ones into cool knights, princesses, or rock stars, then make sure you stop by Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or Studio Disney 365 before you hit the street.
Additional info on all of these new offerings can be found on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com, so check it out when you get the chance.
Saluting Disney Conservation Heroes
posted on September 15th, 2010 by Kim Sams, Director, Corporate Citizenship, Conservation Programs, The Walt Disney Company
It’s a very exciting week for the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF). We are proud to announce the 2010 recipients of the “Disney Conservation Heroes” awards at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) conference in Houston where more than 2,000 professionals from zoos and aquariums across North America are gathered. You might know already that Disney’s Animal Kingdom and The Seas with Nemo & Friends are accredited by AZA.
Our six honorees this year are men and women who have made great personal sacrifice. Some of them are self-taught conservationists — one is even a reformed poacher. All have gone to extraordinary lengths for wildlife. They’ve saved chimpanzees from wildfires, protected sea turtles from poachers and reintroduced a rare species into an area where it had disappeared. Our own Dr. Jackie Ogden, Vice President, Animal Programs and Environmental Initiatives, Disney Parks, who is being recognized herself this week for years of service supporting AZA’s commitment to conservation, called them “extraordinary individuals who are passionate about protecting animals and habitats.”
In fact we ALL have the power to make a difference for wildlife and wild places – through volunteerism — through gifts of time or money — and through personal or professional commitment. I encourage you to read our Conservation Heroes’ stories at www.disney.com/conservation. I couldn’t help but be inspired by their dedication and accomplishments. I know you will be too.
Update: Video of First Taste of La Hacienda
posted on September 15th, 2010 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer
UPDATE – September 23: Last week, we shared a first look at the beautiful new La Hacienda restaurant at the Mexico Pavilion. Now we have a unique video peek inside. Take a look:
We got a tasty preview and a look at the beautiful new La Hacienda restaurant at the Mexico Pavilion soft opening on Thursday. (Reservations can be made for Oct. 15 and thereafter.) The striking exterior blends beautifully with the pavilion, designed to look like a warm, inviting home. Step inside, and the attention to detail continues with original artwork and lighting fixtures created by Ernesto Cruz, a noted Mexican artist known for his blown glass. Look up – the cool fixtures in the lobby are made of brilliant blue vinyl stretched around the light. Chairs and tables also were crafted in Mexico for a casual-but sophisticated, south-of-the-border ambience.
Of course, most diners’ eyes go straight for the fabulous view of World Showcase Lagoon – where the curved glass windows offer a coveted front-row seat for “IllumiNations: Reflection of Earth” fireworks spectacular. The new dining room will be a hot ticket for the nightly show, with music piped into the dining room. Or, if you’re looking for a quieter spot for dinner, we like the tables in the cozy room just off the lobby.
We dined early and focused on the food, a wonderful rendition of Mexican favorites. We started with the warm chips and two salsas (one a mild tomatillo, the other a hotter smoked pepper version). Next, Botana (the Mexican word for “appetizer”), bite-size tastes of chicken tostada, marinated pork and a cheese empanada. If you’re hungry (or want to share), order Arrachera, for an entrée, 8 ounces of flank steak with veggies and house-made corn tortillas for wrapping it all up. My favorite was the Tacos de Camarones, flour tortilla filled with crispy fried shrimp, chipotle-lime aioli, cabbage and fresh lime to squeeze on top. Pork, chicken and grilled tilapia round out entrées.
Dessert often is an afterthought in Mexican eateries, but we didn’t leave a bite of the Tamal de Dulce, a wonderfully sweet guava tamal with a drizzle of strawberry coulis. Churros come with Mexican hot chocolate and caramel sauce.
Sip a margarita (six flavors) or throw caution to the wind with a shot or a flight of tequila (the young tequila ambassador can help you choose from the 17 choices on the menu). On a hot afternoon, the sweet, refreshing Agua Fresca made with hibiscus flowers was a delight. Mexican beers and wines from Spain, Argentina, Chile and Mexico (by the bottle or glass) round out the drink menu.
We took a peek at La Cantina, the all-new quick-service space, we’ll be back with a look at that menu soon. La Hacienda shares air-conditioned space with La Cantina up until about 2:30 in the afternoon, when they stop indoor seating to get ready for dinner guests.
Who’s the Baddest of Them All? Vote for Your Favorite Disney Villain
posted on September 14th, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company
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It’s Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, and the Disney Villains are claiming this is their time to rule Disneyland park. Starting today, you can join the fun online and vote for your favorite villain on Disneyland.com.
Here are the Disney villains in the running:
Jafar – The all-powerful sorcerer from “Aladdin” is full of wicked magic tricks. His cunning plan is to betray the kindly Sultan, steal the magic lamp, wed Princess Jasmine and rule forever.
Maleficent – This self-proclaimed “Mistress of All Evil” can really hold a grudge when she’s not invited to the party. On Princess Aurora’s sixteenth birthday, she lures the innocent maiden to prick her finger on a spindle and fall into everlasting slumber. Then when Prince Phillip comes to rescue the Sleeping Beauty, she transforms into a monstrous, fire-breathing dragon! How medieval can you get?
Ursula – This dreadful sea witch will sink to any depths to carry out her evil deeds! With the help of two slithering eels, she torments undersea creatures, steals King Triton’s crown, and captures Princess Ariel’s beautiful voice. After she has the Little Mermaid clutched in her slimy tentacles, she conjures a massive sea storm and wages a vicious battle with Prince Eric. Could you “cast” your vote for someone this slippery?
Evil Queen – Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the most insanely jealous of them all? This narcissistic ruler commands a huntsman to take her stepdaughter into the forest, do away with her, and bring back her heart. When the Magic Mirror reveals that Snow White is alive and still the “fairest in the land,” the Queen transforms herself into a hag and convinces the innocent princess to take a bite of a poisoned apple. We think you’ll agree this Queen is truly “heartless.”
Captain Hook – This elegant but vengeful villain anchored his ship and crew in the waters of Never Land, only to see revenge upong Peter Pan. Hook locks up Tinker Bell, sends a ticking package to Peter Pan, kidnaps the Lost Boys and forces Wendy to walk the plank. and repeatedly attacked Peter Pan and his crew with swords and schemes to exact lasting revenge.
Cruella De Vil – This devilish lady stops at nothing when it comes to satisfying her need for greed. She thinks everyone is an imbecile and anything can be bought. She’s a crazy driver who’ll run you down with her fancy car. She plots! She steals! She dognaps 101 Dalmatian puppies just to make the perfect fur coat. The only thing perfect about Cruella De Vil is her name. Like the song says, “If she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will.”
These villains will be battling each other for the title of the baddest villain of them all, now through October 28. The voting starts today at disneyland.com/halloween, and be sure to follow us on Twitter for the latest updates.
Vinylmation – Toy Story – Now in 9-Inch
posted on September 14th, 2010 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
I can almost hear the announcer’s voice from one of those retro-tastic television commercials from my childhood – “It’s Vinylmation – Toy Story! Now in 9-inch mega size!” I love watching those commercials today as they remind me of the countless hours I spent playing with toys. In this case, however, it’s true – we are releasing Vinylmation 9-inch figures based on characters from Disney-Pixar’s Toy Story. The three different figures will be released on September 17 at D-Street in California and Florida. In a previous article, I spoke with Thomas Scott about designing the three-inch figures. This time, I asked him about the nine-inch figures.
“We again worked closely with Pixar to identify which characters should be represented in the nine-inch form,” explained Thomas. “We always planned the overall series to be a salute to characters from all three of the Toy Story films. That is why you see Bo Peep and Zurg who were not featured in the newest film, Toy Story 3.”
The Bo Peep figure that Thomas mentions is a 9-inch plus 3-inch set, meaning there is the 9-inch Bo Peep figure and her three-faced sheep that is a 3-inch figure (a figure that Thomas really enjoyed designing). The set will have an edition size of 1,200.
Zurg will also have an edition size of 1,200. He’s the perfect match for the 3-inch Buzz Lightyear figure (which looks great with that bubble helmet). Need proof? Look at the photo at the top (okay, so maybe I still play with toys today).
The last figure is the Little Green Men (or is that Man?). He will have an edition size of 1,500. This isn’t the first time we’ve featured the Little Green Men in Vinylmation. There was a 3-inch figure designed by Disney Design Group Artist Randy Noble in Park Series #2. This figure, however, made Thomas laugh the most.
“The Little Green Men figure makes me laugh,” chuckled Thomas. “I love the fact that the ‘Little’ Green Man isn’t so little anymore.”
It made for a fun photo. Oh, how I wish some days that The Claw would transport me to a beach somewhere in Hawai’i. But I digress.
Thomas explained that the manufacturing and design process for a 9-inch figure versus other sizes is actually rather complicated.
“We have to design smarter when creating the larger figures,” continued Thomas. “The manufacturing process is more difficult to execute if the art isn’t done correctly. Some people may think that because [the 9-inch figure] is a larger canvas it would be easier, but unfortunately it’s quite the opposite.”
The hard work shows as these figures look great! On a related note, there will also be limited quantities of each figure released on the DisneyParks.com/Store on October 6, 2010. Oh, I think that is Mom saying dinner is ready; gotta go!
Disney Wonder – A Study in Black and White
posted on September 14th, 2010 by Gene Duncan, Photographer, Walt Disney World Resort
I recently spent a day aboard the Disney Wonder cruise ship while it was docked at Port Canaveral. It is a truly spectacular vessel, and I was able to spend time on the bridge as well as wander the decks, looking for quiet beauty and architectural details.
I barely scratched the surface, but I hope you enjoy these snapshots.
