MousePad - Blogs - Welcome to my World by AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/blog.php?17-Welcome-to-my-World MousePad is a discussion forum covering family travel and entertainment, especially Disney. To visit the forum, go to http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/ . en Wed, 19 Jun 2013 11:56:19 GMT vBulletin 15 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/images/misc/rss.jpg MousePad - Blogs - Welcome to my World by AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/blog.php?17-Welcome-to-my-World <![CDATA[Kick off summer with a Monstrous Summer All-Nighter at Disneyland & Walt Disney World]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1087-Kick-off-summer-with-a-Monstrous-Summer-All-Nighter-at-Disneyland-amp-Walt-Disney-World Fri, 26 Apr 2013 02:11:22 GMT Call it one more One More Disney Day. Disney is throwing another 24-hour party, this time to... Call it one more One More Disney Day.

Disney is throwing another 24-hour party, this time to kick off their Monstrous Summer promotion. The Monstrous Summer All-Nighter starts 6am Friday, May 24 and runs 24 hours until 6am Saturday, May 25. At Walt Disney World, the party will again be held inside Magic Kingdom park. However, the Disneyland Resort seems to have learned some important lessons from the chaotic Leap Day party, and will be opening both Disneyland AND Disney California Adventure park for this event.



Following the massive Cars Land opening in 2012, and with the new Fantasyland already open in Florida, it's not surprising that this summer's promotion is a little understated. The Monstrous Summer promo is tied to the June 21 release of “Monsters University,” the college prequel to "Monsters, Inc." We don't have a lot of details about what Disney is planning for this Monstrous Summer All-Nighter, but given that this event falls on Memorial Day weekend, you can expect it to be just a wee bit crowded. Here's the official press release:

Our first-ever, three-park all-night party is happening at the Magic Kingdom Park in Florida and Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park in California. The parks will stay open from 6 a.m., May 24 to 6 a.m., May 25, 2013, local time.


  • In Florida, Magic Kingdom Park will feature a “Monsters University” theme where Mike and Sulley will be the Grand Marshals of the “Celebrate a Dream Come True” day parade and make appearances in Tomorrowland. There will be extra entertainment throughout the day and night, including characters in their pajamas in Town Square during the late night and early morning, and late-night dance parties in and around the courtyard of Cinderella Castle.
  • In California, you’ll be able to party the night away at both parks with special entertainment including: a “Monsters University” “TLT Monstrous” Dance Club and Star Wars characters in Tomorrowland and late-night Character Pajama Party in Mickey’s ToonTown at Disneyland park. The new Fantasy Faire Royal Theatre at Disneyland park will become a Royal Dance Hall late at night with a live band and dancing; and guests of Disney California Adventure park will find Monstrous photo opportunities with new “Monsters University” “Dorms” in Hollywood Land and a new “Monsters University” float leading the Pixar Play Parade.
Both California parks are scheduled to reopen at 9am on Saturday, May 26 for the start of Opa! A Celebration of Greece at the Disneyland Resort. Magic Kindgom is also scheduled to reopen at 9am Saturday.

MousePlanet was there for the entire 24-hour party in 2012, and we're planning more reader meet-ups at Disneyland for this next event. We even have a special Mini MouseAdventure planned, so stay tuned for details.

If you're planning to attend either party - especially the Disneyland version - here are some tips to prepare:


  • Read up on last year's event, both our hourly coverage from the parks and the after party recap so you know what to expect.
  • Get there early and get a locker inside the park, or have a friend who is going early to get one for you. Lockers were hot commodities in the 2012 event, and sold out early at Disneyland. There are more lockers outside the park, but in the event of another late-night main entrance closure, you don't want to be on the wrong side of the gate from your warm clothes.
  • Better yet, bring a backpack. That way you can park-hop between Disneyland and DCA without worrying where your stuff is.
  • Make priority seating reservations well in advance - walk-up reservations were impossible to find during the last party. This is a great opportunity to enjoy breakfast at restaurants that don't usually serve that meal, like Cafe Orleans and Blue Bayou at Disneyland.
  • Consider getting a hotel room. There are lots of benefits to having a nearby place to rest, even if it's just for a few hours after the parks close and before check-out time. Resort Hotel guests have more protections in the event of a partial main entrance closure, and will be among the last to be locked out if either park is closed.
]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1087-Kick-off-summer-with-a-Monstrous-Summer-All-Nighter-at-Disneyland-amp-Walt-Disney-World First Look: Mickey and the Magical Map http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1086-First-Look-Mickey-and-the-Magical-Map Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:15:19 GMT The Disneyland Resort invited local media for a behind-the-scenes look at Mickey and the Magical... The Disneyland Resort invited local media for a behind-the-scenes look at Mickey and the Magical Map, the new stage show coming to Disneyland's Fantasyland Theater on May 25. The show marks the return of the Fantasyland Theater as a true live-performance venue following several years of use as the Princess Fantasy Fair meet-and-greet. Now that the Princesses have their own new home outside the walls of Sleeping Beauty Castle, the theater has been renovated with an all-new sound system, new control booth and a high-tech LED screen that sets the stage, and becomes a character of sorts, for Mickey and the Magical Map.

Disney says the new show "represents Disney storytelling at its most thrilling," and there's not much more I can add after today's preview. With rehearsals underway for less than three weeks and quite a bit of technical work still to be done in the theater, we had just a very brief glimpse behind the scenes, and certainly not a full preview of the finished show. As such, it's only fair to reserve any comments until the show debuts for the theme park audience in May.

Our tour began inside the Fantasyland Theater for a look at two video segments from the show, and a brief discussion of the technology of the renovated theater. It's clear that a lot of effort went into reclaiming the theater as a performing venue, and there were lots of statistics thrown around - the 6-panel LED screen has over 1 million light sources and weighs over 10,000 pounds per section. There are 6 miles of fiber optic cable controlling the show. The 9.1-channel surround sound system uses 61 speakers.

But as proud as the show directors seem to be of the technology, they are equally emphatic that the gee-whiz factor is not the story of the show. We heard it several times from several people, "the technology always needs to be in service to the story." Disney provided this video clip showing just a few seconds of the video screen:



The screen (which is clearly designed to split into sections and move during the show, though that wasn't shown during our preview) is used as a backdrop, but also serves as a character (Spot, the unfinished section of the map that Yensid references at the end of the video clip above), and then seems to absorb Mickey Mouse as he starts his journey. It sounds like a neat concept, and I'm looking forward to seeing how well it plays for an audience.

After visiting the theater, we moved to a backstage rehearsal studio where we watched performers rehearse part of the Jungle Book sequence from the show. I've noted before that the story for this show sounds like something straight from a Disney Cruise Line production (which is not a bad thing, just a comment), and I had that sense of deja vu watching this rehearsal. Mickey and the Magical Map uses an articulated King Louie character which can "sing" along and blink his eyes. The same character was introduced last year in the Wishes stage show on the Disney Fantasy.

While there are other similarities between the two productions, it sounds like the Disneyland show is taking a new look at some familiar themes. The Jungle Book sequence has a Bollywood-inspired musical overlay, and will feature a live trumpet player interacting with King Louie. Disney provided this video from the rehearsal presented for the media:



We don't have full details of the other five scenes, but know that one includes a Princess medley of Pochahontas ("Just Around the Riverbend"), Mulan ("Reflection") and Rapunzel ("I See the Light"); another goes "Under the Sea" with Ariel and friends; one visits Lilo & Stitch for "Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride;" and one includes Tiana from "The Princess and the Frog." Disney released this video of music producer Bruce Healey and the orchestra recording session for the new show.



After the previews, we gathered for a presentation by and question-and-answer session with Kevin Eld (vice president of creative entertainment for Walt Disney Imagineering) and Michael Jung (vice president of creative theatrical development for Walt Disney Imagineering). The two spoke extensively about their careers, and their perceptions of theme park entertainment, before coming to work for Disney. Both said that they were initially surprised at just how much entertainment was presented within the theme park environment, with Jung noting that more people saw Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular in the show's first year at Disney California Adventure than saw Cats during its entire Broadway run.

Eld spoke of his first visit to Disneyland Paris before coming to work for Disney, and watching the reaction of children in the audience during one of the stage shows. Now, in creating new entertainment for the Disney parks and cruise line, he said that his team always strives to remember who their audience is and to present entertainment in unexpected ways.

Like World of Color, Jung said the technology used to create the magic map offers the producers the opportunity to change the show to update sequences as new Disney movies are released, to incorporate additional Disney characters or even add holiday overlays. Eld said this is especially important in creating a show for Disneyland, which has such a high percentage of repeat visitors.

The session ended with a final question which may inadvertently have provided more insight into the future of Disney theme park entertainment than the Disney publicists may have intended. A reporter from a Spanish-language outlet asked if there had been any consideration given towards presenting bilingual shows, and Eld responded "we have to acknowledge that it's inevitable." He discussed the efforts at Disneyland Paris, where some shows are presented in as many as six languages, or Hong Kong Disneyland, where visitors speak different dialects of Chinese. While conceding that Disneyland had a similar need, he cautioned that it's "important not to underestimate the challenge."

Mickey and the Magical Map opens to the public on May 25. A cast of 50 singers and dancers (two casts of 24, chosen from over 900 performers who turned out to audition in Los Angeles), will present the show five times a day. ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1086-First-Look-Mickey-and-the-Magical-Map 2014 WDW Marathon Weekend details leaked; new 10K and Dopey Challenge added http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1073-2014-WDW-Marathon-Weekend-details-leaked-new-10K-and-Dopey-Challenge-added Thu, 21 Mar 2013 05:02:45 GMT A page on the Active.com website... A page on the Active.com website seems to have details for the 2014 WDW Marathon Weekend, including a new 10K race and a new Dopey Challenge for people who want to run a 10K, a half-marathon and a marathon all in one weekend. The weekend dates are Wednesday, January 8 - Sunday, January 12, 2014

There are no dates given for the specific races, but we assume the 10K would be on Friday along with the usual 5K race. Race fees are as follows - note that the fees are the same for the 10K, the half or the full marathon:

Dopey Challenge Registration Fees

$495.00 on or before June 18, 2013
$550.00 between June 19, 2013 – August 13, 2013
$580.00 on or after August 14, 2013

Goofy's Race & a Half Challenge Registration Fees

$340.00 on or before June 18, 2013
$370.00 between June 19, 2013 – August 13, 2013
$400.00 on or after August 14, 2013

Walt Disney World® Marathon

$160.00 on or before June 18, 2013
$175.00 between June 19, 2013 – August 13, 2013
$190.00 on or after August 14, 2013

Walt Disney World® Half Marathon

$160.00 on or before June 18, 2013
$175.00 between June 19, 2013 – August 13, 2013
$190.00 on or after August 14, 2013

Walt Disney World® 10K

$160.00 on or before June 18, 2013
$175.00 between June 19, 2013 – August 13, 2013
$190.00 on or after August 14, 2013

Family Fun Run 5K

$60 per participant

runDisney Kids Races Registration Fee

$15.00 per Kids Dash participant
$30.00 per 1-Mile Run participant

There is no indication of when registration will open, but we'll keep an eye out for an official announcement from RunDisney. More details, including age requirements, are on Active.com.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1073-2014-WDW-Marathon-Weekend-details-leaked-new-10K-and-Dopey-Challenge-added <![CDATA[Disneyland Half Marathon sells out in record time, but there's still room for YOU!]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1060-Disneyland-Half-Marathon-sells-out-in-record-time-but-there-s-still-room-for-YOU! Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:09:12 GMT We all know it takes speed to cross the finish line of a RunDisney event, but yesterday runners... We all know it takes speed to cross the finish line of a RunDisney event, but yesterday runners discovered they had to be quick just to get a place at the starting line for the 2013 Disneyland Half Marathon weekend events. Fortunately, charity teams have room for runners who missed the starting gun - keep reading for details.

The new 10K race proved to be extremely popular, selling out in just over three hours on Tuesday. The Disneyland Half Marathon sold out Wednesday morning, setting a new runDisney record. Fastest of all was the Dumbo Double Dare, with 5,000 runners registering to complete both the 10K and the half marathon. That event sold out in under an hour.

By the numbers, there are

12,500 half marathon-only runners
3,000 10K-only runners
5,000 Dumbo Double Dare participants

Add in the 5K and kids races, and runDisney expects over 25,000 runners to participate in the race weekend events.

While registration is still open (but selling quickly) for the 5K and kids races, Disney is no longer accepting registration for the 10K or half marathon events. Even so, there's still a way to get a spot at the starting line by registering with one of the official charity partners.

Running for charity brings a new element to your race experience, and I personally think it's worth doing at least once. When you run for a charity, especially one you have a personal connection to, you're suddenly not just running for yourself. I participated with Team in Training for the 2012 Disneyland Half Marathon, and the inspirational example of my friends and family who have faced and survived lymphoma helped me put all those training miles in perspective.

The runDisney website lists several teams with open spots, but two of my personal favorites are not yet listed (runDisney is updating the site).

Team Muscle Makers was founded by MousePlanet reader Melissa (who posts as fairestoneofall), and raises money for Ullrich Congenital Muscular Dystrophy. The team has participated in several runDisney events, including last weekend's Tinker Bell Half Marathon. The team has openings for the 10K and Disneyland Half Marathon, and has a wait list for the Dumbo Double Dare. You can contact Melissa through MousePad, visit the team's Facebook page, or send an e-mail for more information.

Team in Training is one of the best-known charity organizations participating in runDisney events, with their purple-clad runners and green-shirted coaches easy to spot along the course. Team in Training works in seasons, and is currently focusing on their summer season events like the San Diego Half Marathon in June. Registration for the Fall events, including the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend, usually takes place in May. If you're interested in running with Team in Training, check with your local chapter for more information.

Other runDisney charity partners include:




Every charity team has different fundraising requirements, so look around and find a group with a goal you feel you can meet. And don't forget to see if your company offers a matching gift program - that's a great way to double your fundraising results.

If you don't feel like fundraising, you can also secure your spot in the Disneyland Half Marathon events by booking a race travel package through one of the official partner Tour Operators. This is a less-attractive option for locals who don't necessarily need transportation and hotel rooms, but check to see what packages may be available.




Finally, a shameless plug here - if you want to make sure you don't miss out on future runDisney races, be sure to follow the MousePlanet Twitter account and Facebook page, and check our Team MousePlanet forum frequently. We posted all of the pre-registration options as we learned about them, and many of our runners were safely registered for the races two weeks ago! Sometimes you don't have to be fast, you just have to be smart. ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1060-Disneyland-Half-Marathon-sells-out-in-record-time-but-there-s-still-room-for-YOU! Tickets available now for Golden Horseshoe Dinner Show for Annual Passholders http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1054-Tickets-available-now-for-Golden-Horseshoe-Dinner-Show-for-Annual-Passholders Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:08:21 GMT Disney just posted details of the special AP dinner shows for the return of the Golden Horseshoe... Disney just posted details of the special AP dinner shows for the return of the Golden Horseshoe Revue. This is the first of the Limited Time Magic offerings for the 2013 promotion. Tickets are on sale now by calling the AP hotline at (714) 781-7277

Golden Horseshoe Dinner Show for Annual Passholders

Inspired by the world-famous Frontierland show that Walt Disney himself began in 1955, A Salute to the Golden Horseshoe Revue features a variety of songs and dance numbers from past productions and is an homage to fun-filled, family friendly musical entertainment.

This show enjoys a brief run at the Disneyland Park.

Limited Time Annual Passholder Magic
Annual Passholders have additional and exciting Limited Time Magic opportunities. And here's the first: the Golden Horseshoe Dinner Show for Annual Passholders.

Dinner Show Details
The evening performance (on select days) will be exclusively for Annual Passholders — and will feature special dishes inspired by the original show's menu.
Plus, at this event, Annual Passholders will receive a commemorative musical keepsake and souvenir Golden Horseshoe boot mug.
Event Schedule for Annual Passholders

  • January 10 through February 4, 2013
  • Thursdays through Mondays


Time

  • 6:30 p.m. is the special Passholder performance


Prices

  • $35 per Passholder (ages 3 and older) per show
  • Separate Theme Park admission required
  • Includes tax


Book Dining Package

  • Please call (714) 781-PASS (7277)
  • Space is limited!
  • Once a dining package is purchased, the purchasing Annual Passholder will receive a confirmation email
  • Please print and bring your confirmation email to the Disneyland Park check-in location as identified in the email; With a valid confirmation email, each Passholder on the reservation will receive an event wristband upon presentation of their valid Passports


Admission

  • Separate theme park admission required.
  • For admission to the show, each Annual Passholder must have a valid Disneyland Resort Annual Passport and event wristband. Valid photo ID may be required.
  • If needed, please also present a Blockout Day Ticket or valid ticket media. Blockout Day Tickets can be purchased at the Disneyland Resort Main Entrance on the day of the event.
  • The Passholder performance of the Golden Horseshoe Revue will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. Guests will not be allowed entry to the show after 6:30 p.m. and show tickets will be forfeited.


Location



Menu

  • Starter: Corn chips in a souvenir Golden Horseshoe boot mug
  • Entrees: Black forest ham and roast beef sandwiches
  • Sides: Golden raisin and carrot salad, Yukon golden potato salad, Very Berry fruit salad
  • Children's Menu (available upon request): 2 PB&J sandwiches with sides
  • Vegetarian Option (available upon request): Vegetable and cheese sandwiches with sides
  • Beverages: Mint Julep, water, coffee
  • Dessert: Walt & Lilly's 30th Anniversary Celebration Cake


Limited Time Magic
Limited Time Magic will bring fanciful experiences, big and small, to Guests at the Disneyland Resort throughout 2013. Each experience will appear briefly and then… disappear.

Learn about more Limited Time Annual Passholder Magic throughout the year.




Additional Information

  • Limit eight (8) Annual Passholders per dining package reservation (ages 3 and older), per show.
  • Separate dinner and commemorative gift will not be provided to Guests under the age of 3.
  • Guests must be at least 18 years old to call and book a dining package.
  • Dining package purchases are nonrefundable. Reservations may not be sold or transferred for commercial use and are only valid for admission to the show date and time specified in the associated confirmation email.
  • Information and shows are subject to restrictions, change and cancellation without notice.
  • Menu items subject to change without notice.


]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1054-Tickets-available-now-for-Golden-Horseshoe-Dinner-Show-for-Annual-Passholders Imagineers testing new improv show at Disney California Adventure 12/5 and 12/6 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1044-Imagineers-testing-new-improv-show-at-Disney-California-Adventure-12-5-and-12-6 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 04:39:52 GMT Walt Disney Imagineering is "playtesting" a new improv show at Disney California Adventure today and tomorrow. I spotted signs for "Imagine That!" while I was in the park today, and a cast member directed me to Stage 17 (the former "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" building) in Hollywood Land. Apparently there were sign ups somewhere in the park this morning, because cast members outside the sound stage were checking park visitors against a list. Those (like me) who happened by but weren't on the list were asked to form a standby line and wait until closer to showtime to see if we were needed. The show has a capacity of about 300 people, and for this first test they had about half that, so the 15 or so of us in standby were all admitted without problem.

If you'll be in DCA tomorrow (Thursday, December 6) and want to see the show for yourself, they are holding shows at 2, 4 and 6. Cast members said they would again have sign ups in the morning, but indicated that walk-ups would likely be accepted, so don't worry too much about finding the recruiters. The show lasts about 30 minutes (ours was closer to 40), and each participant receives a World of Color Fastpass.

A flyer distributed in the park described "Imagine That" as an "original improvisation show, where guests engage in an epic tale straight from their imaginations. Their ideas spring to life through interactive play and artistry. Every guest has a hand in creating a one-of-a-kind story that will never be experienced again."

We were never told where, when or if Disney plans to use this show. I have a personal suspicion, but I'll keep it to myself right now.

While it's never fair to "review" a show this early in the process, I'll share some details and thoughts below. I'm not going to bother with spoiler tags, so if you don't want to know any more about the show, stop reading NOW.

--------------------------------- Spoiler Alert - You've Been Warned -----------------------------------------

For this test, Stage 17 is divided with black pipe-and-drape into two sections. We entered the first section at the back of the building, where the Dancin' with Disney stage was still in place. The host greeted us, and asked us to gather close around the stage. Off to the side, a musician provided background music on keyboards.

The host gave a brief explanation about what we were doing there, explaining that Imagineers have come up with an idea for an interactive improv show, and they wanted to test it with real park guests to see how we liked it. He introduced three people he identified as Disney animators, and three more people identified as actors. (Side note: apparently one of the actors also works at Universal Studios - a guest in our group recognized him from her visit there earlier this week, and he admitted that it was him).

After asking us not to take any photos (lest we be placed in "Disney jail"), the host explained that we were creating a one-of-a-kind story starting with "once upon a time in a far away land," and asked for suggestions about what our far away land should be called. Someone in the crowd yelled "cheese land," and someone else suggested "Mordor," so the host went with a mix of those and asked one of the artists to draw the city of Mordor in cheese land.

Then the host divided the group into two, sending half to one end of the stage to work with one animator to design the hero of the story, and the others to the other side of the stage to work with another animator to design the villain. One of the actors joined each group, asking questions and serving as the liason between audience and animator. Screens on both sides of the stage let us see what the animator was drawing. I was in the villains group, and we created a mold monster. The actor prompted the group to provide details about the character - what did he wear, what were his hobbies, etc. The animator kept up with all of this, adding to his sketch as we talked.

With hero and villain designed, the groups gathered around the stage again, and the host asked members from each group to name the other group's character. Our villain was dubbed "Mister Stinky Poo," and the hero (a purple, lactose-intolerant cow) was named PLC. We also learned that PLC was looking for his lost sidekick, providing the plot for the story.

After asking a few more questions about the characters, the host asked us to divide up into six groups to further flesh out the story. My group worked with one of the actors, who asked us a series of predetermined questions to devise a list of special items the hero owned. She started with "Name something you'd use to move a heavy object." When someone suggested "a crane," the actor followed up with, "and what is special about your crane?" Following her chain of questioning, we ended up with a talking crane, an angry flea, a glass nail file, and an elephant in a refrigerator.

When we regrouped, we learned that the other groups had collaborated to create a sidekick for the villain, a house and a vehicle for the hero, a list of superpowers for the hero, and a theme song for the villain. After that, we moved into the second section of the soundstage, which had rows of chairs set before a stage with three large screens. As we took seats, one of the actors distributed pieces of foam board with words and pictures to various people in the front row and along the aisles, saying we'd need to bring them up to the stage when called upon.

The "show" consisted of the three performers acting out the story we'd created in front of the three screens, with the animators drawing and altering the backgrounds as the skit progressed. The audience participation continued throughout the show. When the villain took the stage, we all hummed his theme song. When the hero asked for one of his special items, and someone handed him the card with a drawing of the glass nail file, he then asked the audience for suggestions on how to use the nail file to defeat the villain. When the hero used his "sonic moo" on the villain, the entire audience was asked to moo along. After the villain was defeated and the hero reunited with his side kick, the show ended with three actors performing an improvised song using some of the names and items we'd suggested for the story.

As I said, it's never fair to review something this early in the development stage, so here are just a few thoughts.


  • I found this entertaining, but not necessarily "Disney." If someone invited me to attend a family-friendly improv show at a random comedy club, this is what I'd expect. There just wasn't anything overtly Disney about it - we weren't rewriting Cinderella.
  • That said, I loved the addition of the live animation - that's not something I've ever seen in an improv show, and it was my favorite part of this experience. That's definitely something Disney adds to the experience.
  • The lack of "Disney" filters surprised me. When all was said and done, our story had a hero trying to cut the head off a wine-swilling villain. That's not exactly Playhouse Disney material.
  • I was also surprised by the inclusion of non-Disney brands. At various times, the actors name-dropped Universal, Petsmart, Best Buy and Delta Airlines.
  • If I cared overly about having my suggestions used (or even heard), I would have found the main group size (about 150 people) too large. The loudest folks, and those nearest the stage, dominated those parts of the creation process.
  • That said, I appreciated the deliberate effort to include more people by sending actors with microphones to the back of the crowd to ask specific people to contribute certain elements.
  • I also appreciated that in our smaller group, the actor made it a point to ask questions of people who had not yet contributed an answer, helping everyone feel included.
  • It seemed that kids around 7 and up were the most interested in this. Younger kids seemed too shy to speak up, or just bored. The family behind me had an older child who was completely engaged, and a younger child who was far more interested in her handheld video game.
  • The "show" seemed a bit too long, or just took too long to tell because of the constant audience participation. At some point, I felt like "Ok, we've given you tons of material, just finish the show."


All in all, it was worth the 40-minute time investment, and it's definitely something I'd do again with friends. If you're in DCA tomorrow, be sure to check it out.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1044-Imagineers-testing-new-improv-show-at-Disney-California-Adventure-12-5-and-12-6 See Wreck-It Ralph at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood Nov. 2 - Dec. 18, 2012 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1030-See-Wreck-It-Ralph-at-the-El-Capitan-Theatre-in-Hollywood-Nov-2-Dec-18-2012 Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:24:19 GMT Disney press release: * Taking fun for the whole family to the next level… * Image:... Disney press release:

Taking fun for the whole family to the next level…





November 2 – December 18, 2012
El Capitan Theatre, Hollywood

Get Amped with Disney’s Newest Characters,
Ralph and Vanellope, LIVE ON STAGE with the El Capitan DJ

After the movie, visit The Art of Wreck-It-Ralph Exhibit featuring visual & character development art, prototype candy cars from Sugar Rush and more.



HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (Oct. 24, 2012) -- Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre is taking fun to the next level with Disney’s “Wreck-It Ralph” in wreck-tacular 3D from Nov. 2-Dec. 18, 2012, it was announced today by Lylle Breier, senior vice president of worldwide special events for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

“There is no better place than the El Captain Theatre to experience ‘Wreck-It Ralph,’” said Breier. “We are starting every showing of the movie with both Ralph and Vanellope live on stage, who will amp everyone up with the help of our very own EL Capitan DJ. After the movie, El Capitan guests will get a special behind-the-scenes look at the film with our exclusive Art of Wreck-It-Ralph Exhibit. It’s our way of making the El Capitan the perfect place to experience this wreck-tacular new Disney adventure.”

The Art of Wreck-It-Ralph Exhibit, on display in the lower lounge of the El Capitan Theatre, features visual and character development art, prototype candy cars from Sugar Rush, plus much more.



Daily showtimes are 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and available at the El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood Blvd.), online at www.elcapitantickets.com, or by calling 800-DISNEY6. Special group rates for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 818-845-3110. Showtimes are subject to change.

On Saturdays and Sundays, El Capitan guests may also enjoy a special character breakfast with Vanellope prior to the 10 a.m. show at Disney’s Soda Fountain & Studio Store. Seating is limited and reservations are required by calling 818-845-3110.

The El Capitan Theatre will also host a very special Tiny Tot Tuesday on Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. During this special screening of “Wreck-It Ralph,” parents and small children can enjoy the movie in a Tiny Tot-friendly way*––complete with lights dimmed rather than out and reduced sound levels.



ABOUT THE MOVIE:
From Walt Disney Animation Studios and Emmy®-winning director Rich Moore comes “Wreck-It Ralph,” a hilarious, arcade-game-hopping adventure. For decades, Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) has been overshadowed by Fix-It Felix, Jr. (voice of Jack McBrayer), the good-guy star of their game who always gets to save the day. Tired of playing the role of a bad guy, Ralph takes matters into his own massive hands and sets off on a journey across the arcade through multiple generations of video games to prove he’s got what it takes to be a hero.

On his quest, Ralph meets tough-as-nails Sergeant Calhoun (voice of Jane Lynch) from the first-person action game Hero’s Duty, and feisty misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman) from the candy-coated cart-racing game Sugar Rush, who may just be his first real friend. But everything changes when a deadly enemy is unleashed, threatening the entire arcade and Vanellope herself. Ralph finally gets his chance to save the day—but can he do it in time? Rated PG by the MPAA, “Wreck-It Ralph” crashes onto the big screen on November 2, 2012, in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters. For more information, visit Disney.com/wreck-it-ralph, like us on Facebook: facebook.com/WreckItRalph and follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/wreckitralph.


]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1030-See-Wreck-It-Ralph-at-the-El-Capitan-Theatre-in-Hollywood-Nov-2-Dec-18-2012 Disney Cruise Line alters 2013 sailings from Galveston http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1005-Disney-Cruise-Line-alters-2013-sailings-from-Galveston Mon, 20 Aug 2012 17:10:12 GMT Mary Kraemer from MousePlanet sponsor MouseEar Vacations (http://www.maryk-mouseearvacations.com/)... Mary Kraemer from MousePlanet sponsor MouseEar Vacations just sent us an update about Disney Cruise Line's plans for the 2013 Galveston sailings onboard the Disney Magic. Disney is converting three of the planned 8-night cruises into six 4-night cruises, and adding stops at Castaway Cay and Port Canaveral to some of the remaining 8-night cruises to satisfy customer demand.

New 4-night cruises:

The 8-night cruises previously scheduled to depart 2/1/13; 3/15/13 and 4/12/13 have been canceled. Instead, Disney will offer 4-night cruises to Cozumel departing 2/1/13; 2/5/13; 3/15/13 3/19/13; 4/12/13 and 4/16/13.

Disney has not yet released the itinerary for these 4-night cruises. Passengers who already booked one of the affected sailings will be contacted and offered the opportunity to re-book a different cruise, or cancel the trip entirely.

New ports for 8-night cruises:

Disney is also modifying the 8-night cruises scheduled to depart on 1/18/13; 2/15/13; 3/1/13; 3/29/13; 4/26/13 and 5/10/13 to replace the Grand Cayman and Costa Maya stops with a day at Disney's private island Castaway Cay, and a day at Port Canaveral, Florida. Passengers will receive transportation to Walt Disney World and a one-day park-hopper ticket. Disney says this change is due to customer demand.
New itinerary:

o Friday Galveston
o Saturday Day At Sea
o Sunday Day At Sea
o Monday Disney’s Castaway Cay
o Tuesday Port Canaveral, Florida
o Wednesday Day At Sea
o Thursday Key West, Florida
o Friday Day At Sea
o Saturday Galveston

Original itinerary:

o Friday Galveston
o Saturday Day At Sea
o Sunday Key West, Florida
o Monday At Sea
o Tuesday Grand Cayman
o Wednesday Costa Maya
o Thursday Cozumel
o Friday Day At Sea
o Saturday Galveston

Passengers who already booked one of the affected sailings will be contacted and offered the opportunity to re-book a different cruise, or cancel the trip entirely.

New bookings for these modified cruises opens Sept. 5, 2012. The Disney Cruise Line website has not yet been updated to reflect the new cruises. ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?1005-Disney-Cruise-Line-alters-2013-sailings-from-Galveston Not for Publication - a few words about embargoes http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?979-Not-for-Publication-a-few-words-about-embargoes Thu, 07 Jun 2012 01:00:50 GMT In the past few days, some unofficial Disney websites have taken flack for publishing stories about... In the past few days, some unofficial Disney websites have taken flack for publishing stories about Cars Land and Buena Vista Street, the crown jewels of the 12-acre expansion and 5-year refurbishment of Disney California Adventure. These sites have posted reports, photos and even video taken during last weekend's previews for Disney employees and their guests, despite strict "no photography, no social media" rules that could only have been made more clear had they been tattooed on each person as they passed behind the construction walls.

The writers are blasted for breaking an embargo and violating Disney policy, accused of spoiling the magic or stealing Disney's thunder. The attacks have become extremely hostile, and in some cases, downright abusive.

With three days of previews for Disneyland Resort employees starting today, it is certain that additional photos will leak out over the next 72 hours. And once the Annual Passholder previews begin Saturday, the flood of Cars Land photos posted may test the limits of Instagram, Facebook and Picassa to handle them all.

So in this relative calm before the storm, I wanted to share some thoughts on embargoes and non-disclosure policies, and explain how MousePlanet plans to navigate these waters as we prepare our own coverage of Cars Land.

First, some background. Companies use embargoes to provide information to media outlets so they can have a story ready to run as soon as the announcement is official. If you've been impressed with how quickly your favorite news source can digest an announcement - say perhaps, that Orange is releasing a new yPhone - the odds are good that they really knew about it hours or even days ago. By giving writers advance notice, companies give us time to write articles so they are ready to publish as soon as the announcement is made.

Disney is no different in their use of embargoes, frequently sending press releases in advance of announcements, or allowing media to see new attractions before they are open to the public.

Sometimes just the information is embargoed. For example, I am currently allowed to say that I visited Cars Land Tuesday, but that's all I can say right now.

Sometimes the whole thing is embargoed. For the Give a Day, Get a Day announcement, not only was coverage of the live announcement embargoed, but the fact that there WOULD BE a live announcement was also embargoed.

Sometimes even the existence of an embargo is embargoed. I'd give an example, but, well, you see the problem...

There is a lot of debate about the role of embargoes in new and social media, especially among sites that cover technology. Several major tech blogs have famously flaunted major embargoes and lived to write about it, with only Apple really having the muscle to make sites tow the line.

There is also debate about whether an embargo applies if a journalist doesn't agree to it. I am frequently sent unsolicited embargoed press releases, without anybody asking first me if I will agree to hold it. It's telling me a secret BEFORE making me swear I won't tell anyone else - I'm flattered by your trust, but you might want to be more careful who else you tell your secrets to.

What happens when one media outlet learns about embargoed information before the announcement because someone else broke an embargo. Does that outlet have an obligation to honor an embargo they never agreed to? Are they precluded from running the story to protect another reporter's integrity? If I accept an embargo but another site breaks it, can I then follow suit?

To further complicate the situation, there are many sites out there who are not recognized as media by Disney, and who don't receive embargoed press releases or attend embargoed events. As far as I am concerned, those sites do not have an obligation to honor Disney's embargo. They aren't using information obtained from Disney, and, since they never agreed to an embargo, can't be accused of breaking it.

There has also been heated discussion about non-disclosure policies, especially when dealing with information from cast member sources. Let's all be honest, people come to sites like MousePlanet because we often have information you want before Disney is ready to release it, or information that Disney will never release. Much of that information comes from cast members, who, by knowingly providing that information to MousePlanet, are by definition breaking Disney's non-disclosure policy.

If all cast members followed their company policy to the letter, there would be a lot less news on MousePlanet, or any Disney-oriented site.

As a reporter, I do not feel an obligation to make someone else honor their employment agreement. If a CM wants to send me, say, the as-yet-unannounced schedule for the 2012 Halloween parties, I'd run that information without hesitation (provided I trusted the source). If a contractor wants to send me information about a project they're developing for Disney, I'm all ears. I do draw the line at knowingly publishing information that can be traced to a specific source or threaten someone's job; that personal policy has cost me some "scoops," but lets me sleep at night.

By the way, this also goes for our MousePad discussion forum. If you are a cast member and want to break your non-disclosure agreement by posting some company secret, you're welcome to do so. Just don't blame us if your manager figures out that you're "disneycm2345" and calls you in for a little chat. Yes, it's happened.

Bringing this back to Cars Land:

As I said before, I had the opportunity to visit Cars Land this week, but details of where I went, what I saw, what I did, who I interviewed or what they said is officially on embargo until June 13. I agreed to that embargo when I accepted the invitation to that event, and I will honor that agreement.

However, before receiving the invitation to this week's media event, I had already purchased tickets to the annual passholder previews this weekend. I bought these tickets specifically so I could photograph Cars Land for MousePlanet.

Regardless of what Disney may have intended or wished (I've heard so many conflicting versions that I don't think we'll ever know the real story), there WAS no prohibition on photography communicated when those tickets went on sale, and Disney has since confirmed that the normal rules for guest photography will be in place this weekend. I'll be there with my personal camera, and I expect to be in good company - I know of at least five other credentialed outlets, including a local newspaper, who also bought tickets for their reporters.

So that puts me on a delicate tightrope, and, after consulting with my Disney publicist, here's how I intend to walk it:

I won't be posting a ton of photos during the Cars Land / Buena Vista Street preview on Saturday. Frankly, I relish the opportunity to spend the day in the new lands without the obligation to tweet my every impression.

On Monday and Tuesday of next week, MousePlanet will publish photo teasers of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street, using only photos taken during the AP previews. If you want yet another play-by-play description of Radiator Springs Racers, I'm sure you know where to find it.

We'll begin our comprehensive coverage of cars Land on June 13th, once the embargo is lifted and we can share all of the content from the media events. Thanks to the effort of a really great team, we'll have live coverage on both the 14th and 15th on MousePlanet.com. We also have a really great schedule of articles planned all the way through June 22 and even beyond, with something new every day. We hope you'll check back daily for new content.

I hope this gives some context for the Cars Land situation, explains my personal feelings on the various related matters, and lets our readers know what to expect next week. We really can't wait to share every inch of these new lands with you - but we agreed to. We think it's worth the wait.

Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix
CEO
MousePlanet, Inc. ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?979-Not-for-Publication-a-few-words-about-embargoes Disney to partner with Starbucks in six U.S. theme park locations http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?974-Disney-to-partner-with-Starbucks-in-six-U-S-theme-park-locations Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:17:42 GMT There have been rumblings online for several months now about a Starbucks location coming to the... There have been rumblings online for several months now about a Starbucks location coming to the Disneyland Resort. The talk is nothing new - bloggers have been writing about possible Disney/Starbucks partnerships for years, but Disney has steadfastly refused to comment on the rumors.

Today the company confirmed that when Buena Vista Street opens in Disney California Adventure this June there will be a Starbucks located in the Fiddler, Fifer and Practical Café - but that's only part of the story. The DCA Starbucks is just one of six themed locations set to open at both the California and Walt Disney World Resorts in the coming year, one inside each of the domestic theme parks.

The Starbucks locations will serve a variety of popular Starbucks drinks and food items along with Disney's own food and beverage offerings. No official additional information about specific locations or opening dates for the other five theme parks was included in the announcement.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?974-Disney-to-partner-with-Starbucks-in-six-U-S-theme-park-locations Disney Cruise Line 2013: goodbye Los Angeles, hello Miami and Europe http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?941-Disney-Cruise-Line-2013-goodbye-Los-Angeles-hello-Miami-and-Europe Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:33:08 GMT Disney Cruise Line this morning released the much-anticipated 2013 itineraries for the Magic and... Disney Cruise Line this morning released the much-anticipated 2013 itineraries for the Magic and Wonder, confirming that the line will leave Los Angeles at the end of 2012, and announcing a return to Europe. The full press release is below, but here are the highlights.

Disney Wonder

The Wonder is set to log quite a few miles through the Panama Canal in the next two years as Disney relocates the ship from Los Angeles to Miami for five months, before returning the ship to Vancouver for the 2013 Alaska cruise season.

After the Wonder arrives in Miami on December 23, the ship will sail one seven-night Christmas Cruise and one six-night New Year's Eve cruise before settling into a series of four- and five-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean.

The three Miami-based itineraries take passengers to a variety of ports, including Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; Key West; Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. Interestingly, one of the five-night options skips Castaway Cay entirely, stopping instead in Grand Cayman.

When the Wonder returns to Alaska in May, the ship will base once more in Vancouver. Disney's first season of Alaska cruises sailed from Vancouver in 2011, but for the 2012 season the line will sail from Seattle.

What we don't yet know is what the Wonder will do after the 2013 Alaska season winds up in September. Will Disney send the ship back to Miami for the fall and winter, or give Los Angeles another try?

Disney Magic

The Magic will continue to sail from the Port of Galveston through May 2013, before heading back across the Atlantic for another season of European cruises departing from Barcelona.

From Galveston, Disney will continue to offer six- and eight-night cruises visiting Grand Cayman, Cozumel and (on the longer cruise) Costa Maya.

For the 2013 European cruise season, Disney is offering a wide mix of itineraries and destinations, from a four-night "Mediterranean Getaway" to 12-night cruises visiting new-to-Disney ports like Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles.

These itineraries seem crafted to appeal to the widest possible audience, everything from new cruisers who want a short taste of life onboard a Disney ship, to experienced travelers looking for new destinations. I note that Disney split the new ports across the two 12-night itineraries, creating what could be a very nice 24-day vacation for folks willing to book back-to-back cruises.

Like the Wonder, Disney hasn't yet said what it plans to do with the Magic once the European season is over. The ship could head back to Galveston, or may return to New York for another round of cruises along the Canada/New England Coast.

Bookings for the 2013 schedule open to the general public January 26, 2012; Gold- and Platinum-level Castaway Club members can book starting January 25.

CELEBRATION, Fla. (Jan. 24, 2012) – In 2013, Disney Cruise Line will offer new itineraries, including an expanded portfolio of European cruises with new destinations such as Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles. In addition, Disney Cruise Line will utilize a second homeport in Florida, with Caribbean sailings departing from the Port of Miami for the first time.

With the addition of the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy to the fleet of cruise ships, Disney Cruise Line is able to take more families to more destinations around the world. Disney Cruise Line has always catered to the unique vacation needs of families, and next year will be enhancing the cruise options for guests — whether it’s sun and sand in the Caribbean, outdoor adventures in Alaska or experiencing the wonders of Europe.


Highlights of the Disney Cruise Line 2013 schedule (which can be booked beginning Jan. 26, 2012) include…


Mediterranean from Barcelona

Beginning June 1, 2013, the Disney Magic returns to Europe with plenty of new twists to the Mediterranean itineraries, including a four-night option and special 12-night sailings in addition to seven-night itineraries that treat guests to the best of Europe during the three-month season.


The new 12-night sailings visit destinations such as Venice, Italy, and Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast on one itinerary and Ephesus, Turkey and the Greek Isles including Athens, on another. Each itinerary will offer a sailing departing in June and another departing in July.


All itineraries depart from Barcelona, Spain, as the Disney Magic takes guests on an exciting journey of richly diverse cities, cultures and people. With romantic boulevards, bustling bazaars, iconic locations, mild climates, sun-drenched islands and the brilliant blue Mediterranean Sea, guests will enjoy a world-class family vacation with legendary Disney guest service.


Rates start at $796 per person for four-night cruises, $1,015 per person for seven-night cruises and $2,244 for 12-night cruises departing from Barcelona for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Four-night Mediterranean Getaway

Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Departure dates: July 9, Aug. 6


Seven-night Mediterranean Cruise
Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples, Italy
Departure dates: June 1, 8, Aug. 10, 17, 24, 31


12-night Mediterranean with Greece
Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Valetta, Malta
Departure dates: June 15, July 13


12-night Mediterranean with Venice
Ports:Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples, Italy; Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Valetta, Malta
Departure dates: June 27, July 25


Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Miami

Disney Cruise Line will sail from Miami for the first time on Dec. 23, 2012. One six- and one seven-night Caribbean sailing aboard the Disney Wonder will set the stage for a schedule of four- and five-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean between Jan. 5, 2013, and May 2, 2013. The four- and five-night cruises have a variety of itineraries. Ports of call may include Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; Key West; Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.


The itineraries offer families magical days at sea to explore all of the fun aboard the Disney Wonder and days in port to lounge on warm, golden beaches, to swim and snorkel in azure waters or to shop to their heart’s content in exotic marketplaces.


Rates for four- and five-night cruises departing from Miami start at $440 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


Five-night Caribbean
Ports: Miami, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
Departure dates: Jan. 5, 19, Feb, 2, 16, March 2, 16, 30, April 13, 27

Five-night Caribbean

Ports:Miami, Grand Cayman, Cozumel
Departure dates:Jan. 14, 28, Feb. 11, 25, March 11, 25, April 8, 22

Four-night Bahamas

Ports: Miami, Key West, Nassau, Castaway Cay
Departure dates: Jan. 10, 24, Feb. 7, 21, March 7, 21, April 4, 18, May 2

Western Caribbean from Galveston


The Disney Magic, which will begin sailing from Texas in 2012, will continue to sail from the Port of Galveston through May 2013, to the Western Caribbean.

Rates start at $750 per person for six-night cruises and $920 per person for eight-night cruises departing from Galveston for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Six-night Caribbean:

Ports: Galveston, Grand Cayman, Cozumel
Departure dates: Dec. 15 and 29, 2012, Jan. 12, 26, Feb. 9, 23, March 9, 23, April 6, 20. May 4

Eight-night Caribbean:

Ports: Galveston, Key West, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel
Departure dates: Dec. 21, 2012, Jan. 4, 18, Feb. 1, 15, March 1, 15, 29, April 12, 26, May 10

Alaska from Vancouver


Beginning May 27, 2013, the Disney Wonder will sail seven-night cruises from Vancouver to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska.


These cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney Cruise Line ship. Disney Cruise Line worked closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history.


Rates for seven-night Alaska cruises departing from Vancouver start at $1,015 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Seven-night Alaska:

Ports: Vancouver, Tracy Arm (scenic cruising through fjord), Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan

Departure dates: May 27, June 3, 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2

Caribbean and Bahamas from Port Canaveral


The Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will continue to sail a variety of Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing from Port Canaveral.


The Disney Fantasy will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries – alternating eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). Special Eastern Caribbean sailings, January through April 2013, stop at San Juan, Puerto Rico. All Disney Fantasy itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.


Rates for seven-night Caribbean cruises on the Disney Fantasy start at $1,085 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.


The Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.


Rates for three- and four-night Bahamian cruises on the Disney Dream start at $450 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Adventures By Disney


Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney will offer families unique land and sea experiences in the Mediterranean. Available on select departures, guests can maximize the magic with three-night or four-night pre-cruise Adventures by Disney vacation itineraries in Barcelona and Madrid. These immersive add-ons allow families to envelop themselves in the culture of the region with VIP access in the most-sought-after tourist destinations – such as the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona and the El Prado museum in Madrid – as well as hands-on lessons in archeology, flamenco dancing, local cuisine and stained glass crafting. Each Adventures by Disney departure is led by knowledgeable Adventure Guides who handle all the planning logistics so parents can relax and enjoy quality time with their family.


Families can also enhance seven-night and 12-night Mediterranean sailings with Adventures by Disney Onboard Experience packages. Throughout the voyage, guests will have access to exclusive Adventures by Disney activities and concierge service from dedicated Adventure Guides. These guides will also lead travelers at each port, helping them unlock the wonders of each destination through exclusive excursions and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Specific itinerary and pricing information for the 2013 Adventures by Disney experiences will be available in March 2012.


All Disney Cruise Line pricing reflects a category 11C standard inside stateroom, Government Taxes and Fees not included. Bookings for the 2013 schedule open Jan. 26, 2012.


To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit http://www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.
]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?941-Disney-Cruise-Line-2013-goodbye-Los-Angeles-hello-Miami-and-Europe Mad T Party to replace ElecTRONica at Disney California Adventure http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?937-Mad-T-Party-to-replace-ElecTRONica-at-Disney-California-Adventure Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:00:07 GMT When Disney announced last year that ElecTRONica, the nighttime dance party introduced at Disney... When Disney announced last year that ElecTRONica, the nighttime dance party introduced at Disney California Adventure in September 2010 to promote the then-upcoming release of Tron: Legacy, would be extended through Spring 2012, the reactions of MousePlanet readers ranged from delighted to disgusted. One reader groused that the DCA expansion project had left park managers "too busy, tired, cash-strapped, and lazy to try and come up with something else," but another reader said "someone like myself who is further away and short of extra time and money is excited to have a bit more time to attempt to visit Disneyland and experience it."

If you haven't yet made your pilgrimage to see ElecTRONica, time is running out. Disney will announce today that this summer, a new nighttime event called the Mad T Party will fill the streets of the Hollywood Pictures Backlot with two stages, a lounge and an interactive game area. Based on the Tim Burton version of Alice in Wonderland, Mad T Party combines the movie synergy of the ElecTRONica promotion with the colorful atmosphere of the Glow Fest event in the summer of 2010.



From the Disney announcement:

Beginning summer 2012, Disney California Adventure park guests will fall into the rabbit hole and land in a wild and whimsical world at Mad T Party. Inspired by the world of Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland,” the all-new nighttime family celebration will feature a live band, unique entertainment, fun-filled games and plenty of dancing. Familiar faces from the story will be re-imagined in new ways to immerse guests in a captivating world that’s filled with exclusive signature foods, beverages and merchandise offerings.

Looking at the concept art provided by Disney, it appears that the main stage will take the place of the current ElecTRONica DJ booth, next to the Monster's Inc. attraction entrance. (You can see the Monsters facade on the right side of the drawing). The band featured on this stage will be dressed in costumes that liken back to the Tim Burton vision of Wonderland.



A “House of Cards” stage outside Stage 12 (currently the home of Flynn's Arcade) will be used as a secondary stage, and draw people to the new "interactive game area." No additional details about this venue were released. Based on the drawing, the End of the Line Club will be re-imagined into a new House of Cards-themed bar, and the catering truck will receive a makeover as well. We don't know if the party will extend out onto Hollywood Boulevard as ElecTRONica currently does, of if it will be kept in the back corner of the backlot.

Disney has said only that Mad T Party will begin in the summer, which is the same language they continue to use when discussing the opening date of Cars Land. Though ElecTRONica is expected to continue through the spring, the show is not scheduled beyond January 28. As Alice might say, "curiouser and curiouser..." ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?937-Mad-T-Party-to-replace-ElecTRONica-at-Disney-California-Adventure <![CDATA[Disney Vacation Club confirms Disney's Grand Floridian Villas to open in late 2013]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?932-Disney-Vacation-Club-confirms-Disney-s-Grand-Floridian-Villas-to-open-in-late-2013 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:15:47 GMT The long-rumored Disney Vacation Club addition to Disney's Grand Floridian hotel was officially confirmed by the Walt Disney company in a brief press release today. (Read the release in its entirety below.) Buzz about the potential project picked up earlier this year when a member at MouseOwners.com came across a filing by Disney with with the South Florida Water Management District, for a new construction project at the Grand Floridian.






MousePlanet's Mark Goldhaber wrote about the proposed development in March, saying,

The new resort will have 200 keyed entries (a "keyed entry" is any room that can be locked off and entered separately, though it will probably counted as fewer "two-bedroom equivalents"—which counts connected studio and one-bedroom units as a single "two-bedroom equivalent"), but we have received word that there will also be additional existing rooms at the Grand Floridian that will be converted to DVC units, as well. This will result in a roll-out similar to that of the Animal Kingdom Villas, where the converted fourth- and fifth-floor rooms in the original Lodge building (now called "Jambo House") were later joined by the new rooms in the Kidani Village addition.

The existing parking lot by the to-be-demolished tennis courts will be removed, and replaced by two new parking lots—a 192-space lot for the guests of the new building and a 124-space gated lot specifically for the Wedding Pavilion. The gated lot will connect directly to the circular driveway for the Wedding Pavilion, while the resort lot will connect to the circular drive for the new building and fill the space between the existing Spa & Health Club (which will not be affected), the Wedding Pavilion lot and the main entry driveway. The entry to the new lots will cover much of the current tennis courts, though it appears from the site plan that enough room will remain for a half-court basketball court adjacent to the Spa & Health Club. Don't expect these new parking lots to ease parking restrictions at the Grand Floridian, though. Magic Kingdom resort parking is apparently enough of a problem that all Magic Kingdom resorts might be restricting their parking more in the future.






According to the announcement, the new property is slated to open in late 2013, and will be the 12th DVC property. In addition to the 8 existing Walt Disney World DVC resorts, Disney Vacation Club recently opened Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, and operates the The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort, Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort in South Carolina, and Disney's Vero Beach Resort in Florida.

Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _____________________________

Received from Disney Vacation Club:


Disney Vacation Club Announces New Development Project at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

CELEBRATION, Fla. (December 8, 2011) – A new resort development announced today will expand Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, distinguished as the flagship hotel at the Walt Disney World Resort, and continue the growth of Disney Vacation Club, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program.

Disney Vacation Club plans to build an estimated 147 villas as part of a previously announced expansion of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, one of the premier resort hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Estimated to open in late 2013, this new resort experience is slated to be the 12th Disney Vacation Club property and will be located near the spa and wedding pavilion at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. In addition to villa accommodations, plans for the expansion include a children’s water-play area and other amenities.

“We continually look for ways to expand Disney Vacation Club by creating resort experiences that our members will love,” said Claire Bilby, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club. “With the continued popularity of Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, we are thrilled to offer our members and guests a new resort option along the monorail system with easy access to the Magic Kingdom Park, as well as a variety of shopping, dining and recreation experiences.”

Disney Vacation Club is owned by Disney Vacation Development Inc., part of the magic of The Walt Disney Company. To learn more, visit www.disneyvacationclub.com. ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?932-Disney-Vacation-Club-confirms-Disney-s-Grand-Floridian-Villas-to-open-in-late-2013 Coming up - a First Look behind the curtain of the Disney Fantasy http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?931-Coming-up-a-First-Look-behind-the-curtain-of-the-Disney-Fantasy Tue, 06 Dec 2011 03:03:47 GMT For the last few days I've been teasing followers of my @MousePlanetAVP account on Twitter with comments about a "super secret" trip I began this morning. The embargo has been lifted, so now I can reveal where I am - Toronto, Canada, the site of the Disney Cruise Line's entertainment rehearsal facility.

Tomorrow morning, Disney Cruise Line is giving a small group of travel writers and bloggers a tour of the facility and a sneak peek at some of the entertainment planned for the new Disney Fantasy when it launches next year, including a preview of the as-yet-unannounced 3rd production for the ship.

Disney has already confirmed that "Disney's Believe" and "Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular" will be presented on the Fantasy, but the third show has remained a mystery. Tomorrow, all will be revealed, and I hope to have a preview to share with you after the event. Stay tuned!

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?931-Coming-up-a-First-Look-behind-the-curtain-of-the-Disney-Fantasy Disneyland invites select passholders to Candlelight Processional experience http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?925-Disneyland-invites-select-passholders-to-Candlelight-Processional-experience Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:35:52 GMT A Disneyland annual passholder just forwarded a letter they received from the Resort, inviting them... A Disneyland annual passholder just forwarded a letter they received from the Resort, inviting them to an exclusive Candlelight Processional experience December 4 & 5, 2011.

The experience kicks off with a welcome reception and dinner at the Grand Californian Hotel the evening of Sunday, December 4, followed by reserved seating for the 8pm Candlelight Processional.

Monday morning (December 5, Walt Disney's birthday), guests attend a sunrise breakfast at the Plaza Inn, and take a pre-opening tour of Disneyland with Disney Legends and creative staff, including Dave Smith, Tony Baxter, Bob Gurr, Marty Sklar and David Caranci.

Event guests also receive reserved seating for A Christmas Fantasy Parade, and a tour of Walt's apartment above the Main Street Fire Station. The two-day event includes a one-night stay at the Grand Californian Hotel, and is $2500 per couple. Additional guests can be added for $1000 per person, but must share the same hotel room.

The passholder who received this particular invitation is a Premier passholder who has not visited Disneyland "in a while," but we don't know from this one example what particular passholder demographic Disney is targeting for this specific event.

After offering Candlelight dining package for several years, Disney went a different direction in 2009, creating a $275-per-person Candlelight event exclusively for D23 members. There was no dining package in 2010, save for the traditional reserved seating for Club 33 members and guests of the Resort's Public Relations department.

With what was reportedly a lackluster response to the D23 event, I can say I'm honestly surprised Disney went so far above that pricepoint when crafting this new package, but admit that there are some very nice, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities in this offering.

What is your reaction to this offer? Has Disney completely missed the mark with this $2500 package, or is the experience worth the price?

We would also love to hear from other readers who received this offer - what type of pass do you hold, and how frequently and recently have you visited Disneyland? ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?925-Disneyland-invites-select-passholders-to-Candlelight-Processional-experience Disney Cruise Line returning to Hawaii in October, 2012 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?902-Disney-Cruise-Line-returning-to-Hawaii-in-October-2012 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 07:49:44 GMT If you can't sail on the 15-night cruise to Hawaii on the Disney Wonder in April 2012, you now have a second chance to cruise to Hawaii with Disney. DCL just announced a second Hawaii cruise, this one a 14-night sailing departing October 14, 2012. The cruise includes 8 sea days, and stops in Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the big island of Hawaii.

"We listen to our guests, and shortly after we announced our first Hawaiian voyage it was clear our guests wanted more options to visit Hawaii," said Disney Cruise Line president Karl Holz.

Prices start at $1800 per person, double occupancy, for a standard inside stateroom. Disney hasn't said when the new itinerary will go on sale, so we recommend checking with a Disney-specialist travel agency who can book as soon as reservations open.

Adrienne

Contact a MousePlanet sponsor travel agency for assistance in booking your next trip
Get Away Today
800-523-6116
www.getawaytoday.com
Mouse Ears Vacations
www.mouseearvacations.com

Small World Vacations
www.smallworldvacations.com
]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?902-Disney-Cruise-Line-returning-to-Hawaii-in-October-2012 Disney counters boy wizards with blue aliens http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?900-Disney-counters-boy-wizards-with-blue-aliens Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:34:46 GMT Disney CEO Bob Iger just wrapped up a press conference at the Walt Disney Imagineering offices in... Disney CEO Bob Iger just wrapped up a press conference at the Walt Disney Imagineering offices in Glendale, where it was announced that Disney Parks and Resorts has signed an exclusive licensing deal to open entire lands based on James Cameron's Avatar film. [Official press release below] The first such land will be build in Orlando, at Disney's Animal Kingdom park.

Construction on the Avatar project is scheduled to begin in 2013, with completion sometime in 2016. The second and third Avatar films are slated to be released in 2014 and 2015, giving Imagineers even more to work with as they bring the fictional realm of Pandora to life.

Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Tom Staggs said that the avatar-themed lands will have multiple rides, along with entertainment, shops and food and beverage locations. No budget was revealed, but the cost was compared to the new 12-acre Cars Land, now under construction at Disney California Adventure.

Preliminary design work has just begun on the project, and basically no details were available - size; number and type of attractions; additional locations.

Disney's deal is surely a response to the success of Universal's Harry Potter land. Disney has had single-attraction licenses before, with Star Tours and the Tower of Terror, but the Avatar project will mark the first time Disney has built an entire land based on a licensed property. It makes you wonder what Star Wars land would have looked like, had Disney pursued that license.

Disney will likely milk the Avatar buzz for all they can over the next half decade, so let the speculation and "armchair Imagineeering" begin. What was your first reaction to the news, and are you looking forward to Avatar-land? What rides and shows would you like to see based on this property? Does Avatar have the same draw and longevity as the Harry Potter franchise?

Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix

DISNEY, FOX AND JAMES CAMERON TO BRING AVATAR TO LIFE AT DISNEY PARKS

Long-term agreement will bring AVATAR themed lands to Disney parks, with the first at Walt Disney World in Orlando

BURBANK (September 20, 2011) - Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Worldwide is joining forces with visionary filmmaker James Cameron and Fox Filmed Entertainment to bring the world of AVATAR to life at Disney parks. Through an exclusive agreement announced today by Disney, Cameron’s Lightstorm Entertainment and Fox, Disney will partner with Cameron and producing partner Jon Landau to create themed lands that will give theme park guests the opportunity to explore the mysterious universe of AVATAR first hand. Disney plans to build the first AVATAR themed land at Walt Disney World, within the Animal Kingdom park. With its emphasis on living in harmony with nature, Animal Kingdom is a natural fit for the AVATAR stories, which share the same philosophy. Construction is expected to begin by 2013.

“James Cameron is a groundbreaking filmmaker and gifted storyteller who shares our passion for creativity, technological innovation and delivering the best experience possible,” said Robert A. Iger, President and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “With this agreement, we have the extraordinary opportunity to combine James’ talent and vision with the imagination and expertise of Disney.”

“AVATAR created a world which audiences can discover again and again and now, through this incredible partnership with Disney, we'll be able to bring Pandora to life like never before. With two new AVATAR films currently in development, we'll have even more locations, characters and stories to explore,” said James Cameron. “I'm chomping at the bit to start work with Disney's legendary Imagineers to bring our AVATAR universe to life. Our goal is to go beyond current boundaries of technical innovation and experiential storytelling, and give park goers the chance to see, hear, and touch the world of AVATAR with an unprecedented sense of reality.”

The agreement announced today gives The Walt Disney Company exclusive global theme park rights to the AVATAR franchise and provides for additional AVATAR themed lands at other Disney parks. The other locations will be determined by Disney and its international theme park partners. James Cameron, Jon Landau and their Lightstorm Entertainment group will serve as creative consultants on the projects and will partner with Walt Disney Imagineering in the design and development of the AVATAR themed lands.

“This exciting new venture combines the world of AVATAR with the enormous reach of Disney and the incomparable talent of Jim Cameron,” commented Fox Filmed Entertainment chairmen Jim Gianopulos and Tom Rothman. “While Jim is bringing audiences further into Pandora with the next two chapters in the AVATAR motion picture saga, the theme park attraction will likewise bring a new dimension to the amazing universe he created.”

“AVATAR is a uniquely powerful franchise that has global appeal with audiences of all ages. Its spectacular settings, intriguing characters, imaginative creatures, and strong themes of family and loyalty make it a perfect fit for Disney,” said Thomas O. Staggs, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We can’t wait to give our guests the ability to journey to Pandora and explore the incredible immersive world of AVATAR in person.”

In addition to setting a global box office record, AVATAR has been hailed as one of the most innovative and visually stunning movies ever produced. With its advanced motion capture and 3-D digital projection technologies developed by James Cameron and his team, moviegoers were able to connect with the world of AVATAR in new and engaging ways.

This new venture complements Walt Disney Parks & Resorts’ strategic efforts to continue to invest in its core theme park businesses around the world while simultaneously expanding into other parts of the family vacation business.
]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?900-Disney-counters-boy-wizards-with-blue-aliens First look: Behind the walls in Cars Land http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?896-First-look-Behind-the-walls-in-Cars-Land Thu, 15 Sep 2011 22:06:43 GMT The Disney Parks Blog... The Disney Parks Blog announced earlier today that the Blue Sky Cellar in Disney California Adventure will close Monday, September 19 for a quick update. On Friday, September 23, Walt Disney Imagineering will reopen the preview center with new information about Buena Vista Street and Cars Land, including videos, models, renderings and behind-the-wall photos of the Cars Land construction site.

MousePlanet readers get an early look at five of these construction photos below. They show several angles on Radiator Springs Racers, a closer look at the Cozy Cones, and a new perspective on Flo’s V8 Café. Click on any photo for a much bigger image:


Radiator Springs Racers in the foreground with Flo’s V8 Café and Sally’s Cozy Cones in the distance. Photo (c) Disney.


Radiator Springs Racers. Photo (c) Disney.


Banked turn on Radiator Springs Racers. Photo (c) Disney.


Flo’s V8 Café. Photo (c) Disney.


Sally’s Cozy Cones. Photo (c) Disney.

The Blog also posted a time-lapse video of the Carthay Circle Theatre construction site. This video will be featured in the Blue Sky Cellar when it reopens.



The Blue Sky Cellar will reopen on Friday, September 23.

Adrienne

 ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?896-First-look-Behind-the-walls-in-Cars-Land CHOC Taste of Downtown Disney event - August 11, 2011 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?866-CHOC-Taste-of-Downtown-Disney-event-August-11-2011 Sat, 16 Jul 2011 02:11:53 GMT I just received this announcement from CHOC about their next Taste of Downtown Disney event. It's less than a month away, so mark your calendars!
Celebrate an evening of Wine, Food and Friends at the 4th Annual Taste of Downtown Disney®.

Join us as we taste and savor the flavors of fine cuisine, wine and spirits while enjoying the unique ambience and flair of the Downtown Disney® District. Top off the evening by indulging in decadent desserts and coffee. Live entertainment will also be featured throughout the evening for your listening pleasure.

Guests will enjoy a champagne reception, tray passed appetizers, olive tasting and select wine/spirits/beer pairings at Catal Restaurant & Uva Bar, ESPN® Zone, House of Blues®, La Brea Bakery® Café, Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria, Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen® and Tortilla Jo's.

Festivities will begin at 6:00 PM and complementary valet parking is provided at the Downtown Disney® Valet Circle.

Guests will be greeted at the CHOC Welcome Tent outside the ESPN® Zone, from there they will be escorted to welcome reception.

General Admission is $75.00 with proceeds benefitting CHOC Children's.

Special Package Offers:
Package #1 (Only 8 Packages Available)
Fireworks viewing at Disneyland Hotel Concierge with a bottle of wine $125.00 per person - Includes one ticket to the Taste of Downtown Disney, Includes refreshments in the Concierge Lounge at the Disneyland Hotel (11th floor)

Package #2 (Only 10 Packages Available)
World of Color VIP viewing with park escort $200.00 per person
For more information or to purchase tickets click here.
I attended this event last year, and while I thought there were a few issues, it was a fun night and the event benefits a very worthy organization. Tickets are $75 this year, up from $50 last year, but it's still quite the value - especially if you are a wine drinker.

As I noted last year, this would be a fun night out for friends or couples. I would definitely recommend purchasing your tickets as a group to make sure you're assigned to the same rotation. We had asked CHOC about setting up a rotation for MousePlanet readers; I'll report back as soon as I hear from them on that.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?866-CHOC-Taste-of-Downtown-Disney-event-August-11-2011 Southern California resident discount on Mexican Riviera cruises 10/23-12/18 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?861-Southern-California-resident-discount-on-Mexican-Riviera-cruises-10-23-12-18 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:07:07 GMT We get a lot of questions about why people should work with a travel agent instead of just booking... We get a lot of questions about why people should work with a travel agent instead of just booking a Disney Cruise directly, and here's another reason - travel agents may know about special offers Disney isn't widely advertising.

Ted from Two Bears Travel just alerted me to a new discount being offered to Southern California residents (Zip codes 90000-93599) on most Disney Wonder cruises to the Mexican Riviera between October 23 and December 18, 2011. This is is a 25% discount on Category 9(A-D) staterooms only. Cat 9 staterooms have the large oceanview portholes but no balconies, and have a split bathroom. (This is actually the stateroom that I prefer.)

Even better, if you have already booked a Cat 9 cabin on an eligible cruise, you may be able to have your fare adjusted - contact your travel agent for help (see, this is another reason why you need one), or call Disney if you booked directly.

Disney is not advertising this offer, and it can end at any time. If you're interested, call a travel agent or Disney for a quote today!

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?861-Southern-California-resident-discount-on-Mexican-Riviera-cruises-10-23-12-18 Chase ending Disney Rewards for debit card holders; credit card program unchanged http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?841-Chase-ending-Disney-Rewards-for-debit-card-holders-credit-card-program-unchanged Fri, 15 Apr 2011 01:43:46 GMT Thanks to MousePlanet reader Steve S. for the tip, and for a MousePlanet Twitter follower for a... Thanks to MousePlanet reader Steve S. for the tip, and for a MousePlanet Twitter follower for a link to the Huffington Post story on this announcement.

Chase bank has begun notifying customer who hold Disney Rewards debit cards that they will no longer earn Disney Dream Reward Dollars when they use their Disney Rewards debit cards. According to a notice currently being sent to cardholders, Chase is making this change due to the Durbin Amendment, which places a cap on debit card swipe fees charged by banks. Chase has also recently notified customers in their other debit card rewards programs of similar changes.

The letter says Disney Rewards debit card holders will stop earning rewards on June 12, 2011, and have until October 31, 2011 to transfer their accumulated Disney Dream Reward Dollars to a Disney Rewards Redemption Card.

All theme park benefits - including merchandise discounts, stroller discounts, character meet-and-greet opportunity, guided tour discounts, dining discounts and special cardholder vacation packages - will also end on October 31, 2011 for Disney Rewards debit card holders.

After October 31, 2011, Disney Rewards debit card holders also lose the $50 Disney Cruise Line onboard credit and 10% Disney Store discount offered as part of the Disney Rewards Program.

Chase is also ending the annual fee associated with the card, and will issue a pro-rated refund to cardholders.

The Huffington Post received and published a sample of the letters being sent to cardholders. The letters very clearly state that this change only impacts the Disney Rewards debit card, not the Disney Rewards Visa credit card.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?841-Chase-ending-Disney-Rewards-for-debit-card-holders-credit-card-program-unchanged <![CDATA[April 2011 Product Releases, Programs & Promotions at the Walt Disney Parks & Resorts]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?840-April-2011-Product-Releases-Programs-amp-Promotions-at-the-Walt-Disney-Parks-amp-Resorts Tue, 12 Apr 2011 02:25:48 GMT The April, 2011 merchandise newsletter... The April, 2011 merchandise newsletter is created and distributed by Disney, and contains information about product releases and special promotions offered at the Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

Disney changed the format starting with the March issue, and the Newsletter is now a 12-page, full-color, 7MB file instead of a 2 or 3 page document. Click the link to open the PDF and view full details and images. If you don't want to download the whole thing, here are the highlights:

Disneyland Resort:

  • Muppets Vinylmation Series 2 Product Release & Signing - April 15 at the Disneyland Resort. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at D Street in the Downtown Disney District.
  • Tickets are on sale for the Sci-Fi Academy Pin Trading Event – June 24. Tickets are $70 per person, and include an event t-shirt and pin. Details are on the Disney pin trading website.
  • Disney Legend Jack Lindquist, the first president of Disneyland, will be on hand to sign his memoir In Service to the Mouse on May 1. will be appearing for a special book signing at The Disney Gallery, May 1 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Annual passholders will be able to purchase special merchandise commemorating the new Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and Goofy’s Sky School rides at Disney California Adventure, as well as the debut of Star Tours: The Adventures Continue at Disneyland.
  • Receive a Woven Throw for $15.95 with any purchase of $25 or more and/or a Deluxe Pin Trading Starter Set for only $15.95 with any purchase of $40 or more at participating Disneyland or Disney California Adventure merchandise locations.
  • Receive a Beach Towel for $12.95 with any purchase of $25 or more and/or a Watch for only $15.95 with any purchase of $40 or more at a participating Downtown Disney merchandise location.


Walt Disney World Resort

  • Precious Moments doll release and signing with Linda Rick. April 22 – 24, 2011 at Heritage Manor in Epcot from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Tickets are on sale for The Florida Project, a pin trading event to be held September 9-11 at Walt Disney World. Tickets are $115 per person, and includes an event t-shirt and pin. Extra-cost breakfast and dessert events are also offered. More information is available at the event website.
  • The Florida Project event will also include a Vinylmation Showcase on September 11 at Epcot from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Event admission is $40, and includes a limited edition commemorative gift.More information is available at the event website.
  • Annual passholders will be able to purchase special merchandise commemorating the debut of Star Tours: The Adventures Continue at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
  • Receive a Woven Throw for $15.95 with any purchase of $25 or more and/or a Deluxe Pin Trading Starter Set for only $15.95 with any purchase of $40 or more at any participating Walt Disney World theme park merchandise location.
  • Receive a Beach Towel for $12.95 with any purchase of $25 or more and/or a Watch for only $15.95 with any purchase of $40 or more at a participating Downtown Disney or Walt Disney World resort merchandise location.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?840-April-2011-Product-Releases-Programs-amp-Promotions-at-the-Walt-Disney-Parks-amp-Resorts Disneyland Annual Passholders can win chance to preview Star Tours May 23 - June 1 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?839-Disneyland-Annual-Passholders-can-win-chance-to-preview-Star-Tours-May-23-June-1 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 01:20:52 GMT The Disneyland Resort is offering Annual Passholders the opportunity to win a chance to be among... The Disneyland Resort is offering Annual Passholders the opportunity to win a chance to be among the first to ride Star Tours: The Adventures Continue during a "sneak peek" May 23 - June 1. The updated version of the popular Star Tours attraction is scheduled to debut at Walt Disney World on May 20, and reopen at Disneyland on June 3.

To enter, passholders must log onto the Disneyland Resort annual passholder website, and select the date(s) and time(s) they are available to attend a preview. Each passholder can select multiple time periods to increase their chances of winning, but can only win one spot. Each passholder can register to bring up to 5 additional passholders as guests. Winners will be notified by e-mail on or around May 16, 2011.

The previews will be offered during the following dates and times:

Monday, May 23, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 28, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 29, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

As May 28 and May 29, 2011 are blockout dates for the three least-expensive annual passes, Southern California Select, Southern California or Deluxe passholders or their guests who win a preview on one of those two days will also receive a 1-Day Disneyland Park blockout day ticket at no charge so they can attend the preview.

If you aren't a passholder or do not win a spot at a preview, don't lose hope - I'm still hearing that "soft opening" previews may be offered starting May 20th, and that non-passholders may be allowed to ride during the passholder previews if the lines are short enough.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?839-Disneyland-Annual-Passholders-can-win-chance-to-preview-Star-Tours-May-23-June-1 <![CDATA[It's official: Disney Cruise Line announces regional itineraries for 2012]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?838-It-s-official-Disney-Cruise-Line-announces-regional-itineraries-for-2012 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 17:59:05 GMT On Monday we received from a travel agent what was purported to be the Disney Cruise Line's 2012 schedule, two days before the official announcement this afternoon in New York. Now Disney has confirmed in 2012, Disney Cruise Line will sail from three new ports: New York; Seattle, Washington; and Galveston, Texas.

Rather than returning to Europe for another season of Mediterranean cruises, the Disney Magic will instead will sail to Canada, the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean from new home ports in New York and Galveston.

The Disney Wonder will offer a second season of cruises to Alaska in 2012, but will operate out of Seattle instead of Vancouver, British Columbia. In addition to sailings to the Mexican Riviera, the Wonder will test a new Pacific Coast itinerary, visiting San Diego and San Francisco. Disney will also offer a special 15-night round-trip cruise to Hawaii on the Disney Wonder, departing Los Angeles.

These new itineraries can be viewed as one way Disney is responding to growing concerns about international travel, especially among passengers traveling with children.

The Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney have recently made several adjustments to their itineraries because of political unrest and safety concerns, replacing planned stops in Tunis with a visit to Palermo, Italy during the Mediterranean schedule, and canceling scheduled tours into Egypt.

DCL also altered Mexican Riviera itineraries earlier this year to bypass Mazatlan in favor of a second call in Cabo San Lucas. The new Pacific Coast itinerary is an option for west coast families who really want to experience a Disney Cruise vacation, but are worried about safety in the Mexican Rivera ports.

The New York and Texas departures also give Disney access to millions of new "drive market" customers, people who are more likely to consider a Disney cruise if they don't first have to fly to Port Canaveral to meet the ship.

While New York and Galveston are celebrating the pending arrival of the Disney Magic, another port city is likely less enthused about today's announcement. CBC News estimates that Vancouver will lose "about $40 million in potential business" as a result of Disney's decision not to return in 2012, an announcement that was made just weeks before the cruise line is set to arrive at the Port of Vancouver to begin their inaugural Alaska season.

In an interview with CruiseCritic.com, Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz said "By no means are we discounting going back to Vancouver, but we're comparing the ports -- foreign vs. domestic, new call in Victoria -- to see what matters." Flying into Seattle is a much more convenient, and much less expensive, proposition for most US passengers, and Disney may see more interest in their Alaska cruises once they remove that expensive additional barrier.

Disney will also dip their toes into the Hawaiian cruise market in 2012, with a 15-night roundtrip from the port of Los Angeles. Rumors of a cruise to Hawaii picked up steam last year, when the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported that Disney had made tentative bookings for May and September 2012 in Honolulu Harbor. There had been further rumors that these stops would bookend a season of cruises in Asia.

Disney will accept bookings for the newly-announced 2012 cruises from Platinum and Gold Castaway Club Members starting at 8 a.m. EDT on Thursday, April 7, 2011, and will open the new itineraries to general booking starting at 8 a.m. EDT on Friday, April 8, 2011.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _______

If you are interested in any of these new itineraries, we recommend contacting a travel agent who specializes in Disney Cruise vacations for assistance. MousePlanet's travel sponsors are:
Mouse Ears Vacations
www.mouseearvacations.com

Small World Vacations
www.smallworldvacations.com
]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?838-It-s-official-Disney-Cruise-Line-announces-regional-itineraries-for-2012 Disney Cruise Line 2012 itineraries leaked; new home ports and new destinations http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?837-Disney-Cruise-Line-2012-itineraries-leaked-new-home-ports-and-new-destinations Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:35:14 GMT The following information was sent to MousePlanet by a travel agent, and portions were also... The following information was sent to MousePlanet by a travel agent, and portions were also reported in the Houston Chronicle earlier today. Disney Cruise Line is not scheduled to announce their spring 2012 itineraries until a press event scheduled for Wednesday morning in New York, and we won't know until then if these details are accurate. Until then, this information should be treated as a rumor, and you should not make any non-refundable travel plans:

In 2012, Disney Cruise Line will sail from three new ports: New York; Seattle, Washington; and Galveston, Texas. The Disney Magic will skip another year of Mediterranean cruises, and will instead will sail to Canada, the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean. The Disney Wonder will offer a special 15-night cruise to Hawaii in addition to cruises to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera and a new Pacific Coast itinerary.

Disney Magic

The Disney Magic will relocate to New York in May, 2012 to begin a series of 2-, 5- and 8-night cruises, then reposition to Galveston, Texas in September, 2012 to begin a series of 12 seven-night Western Caribbean cruises.

Eight-night Bahama cruises departing New York
Ports: Castaway Cay; Nassau, Bahamas; Port Canaveral, Florida. Includes a one-day Walt Disney World Park Hopper ticket and round-trip transportation between Port Canaveral and the Walt Disney World Resort.
Itinierary: New York; Day at Sea; Day at Sea; Nassau; Castaway Cay; Port Canaveral; Day at Sea; Day at Sea; New York
Departure dates: 5/25; 6/2; 6/22; 6/30; 7/20; 7/28; 8/17; 8/25, 2012

Five-night Canada cruises departing New York
Ports: Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick.
Itinerary: New York; Day at Sea; Halifax; Saint John; Day at Sea; New York
Departure dates: 6/10; 6/17; 7/8; 7/15; 8/5; 8/12; 9/2; 9/7; 9/12, 2012

Two-night weekend getaway departing New York
Ports: None
Itinerary: New York; Day at Sea; New York
Departure dates: 6/15; 7/13; 8/10, 2010

Seven-night Western Caribbean cruises departing Galveston
Ports: Grand Cayman, Costa Maya and Cozumel
Itinerary: Galveston; Day at Sea; Day at Sea; Grand Cayman; Costa Maya; Cozumel, Day at Sea; Galveston
Departure dates: 9/22; 9/29; 10/6; 10/13; 10/20; 10/27; 11/3; 11/10; 11/17; 11/24; 12/1; 12/8, 2012.

After the Disney Fantasy debuts in March, 2012, and until the Disney Magic relocates to New York, the Magic will sail seven-night Caribbean itineraries and four- and five-night Bahamian cruises from Port Canaveral.

Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder will continue to offer seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from Los Angeles in 2012, and will return to Alaska for a second season of cruises from Seattle. The Wonder will also test a new Pacific Coast itinerary, and will offer one 15-night cruise to Hawaii.

Seven-night Alaska cruises departing Seattle
Ports: Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Victoria
Itinerary: Seattle; Day at Sea; Tracy Arm; Skagway; Juneau; Ketchikan; Victoria; Seattle
Departure dates: 5/28; 6/4; 6/11; 6/18; 6/25; 7/2; 7/9; 7/16; 7/23; 7/30; 8/6; 8/13; 8/20; 8/27, 2012.

Seven-night Pacific Coast cruises departing Los Angeles
Ports: San Francisco, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico
Itinerary: Not available
Departure dates: 9/16; 9/23; 9/30; 10/7, 2012.

Fifteen-night Hawaii cruise departing Los Angeles
Ports: Hilo; Kahului, Maui; Honolulu, Oahu; Nawiliwili, Kauai and Ensenada, Mexico.
Itinerary: Not available
Departure date: April 29, 2012

Again, this is all rumor until Disney officially announces their plans on Wednesday. We've been told bookings will open on April 8, 2011. If you are interested in any of these rumored itineraries, we recommend contacting a travel agent who specializes in Disney Cruise vacations for assistance. MousePlanet's travel sponsors are:
Mouse Ears Vacations
www.mouseearvacations.com

Small World Vacations
www.smallworldvacations.com
]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?837-Disney-Cruise-Line-2012-itineraries-leaked-new-home-ports-and-new-destinations Photos: Thousands spend night in Tokyo Disney Resort following 8.9 quake in Japan http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?829-Photos-Thousands-spend-night-in-Tokyo-Disney-Resort-following-8-9-quake-in-Japan Fri, 11 Mar 2011 19:50:29 GMT As many as 70,000 people were reported to be visiting the Tokyo Disney Resort when a magnitude 8.9... As many as 70,000 people were reported to be visiting the Tokyo Disney Resort when a magnitude 8.9 earthquake rocked Japan Friday afternoon. No injuries to cast members or visitors have been reported, but park managers made the decision to close the parks Friday, and keep them closed through at least Saturday, to allow for a full inspection of the reportedly minor damage.

Based on reports gleaned from several social media sites, the worst damage was caused by liquifaction in the parking lots of the Tokyo Disney Resort. The parks reportedly still have gas, water and electricity.

Thousands of park visitors spent Friday night in the Disney theme parks because train service from the area was shut down following the quake. Based on accounts posted to Twitter, Disney cast members issued rain jackets, plastic bags, hand warmers and food to park guests, but kept many guests outdoors in 30-degree weather.

Tokyo Disney Resort is operated by the Oriental Land Company. The Orlando Sentinel reports that OLC has issued a statement that reads:

Following the earthquake that occurred today, we [OLC] have decided to suspend operations at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea on Saturday, March 12 in order to conduct inspections at all facilities. As for operations from March 13 and beyond, that has yet to be determined at this point in time. As of now, we have not confirmed any injuries among our guests or cast members.
In the hours after the quake, several people in the parks shared photos on sites like Twitpic and Yfrog. Here is a selection of those images, mostly showing calm park guests and minor damage.

Photo of guests inside Tokyo Disneyland (From @MrDaps on Twitter)



Tokyo Disney Sea parking lot flooded


Aerial view of Tokyo Disney Sea (From @Eminem_JP on Twitter)


Disney Imagineer Steve Davison is in Tokyo working on the new Fantasmic show, and sent out a message shortly after the quake that the theme parks had closed, but that the cast members and guests were safe. Twitter user @Boy33 posted two photos Steve shared from the parks.

Photo #1 from Imagineer Steve Davison (Posted by @Boy33)


Photo #2 from Steve Davison (Posted by @Boy33)


(From @Japan_4_You)


(From @MrDaps on Twitter)


Twitter user Reza Ikram (@rezaikram) posted several live updates from Tokyo Disneyland before his phone battery died. Here are some of his photos:

Click this bar to view the full image.


Click this bar to view the full image.


Click this bar to view the full image.


Click this bar to view the full image.

new update in Tokyo Disneyland. we have been told to stay in an open place even its raining.far from buildings.

Click this bar to view the full image.


Click this bar to view the full image.

"update:we are not allowed to leave TDL.have to spend a night here.no transportation outside.what a horrible exp"



From @mrdaps on Twitter


The Web site deepdisney.com posted several photos from around the Tokyo Disney Resort.







deepdisney.com has many more photos from Tokyo Disneyland (click each link to open):

Parking lot outside Tokyo Disneyland Hotel

Road in front of Cirque tent in Tokyo Disney Resort

Guests sheltering near the turnstiles in front of Tokyo Disneyland

Standing water and cracked pavement near bus stops outside Tokyo Disneyland

A Monorail at the station outside Tokyo Disneyland

For additional updates, visit MousePlanet.com.

Additional resources:

@mrdaps on Twitter

@rezaikram on Twitter

@JarrodLentz on Twitter (American cast member working at the Tokyo Disney Resort)

@davidlandsel on Twitter (New York Post travel editor David Landsel, who is visiting Tokyo Disney Resort. ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?829-Photos-Thousands-spend-night-in-Tokyo-Disney-Resort-following-8-9-quake-in-Japan <![CDATA[March 2011 Product Releases, Programs & Promotions at the Walt Disney Parks & Resorts]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?827-March-2011-Product-Releases-Programs-amp-Promotions-at-the-Walt-Disney-Parks-amp-Resorts Fri, 04 Mar 2011 02:45:06 GMT The March, 2011 merchandise newsletter contains information about the following programs, product... The March, 2011 merchandise newsletter contains information about the following programs, product releases and promotions offered at the domestic Walt Disney Parks and Resorts - Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World.

Click on any of the links below to open each PDF page and view full details and images.

[Note: this is something created and distributed by Disney, it's not a MousePlanet document.]

For those Walt Disney World readers who may never have seen this before, it's a monthly summary of new ways you can spend money at the Disney theme parks, produced and distributed by the resort merchandise teams. Those Disneyland readers who have seen what used to be a 2- or 3-page flyer will immediately notice that the newsletter has a much different look and feel, and also now includes merchandise information for Walt Disney World. For starters, the old newsletter was small enough that I could easily attach it to these posts, but the new 12-page version is so big that Andrew split it into pages for easier viewing:

Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Page 9
Page 10
Page 11
Page 12

If you don't want to scroll through the whole thing, here are the highlights:

Disneyland AND Walt Disney World

  • The extra Annual Passholder discounts have been extended at both Resorts through December 31, 2011. Premium and Premier Passholders receive 20% off and all other passes receive 10% off at participating locations.
  • Both Resorts are offering a variety of Purchase with Purchase items, including pin trading starter sets, Mickey Mouse tote bags, rolling duffel bags and woven throw blankets.

Disneyland only

  • The Sci- Fi Academy Pin Trading Event is scheduled for June 24; tickets went on sale March 1. For more information, visit www.DisneyPins.com.
  • A House of the Future Product Release & Signing featuring miniaturist Robert Olszewski is scheduled for March 19th at Disneyland's Disneyana Shop. The House of the Future sculpture is offered at $85, and a Limited Edition version is available for annual passholders. Additional information and online ordering instructions are available on the Art of Disney Parks Web site.
  • A Precious Moments product release and signing event with Hideo Maeda is scheduled for March 26th at the Disneyland Resort. Details are on the Art of Disney Parks Web site.

Walt Disney World only

  • A product release and artist signing for the new Look What I Got! Ink and Paint Cel is scheduled at Hollywood Studios on March 12. Several Disney Design Group artists will be on hand for a signing event. More information, including pricing and phone order options for those who can't attend in person, is available on the Art of Disney Parks Web site.
  • 40th Anniversary Dooney & Bourke
    Collection has been released at Walt Disney World. The collection looks a LOT like the 55th Anniversary collection released at Disneyland last year.
  • Cal Ripken Jr. will sign his latest novel Hothead during an event at Disney's Hollywood Studios on Sunday, March 6 from 10am - Noon. Ripken will only sign copies of his book, and guests are asked not to bring personal items from home.
  • A Precious Moments product release and signing event with Deb Butcher is scheduled for March 25th at the Walt Disney World Resort. Details are on the Art of Disney Parks Web site.

Adrienne ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?827-March-2011-Product-Releases-Programs-amp-Promotions-at-the-Walt-Disney-Parks-amp-Resorts Star Tours 2.0 and The Little Mermaid attractions to open at Disneyland Resort June 3 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?823-Star-Tours-2-0-and-The-Little-Mermaid-attractions-to-open-at-Disneyland-Resort-June-3 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 23:37:15 GMT The Disneyland Resort today announced that the updated Star Tours ride and the new The Little... The Disneyland Resort today announced that the updated Star Tours ride and the new The Little Mermaid – Ariel's Undersea Adventure attraction at the Disneyland Resort in California will open to the public on Friday, June 3 2011. The Resort also announced that Disneyland's new Mickey's Soundsational Parade will debut on Friday, May 27. The three new introductions will likely be the centerpiece of the Disneyland Resort's Summer 2011 marketing campaign.

Star Tours

The California version of Star Tours has been closed since last July to update the attraction with a new 3-D ride film based on the Star Wars universe. The Walt Disney World version of the ride closed in August for refurbishment, and the new ride film will debut first at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Florida on May 20th as part of that resort's Star Wars Weekends.


Work began last week on the exterior of Disneyland's Star Tours attraction building. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Last year the official Disney Parks Blog announced (link) said "the new Star Tours attraction will take place between the two sets of Star Wars Trilogies," and Tom Fitzgerald, Executive VP & Senior Creative Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering has confirmed that the new ride will have mulitple destinations. (Click here for a list of past Disney Parks Blog posts about the new ride)

The Little Mermaid – Ariel's Undersea Adventure

The new Little Mermaid attraction is under construction in Disney California Adventure park, on the site formerly occupied by the Golden Dreams film attraction featuring Whoopie Goldberg. The new ride will open June 3, 2011 in California, and will be duplicated in Walt Disney World next year as part of the Magic Kingdom park's Fantasyland expansion.


Work continues on the new Little Mermaid attraction building. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

The new Little Mermaid ride is part of a larger renovation of DCA's Paradise Pier area. The project also includes a new theme overlay to convert the former Mulholland Madness "mad mouse" coaster into Goofy's Sky School, construction of an all-new outdoor dining area and refurbishment of two restaurants. The rest of Paradise Pier is scheduled to reopen May 25, 2011.

Mickey's Soundsational Parade

Disney describes the new Mickey's Soundsational Parade as "an explosive music festival with thrilling rhythms and bold percussion that will bring to life some of the most beloved melodies from Disney films." The floats will feature live musicians, drummers and dancers, including characters like Mickey Mouse who will "play live and will encourage members of the crowd to join a giant jam session."


Mickey’s Soundsational Parade will debut at Disneyland May 27, 2011. Concept art (c) Disney.

The concept art shows what appears to be five floats and four drum-shaped stage units. The drawing is described as showing things that may appear in the final parade, so some elements may not be as shown here. Disneyland has not offered a daily parade since the end of the holiday season.

For the most recent news from the Disneyland Resort, read the Disneyland Resort Update each Monday morning here at MousePlanet.com (link).

Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix
MousePlanet.com ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?823-Star-Tours-2-0-and-The-Little-Mermaid-attractions-to-open-at-Disneyland-Resort-June-3 Deaf Awareness Day at Disneyland - Saturday, March 5, 2011 http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?822-Deaf-Awareness-Day-at-Disneyland-Saturday-March-5-2011 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:36:44 GMT The 22nd Annual Deaf Awareness Day will be held at Disneyland on Saturday, March 5 2011. The event... The 22nd Annual Deaf Awareness Day will be held at Disneyland on Saturday, March 5 2011. The event is held in conjunction with Orange County Deaf Equal Access Foundation (OC-DEAF). The group will provide volunteer sign language interpreters at select narrated shows and attractions, as well as at City Hall, the Main Street Info Board, First Aid, stroller rental kiosk and select food service locations.

The Disneyland Resort already provides professional interpreting services at several rides and shows two days each week, including that Saturday.

OC-DEAF usually has an info table outside Disneyland during their event days, and you can get a schedule of interpreted shows from City Hall or the Info Board.

Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix
MousePlanet.com ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?822-Deaf-Awareness-Day-at-Disneyland-Saturday-March-5-2011 <![CDATA[Easter and Mother's Day Buffet information for the Disneyland Resort]]> http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?821-Easter-and-Mother-s-Day-Buffet-information-for-the-Disneyland-Resort Thu, 24 Feb 2011 18:02:08 GMT The Disneyland Resort usually holds fairly impressive brunch buffets at Easter and Mother's Day in the Grand Ballroom at the Disneyland Hotel, with lavish food displays and tons of character photo opportunities.

The Easter brunch was canceled in 2010, and Disney has confirmed that there will not be one again this year. Instead, Storyteller's Cafe at the Grand Californian Hotel is offering a breakfast buffet with an "enhanced menu" on Easter. The brunch buffet will return to the Disneyland Hotel for Mother's Day, giving Disney fans an opportunity to treat mom.

Storyteller's Cafe Easter Breakfast Buffet
Sunday, April 24 2011 - 7am to 2pm
Adult: $29.99/ Children 9 and under $13.99
Normal discounts apply
Reservations are available through the Disney Dine Line (714-781-3463) beginning 2/24/2011

Menu highlights: Black pepper and herb-crusted NY strip loin; leg of lamb with mint jelly; corned beef hash with poached egg & Hollandaise sauce; roasted salmon w/ ruby grapefruit vinaigrette; olive-oil poached asparagus; made-to-order omelets; fresh scrambled eggs; Yukon Gold hash browns, sausage and bacon; artisan cheese selection; cured meat and roasted vegetable platter; spring green salad with house vinaigrette; seasonal fruit and berry selection.

Storyteller's will repeat the offering for Mother's Day, and the Disneyland Hotel will also offer their big brunch buffet.

Storyteller's Cafe Mother's Day Breakfast Buffet
Sunday, May 8, 2011 - 7am to 2pm
Adult: $29.99/ Children 9 and under $13.99
Normal discounts apply
Reservations are available through the Disney Dine Line (714-781-3463) beginning 3/8/2011
Menu highlights not yet available

Disneyland Hotel Mother’s Day Brunch - Disneyland Hotel Grand Ballroom
Sunday, May 8, 2011 - 7am to 2pm
Adult: $71.99/ Children 9 and under $20.99
Discount information not yet available
Reservations are available through the Disney Dine Line (714-781-3463) beginning 3/8/2011
Menu highlights not yet available ]]> AVP http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/entry.php?821-Easter-and-Mother-s-Day-Buffet-information-for-the-Disneyland-Resort