What Happened 23 years ago with Disney?... March 10th [D23]

[amador246]

Hey i probably shouldn't be telling you guys this but since it is tomorrow one part of the D23 celebration is the first 23 families to get to the park tomorrow are suppose to get in to the parks for free. I found this out last week, i work for Disney Corp, but i cant
tell you what else is going to happen. So if you and your family want to get in for free better show up early its a 1 day park hopper ticket!!!

[dznyphreak]

Is anyone noticing that the countdown is gone? I just tried checking the site and it comes up as a blank white page...

[SaraInAZ]

Is anyone noticing that the countdown is gone? I just tried checking the site and it comes up as a blank white page...

I clicked on the link at the begining of this post and it brought up the count down. But I did see that http://d23.disney.go.com is now a valid website, eventhough it is blank like you said.

[ryanvalle]

Hey i probably shouldn't be telling you guys this but since it is tomorrow one part of the D23 celebration is the first 23 families to get to the park tomorrow are suppose to get in to the parks for free. I found this out last week, i work for Disney Corp, but i cant
tell you what else is going to happen. So if you and your family want to get in for free better show up early its a 1 day park hopper ticket!!!

I'm goign to take that as a rumor. Two reasons:
1. Passholder
2. I checked your profile and with 1 post, I can't really put "trust" into this...sorry.

[CV12Pirate]

Even if it's true, it's only 23 families. Not even a blip on the radar. No big deal.

[Tinker Bell]

looky looky

linky

$74.99 gets you in.

[olegc]

purchased... at least for one year. I want to see what they offer..

[Drince88]

I was hoping for more of a membership discount club of some sort. Oh well. At least I have until the end of the year to decide if I want to be a 'charter' member (per the membership details on the disney shopping site). $75 for 4 magazines and a couple of trinkets seems a little steep to me.

[anniedg]

$75 for 4 magazines and a couple of trinkets seems a little steep to me.

I agree. The magazine is the main thing that interests me, but I don't think at this point I'll shell out $75 for it.

[cstephens]

Hey i probably shouldn't be telling you guys this but since it is tomorrow one part of the D23 celebration is the first 23 families to get to the park tomorrow are suppose to get in to the parks for free. I found this out last week, i work for Disney Corp, but i cant
tell you what else is going to happen. So if you and your family want to get in for free better show up early its a 1 day park hopper ticket!!!

I'm sure you're doing this to be helpful, but if I were you, I wouldn't jeopardize my job by disclosing confidential information that I'm not supposed to reveal. Usually, revealing confidential information is a terminable offense.

[ryanvalle]

what exactly is a charter membership?

[cstephens]

what exactly is a charter membership?

Charter membership means you were a member from the very beginning.

[ryanvalle]

I agree. The magazine is the main thing that interests me, but I don't think at this point I'll shell out $75 for it.

If the magazine interests you, its $15.95 per magazine. Doing the math:

$15.95 x 4 = $63.80

A difference of $11.20 will get you a d23 membership card, certificate, and some sort of gift/pins. I think its worth it for the first year, but anything after that may start to push it out of line. Of course, this is only if the magazine is of interest to you.

[AVP]

From my MousePlanet Blog:

Although the official D23 Web site has yet to launch this morning, pending the official announcement at the annual shareholder's meeting currently taking place in Northern California, DisneyShopping.com has already made the D23 Charter Membership available for purchase in the "Boutique 23" section of their online store (link).

The annual membership is $74.99 per person (not per household), a steep jump from the $39.95 charged for the Disney Club when it launched in 2000.

Never to miss an opportunity to sell you a t-shirt, the Boutique 23 section also offers everything from a "launch day" t-shirt to a $1500 sericel. Some of the merchandise - pretty much anything with the D23 logo - is available only to members, the rest of it is simply existing Disney merchandise marketed to a new group of collectors.

So, what exactly IS D23?

More details will be released to the media during a conference call later this afternoon, but in a nutshell: it's an official Disney fan site.

The majority of your subscription fee covers the cost of the quarterly D23 magazine, a full-color glossy publication that is also available at bookstores and newstands. The cover price of each issue is $15.95. Beyond that, the decision about whether or not to join really depends on how valuable the members-only benefits are to you.


Members-only benefits:

• One-year subscription to D23 magazine. (Non-members can purchase individual issues)
• Membership Card and Certificate designed by Disney artist Dave Pacheco. For an additional $89.99, Disney will be happy to sell you a commemorative frame in which to display your certificate.
• Surprise Collectible Gift. This may be *the* thing that makes the club worth joining for some Disney fans, but it remains to be seen what the gift really is.
• Exclusive Special Events and Merchandise. Great for Disney collectors, but may not appeal to fans who don't need another $800 porcelain sculpture.
• Subscription to bi-weekly D23 FanFare e-newsletter. Members can opt out of this newsletter, but will need to remember to visit the official Web site to stay up to date with coming events.

D23 offerings that anyone can enjoy:

• Access to Disney.com/D23. Described as "breaking news, insider info, and exclusive feature stories from every part of Disney, as well as rare classic articles and other treasures from the Walt Disney Archives. The site also includes regular items like vintage daily comics, "D Society," and "This Day in Disney." None of the content on this Web site is off-limits to non-members.
• D23 magazine - Anyone can purchase the current issue through DisneyShopping.com, or your local book and magazine retailer.
• Access to the D23 Expo. Members receive discounted admission, but anyone can attend.

D23 Expo

The official description: It's the ultimate Disney fan experience, taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California (across the street from Disneyland), September 10-13, 2009. This four-day can't-miss event will feature incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and so much more! There will be something for children of all ages, fans, the whole family, and friends.

My take: it looks like a less-structured version of the Official Disneyana Convention, a 4-day trade show of sorts for all things Disney. Think "Disney does Comic-Con."

Single-day admission is $37 per adult, $27 per child, and 4-day passes are available. D23 members save $7 off a one-day pass ($5 off a child's one-day pass).

So, is it worth it?

If you're the Disney fan who will rush out to purchase all four issues of D23 magazine from your local bookseller (spending $63.80 per year), you'll probably just want to go ahead and pay the extra $11.19 to receive the membership card, certificate and "surprise collectible gift."

If you're the Disney fan who will buy all four issues of the magazine AND attend the entire Expo, membership will save you a few dollars.

If you're the Disney fan who can't resist exclusive, limited-edition merchandise, then the D23 membership fee is probably less expensive than the markup you'd pay to buy the members-only pieces on the secondary market.

But if you're the Disney fan who won't read the magazine, won't attend the Expo and doesn't care about the merchandise, then you can probably save your $74.99 and just enjoy the content on the D23 Web site.

We'll have more about D23 on MousePlanet after today's conference call.

AVP

[dznyphreak]

Purchased as well. I couldn't resist buying it on the first day...

[ryanvalle]

Purchased as well. I couldn't resist buying it on the first day...

I'm waiting to see what the website has to offer...

[anniedg]

Thanks AVP - good to know the magazine will be available on newsstands. With that info I don't feel a need to join. I figure the breaking news will show up here pretty quickly

[houseofmouse]

I agree, I might check out one magazine and the website. Right now my money is better spent elsewhere.

[dznyphreak]

The website is fully up and running! http://d23.disney.go.com

[GORGON]

$79.99 MEMBERSHIP WHAA? MAYBE $23.99 . Any thoughts

[AVP]

The Expo will have a "Fan Forum" section where "Disney's biggest fans" can "show off their collections and sell their Disney treasures."

Sounds like steep competition to the NFFC Show & Sale. I wonder what the booth rental fees will look like.

AVP

[houseofmouse]

It is $74.99 and if you look in the Business of Magic thread the thread titled Are You 23 has a link to the webpage. Why do you say 23.99 as well??
My bet is this is going to get moved to the right thread.

[AVP]

DISNEY ANNOUNCES

“D23: THE OFFICIAL COMMUNITY FOR DISNEY FANS”

Disney’s First Official Fan Organization Launches with

New Quarterly Publication, Web Site, Fan Events and Collectibles Line

First Quarterly Publication Features Exclusive Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, as well as behind-the-scenes visit to Pixar Animation Studios

Oakland and Burbank, CALIF. – March 10, 2009 – Disney today announced the launch of D23 (www.Disney.com/D23), the first official community for Disney fans in the Company’s 85-year history. Through D23, fans will go backstage and behind closed doors to get the inside scoop from every part of Disney, while experiencing the nostalgia, adventure and fantasy of Disney as never before.

“We have a fantastic legacy that started in 1923 and is based on timeless stories, beloved characters and unforgettable experiences, but it’s our fans that keep the spirit of Disney alive year after year, generation after generation,” said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger at the Company’s annual shareholder’s meeting. “D23 is our way of saying ‘thank you’ and celebrating our fans, who bring the magic of Disney to life every day in every corner of the world.”

As a part of this new Disney fan experience, today also marks the launch of D23’s new quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the all-new D23 Web site at Disney.com/D23; and a new collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection, which was created specifically with D23 members in mind. D23 also will host special events for its members throughout the year, highlighted by the organization’s signature event, the D23 Expo, which will be held in Anaheim this September 10-13.

A one-year D23 membership ($74.99) includes:

• Disney twenty-three quarterly publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23’s new collectible magazine filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. This advertising-free keepsake is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future.
• Membership Certificate and Card: The D23 membership card and suitable-forframing member certificate – both specially created for D23’s Charter Year -- feature many of Disney’s most beloved characters.
• Surprise Collectible Gift and Member Merchandise: Each member who joins D23 will receive an exclusive collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection. This merchandise line was created specifically with D23 members in mind, and each piece is authorized by the Walt Disney Archives. D23 members will have exclusive or early access to a wide assortment of Walt Disney Archives Collection pieces.
• D23 Expo and Member Special Events: The D23 Expo – to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 10-13, 2009 -- will be “The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience,” featuring incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, interactive experiences, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and much more. All Disney fans are welcome, but D23 members will receive a discount on Expo admissions and early access to the show daily. D23 also offers unique members-only special event opportunities throughout the year.
• Disney.com/D23: All fans can stay connected to Disney every day through D23’s new Web site, featuring up-to-the-minute Disney news, feature stories, event info and more, but only D23 members will receive regular email updates on special event and merchandise opportunities exclusive to them.

Disney twenty-three quarterly publication Disney today launches its new quarterly publication Disney twenty-three, a hybrid entertainment and lifestyle magazine that is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future. Its name pays homage to 1923, the year The Walt Disney Company was founded.

The premiere issue of Disney twenty-three includes exclusive features such as:

• Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens
• Inside look at the new Disney/Pixar animated film Up, featuring interviews with Director Pete Docter and Producer Jonas Rivera, concept and production art, and a look at the new animated short Partly Cloudy.
• A rare look inside Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. Meet the Pixar team and learn the secrets behind the success of their films.
• The doors open for two of the most exclusive, magical suites in the world: the Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Dream Suite overlooking New Orleans Square and the Rivers of America at the Disneyland Resort.

Disney twenty-three’s regular featured departments include:

• A Walk with Walt: A look back at the trials and triumphs of the man who made dreams come true and whose imagination started it all.
• D Society: From gala movie premieres and grand openings to candid Disney moments and memories, D Society takes readers backstage and onto the red carpet.
• PHOTOfiles: The legendary Walt Disney Archives Photo Library houses millions of Disney’s most cherished photographic memories, and the Archives team shares its Top 100, five in every issue. Let the countdown begin!
• Where in D?: Try to identify where in the world of Disney each issue’s mystery photo was taken.
• The Funny Pages: For the first time in decades, enjoy the vintage newspaper comic strips that helped make many of Disney’s most popular characters famous.
• Making Magic: Crafts for children of all ages, inspired by Disney’s favorite stories and experiences.
• Recipes from Disney’s most popular restaurants and eateries, past and present.

Disney twenty-three subscriptions are available only by becoming a member of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans. Individual issues of Disney twenty-three retail for $15.95 and are available exclusively at all U.S. Barnes & Noble booksellers, all domestic Disney Stores, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Disneyshopping.com.

DISNEY.COM/D23 The D23 site on Disney.com will serve as the premier online destination for Disney fans, highlighted by breaking Disney news, exclusive feature stories, blogs, historical retrospectives, a collectibles boutique, special event information, and other content. The D23 online experience includes News & Features, Walt Disney Archives, Disney twentythree, Expo & Events, and Boutique23. Highlights include:

NEWS & FEATURES

• Late-breaking news, press releases, and photos of interest to fans from every part of Disney.
• “Twilight Bark” – inspired by the Disney animated feature 101 Dalmatians – offers up the latest tidbits and news “bites” from all around the world of Disney.
• Feature articles and interviews on current Disney topics from theme parks and animation to television and motion pictures, as well as historical retrospectives.
• Official Disney Bloggers – Get regular updates on films in production at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, current Walt Disney Imagineering projects, and the Walt Disney Archives.

WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES

• “This Day in Disney” – A daily walk down memory lane.
• “What’s Old Is News” – Go back in time and enjoy rare, vintage and classic articles, stories, interviews, press materials and other highlights from deep within the Disney Archives.
• “Ask Dave” – Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Dave Smith answers your questions about Disney history.
• “Archives Library” – helpful Disney reference tools including biographies, filmographies, award chronologies, Disney A to Z updates, historical profiles and other archival information.

DISNEY TWENTY-THREE

• The online home of Disney twenty-three, D23’s quarterly publication.
  Expanded stories, interviews and imagery.
• “D Society: Online Edition” – regularly updated photo gallery.
• “The Funny Page: Daily Edition” – a delightful daily dose of vintage Disney comics that haven’t been seen outside the Disney Archives in decades.
• “Making Magic” – An archive of the unique crafts featured in Disney twentythree.
• “Disney Dish” – Always be able to find your favorite recipes from Disney twentythree.

EXPO & EVENTS

• “D23 Expo” – The official Web site for everything you need to know about “The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience” September 10–13, at the AnaheimConvention Center, including programming, show hours, celebrity appearances, keynote speakers, ticket information, vacation packages, and more.
• “D23 Member Special Events” – Throughout the year, D23 hosts special events created just for its members. Members can find out which ones they want to attend and how to register.

BOUTIQUE 23

• D23 merchandise and collectibles, including D23 member-only offerings from the Walt Disney Archives Collection
• Hosted by Disneyshopping.com

D23 membership
D23 membership is not required to visit Disney.com/D23, but some merchandise and special event opportunities are exclusive to D23 members.

Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and www.DisneyShopping.com/D23.

D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. Through the years, Disney has captured the imagination of millions around the world, and, as requested by Disney fans everywhere, D23 gives them a greater, richer connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic.

[ryanvalle]

Apparently they will have an Up screening for d23 members.

And under the event/expo section, they have a nice list of dates. The ones that caught my attention is the celebrate parade opening (not new info) and the funwheel opening date.

[AVP]

and the funwheel opening date.

Also not new info.