Disneyland News Today Turns 5 Years Old! – February 8th, 2013

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

 

Today marks 5 years since the launch of Disneyland News Today. DLNT was formed on February 8th, 2008, just as many projects began in the huge expansion of Disney California Adventure. Our mission was to follow that expansion from start to finish, tackling what was arguably the most exciting project in Disney history. From the opening of Toy Story Midway Mania, to the debut of World of Color, to the first side-by-side race through Radiator Springs, we covered it all. We were taken to new heights aboard Mickey’s Fun Wheel, took a swing in a Silly Symphony, and played with our PIXAR pals.

In that time, we also saw the original Disney Park grow, evolve, and change in many ways. We were there for the return of the Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough and Captain EO. Our adventures continued on Star Tours, Main Street got Soundsational, and we even grabbed the first bite at the Jolly Holiday Bakery. Best of all, there is more excitement to come. Soon we’ll meet our favorite princesses and find a magical map with Mickey.

It has been a journey as unpredictable as an adventure through the original Magic Kingdom over the last 5 years, and we are happy you were there to take that journey with u.. However, as Walt Disney once said, “We’re just getting started!”

WDWNT Network Founder and CEO,
Tom Corless

Tonight we are starting a new tradition here at DLNT by presenting a special anniversary edition of the Disneyland News Today Podcast LIVE on WDWNTunes.com. The show begins at 8PM PST and will last until 11PM EST. Here is a schedule of events

8:00 PM – Introduction and live chat

8:30 PM – World Premiere of “The Fantasy Faire Trade” segment

9:00 PM – Live Chat

9:15 PM – The Disneyland Compendium – The Peoplemover and Rocket Rods

*All times PST. Subject to change.

What’s On The Menu At Maurice’s Treats

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

From Pam Brandon on the Disney Parks Blog: 

“Maurice’s
The new Fantasy Faire, opening March 12, is home to Disney royalty, but it’s also home to delicious new treats – our favorite is the flaky, crisp strawberry or chocolate twist that’s perfect for sharing and strolling through this new corner of Fantasyland in Disneyland park.

Maurice’s Treats Coming to Fantasy Faire at Disneyland Park Maurice’s Treats Coming to Fantasy Faire at Disneyland Park

Maurice’s Treats (named for Belle’s father from “Beauty and the Beast”) is an adorable new food cart in Fantasy Faire that offers the sweet twists ($3.49), as well as a savory cheddar garlic bagel twist ($4.19). Pair any with a Boysen Apple Freeze made with frozen apple juice, a hint of wild berry and topped with passion fruit foam that’s served in a 16-ounce cup ($4.69) or a keepsake goblet or stein ($9.99).

Go on an Adventure with Mickey Mouse and the Mapmakers When ‘Mickey and the Magical Map’ Comes to Disneyland Park This Summer

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Shawn Slater on the Disney Parks Blog:

The all-new, live stage production, “Mickey and the Magical Map,” debuts this summer at Disneyland park, and today I’m excited to be able to tell you a little more about the show and what you can expect to see when it opens!

The show begins with the timeless character of Yen Sid, the wise sorcerer from Disney’s classic “Fantasia,” who appears within his mysterious workshop to tell us of a wondrous map with the power to take dreamers to any place imaginable. Yen Sid sets his mapmakers to work painting the enormous map – a map so large it covers the entire breadth of the stage.

This is when our hero Mickey Mouse enters, full of curiosity, and dreams of being more than just an apprentice. He’s a bit of a rascal and doesn’t realize what he’s about to get into. When Mickey picks up a brush to paint the map’s one unfinished spot, he soon discovers this is no ordinary map. That’s when his adventures really begin!

Mickey and the Magical Map’ Coming to Disneyland Park This Summer
 

Mickey and the Magical Map’ Coming to Disneyland Park This Summer
 

The mapmakers are an ensemble of male and female performers who excel at singing, dancing and acrobatics. They wield enormous, magical paint brushes as they follow Mickey on his journey, helping bring to life fantastic worlds of music, color and beloved characters.

“Mickey and the Magical Map” will be presented in the newly-refurbished Fantasyland Theatre, a venue that merges the tradition of live outdoor performances with the latest in theatrical technology. This is Disney storytelling at its most thrilling, brought to life in the very heart of the most magical of lands, Fantasyland.

“Each new show we create is a chance to push storytelling in a new direction,” said Michael Jung, Vice President of Theatrical Development. “At Disney, we love the challenge of continuously looking at our classic tales and most recent stories to see how we can bring live entertainment and excitement to today’s audiences.”

Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog in the coming weeks and months, as we’ll have even more to share about the extraordinary new show, “Mickey and the Magical Map.”

Fantasy Faire set to open March 12th!

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Shawn Slater on the Disney Parks Blog:

We’ve been giving you peeks into the new Fantasy Faire coming to Disneyland park here on the Disney Parks Blog, and today, I’m pleased to let you know that this area will officially open for guests on March 12.

Storytelling at the Royal Theatre in Fantasy Faire, Opening March 12 at Disneyland Park

One of the highlights of Fantasy Faire will be the Royal Theatre, where you’ll be treated to two unique shows relating the tales of “Beauty and the Beast” and “Tangled,” as told by a pair of Renaissance Storytellers, Mr. Smythe and Mr. Jones.

Messieurs Smythe and Jones are men of the theatre and lovers of legend and lore. The storytellers present the tale as old as time and the hair-raising tale of Rapunzel, with the assistance of some fellow villagers, all to the musical accompaniment of Sir Samuel of Morocco. Even Belle, Rapunzel and Flynn Rider appear onstage to help tell their own stories.

“We’re using our imaginations to create these stories,” said Show Director Chris Utley. “The storytellers will play a variety of roles, filling in as the other characters. They may put on a costume accessory to pretend to be Beast, or Gaston or Mother Gothel. ”

Storytelling at the Royal Theatre in Fantasy Faire, Opening March 12 at Disneyland Park

“The stories are told in a fast-paced, whimsical kind of way – very fun and theatrical,” said Chris. “It’s kind of a Renaissance vaudeville style, and the two guys are reminiscent of the old comedy duos of Gallagher & Shean, Abbott & Costello and Laurel & Hardy. They tell their stories with a lot of humor and heart.”

The storytellers will take to the stage of the Royal Theatre when Fantasy Faire opens on March 12.

Disneyland Resort Turns Up the Romance During ‘True Love’ Week, All Part of ‘Limited Time Magic’

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

ANAHEIM, Ca., Jan. 28, 2012 – Love is in the air at Disneyland Resort as fairy tale princesses find true love with their princes, and “happily ever after” becomes a reality. It all happens during True Love Week February 11-17, 2013 at Disneyland Resort.

The weeklong love fest is part of “Limited Time Magic” at Disney Parks, where each week in 2013 guests will be treated to a sprinkling of Disney magic, with fun and surprises that enhance their vacation memories.

During True Love Week, a tapestry of romance is woven throughout the resort — from special entertainment and limited-edition Valentine’s merchandise to candlelit dinners for two and new, themed photo locations offering encounters with beloved Disney sweethearts – all for a limited-time only.

The weeklong event celebrates the love of friends and family, and invites couples to rekindle the flame. Here is the lineup:

  • Romantic Setting: Guests will feel the romance at every turn, as heart-shaped signage and sweetheart-themed décor adorn Disneyland Park, making it an ideal place to celebrate Valentine’s week.
  • Blushing Castle: At dusk, hues of red and pink will bathe Sleeping Beauty Castle, with projections of flowers and hearts.
  • Floral Heart: A giant floral heart makes a sweet setting for a Valentine photo, in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland.
  • Valentine Wishes: Flowers, garlands and decorative doves will create a second ideal location around Snow White Wishing Well near Sleeping Beauty Castle. At night, magical lighting adds a romantic touch to the wishing well and Snow White Grotto.
  • Disneyland Sweethearts: Also near Town Square, guests will find a photo location with resident Disneyland sweethearts – Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck.
  • Dinners for Two: Romantic dinners for two with prix fixe menus will be offered at select restaurants during the most romantic week of the year.  Specially-created menus at Blue Bayou and Café Orleans in Disneyland, Carthay Circle Restaurant in Disney California Adventure Park, Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel or Napa Rose in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel make    ideal choices for a romantic evening. To book call 714-781-DINE (714-781-3463).
  • Cupcake Lovers: Chefs have prepared a specially themed Valentine’s dessert: a chocolate cupcake with raspberry mousse filling and dark chocolate mousse frosting. It will be available at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café in Disneyland, Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café and Pacific Wharf Café in Disney California Adventure, and Disneyland Hotel Coffee House.
  • Valentine’s-themed Takeaways: Limited-edition pins, plush, newly-designed apparel and Vinylmations will be available at select merchandise locations.
  • Ears for your Sweetheart: The classic Disneyland ear hat gets a total glitz makeover just in time for the most romantic time of the year. It will dazzle your Valentine and become the most sophisticated pair of ears in your collection.
  • Royal Romance:  Guests will enjoy a rare opportunity to get photos of Disney Princes as they escort their Princesses along The Royal Walk in Fantasyland. In New Orleans Square, guests will find another pair of sweethearts, Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen.
  • In Search of True Love: Guests may also encounter the Wandering Wallflowers, in search of “true love.”

 

The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla., will celebrate True Love week with similar in-park offerings. VisitDisneyworld.com for details.

For more information about “Limited Time Magic,” guests may visit www.LimitedTimeMagic.com or search for Twitter hashtag #LimitedTimeMagic.

Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea to Perform Grammy-Nominated Album ‘Oye’ at Downtown Disney District, February 5

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Erin Glover on the Disney Parks Blog:

 

Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea

Grammy winners and Disneyland Resort favorite Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea have been nominated for a 2013 Grammy award for their eighth album, “Oye,” in the category of Best Regional Mexican Music Album (Including Tejano). To celebrate, the full ensemble will appear in the Downtown Disney District on February 5 at 1 p.m. They will share their history, answer questions about their experience and perform a medley of songs from their Grammy-nominated album as well as favorites from their past albums.

Directed and founded by trumpet player Cindy Shea in 1999, the Mariachi Divas are well known in the national and international music scene. With four Grammy nominations, 1 Latin Grammy nomination and 1 Grammy win under their belts, the all-female ensemble have been favorites among Disneyland Resort guests and fans all over the world. Come celebrate with them on Tuesday, February 5!

Fantasy Faire Architecture to Extend Fantasyland at Disneyland Park

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Erin Glover on the Disney Parks Blog:

If you’ve visited Disneyland park recently, you may have noticed that Fantasy Faire is quickly taking shape next toSleeping Beauty Castle. Opening this spring, Fantasy Faire will not only be a home for Disney princesses, but it will also be a natural extension of Fantasyland. To find out how the look and architecture of this new area will be designed to flow with Sleeping Beauty Castle and Fantasyland, I went to the creative lead for the project: Michel Den Dulk, Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering.

Fantasy Faire Architecture to Extend Fantasyland at Disneyland Park
“My goal,” he said, “was that the new Fantasy Faire would meld over into the existing Fantasyland naturally.” He said that his intention would be for first-time visitors to never suspect that this addition came later than the rest of Fantasyland.

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“I took a lot of inspiration from the classic Disney movies like ‘Pinocchio.’ There’s some reference that’s in the architecture to the way the backgrounds of ‘Pinocchio’ are drawn. I took inspiration from the castle – you’ll see that there’s a lot of gold finials and beautiful banners and turrets that are similar to Sleeping Beauty Castle … So it really looks like it’s all part of the existing Fantasyland.”

Another key piece of architecture in Fantasy Faire will be the Royal Theatre, which was the former Carnation Plaza Gardens Stage. “My main inspiration there,” Michel explained, “was a Gothic kind of fair. King Arthur Carrousel and all the structures surrounding Dumbo – those were the main inspiration for the theatre structure.”

We’ll have more updates on Fantasy Faire – including the opening date – here on the Disney Parks Blog in the coming weeks, so keep checking back!

Exclusive First Look: New Annie Leibovitz Disney Dream Portrait Featuring Taylor Swift as Rapunzel

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By George Sawas on the Disney Parks Blog:

Today we are letting our hair down to show you one of the most stunning images yet created for Disney Parks‘ ongoing Disney Dream Portrait series. Created by legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz and featuring six-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift as Rapunzel, our latest portrait is captioned “Where adventure awaits.”

New Annie Leibovitz Disney Dream Portrait Featuring Taylor Swift as Rapunzel

This beautiful image can be seen in upcoming issues of Vanity Fair, InStyle and People.

Check back Friday and I’ll take you behind the scenes on the set of this “hair-raising” photo shoot.

‘Limited Time Magic’ Brings Delicious Treats for Happy Lunar New Year Celebration to Disney California Adventure Park

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Pam Brandon on the Disney Parks Blog:

While many of us celebrate the New Year on January 1, the Lunar New Year is usually between late January and early February, determined by the cycles and phases of the moon. Best known as “Chinese New Year,” Lunar New Year is also celebrated by the Vietnamese and Korean cultures, and is a time for big festivities.

Pot Stickers from Lucky Fortune Cookery, Part of the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure Park
Disney California Adventure park is joining in the fun with the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration, part of “Limited Time Magic” from February 8-11, with the eateries in Pacific Wharf adding Asian-inspired treats. Lucky Fortune Cookery is adding chicken and veggie pot stickers and pork spare riblets with char siu sauce to its menu, as well as ginger milk tea (a delicious new creation by the Disney chefs) and mini-almond cookies.

Pacific Wharf Café is adding a barbecued pork bao roll, a traditional Chinese steamed bun, along with ginger milk tea and almond cookies. And their popular Chinese chicken salad in a sourdough bowl fits the bill, too.

Snake-Shaped Sourdough Bread from the Boudin Bread Cart, Part of the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure Park
The San Francisco cart adds the barbecued pork bao roll, edamame, almond cookies and ginger milk tea, while the Boudin Bread Cart is offering a giant loaf of sourdough shaped like a snake, for “the year of the snake.”

Pacific Palisades Coffee Cart is adding ginger milk tea, edamame and almond cookies, while Rita’s Baja Blenders will offer Tsing Tao beer. Try a little of everything to celebrate lively Asian flavors and a different tradition this year. Happy Lunar New Year!