Walt Disney World 2013 – Coming Attractions

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

So, 2012 is coming to a close and you’re probably now asking, “Well, what is happening at Walt Disney World in 2013?” It’s going to be nearly impossible to top all the changes and additions we had in 2012 at the Vacation Kingdom of the World, but there will be a steady diet of exciting offerings coming in 2013:

Princess Fairytale Hall

Princess Fairytale Hall

Disney princesses including Cinderella, Aurora, Snow White, Jasmine, Tiana and Rapunzel will have a new home for meeting their loyal subjects when Princess Fairytale Hall opens in 2013 in the shadows of Cinderella Castle. The castle-like entrance will feature walls of stone and stained glass windows leading to a large, high-ceilinged room where portraits of the princesses adorn the walls. When summoned, Magic Kingdom guests will proceed to elegantly furnished chambers to meet the princesses.

Limited Time Magic

Disney Parks guests will get an extra dash of pixie dust in 2013 with Limited Time Magic. Themed weekly surprises and special offers will surprise and delight Disney Parks guests with 52 weeks of the unexpected. Plans include everything from dance parties, new festivals and character meet and greets to culinary treats, special entertainment and commemorative keepsakes. The bicoastal offering — created to remind guests about the importance of family vacation time together — is full of unique, magical, memory-filled experiences – all available for a limited time only. Special experiences include Valentine’s week with enchanting dinners, or photo shoots with famous Disney character couples; a patriotic salute during July 4th week with red, white and blue lights adorning castles on both coasts and limited edition souvenirs; or the popular Dapper Dans barbershop quartet swapping their old-time melodies for surprise renditions of today’s boy band hits. Each Limited Time Magic offering will have a varying length from a day to a week to a season adding to the element of surprise.

The Kinsey Collection at the American Adventure

The Kinsey Collection Opens at Epcot in 2013

The American story of determination, courage, hope, struggle and inspiration will be told through more than 40 pieces of art, artifacts, books sculptures and documents on display at Epcot. The American Adventure Pavilion will be home to the Kinsey’s personal treasures of African-American art and history, amassed from their travels to 90 countries with some works dating to the 17th century. The Kinsey Collection is the intersection where art and history meet, a virtual history book opened wide, giving voice to untold stories of accomplishment and contribution. After previews during African-American Heritage Month in February, the Kinsey Collection is scheduled to open in March 2013. The Kinsey Collection, at the American Heritage Gallery, will be included in Epcot admission.

Disney Senses Spa Opens at Grand Floridian, Coming to Saratoga Springs
If the new year means a new you, the just-opened Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort welcomes Walt Disney World Resort guests to renew and rejuvenate in 2013. The newly-remodeled spa, owned and operated by Disney, blends Grand Floridian Victorian elegance with modern touches – plus a dash of Disney whimsy.

All the senses are engaged in an ultimate relaxation experience – flavorful and soothing elixirs, color variations in lighting and Disney orchestral music harmonize with the treatment selected. Spa-goers walk through the new Victorian-style entryway and indulge in the spa’s relax, renew, or imagine themes aimed at creating a custom experience. The centerpiece of the spa’s lobby is an original mural reflecting old Florida landscape and nature. Glass mosaic tiles in the Jacuzzi rooms further enhance the elegance and sophistication of the spa.

Fifteen treatment rooms offer pampering services such as water therapy, sugar exfoliation body treatment, rejuvenating citrus facial, a restorative hand and foot ritual with Chinese Jasmine oils, plus a Princess Pedicure or Magical Manicure for youngsters ages 4-12. Lounges, whirlpools and treatment rooms all provide rejuvenation through the healing nature of Florida citrus and botanicals.

The new menu of services also includes a signature 80-minute Grand Floridian treatment featuring a special aromatherapy massage.

Guests can book a spa appointment at the new Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort by calling 407-WDW-SPAS (407-939-7727) or learn more by visiting www.disneyworld.com/spas

All of the spas, salons and fitness centers will be owned and operated by Disney beginning Jan.16, 2013. On that same day the spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort will temporarily close for renovation and reopen in the summer as Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort.

“Sophia the First” and “Doc McStuffins” join Disney Junior – Live on Stage
Disney Junior – Live on Stage! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney California Adventure is periodically updated to feature the latest, most popular characters and stories from the Disney Junior line-up on television. In 2013, the top-rated “Doc McStuffins” and “Sofia the First” join the show. The new version of Disney Junior – Live on Stage! debuts at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in mid-February and comes to Disney California Adventure one month later, in March 2013. “Sofia the First” as a regular series premieres Friday, Jan. 11, on Disney Channel and Disney Junior.

Starbucks comes to Magic Kingdom and Epcot
Starbucks will be opening locations at Disney theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. The first two Walt Disney World locations will open in 2013. At Magic Kingdom, Main Street Bakery will close for refurbishment in January 2013. When it reopens in early summer, Main Street Bakery will keep its name and theming and continue to serve Disney favorites like cookies, brownies and seasonal cupcakes, in addition to Starbucks signature beverages and other menu items. At Epcot, Fountain View will temporarily close in March 2013. When Fountain View reopens in midsummer, it will serve Starbucks products. Each Starbucks location inside a Disney Park will reflect the theme of its surroundings. At Magic Kingdom Park for example, Cast Members will wear a costume consistent with the early 20th century look and feel of Main Street, U.S.A. At Future World in Epcot, the new Starbucks location and Cast Member costumes will be designed to match the park’s futuristic theme.

New Dining

  • California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort gets a major makeover and will be closed from February 2, 2013 until late-summer 2013. Chef Brian Piasecki also is tweaking the menu, but the focus will remain on fresh, seasonal creations.
  • Upstairs at the France pavilion, Bistro de Paris has reopened with a new name and a completely refurbished dining room and new menu. Still haute French but a bit more casual, with a nod to famed chef Paul Bocuse in the décor and the name – Monsieur Paul. In the meantime, Boulangerie Patisserie bakery is a brand-new building at the back of the pavilion, opening in January 2013.
  • Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa now offers a private dining experience in The Chef’s Domain for up to 10 guests. Available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, cost is $155 per person plus tax (includes gratuity) for six courses.

Other 2013 additions Disney has not confirmed at this time include The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Tapaz (a waterside restaurant to be constructed in the Morocco pavilion at Epcot), and a rather large refurbishment project for the Jungle Cruise. We’ll have more on these projects as they become available.

So… what are you most excited for in 2013?

March Disney Store Sale

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

A listener named Matt sent us an email today. He said he was at his Disney Store and they were having a buy one 3″ Vinylmation, get a free Vinylmation sale. The free vinyls were Robots 3, Myths and Legends, and Zooper Heroes. The interesting part, was the original 3″ could be anything, including vinyl on clearance, like Phineas and Ferb for $2.99.

Just something to think about. Thanks Matt!

Kickstarter for Urban Vinyl Film

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

Evilos brought us information about a kickstarter that has been started by a indie film maker named Jordan Ahern. After watching the short video on his kickstarter page, I’m convinced we need to help this guy make his movie.

Here are the details. Jordan needs $13,660 to make his film, a documentary about Vinyl artists. At the moment we are posting this, he only needs $2,468 to make his film. The goal is to raise this money by March 13th 2013. This is a kickstarter so he needs to get his goal in order to get any of the money donated.

Now here’s the cool part, when you donate, depending on the amount, you will get gifts. The basic gifts are digital download for $15 or a DVD for $25. But check out his site. For more money you can get packages of customs that have been donated to help raise the money. These customs are crazy cool.

Jordan has a tumblr at dopevinyl.tumblr.com
The kickstarter for the movie is at http://kck.st/12GHqQn

If you don’t seem interested in donating, at least take a look at the site. It’s a good example of the custom artwork that artists are doing in the vinyl world, outside of vinylmation.


A Figment of Noah’s Imagination

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

Update 3/6/13 Here are a few facts from Disney:

  • Each piece is hand-painted in a purple pearl finish, which shines to show off Figment’s smiling face, along with planets and stars
  • Hand-signed by the artist on foot
  • Includes acrylic stand with printed Noah Figment graphic on cut-out number “30” backdrop
  • Produced on demand up to 30 pieces
  • Inspired by Epcot’s Journey Into Your Imagination with Figment attraction
  • Commemorating Epcot’s 30th Anniversary (Epcot� Center opened to the public October 1, 1982)
  • Exclusive to DisneyParks.com/store
  • Note: Custom hand-crafted works typically display unique texture and paint handling. Coloring may vary. No two are the same!
  • Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery due to the custom nature of this product.
  • Please Note: Each Guest will be limited to ordering a maximum of 2 of this item per order.
  • Please Note: Due to the unique nature of this item, there are no refunds, exchanges or returns.
  • Sorry! Express shipping not available for this item.

Artist Noah has released his latest 9″ Vinylmation creation titled “Dream Dragon.” It features Figment from Epcot’s Imagination Pavilion and celebrates the 30th anniversary of the theme park.

There will be 30 of these made and are for sale right now exclusively at Disney’s Vinylmation Facebook Store for $750. This custom continues Noah’s style of an airbrushed figure on a stand with a painted back. I really like the Figment that is featured on the stand as well as the cut on “30.”

Episode 110 Blue/Yellow Gear Bear

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

Ep. 110 Blue/Yellow Gear Bear

This week we have a ton of news to cover including Animation 3, Jr. 8, Tokyo 30th and much more. We also run down Chuck’s list of proposed WDW Resort vinyls and talk about the reorganization of D-Street Orlando. And of course, we give you the complete release and events calendar. Stay tuned at the end of the show for the special 2013 Custom VinylMadness Selection Show!

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Artist Brian Shapiro Supports Urban Film Kickstarter

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

Brian Shapiro has begun a new series he titles “Incognito.” The first in the series is called “Put on a Happy Face” and features Donald with a Mickey mask on.

This is a brilliant and very well executed idea. It is very smart because Brian found a way to make a Donald custom and not have to try to paint that annoying beak! (I know from experience that duck beaks are a little tricky) The other exciting thing about this custom, is it is up for auction at the Vinylmation Bid Wars Facebook page and all proceeds will go to the Kickstarter for the Urban Vinyl film that is trying to get made.

Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

I love the Enchanted Tiki Room. More for it’s style and place in Disney theme park history than for the actual entertainment value of that show in the year 2013. But none the less, I enjoy some good Tiki Room merchandise. Well, Disneyland is celebrating the 50th anniversary of this historic attraction this year and is holding a special ticketed event for guests. We recently had a look at the details and a sneak peek at just some of the merchandise that will be available. Still no Vinylmation mentioned, but we are still holding out hope. We think there is a high probability for at least a few one-of-a-kind customs for the event.

The event will be similar to the WDW annual trading event where you pay a price for a ticket and then get to select the merchandise you want to purchase through a “Random Selection Process.” At the event itself, you will be treated to a themed experience, most likely with characters, sounds and sights related to the Tiki Room. There will be trading tables for guests and games where you can trade with Cast Members. Right now, the trading with Cast Members seems to be pins only.

Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event

June 28-29

  • Disneyland Hotel – Exhibit Hall
  • Ticket Sales begin Tuesday, April 2, 2013, at 11 a.m. (Pacific Time) via www.ArtofDisneyParks.com
  • “JOSE” Package is $85
  • Registered event guests will have the opportunity to purchase Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event-themed merchandise via the Random Selection Process.

June 28, 2013 (5-9 p.m.)

  • Early Registration
  • Event Store & Random Selection Process Merchandise Pick-up
  • Trading Area

June 29, 2013 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

  • Event Store & Random Selection Process Merchandise Pick-up
  • Artist Signings
  • Silent Auction
  • Trading Area and Activities
  • Commemorative Gifts

Special Experience Add-On:

  • Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary – SHAG Cocktail Reception – $185
  • In order to register for the SHAG Cocktail Reception, Guests must also be registered for Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event ‘JOSE’ Package.
  • June 29, 2013 (7–10 p.m.)
  • Cocktail Reception
  • Light Hors d’oeuvres
  • Meet and Greet with SHAG
  • Commemorative Photo
  • Commemorative Gifts
  • Shag is known in the Vinylmation world for creating the 40th Anniversary DLR Haunted Mansion 9″/3″ Figure that is hard to get at an LE of only 150.

A Closer Look at Silly Symphony

WDWNT on January 9, 2013

The Silly Symphonies were a series of animated shorts produced by Walt Disney Productions. There was a total of 75 made between 1929 and 1939. Each short was unique, in that, with few exceptions, they did not contain reoccurring characters. The Silly Syphonies are a very important part of Disney’s animation history, because they were a testing ground for techniques that Disney would later use to revolutionize animation. They also launched the career of my favorite character, Donald Duck.

So it is wonderful that the Disney Design Group is celebrating the Silly Symphonies with a blind box Vinylmation set that is due out this fall. With all those shorts, there is quite a catalog of characters to choose from. Let’s take a look at the three characters we know about and speculate who else may be in the set.

The first figure is Old King Cole from the 1931 short “Mother Goose Melodies.” In this short, Old King Cole summons various Mother Goose characters for his entertainment, including the Three Blind Mice as his “fiddlers three”, Miss Muffet, Jack and Jill (who meet Simple Simon atop the hill), Humpty Dumpty, Jack Horner (his Christmas pie also containing the four and twenty blackbirds), Bo Peep (Boy Blue brings the sheep home, one of which falls in mud to become Baa Baa Black Sheep) and the Cat, Cow and Little Dog.

The next figure is Abner the mouse from the 1936 short “The Country Cousin.” The film’s story was based on one of Aesop’s Fables, The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse and won the 1936 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.

The figure on the box is from “The Ugly Duckling” which was released in 1939 as the last Silly Symphony. It was also the only story made twice in the series… the first was in black and white and contains less story elements. This short took home the 1939 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.

What else might be in this set? It is likely the artist have given a nod to “Flowers and Trees.” That was the first cartoon produced in full-color three-strip Technicolor. It also won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 1932 and was Disney’s first overall cartoon in color.

Another likely candidate is “Skeleton Dance.” This was the first, and still well known Silly Symphony.

I would like to see “The Old Mill” represented. In 1937, this was Disney’s first use of the multiplane camera. A revolutionary technique that can be seen demonstrated inside One Man’s Dream at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The Three Little Pigs were popular Silly Symphony characters, but we have seen them in Animation 2. Will they be represented here again? What shorts or characters would you like to see?