AP Preview of Cars Land Merchandise, Entertainment, and Much More

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

From Erin Glover on the Disney Parks Blog:

Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders: from March 27–29, take advantage of a special sneak peek of the amazing merchandise, food, entertainment, new costumes and guided tours the Disneyland Resort will bring to life this summer.

As part of this preview in Stage 17 at Disney California Adventure park, I’m excited to share that some of the merchandise being created for the park and the opening of Cars Land will be available to purchase, including items from collections such as the Disney California Adventure park logo program, Attraction Posters, Low & Slow Car Club, Champions Custom Speed Shop and Radiator Springs Racers, to name a few, before they hit store shelves at locations such as Ramone’s House of Body Art, Sarge’s Surplus Hut and more.

Check out these new merchandise logos!


Logo for Low & Slow Car Club at Cars Land at Disney California Adventure ParkLogo for Champions Custom Speed Shop at Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park 
There’s no need to sign up! The showcase will be open from 10-8 p.m. daily, March 27–29. Look for a glimpse at some of the merchandise in early March on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Event subject to space, time and availability. Entrance to the showcase is not guaranteed. Please note, this is an Annual Passholder only event. A valid Disneyland Resort Annual Passholder ID must be presented by each guest entering the venue and must be presented at time of purchase. Limits and restrictions apply. Merchandise available while supplies last. Information subject to change or cancellation without notice, including but not limited to event dates, artwork, edition sizes and retails. Separate theme park admission may be required.

And one more image was released on the Art of Disney website:

Max Guggenheim’s 2/9/11 DLR Photo Report

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

DLNT Reporter Max Guggenheim was at the Disneyland Resort a few days ago and captured some really neat photos to share. Photos include Buena Vista Street, Cars Land, and much more…

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World of Color banners in Downtown Disney

And also Star Tours banners

La Brea Bakery construction

Over in DCA, a look into the North Plaza area of Buena Vista Street

In Condor Flats, the stage has been set up for Minnie’s Fly Girls

I like this picture

The Carthay Circle fountain

Looks like there are a lot of jets on this fountain we haven’t seen on yet

Moving on, Time for the Pixar Pals may be running out very soon

Over in Cars Land

Looks like some aerial pictures or footage being taken

Work on the parade route in front of Mermaid continues

Though it looks done…

A new desert at Paradise Garden Grill, a Chocolate Brownie and Strawberry Skewer

And one quick photo in Disneyland in Town Square

Five & Dime Joining the List Of Entertainment Offerings on Buena Vista Street

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

It looks like another musical group has been added to Buena Vista Street. Joining the Lonely Sisters, the Five & Dime will be a swing band playing with “Five” musicians and one singer or “dime.” Here is one posting from the auditions website,

Disney Parks Talent Casting is seeking FEMALE VOCALISTS for Five & Dime, a high-energy musical group (“Five”) fronted by a female singer (“Dime”) with the vocal stylings of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. Together, they will play and swing to popular standards of the ’30s while interacting with park Guests.

Rehearsals begin early May, show opens early June.

Entertainers for this show are covered under the terms and conditions of a collective bargaining agreement with the American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA).

Role

Dime: Female vocalist of African heritage, knowledge of ’30s swing and scat singing, reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, must sing “G” below middle C to “D” a 9th above middle C, lots of personality

Requirements

  • Please prepare 16 bars of music in the appropriate style, an accompanist will be provided
  • Must be at least 18 years of age to audition
  • Bring a picture and résumé

Also along with this posting, it confirms the rumors that indeed the early June opening for Cars Land and Buena Vista Street may be true.

“Minnie’s Fly Girls Charter Airline” Takes Flight Today

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

From Shawn Slater on the Disney Parks Blog:

“The
“Minnie’s Fly Girls Charter Airline” opens for business today at Disney California Adventure park. This tune-filled “travelogue” of song, dance and audience interaction takes place in Condor Flats, across from Soarin’ Over California, featuring songs from the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s in a colorful new show sure to appeal to the young and young at heart.

Creating something to delight multiple generations was a central focus during production and a personal passion of the creative team. Senior Writer Carolyn Gardner said, “I’ve been surrounded by pilots ever since I can remember. My dad was a private pilot [and] flight instructor, my mom flew her own ‘solo’ flight, my big brother worked at our local airfield and my cousin’s an air traffic controller. I hope audiences feel their own hearts take wing when the show’s flight crew launches into the fun-filled, flight-themed songs.”

“A
“Come Fly with Me,” originally performed by Frank Sinatra, introduces the crew – Amanda, Pat, Kate and Lee – to all their potential “passengers” (the audience). Minnie makes her grand entrance during “Straighten up and Fly Right,” a hit song by Nat King Cole. The performance also includes two medleys, incorporating a number of other musical favorites. “Destination Medley” is a fun, ‘round-the-world collection of standards such as “Brazil,” “I Love Paris” and “Lady of Spain.” The Disney “Flying Medley” is an uplifting blend of Disney tunes, including “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” and “When I See an Elephant Fly.”

Art Director Brian Sandahl’s challenge was to design a stage that doesn’t look like a stage. “When the show is not being performed, the stage fits nicely into the aged look of Condor Flats, and you’d almost not even notice it,” says Brian. “The décor for the stage looks very industrial, very much like found objects you would see in Condor Flats; however, when the show begins, a common flight sign becomes the ‘show sign,’ a steel drum magically becomes a check in counter and an old trunk becomes a prop trunk for the many props in this show.”

The music, costumes and props send this latest addition to Disney California Adventure park soaring to new heights. You’ll definitely want to “book a flight” with “Minnie’s Fly Girls Charter Airline” on your next visit!

Be sure to check the park Entertainment Guide for show times.

Blue Sky Cellar To Re-Open Feb. 29 Featuring New Cars Land Exhibit

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

From Erin Glover on the Disney Parks Blog:

‘The Road to Cars Land’ Coming to Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar on February 29
There’s a big update coming to Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar at Disney California Adventure park on Wednesday, Feb. 29. “The Road to Cars Land” will be a sneak preview of the plans for Cars Land, featuring a model of the land, maquettes of some of the new ride vehicles, and sketches and early concept art.

And of course, brand-new Cars Land attractions posters will be included in this latest update. Other items to be featured will include the shovel used during the ground-breaking ceremony in July 2009 with the signatures of John Lasseter, Director of “Cars” and Principal Creative Advisor, Walt Disney Imagineering, and other project team members. A new video at Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar will feature John, the Cars Land design team, project architects and landscapers providing insights into the innovations behind the new land opening this summer at Disney California Adventure park.

Once the expansion is complete, Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar will continue to be a preview center for new experiences planned for the Disneyland Resort.

What’s For Sale Down Route 66

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

From Michelle Harker on the Disney Parks Blog:

Rev up your engines Disney fans, and hang on, because I’m taking you on the inside track for a quick look at some of the stores racing your way this summer into Cars Land.

Radiator Springs Curios Coming to Disney California Adventure Park
Our first destination will definitely have you putting on the brakes, because Radiator Springs Curios is sure to ‘drive’ you crazy for trading. Fill up on kitsch roadside must-haves like pins and Vinylmation themed to all things “Cars,” or grab some quick pick-me-up items like antenna toppers, window clings, license plate frames and magnets that are sure to make you the envy of others on the open road.

Ramone’s House of Body Art Coming to Disney California Adventure Park
I’m going to need you to keep your cool for our next stop… because we are cruising into Ramone’s House of Body Art. This high-octane, garage-like environment has all the tools needed for you to hit the road in style. While some will race in to become a member of the Low & Slow Car Club Radiator Springs, the Champion Custom Speed Shop collection is sure to meet your need for speed with signature pin-stripe style and laid-back look which appears on a variety of shirts for work and play, hats and accessory items.

Next week, I’ll be able to give you a glimpse at some of the actual products from these collections. Until then, check out the renderings of the store fronts. Sweet, right?

Had enough? Me neither.

Sarge’s Surplus Hut Coming to Disney California Adventure Park
So finally it’s time to earn your stripes as you “march in” to the barracks of Sarge’s Surplus Hut, but don’t let its military-style characteristics fool you – it’s sure to get your engine racing. Don’t be fearful that you’ll have to “drop and give Sarge twenty,” because you’ll find that every inch of merchandise in this facility will pass “inspection” by the troops, with its broad selection of offerings featuring Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and other classic “Cars” characters. From kids clothing, costumes and hats to novelty items, toys and plush, you will find all the necessary rations before you race on to your next adventure.

So where will you make your first pit stop? Radiator Spring’s Curios, Ramone’s House of Body Art or Sarge’s Surplus Hut?

Hayley Nance’s 2/21/12 DLR Photo Report

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

DLNT Reporter Hayley Nance was at the resort a few days ago and has some newsworthy photos to share.

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Matterhorn Refurbishment continues

All you Jimmy Kimmel fans could have been in the show…

More Matterhorn

Over in New Orleans Square, the Bayou Bash was a popular event

Rather slow day in Disneyland

Work on the Tomorrowland Train Station

Over in DCA, Parade Route still behind walls in front of Mermaid

Time for a spin on the Fun Wheel

WOC getting ready for the night

Matterhorn really sticks out on the

The backside of Cars Land is looking good

Cones looking cozy

You can see the detail on the gates for the Pacific Wharf entrance to Car Land

The Pacific Wharf Bay has been drained for the Grizzly River Run refurbishment

Carthay Circle in the distance

Finishing off the report are some nice nighttime photos of Soundsational

Thanks For Reading

Michael Wada’s 2/24/12 DLR Photo Report

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

DLNT Reporter Michael Wada was at the Disneyland Resort a few days ago and took some beautiful photos of the resort to share. Photos include Cars Land, Buena Vista Street, The Matterhorn, and much more…

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

The Grizzly River Run Refurbishment has drained the Pacific Wharf Bay and workers are taking the opportunity to paint some things

Hmmmm. First the Condor Flats letters were painted over by the land entrance, now this has been painted on the Pacific Wharf Cafe

Cars Land

You can see just the top of the “Welcome to Radiator Springs” sign

A look at the mash potato building… Err, Carthay Circle Theater

Excellent…

Clarabell’s

The sign has finally been pulled off the Candy Shoppe

Elias and Company looking farther behind than the rest of the buildings

Over in Disneyland…

Blue Ribbon Bakery is no more as its space is transformed into Carnation Cafe

Hearing that Coke Corner actually reopened today

Scaffolding is already coming down at the top of the Matterhorn

You can definitely notice the difference in color from top to bottom. Get ready for a much darker Matterhorn.

Thanks for reading!

What’s On The Menu Down Route 66

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

From Pam Brandon on the Disney Parks Blog:

The food is just as fun at the rest of spectacular Cars Land, with Disneyland Resort chefs having fun in the test kitchens. Here’s a sneak peek at some of their delicious creations debuting this summer.

“Cherry
With design inspired by the kitschy roadside eateries along on Route 66, Flo’s V8 Café starts with old-fashioned, filling breakfast dishes like chicken tamale with scrambled eggs, salsa verde and pico de gallo; or brioche French toast served with salted caramel and bananas. For lunch, we get a taste of the delicious, filling veggie-tater casserole with roasted veggies, bulgur wheat, Boca Crumbles and smashed red skin potatoes topped with melted cheddar. But it’s the sweet pies everyone’s waiting for, including apple-cheddar and cherry.

“Chili
The adorable Cozy Cone Motel is a quick-service restaurant inspired by the quirky “wigwam” motels along Route 66. In the Cars Land version, each wigwam offers a different filled cone, such as “chili cone carne” or “cone on the cob.” Flavored popcorn is a fun offering at one of the five wigwams, including salt and vinegar, pickle, sweet and spicy, bacon and cheddar, and nacho cheese.

In the “Cars” movie, Fillmore is an advocate of natural products and makes his living by selling organic fuel, so Fillmore’s Taste-In is, appropriately, the spot for fresh fruit, bottled beverages and juices.

Stay tuned for more details – and the recipe for our favorite veggie-tater casserole.

Disney California Adventure Relaunches with Cars Land and Buena Vista Street on June 15th!

WDWNT on June 11, 2012

ANAHEIM, Calif. (March 7, 2012)  – The Happiest Place on Earth will get even happier June 15, 2012, with the grand opening of Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and the Carthay Circle Theatre at Disney California Adventure park. The exciting, new additions will complete the five-year expansion ofDisneyland Resort, a premier, multi-day vacation destination in Southern California with two theme parks, three hotels and the Downtown Disney shopping and dining district.

With four new attractions opening at Disney California Adventure park, full day-to-night experiences at both parks, and the magical transformation of the Disneyland Hotel with new pools, themed suites and remodeled rooms, guests of all ages will enjoy more fun and adventure than ever before at the Disneyland Resort.

Cars Land expands Disney California Adventure by 12 acres and immerses guests in the thrilling world of the Disney•Pixar blockbuster “Cars.”  Guests will feel as if they have stepped into the town of Radiator Springs as they enjoy three family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the movie, plus “Cars”-themed dining and shopping locations such as Flo’s V8 Café, Ramone’s House of Body Art and Radiator Springs Curios.

One of the largest and most elaborate attractions ever created for a Disney park, Radiator Springs Racers is a twisting, turning, high-speed adventure through Ornament Valley and the town of Radiator Springs. Luigi’s Flying Tires invites guests to glide on air aboard special tires, whirling around with their pals. At Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, guests will whip around behind a baby tractor and enjoy tunes from a giant jukebox built from Mater’s most prized possessions.

Starting June 15, guests will enter Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, a place that transports them to an era when Walt Disney arrived in California with new dreams:   1920s Los Angeles. Buena Vista Street features Red Car Trolleys, inspired by the transportation system that once served Southern California, and the Carthay Circle Theatre, modeled after the site of the 1937 world premiere of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Carthay Circle Theatre will include a lounge and the elegant Carthay Circle Restaurant, designed to be the premier dining location in Disney California Adventure.

Adding to the fun at Disney California Adventure this summer will be the new Mad T Party in Hollywood Land, the return of Pixar Play Parade, and the new Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop at Pacific Wharf.  Mad T Party will feature nighttime, family fun inspired by the wild and whimsical world of Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland.”

The summer debuts of Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and Carthay Circle Theatre complement previous additions to the park, including the 4D fun ofToy Story Mania; the spectacular after-dark “World of Color” show; The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure; Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and Paradise Garden Grill restaurants, plus the re-themed attractions Mickey’s Fun Wheel, Silly Symphony Swings and Goofy’s Sky School.

To accommodate a media preview and make final preparations for the exciting debuts, Disney California Adventure will be closed June 14. The fun, new attractions, locations and entertainment will open to the public June 15.