Friday, July 31, 2009

Making of Disney's Tower of Terror Parts 1-3

Part 1



Part 2



Part 3



The Making of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Kirk Cameron guides you through the making of this engineering and spine-tingling marvel. Look at what went into this immersive experience that is now an international favorite. ---Step into the 5th dimension, because this video takes you directly to...the Twilight Zone.

"Tower of Terror Tokyo Disney Sea© ad"

Tower of Terror - AD for Disneyland

Tower of Terror - Bingo Paris Disneyland AD

Disneyland VoluntEARS

VoluntEARS Events

Blood Drive

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The Disneyland® Resort has been holding blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross for more than 30 years. Through this partnership, cast members have donated 28,000 pints of blood — an amount that has helped in saving more than 85,000 lives.

"Disneyland not only gives joy to millions, it also gives life to the sick and injured through its blood drives. No other Southern California business saves as many lives in one location as Disneyland,” said Cliff Numark, director of donor recruitment for American Red Cross Blood Services in Southern California.

Canine Companions for Independence

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Disney VoluntEARS assisted the Canine Companions for Independence graduation at the organization’s guide dog training facility in Oceanside, Calif. CCI is a not-for-profit organization that provides highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to people with disabilities. VoluntEARS support several events each year including CCI’s Team Training Graduation Day. Proceeds from cast member recycling efforts at the Disneyland® Resort are also donated to CCI to support guide dogs in training.

Minnie’s Moonlit Madness

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On May 20, after closing to day guests, Disneyland® Park was filled with cast members, friends and family competing in a four-hour trivia contest and scavenger hunt to raise funds for the Community Action Partnership Food Bank.

More than 1,200 participants took to the streets and pathways of the park to participate in the fundraising event. Minnie Mouse was joined by cast members to present the foodbank with a check for $5,000 on behalf of the Disney VoluntEARS.

CHOC Mural

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The Disney VoluntEARS recently gave a “Finding Nemo” themed makeover to four of the treatment rooms at Children’s Hospital of Orange County. The walls were painted blue, giving the rooms an “under the sea” feel, and colorful murals were then mounted to complete the design. The hospital held a special unveiling party, hosted by Minnie Mouse, complete with Nemo-themed crafts and treats to celebrate the completion of the murals.

AIDS Walk Orange County

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More than 200 Disney VoluntEARS filled Angels Stadium in Anaheim, on Sunday, May 10, to support AIDS Services Foundation’s annual AIDS Walk Orange County. VoluntEARS brought their friends and family to the Sunday morning walk, raising more than $10,000 to support the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Dont Judge a Girl by Her Cover



The third book in the Gallagher Girls series written by Ally Carter finds Cammie Morgan visiting her roommate Macey in Boston. She thinks she's in for an exciting end to her summer break. But at the world's best school (for spies), exciting and deadly are never far apart. In stores now.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Disney Cast Members Raise $35,000 for United Arts


ORLANDO, Fla., July 29, 2009 - Making music for charity’s sake, the Encore! Cast Choir and Orchestra, a volunteer ensemble of nearly 300 Disney Cast Members, struck a high note by raising a record $35,000 for United Arts of Central Florida.

"On behalf of Encore!, we are grateful to everyone who came out to support our concerts and help us raise a record level of funds for United Arts,” said Encore! producer and co-founder Ray Fournier. “We are thrilled to be giving them a $35,000 donation and know it will go to good use in support of many arts organizations in Central Florida who are struggling in these economic times."

Earning rave reviews for "Revolution! - A Musical Flashback to the ‘60s and ‘70s,” Encore! took the stage at Epcot for three nights (July 23-25) with more than 200 singers and an 80-piece orchestra to perform songs by The Beatles, Queen, Elton John and ABBA.

“Our two-year relationship with Encore! has helped both our organizations,” said United Arts President & CEO Margot H. Knight. “We’re overjoyed to again be the beneficiary of this amazing volunteer event. It’s a perfect pairing since so many Disney Cast Members are involved in the local arts scene both onstage and behind the scenes. The creativity of Disney fuels our cultural community to a large extent.”

Encore! gives Disney Cast Members a chance to showcase their skills and perform great music while raising funds for local charities. Beneficiaries are determined by group vote. In July 2008, Encore! raised $25,940 for United Arts. Since its inception in 2002, it has raised more than $115,000 for local charities. To learn more, visit www.encorecentral.org.

United Arts of Central Florida is a dynamic collaboration of businesses, governments, foundations, arts and cultural organizations, school districts, artists and individuals. This partnership works to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Since its inception in 1989, United Arts has invested more than $102 million in local cultural organizations and cultural education. For more information please visit www.UnitedArts.cc.

Halloween At Paris Disneyland



This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 30th & 31st

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Dining is Part of the Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios


LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – From a 1930s culinary landmark to a kitschy ‘50s drive-in theater, restaurants at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are inspired by TV and movie sets – part of the park’s Tinseltown fun and whimsy.

Leisurely Fare
50’s Prime Time Cafe. You could be on the set of a classic 1950s sitcom at this family-friendly restaurant where “mom” will remind you to eat all of your vegetables and keep your elbows off the
table – but she’ll allow you to watch TV at the table, with retro TVs tuned in to clips of 1950s sitcoms like “Father Knows Best.” Fill up on golden fried chicken, meatloaf and pot roast or jump right to a peanut butter and jelly milkshake, Prime Time’s signature sip. The adjacent Tune-In Lounge is a cool spot for a late afternoon cocktail such as Dad’s Electric Lemonade. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

The Hollywood Brown Derby. The stylish ambience of the original Hollywood Brown Derby is re-created in the studio’s most upscale restaurant with teak and mahogany accents, reproductions of the chandeliers, signature brass derby hat lamps and caricatures on the walls. The classic Cobb Salad is the restaurant’s most popular entrée, created in the 1930s by the Derby’s then-owner, Bob Cobb. In addition to Derby originals, the menu offers signature dishes such as spice-rubbed black grouper, ahi tuna seared rare and a char-grilled New York strip steak. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Hollywood & Vine. This is a family destination for breakfast and lunch, where little fans can sing along with their favorite “Playhouse Disney” pals, featuring stars including JoJo and Goliath from “JoJo’s Circus” and June and Leo from “Disney’s Little Einsteins.” The buffet includes grown-up favorites such as pot roast, herb-roasted salmon and salads, and a buffet just for kids. At dinner, the ambience is more subdued and the restaurant shows off its Art Deco, 1950s diner décor and a generous buffet with fresh seafood, meats and casseroles – with a sundae station for kids of all ages.

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Tucked on a back street, you’re transported to Little Italy for favorites such as brick-oven pizza, pastas, oak-grilled salmon and pork Marsala. Sip a Moretti beer or Mama’s sangria sold by the carafe. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. “Terrifying Plants” stalk the planet and “Invaders” touch down from another dimension at this kitschy restaurant that features favorite science fiction and monster flicks teamed with drive-in food, from burgers to pasta and baby back ribs. On a replica of a studio soundstage, the 250-seat restaurant re-creates a 1950s drive-in theater in the middle of Hollywood Hills (without the smog). Diners are seated in flashy, chrome-gilded cars and fiber-optic stars twinkle in the sky. The screen comes to life with trailers from “Cat Women of the Moon,” “Invasion of the Saucerman” and more – a 45-minute reel of the best of science fiction trailers and cartoons. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

For a Fast Bite

From burgers to Cuban sandwiches and fresh fruit and veggies, diverse quick-service options offer something for everyone. ABC Commissary near the Chinese Theatre takes a global approach with chicken curry, fish and chips, Cuban sandwiches and burgers. Backlot Express just steps from “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular” focuses on sandwiches, from grilled vegetables to grilled turkey and cheese, burger and hot dogs, but salads are on the menu, too.

Studio Catering Co. Flatbread Grill next to “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” Movie Set Adventure serves grilled chicken with black beans and rice, pulled pork sandwiches and Greek and Caesar salads – a full-service bar makes it a popular spot. Adjacent to The Hollywood Brown Derby, Starring Rolls Cafe is more sweet than savory, but sells enormous sandwiches (big enough for two) such as turkey
or Black Forest ham on foccacia, and bagels with smoked salmon or pastrami. Near the Muppet*Vision 3-D attraction, “Toy Story” Pizza Planet Arcade is the spot for crisp pies and salads, with arcade-style games to occupy kids.

On Sunset Boulevard, Sunset Ranch is inspired by the Los Angeles farmers’ market, with outdoor seating and walk-up windows for burgers and soups at Rosie’s All-American Cafe; pizzas, salads and sandwiches at Catalina Eddie’s; fresh fruit and veggies at Anaheim Produce; and giant smoked turkey legs at Toluca Legs Turkey Co.


For reservations at any of the table-service restaurants, call 407/WDW-DINE. For same-day seating, go to the kiosk at the corner of Hollywood and Sunset before 1 p.m., or to the restaurant.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 28th & 29th

Audition Disney Cruise Line for Disney Character Performers Aug 5th 2009 Toronto Canada

For: Disney Cruise Line
Audition City: Toronto, Canada
Location: Elgin Theatre
Looking For: Face Characters August 05, 2009
02:00 PM
Time zone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Disney Creative Entertainment is joining up with the Broadway writing team of Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen (Title of Show) as well as Seattle based director Allison Narver, choreographer Karma Camp and musical director Ben Cohn, for the original company (Title, TBD) of our newest high-seas spectacular onboard the luxurious Disney Magic®. Sailing the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Baltic Seas, including the exciting ports of Barcelona, Naples, Cannes, Oslo, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen; one-year contracts begin October 2009.

Disney Cruise Line hires a Repertory company of 19 performers to perform in each of our three musical theatre style shows including Twice Charmed and the award winning Disney Dreams. Contracts include competitive pay, room and board, guest sailing privileges, additional benefits package, and no cruise staff duties.

Audition Location:

Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre
Stage Door Entrance
158 Victoria Street
Toronto, ON M5B 1T6


Sign-in: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Seeking the following roles:

Disney Character Performers: Character performers appear as costumed Disney Characters and as Character Look-alikes in our mainstage productions as well as in meet and greets on board the ships. Females: 4'8" - 5'8"; Males: 5'1" - 5'3" (for the role of Peter Pan) and 6' - 6'2".

An animation and movement combination will be taught.

Requirements:

* Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

* All applicants will be taught a movement routine. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes. No sandals or flip-flops.

* Please bring a current headshot/resume, stapled together.

EOE - Drawing Creativity from Diversity - ©Disney

Audition Disney Cruise Line for Male and Female Dancers who Sing Aug 5th 2009 Toronto Canada

For: Disney Cruise Line
Audition City: Toronto, Canada
Location: Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre
Looking For: Dancers August 05, 2009
10:00 AM
Time zone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Disney Creative Entertainment is joining up with the Broadway writing team of Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen (Title of Show) as well as Seattle based director Allison Narver, choreographer Karma Camp and musical director Ben Cohn, for the original company (Title, TBD) of our newest high-seas spectacular onboard the luxurious Disney Magic®. Sailing the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Baltic Seas, including the exciting ports of Barcelona, Naples, Cannes, Oslo, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen; one-year contracts begin October 2009.

Disney Cruise Line hires a Repertory company of 19 performers to perform in each of our three musical theatre style shows including Twice Charmed and the award winning Disney Dreams. Contracts include competitive pay, room and board, guest sailing privileges, additional benefits package, and no cruise staff duties.

Audition Location:

Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre
Stage Door Entrance
158 Victoria Street
Toronto, ON M5B 1T6


Sign-in: 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Seeking the following roles:

Male Dancers: Seeking versatile, trained male dancers 5’ 10” and above, tumbling a plus. Please also prepare 16 bars of your best vocal selection.

Female Dancers: Seeking versatile, trained female dancers, 5'5" and above; should resemble the character Ariel from the movie, The Little Mermaid. Please also prepare 16 bars of your best vocal selection.

Requirements:

* Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

* Please prepare 16 bars of a musical theatre style selection.

* Please be warmed up and ready to begin at the time listed. Please wear form fitting attire to show off your silhouette.

* Please bring a current headshot/resume, stapled together.

EOE - Drawing Creativity from Diversity - ©Disney

Audition For Disney Cruise Line Singers Aug 4th 2009 Toronto Canada

For: Disney Cruise Line
Audition City: Toronto, Canada
Location: Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre
Looking For: Singers August 04, 2009
10:00 AM
Time zone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Disney Creative Entertainment is joining up with the Broadway writing team of Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen (Title of Show) as well as Seattle based director Allison Narver, choreographer Karma Camp and musical director Ben Cohn, for the original company (Title, TBD) of our newest high-seas spectacular onboard the luxurious Disney Magic®. Sailing the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Baltic Seas, including the exciting ports of Barcelona, Naples, Cannes, Oslo, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen; one-year contracts begin October 2009.

Disney Cruise Line hires a Repertory company of 19 performers to perform in each of our three musical theatre style shows including Twice Charmed and the award winning Disney Dreams. Contracts include competitive pay, room and board, guest sailing privileges, additional benefits package, and no cruise staff duties.

Audition Location:

Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre
Stage Door Entrance
158 Victoria Street
Toronto, ON M5B 1T6

Sign-in: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Seeking the following roles:

HADES - Smart, funny, quick, imposing, must be able to command audience and morph from talk show host, to lounge-y telethon host, to bad Lord of the Underworld with ease, wit, humor and style. Must be a natural at improve. Rock-tenor to a 'A'. Should have a solid mid- to low- sound to his voice and be comfortable singing down to a low 'G'.

PAIN/PANIC –Played by 2 actors. Great comic character actors with incredible timing. Goofy and sweet. Plays well with others. Tenors to a 'G#/A

DR. FACILIER/JAFAR - African-American, bass/baritone. Dr. Facilier is the new villain in the upcoming “The Princess and the Frog.” 1920s New Orleans conjuror; both charming and sinister; a real showman. Jafar is pompous but dangerous and powerful. But in this show he reveals his softer side and sings “Wind Beneath My Wings” Tall and skinny. Smooth.. High range- 'E'. Boom-y, powerful sound - ideally with both legit and pop capabilities.

YZMA/ EVIL QUEEN - Angular smart funny surprising character woman. (Originally voiced by Eartha Kitt) Rubber faced and great physical comedienne who can sell a huge number. Strong pop sound- riffing a plus. Belt (or pop mix) to 'E'.

CAPTAIN HOOK/KRONK - Hook is a forced to be reckoned with and will have order on his ship. Kronk: Big, muscled, sweet, not the sharpest tool in the shed but you gotta love him. Yzma’s loyal and confused sidekick. Tenor or bari-tenor to 'A'. Clean sound- good control over vibrato. Good pop sound, but also with legit ability. Low range- 'A'.

CRUELLA DE VIL/ MALEFICENT - Long thin gorgeous diva with a great bellowing laugh. Must be able to command the space with her body, long cigarette, and feel at home yelling “DARLING!” Good all-around singer, strong pop mix/belt to 'F'. Soprano to 'A' or 'B'. Clear low range to 'F

QUEEN OF HEARTS/ URSULA – Round, imposing, great physical comedienne. Flips from sweet to insane in an instant. Actress must not be afraid to be larger than life and take big physical and vocal risks. At total ease working the crowd. Fearless yet flirty. Strong belter to 'D'.

Requirements:

* Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

* Please prepare 16 bars of a musical theatre style selection.

* Please provide sheet music, in the correct key.

* If needed, you may be asked to learn a simple movement combination.

* An accompanist will be provided.

* Please bring a current headshot/resume, stapled together.

EOE - Drawing Creativity from Diversity - ©Disney

Monday, July 27, 2009

Building Walt's Dream - Disneyland's Construction Part's 1 though 5

Building Walt's Dream - Disneyland's Construction PT 1



Building Walt's Dream - Disneyland's Construction PT 2



Building Walt's Dream - Disneyland's Construction PT 3




Building Walt's Dream - Disneyland's Construction PT 4




Building Walt's Dream - Disneyland's Construction PT 5

Disneyland Paris HD - Alice Curious Labyrinth: Video



Disneyland Paris HD - Alice Curious Labyrinth

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 26th & 27th



July 26th & 27th, a quick look back at events on these days at this Orlando Florida theme park.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Celebrate The Magic



Hey there, fellow Disney fans!! This is a piece I composed for the 2006 Disney Music Convention, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney Records. I complied the movie using pictures and footage from various vacation planning videos. Musically, I really tried to capture the magic I remember from the parks when I was 12 and 13, back in the 90's (the best era for Disney in my opinion). The vocals were performed by the incredible Disney studio and theme park vocalists (and my favorite singers EVER), Michelle Amato and David Wise (also former leads of Disney's Voices of Liberty). I really hope you enjoy it and thanks so much for watching!
Always Remember The Magic,
-Rick

"Celebrate The Magic"
© Copyright 2006
Composed and Orchestrated by Rick McKee
Vocals by Michelle Amato and David Wise

Back in The USSR Mickey and Roy Disney in Red Square



What a trip! Roy Disney, TV producer/reporter Tony Perri, a crew of fifty, four classic Disney films ready for their 1st time theatrical release in Russia, and of course, Mickey Mouse. This video is one of three International TV News Transmissions produced by Perri, that made it to thousands of news and entertainment shows around the world, and consequently into the homes of more than 370 million people! This trip with Roy and Mickey represented the FIRST TIME that any Disney film would be shown on the big screen in Russia. Crowds of people lined up outside Moscow theaters to watch Fantasia. Some Russians waited in line for more than 20 hours to buy their movie tickets.

Blast from the Past: Around The World - Backstage At Walt Disney World from late 1980 early 1990's



Eric Boardman and his magic sweater take us on a behind the scenes look at the backstage and underground utilidors at Walt Disney World.

This aired during commercial breaks on the Disney Channel in the late 80's/early 90's.

Side note: Though a lot of people may tell you otherwise, an underground utilidor system does not exist at Disneyland in California.

Disney Cast Perform Charity Concerts for United Arts


ORLANDO, Fla., July 24, 2009 – Hoping to strike solid gold for charity’s sake, the Encore! Cast Choir and Orchestra - a volunteer ensemble of nearly 300 talented Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members - is performing songs by The Beatles, Queen, Elton John and ABBA to support the local arts community.

"Revolution! - A Musical Flashback to the ‘60s and ‘70s," is a spectacular journey of classic pop and rock songs that is leaving audiences feeling groovy. Tickets for the July 24-25 concerts at Epcot World ShowPlace are still available for sale through www.encorecentral.org and www.UnitedArts.cc. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m.

“The show has a nostalgic pop music feel with some fun and unexpected twists,” says Ray Fournier, Encore! Production Manager. “Please come out to support us in our goal to raise some well-needed funds for Central Florida’s arts community.”

Known for staging amazing charity concerts, Encore! has chosen United Arts of Central Florida as the beneficiary of its performances for the second consecutive year. United Arts is a collaborative partnership of businesses, government, foundations, arts and cultural organizations, school districts, artists and individuals that work to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available in Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.

In July 2008, Encore! raised a record $25,940 for United Arts. Since its inception in 2002, Encore! has raised more than $80,000 for local charities.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Making of Mickey's Magical Year at Paris Disneyland: In French

Tron Legacy - Trailer / Bande-Annonce HQ

Disney Consumer Electronics talks creation: Video

Disney Netpal: Fun, easy, & web-safe: Video

Friday, July 24, 2009

Disney Japan to offer movies on microSD cards


Starting in the fall, Disney Japan will begin selling DVDs that include movies on microSD cards that can be easily inserted into mobile phones and other devices for playback.

The digital copies will be of similar quality to current digital copies that come on discs or are available via download from iTunes.

The DVDs with added microSD cards will cost ¥1,000 ($11 USD) more than the DVDs without it however, adding a heavy premium for the digital copy.

Blast From the Past from 1990:Classic Disneyland Tour Video Part 1 & 2





What Fun! Go back in time to 1990 and the classic tour of the Happiest Place on Earth. This Disneyland romp with Mickey Mouse, Goofy and friends, was shown in hotel rooms, on Southern California TV and at trade shows for years, as the quintessential tour of the Park. Produced, written and directed by Tony Perri for the Walt Disney Company.

Alice in Wonderland Official Movie Trailer HD

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 24th & 25th

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Bay Lake Tower Scheduled to Open Aug. 4, Bringing Disney Vacation Club Conveniences to Disney’s Contemporary Resort



LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Nearly 38 years after Disney’s Contemporary Resort opened its doors, its modern Disney Vacation Club addition, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, is scheduled to welcome guests on Aug. 4. This will be the seventh Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property at Walt Disney World Resort.
All 15 stories of the ultra-sleek design continue the original building’s iconic style, which opened with the Magic Kingdom theme park Oct. 1, 1971. Bay Lake Tower complements and pays homage to Disney’s Contemporary Resort while also offering a variety of new amenities and conveniences – kitchenettes or full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, and other homelike amenities. In addition, most of the 295 two-bedroom equivalent villas in the crescent-shaped tower offer spectacular views of Bay Lake or Magic Kingdom.
Bay Lake Tower, like all DVC resorts, blends Disney magic with elegant design and premier accommodations. DVC members – and, based on availability, overnight Walt Disney World guests staying at Bay Lake Tower – can choose from a number of recreation activities and facilities, including a children’s interactive water play area, Bay Cove Pool, a barbeque pavilion, a Community Hall and two nearby tennis courts.
For easy access to Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s restaurants, merchandise shops and the monorail, the Sky Way Bridge takes members and guests from the fifth floor of Bay Lake Tower directly to the fourth floor Grand Canyon Concourse of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
The opening of Bay Lake Tower is an exciting chapter in the history of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
“Our resort motto is ‘Where Tradition Touches Today,’ and the marriage of our iconic resort with this elegant new Disney Vacation Club offering is a perfect example,” said Thea Sargent, general manager of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. “Plus, with all of the enhancements we have made to the resort over the last few years – from costumes and landscaping to restaurants and merchandise locations – we offer our overnight guests and DVC members an unparalleled ‘contemporary’ resort experience. I think this kind of evolution is exactly what Walt Disney envisioned for our resort.”
Bay Lake Tower is the third Disney Vacation Club offering to open at Walt Disney World Resort this year, following the first phase of Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
“What excites me most about this tremendous growth is that we’re not only creating new accommodations but new experiences for our Disney Vacation Club members as well as our resort guests,” said DVC President Jim Lewis. “Each of the projects we’ve undertaken at Disney Vacation Club is unlike anything previously available in our resort portfolio, and Bay Lake Tower proudly builds on that tradition.”

Disney Cast Members Bring Backstage Magic to the Boys & Girls Club


ORLANDO, Fla., July 22, 2009 – With plenty of jazz shoes and ballet slippers in tow, Disney VoluntEAR Janet Wagner is gearing up to choreograph an introductory dance routine for a group of eager, young students at the Walt Disney World-sponsored Boys & Girls Club in Pine Hills.


“I really love being able to show these kids a different type of recreation,” Wagner says with a smile. “It’s a whole other world to them. It’s very rewarding to let them know there is no limit to what they can do.”


Disney VoluntEARS are taking center stage at the Club this summer to share their expertise in all aspects of the performing arts with hundreds of local children ages 6-18. Over the course of a special nine-week program, Cast Members are hoping to inspire youth by teaching them the basics of script writing, acting, dance, music production, costume design, stage and set design, lighting, sound, producing and directing. Each child will get a chance to showcase their newly developed talents in a grand finale stage production held at the Boys & Girls Club on August 14. Earning awe from Boys & Girls Club staffers for recently getting 82 children to all move in synchronized rhythm, Wagner enjoyed keeping the kids on their toes as she showed them how movement plays into drama.


Being quick-minded is a skill that Disney VoluntEAR Amanda Nesi shared with the youngsters as she helped them build self-esteem through improv and acting exercises. “Seeing the kids light up and get out of their shells was very cool,” said Nesi. “I wanted them to know that it’s OK to be silly and have fun.”


For many at the Boys & Girls Club, these summer activities are their first exposure to the arts. “The children have been very attentive and quick to ask questions,” says Bart McFadden, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida Service Director. “They think the Disney VoluntEARS are rock stars.”


By having youngsters see a production through to an end, McFadden says the experience helps instill a sense of influence, belonging and confidence in Club Members and introduces them to new options in life. “Having someone with a wealth of expertise bearing the Disney name is invaluable to our kids,” explains McFadden. “It’s exposing them to career paths beyond what they know and inspiring them to positively use their imaginations. They see how successful they can be if they just apply themselves.”

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Shut Up about Disneyland and how Small the Castle Is

By Bigbearsg

To the People who go to Disneyland and say the park is to small,"The Castle" is so much smaller then the one at Walt Disney Magic Kingdom and thing like that. All I have to say is Shut up!!!! You just don't get it.

If it wasn't for Disneyland you wouldn't have WDW,Tokyo Disney,Hong Kong Disneyland or Paris Disneyland. If it wasn't for Disneyland you wouldn't have seen parks like, Universal,or Sea World Orlando. If it wasn't for Disneyland, Orlando would still be a little unknown city in Florida.

As I was taking a tour of Universal Studio Singapore site this week, I couldn't help thinking about what if Disneyland wasn't built, would I even be taking this tour right now. Would there have even been attraction like themed rides or would it be like before Disneyland the old carnival ride park.

Disneyland should not be compared to other parks, it should be taken in as, this is the park that Walt Disney made. Walt is everywhere in this park, he's dream's, are Disneyland. We walk where Walt walked.

Time should be taken to look at all the windows of the people who made Walt's dreams come true. Take the time to stop at the Fire House and look up to Walt's apartment,with the light on in the window and say "Thank you Walt for making this park". Take a ride on the train and imagine Walt's head sticking out the window of the engine with the kid's smile on he's face or him standing on the pier watching the riverboat go by. This is what Disneyland is all about not about size or how much better rides are at the other Disney's park.

Disneyland should always be "Disneyland the Park that started it ALL."

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 22nd & 23rd



July 22nd & 23rd, a quick look back at events on these days at this Orlando Florida theme park.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Blast from the Past 1995 Disneyland Paris: Space Mountain TV Ad

Disney Legend and Imagineer Marty Sklar Honored: Video



On the 54th Anniversary of Disneyland, Disney Legend and Imagineer Marty Sklar receives one of the highest honors at Disneyland- a window on Main Street, U.S.A. Disneyland Resort Ambassador Danielle DuBois interviews Sklar and shares the history behind window dedications.

Sponsored by Disney 26th Annual Conference of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO)




HOLLYWOOD, Ca. The opening reception of the 26th Annual Conference of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) was held at Disney’s El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood CA. Sponsored by WDW Minority Business Development and Disney Corporate Diversity Programs, the reception featured a special 3-D screening of the Disney/Pixar film, “UP”. Welcome remarks on behalf of The Walt Disney Company were presented by Efrain Fuentes, Director of Disney Diversity Programs. Prior to the film, a special musical performance featuring favorite Disney characters, including Mickey and Minnie, kicked off the evening. Guests were also treated to an old-fashioned movie experience with popcorn, candy, hot dogs, hamburgers and delicious ice cream sundaes. A special tribute was presented by NALEO to California’s elected officials who were recognized for their years of service at the event.

Established in 1976, NALEO is a 501(c)(4) nonpartisan membership organization whose constituency includes the nation’s more than 6,000 elected and appointed Latino officials. NALEO’s Educational Fund is the nation’s leading 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that facilitates full Latino participation in the American political process, from citizenship to public service. Established in 1981, the NALEO Educational Fund is making significant contributions to the progress of the nation’s 45.5 million Latinos.

The NALEO Educational Fund achieves its mission through integrated strategies that include increasing the effectiveness of Latino policymakers, mobilizing the Latino community to engage in civic life, and promoting policies that advance Latino civic engagement.

NALEO’s flagship program is the biennial NALEO National Institute for Newly Elected Officials, which is a national training seminar. Held in Washington, D.C., the Institute is an intensive three-day orientation to public service for 60 newly elected officials from across the country, representing all levels office.

The NALEO Education Leadership Initiative (NELI) assists the nation’s Latino elected and appointed officials with technical assistance, training, and networking opportunities designed to increase their governance skills and effectiveness as education policymakers and advocates. The NELI Institutes provide training on the topics of higher education access, bridging the education gap, and early childhood education.

The NALEO Healthy Communities Initiative (NHCI) develops Latino policymakers to become effective health advocates to create healthy communities, eliminate childhood obesity, and promote the health and vitality of the communities they serve.

NALEO California Health Leadership Program (NCHLP) fosters a cadre of Latino policymakers who are poised to assume positions of leadership to directly affect the well-being of Latinos throughout the state of California. Over the course of a year, NCHLP participants attend four Leadership Group meetings, which provide them with the necessary tools to form an action plan to implement policies aimed to build healthy communities.

The NALEO Policy Institutes on Sustainable Communities enhance the capabilities of Latino elected and appointed officials to be effective leaders and advocates for their communities on issues such as housing, community revitalization,
and economic development.

Recognized as the “Latino Political Convention”, the NALEO Annual Conference has evolved into a professional development program providing jurisdictional professional development training, non-partisan policy discussions, and an extensive networking forum.

Implemented in more than 20 cities across the United States, the Ya es hora ¡Ciudadanía! (It’s Time, Citizenship!) campaign has proved itself as a successful model for reaching the Latino community as it easily surpassed its goal of helping to mobilize one million legal permanent residents to apply for citizenship.

The Ya es hora ¡Ve y Vota! (It’s Time, Go and Vote!) campaign sought to inform and motivate the Latino community to vote in the 2008 election. With over 11.1 million Latinos exercising their right to vote, the bilingual informational hotline was critical to the record turnout with 35,745 calls placed from January 1-December 31, 2008 and over 25,000 Latinos registering to vote on the campaign’s website, www.veyvota.org.

The 2009 the Ya es hora ¡HAGASE CONTAR! campaign will focus on the 2010 Census, and the importance of full participation from all Latinos. NALEO’s Executive Director, Arturo Vargas, states the importance of the census this way, “Unfortunately, the Latino population has never been fully counted in the decennial enumeration, and Census Bureau estimates suggest that the 2000 Census may have missed as many as 1 million Latinos. Let us be clear: the only way to achieve a successful census is to count all Latinos. We are committed to helping the Bureau eliminate the undercount through our participation in the ya es hora, ¡HAGASE CONTAR! (It’s Time, Make Yourself Count!) Campaign. The Campaign – an unprecedented coalition of national Spanish-language media and Latino organizations – will promote the importance of the census, educate members of the community about filling out their census forms and encourage households to mail back their responses once they complete their forms.”

The NALEO Educational Fund provides national leadership for important public discussions on key issues that affect Latino participation in the political process, including immigration and naturalization, election reform, the Census, and the appointment of qualified Latinos to top executive and judicial positions. Also, policymakers, at all levels of government, rely on the organization’s expertise to ensure that the perspectives of the Latino community are integrated
into their policy proposals.

The NALEO Educational Fund is headquartered in Los Angeles, and maintains offices in Houston, New York City, and Washington, D.C.

Up Promo hot air Balloon at Paris Disneyland Park

Monday, July 20, 2009

THE LION KING in Las Vegas: HD Video



Interviews, scenes, backstage views and more -- all from the new Las Vegas production of THE LION KING at Mandalay Bay Theatre.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST - Kyoto, Japan



Sneak a peek at Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST -- live in Kyoto, Japan! Hear favorite songs "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast" as sung in Japanese!

Your Blast from the Past for Monday July 20th 2009 Walt Disney World Commercial 1985

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 20th & 21st



July 20th & 21st, a quick look back at events on these days at this Orlando Florida theme park.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Audition for Hong Kong Disneyland for Character Performers and Halloween Performers on July 26th 2009 in Hong Kong

Character Performer Audition
For: Hong Kong Disneyland
Audition City: Hong Kong,
Location: Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
Looking For: Atmosphere Characters July 26, 2009
09:30 AM
Time zone: Hong Kong


Halloween Performers
For: Hong Kong Disneyland
Audition City: Hong Kong,
Location: Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
Looking For: Actors and Variety Acts July 26, 2009
02:00 PM
Time zone: Hong Kong

Audition for Disneyland's Disney's Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular July 27th,28th and 29th 2009

For: Disneyland Resort
Audition City: N. Hollywood, CA
Location: Screenland Studios
Looking For: Singers, Actors, and Puppeteers July 27,28 and 29th 2009
02:00 PM
Time zone: Pacific Time (US & Canada)

Disney Entertainment Productions is holding an Open Call for Singers, Actors & Puppeteers to perform in our Broadway-caliber, theatrical production of Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. Originally directed by world-renowned, award-winning director Francesca Zambello and choreographed by acclaimed Broadway choreographer Lynne Taylor-Corbett, this show is performed in the state-of-the-art, indoor, 2000-seat Hyperion Theater at Disney’s California Adventure® park. We are seeking performers with an ethnic look. Contract runs October 2009-August 2010. Rehearsals begin October 5, performances begin November 6.

Sign-in begins at 1:30 pm
Preliminary callbacks: July 30 or 31
Final callbacks: August 4

Performers working a minimum of 4 days/week are eligible for excellent benefits including medical/dental/optical coverage, vacation/sick pay, park admission and various employee discounts.

Roles:
Aladdin: (Male, 18-22, 5’7”-5’11”) Baritone/tenor with a youthful sound; great charisma, good physique; good looking guy filled with teenage charm and appeal; clever; survives on the streets of Agrabah

Jasmine: (Female, 18-22, 5’2”-5’6”) Soprano with a strong mix, contemporary musical theatre/Disney princess sound; beautiful, exotic, sense of humor, independent and feisty; desperately longs to experience life beyond the castle walls

Genie: (Male, 26-40s) Must be able to carry a tune; great celebrity impressionist; quickly transforms from character to character; charismatic and full of energy; genuinely pained by his lack of freedom; especially seeking actors with extensive improv and physical comedy background

Jafar: (Male, 35-55, 6’0”+) Bass/baritone, deep rich voice; great classical actor, commanding, menacing presence; the ultimate Disney villain; lusts for power; desires Jasmine; classical vocal training a plus

Sultan/Narrator: (Male, 50+, performs both roles) baritone/tenor; great actor; Narrator has a mysterious and engaging presence, must connect well with an audience; Sultan is a kind and benevolent man with great love for his daughter, Jasmine

Iago: (Male, 26-40s) great character actor with strong comedic timing; classic wise-cracking, fowl-feathered, annoying sidekick to Jafar, always has something to say; puppetry skills preferred

Chorus Singers: (Male/Female) strong contemporary musical theatre vocal technique; must have strong acting and movement skills; may understudy Principal/Featured roles

Requirements:

* Must be at least 18 years of age
* Prepare 16 bars of a contemporary musical theatre selection showing vocal versatility and range; you may sing from the show. Bring sheet music in your key, an accompanist will be provided.
* Iago candidates will be given sides at sign-in
* Be prepared for a possible movement evaluation
* Bring a current headshot and resume

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

Location:
Screenland Studios
10501 Burbank Blvd.
N. Hollywood, CA 91601

View Map

Audition Disney Character, Parade and Character Look-alike Performers for Paris Disneyland

For: Disneyland Paris
Audition City: Leeds, UNITED KINGDOM
Location: Yorkshire Dance
Looking For: Face Characters, Atmosphere Characters, and Parade Performers July 21, 2009
10:00 AM
Time zone: London

Disneyland® Paris gives you
the opportunity to perform on the biggest
stage in Europe byjoining their Character and Parade department

DISNEY CHARACTERS

Bring the Disney® Characters to life by performing meet and greets within the Disneyland® Paris Resort.
We are looking for highly energetic and enthusiastic people who want to become part of the magic.
No previous performing experience required.

PARADE PERFORMERS*

If you have a good basic dance level, add the possibility of dancing in one of our Parades to your
Disney experience.

CHARACTER LOOK-ALIKE PERFORMERS*

We are also looking for Disney® Prince and Princess look-a-likes who resemble
the classic animated characters for a variety of shows, greetings and parades.

*All Parade Performers and Character look-alike performers also perform as costume characters.

All heights are welcome.

Contracts start dates between July and October, for a minimum of 6 months. All candidates must be a
minimum of 18 years old. Please bring your passport and a non-returnable CV.

Wear comfortable clothing, as you will be asked to participate in a
movement/dance combination. All successful candidates will be asked
to attend a job interview in the afternoon ending no later than 7pm.
Anybody unable to attend this audition is invited to send his or
her CV + photo to the following address for future reference:

dlp.casting.parade@disney.com

or by post to:

Disneyland Paris Character and Parade recruitment
Bâtiment Merlin B.P 100 77777
Marne La Vallée Cedex 4 FRANCE

OPEN AUDITIONS:

19th July 2009 at 10:00am
Pineapple Dance Studios
7 Langley Street - LONDON
(Underground: Covent Garden)

21st July 2009 at 10:00am
Yorkshire Dance
3 St. Peters Square LEEDS
(Opposite main bus station)

Official Disney B-Roll Footage of Toy Story Mania



Official Disney B-Roll Footage (Copyright Walt Disney Company) showing off the ride cars for the new Toy Story Mania dark ride attraction.

Today's Blast From the Past: Vacation Kingdom at Walt Disney World Disneyland Florida 8mm from 1970's



This is A souvenir film called Vacation Kingdom at Walt Disney World, It's A Super 8mm Sound souvenir film that was sold at the Disneyland parks. The film gives us A tour of the whole Walt Disney World Resort, Florida. Clips of the cabins, hotels, theme parks, ect. Made in the mid 1970s.

Today's Blast from the Past: Disney World Delta Commercial 1987


Kids of the Kingdom Circa 1987 Inflight Video Ad

Saturday, July 18, 2009

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 18th & 19th



July 18th & 19th, a quick look back at events on these days at this Orlando Florida theme park. Subscribe!! That way you'll never miss a day in history. Video: RobbyBensonScrapebook, joeychris25,...

G Force 3D Pod



Behind the scenes from upcoming Disney action adventure G-Force. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. In Disney Digital 3D in selected theaters.

Princess and the Frog - New full trailer

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Fun Facts and Figures



Murals

  • The murals in the Plaza Inn restaurant are reproductions of landscapes illustrated and produced by Disney artists for the Disney animated film Mulan.

Locomotives

  • The Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad has three locomotives: the Walter E. Disney, a tribute to the founder of The Walt Disney Company; the Roy O. Disney, co-founder of The Walt Disney Company and Walt Disney's brother; and the Frank G. Wells, who was The Walt Disney Company's president from 1984 to 1994.

Largest Adventureland

  • Hong Kong Disneyland's Adventureland is the largest Adventureland of all the Magic Kingdom parks around the world.

Sparkling Castle

  • Sleeping Beauty Castle at Hong Kong Disneyland features an integrated, computer-controlled strobe light system which creates a sparkling effect that makes the castle look even more magical at night!

Cinderella

  • The Cinderella Carousel in Fantasyland features paintings that tell the story of Walt Disney's classic film Cinderella.

Fantasy Garden

  • The Fantasy Garden at Hong Kong Disneyland is modeled after a classic English garden. Some parts were also inspired by the Tivoli Garden in Denmark, which was one of Walt Disney’s inspirations when he created the original Disneyland.

Snow White Sings!

  • The singing voice from the wishing well at Snow White Grotto in Hong Kong Disneyland is that of Adriana Caselotti, the singing voice of Snow White.

Orbitron: Model of the Universe

  • The large globe at the base of the Orbitron attraction is designed to be a map of the universe, with galaxies and stars represented by embedded fiber optics that glow and change colors at night. It is designed after models of the universe used from the 15th to the 19th centuries to show how planets in the solar system move.

Space Mountain

  • The structure of Space Mountain is 91 feet and the tallest spire reaches to 133 feet high.

UFO

  • UFO in "UFO Cool Zone" stands for Undeniably Fun Object!

5,000 Cast Members

  • Hong Kong Disneyland employs more than 5,000 Cast Members – making us one of Hong Kong’s largest employers in the entertainment industry.

1 week of learning

  • Cast Members spend, on average, at least one week of every year in training.

800 tons

  • Our Guests consume more than 800 tons of rice, chicken and noodles every year – that’s equivalent to the weight of two Boeing 747s!

600 species

  • There are approximately 200 species of trees and 400 shrub species at Hong Kong Disneyland.

Largest projection screen

  • The movie screen for Mickey's PhilharMagic is the largest seamless projection screen in the world. It is 150 feet long and 28 feet high.

1,000+ fireworks shows

  • On July 14, 2008, HKDL staged its 1000th performance of its fireworks show Disney in the Stars (the Park has been opened for less than three years)

2,238 crystal lotuses

  • Decorating the Chinese restaurant at Disneyland Hotel are 2,238 crystal lotuses because the number sounds like the phrase "easily generates wealth" in Cantonese.

888

  • The main ballroom at Disneyland Hotel at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is 888 square meters, because 888 is considered a "wealthy" number.

95,000 headbands

  • 95,000 Minnie Mouse Ear Headbands have been sold since the park opened. In the first week of Chinese New Year 2008 alone, a record 4000 were sold!

800

  • The Starliner Diner restaurant in Tomorrowland is the largest restaurant at Hong Kong Disneyland and seats 800 people!

100

  • Disney on Parade at Hong Kong Disneyland features almost 100 performers and assisting Cast Members.

Disneyland® Resort Donates Nearly $370,000 to Local Charities


The Crafty Critters contributed their $2,500 donation to MOMS Orange County, an organization that provides services to support healthy pregnancies, healthy babies, and healthy families.
From serving meals to the homeless to coaching Little League, Disney Cast Members dedicated 81,900 volunteer hours in the community during 2008. Disneyland® Resort is celebrating and recognizing these efforts by donating $369,700 to local nonprofit organizations supported by Disney VoluntEARS.
Through The Walt Disney Company’s Ears to You program, Disney VoluntEARS can earn financial contributions for the nonprofit organizations of their choice based on the number of volunteer hours they contribute. At the Disneyland® Resort, more than 170 local organizations benefited from the grants this year.

“The EARS to You Program recognizes me for the volunteer work that I do in my community and enables me to provide a cash donation to a charity that is personally important to me,” said Dave Smith, a project manager at the Disneyland® Resort. Dave designated his $1,000 grant to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Anaheim and over the past five years has contributed more than $5,000 to the organization thanks to the Ears to You program.

Disneyland® Resort also recently announced the recipients of its VoluntEAR of the Year and VoluntEAR Team of the Year awards. Nominated by their peers, the top individual and team of VoluntEARS each received a $2,500 cash donation for the nonprofit of their choice. This year, the Resort put the spotlight on the Crafty Critters, a team of 68 entertainment Cast Members who knit hats, scarves and blankets for various nonprofit organizations in Orange County. In 2008, Crafty Critters volunteered more than 18,000 hours of community service. Since their outreach began three years ago, the team has donated more than 10,000 knitted items.

Oscar Sanchez, a document control specialist in worldwide safety and accessibility, was named the individual VoluntEAR of the Year. His efforts range from working with the Special Olympics and the Cub Scouts to helping coordinate care packages for the troops overseas. Sanchez’s $2,500 grant will benefit Cub Scout Pack 660 in Cypress.

Splash Mountain Celebrates 20 Years of Waterbourne Plunges and ‘Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah’ Fun


ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 17, 2009) – The thrill of plummeting down a water chute, screaming and making a giant splash are just as exciting today as they were on July 17, 1989, when Splash Mountain opened in Critter Country at Disneyland park. Guests continue to celebrate the journey through a magical world in a hollowed-out log, singing along with characters on classic songs such as “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” and enjoying this very special “laughing place.”
Splash Mountain opened its gates as a groundbreaking attraction, becoming one in a line of treasured “mountains” at the Disneyland Resort. With innovative technology and Disney creativity, the lavish production gives guests an escape from reality and immerses them into a fantasy world.
Guests board one of the logs and begin their journey, twisting and turning through sparkling waters and climbing to the top of the 87-foot tall mountain. Along the way, guests are greeted by more than 100 characters who are playing and singing time-honored classic songs from Walt Disney’s 1946 animated film, “Song of the South.” While ascending to the top, playful vultures taunt riders about their fast-approaching and imminent decline. Once at the peak, riders take a thrilling five-story, 52-foot drop down a steep descent, making a huge “splash” into the awaiting pond below. Once safely at the bottom, and with “plenty of sunshine” headed their way, guests are treated to what is commonly known as the Disney “national anthem”, “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah.” Here, riders are encouraged to sing along, come again and have some more fun with the mischievous, yet comical characters.
When it opened, Splash Mountain starred one of the largest casts of animated characters of the time. Today, Splash Mountain continues to be a favorite attraction, partly because it reaches the fastest speed of all rides at Disneyland Park, at approximately 40 miles an hour. With its rich heritage, cast of characters, catchy songs, and white-knuckle adventure, “Splash Mountain” continues to be a thrilling journey.
“Splash Mountain” gives Disneyland guests yet another way to answer, “What Will You Celebrate?” In 2009, guests are celebrating all sorts of milestones in their lives, including birthdays, graduations, marriages, family reunions and very special milestone anniversaries.

Marty Sklar Celebrates 54 Years of Imagination on the 54th Anniversary of Disneyland



ANAHEIM, Callif., July 17, 2009 - Marty Sklar, Executive Vice President and Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador, spent a lifetime making magic for the Walt Disney Company. After 54 years of service, he was honored with a tribute window at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., on Friday, July 17. The celebration coincided with the 54th anniversary of the opening of Disneyland, the place where Sklar began his Disney career.

The tradition of dedicating a second-story window along Main Street, U.S.A., was begun by Walt Disney as a way to pay tribute to the men and women who were instrumental in the creation and operation of Disneyland. Sklar's window, unveiled on July 17, can be seen above City Hall at Town Square in Disneyland.

Sklar began his Disney career in June 1955 as editor of "The Disneyland News," just one month before Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955. Sklar also worked personally with Walt Disney on several major projects, including the creation of landmark Disney attractions for the 1964 World's Fair and leading the design of Walt Disney's final vision, Epcot.

Sklar holds great memories of all 11 Disney parks around the world, but he has a particular fondness for Disneyland.

"Disneyland will always be a special place for me because it's the only park that Walt Disney walked in," Sklar said. "For me, retiring on this date is significant, having been here with Walt for the opening of the original Disney park."



Friday, July 17, 2009

New Web site explores park expansion: DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com


All-new Web Site Keeps Visitors Up to Date On Expansion at Disney’s California Adventure


ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 16, 2009) – Fans of Disney’s California Adventure can explore coming attractions and exciting plans for the park during its expansion at a new, interactive Web site, starting July 16.


The site, hosted at
www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com, will serve as an online preview center, taking visitors behind the scenes of the multiyear expansion at Disney’s California Adventure. It features videos, photos, renderings, interviews and other assets to keep users up to date on the progress of attractions and entertainment coming to life in the park.


Like the Disney parks themselves, the site will “continue to change and add new things” with regular updates.


Among the highlights at
www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com:

· What’s New – link to the latest information on new developments at the park

· Big Plans – see the “big picture” approach to the ambitious expansion project

· Pictures and Videos – link to renderings, photos and exclusive, behind-the-scenes views of works in progress

· Individual Attractions – click on the pictures of “World of Color,” Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Buena Vista Street or Cars Land for more details about those exciting attractions

In addition to www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com, guests can visit Blue Sky Cellar at Disney’s California Adventure to see concepts and models, or play trivia games related to the expansion. Guests can also find information about other Disneyland Resort attractions, or plan a celebration or vacation at Disneyland Resort, by visiting www.disneyland.com, calling
866/60-DISNEY or contacting local travel agents.

Innovative Entertainment Technology Drives ‘World of Color’ – the Next Milestone in Expansion of Disney’s California Adventure


ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 16, 2009) – Elaborate preparation is underway for “World of Color,” the spectacular nighttime water show that will astound guests with its magnitude and creativity when it debuts in spring 2010 as the next major milestone in the expansion of Disney’s California Adventure park. Surpassing all Disney water productions, “World of Color” will bring Disney animation to life with powerful fountains that become stars of the show as they create the world’s largest projected water screen.

For months now, guests at Disney’s California Adventure have been peering into the lagoon near Paradise Pier as Walt Disney Imagineering and Creative Entertainment have installed the massive infrastructure and innovative technology that will create the stage for this extraordinary combination of music, animation and stunning water effects. Teams of Disney workers have built nearly an acre of superstructure to support the complex “World of Color” production.

“World of Color” will combine hundreds of magnificent fountains, dazzling colors and an all-new kaleidoscope of audio and visual effects to take water-infused entertainment to a new level of artistry. The production will flood the senses, taking audiences on an imaginative journey into the colorful worlds of animated Disney classics such as “Alice in Wonderland,” “The Lion King” and “Pocahontas,” along with Disney•Pixar films “Toy Story,” “WALL-E” and many more.

Disney’s newest production features an unprecedented infrastructure of water effects, larger-than-life projections, lasers, fire, fog, surround sound and stunning images. This technical wizardry, combined with classic Disney film sequences, will create a breathtaking emotional experience for guests as jaw-dropping effects sweep across the lagoon, soar into the sky and rush toward the audience.


A newly designed 9,000-capacity viewing area will provide Disney’s California Adventure guests the best view in the park of this exciting nighttime extravaganza. The show lasts approximately 25 minutes.

Some of the technical magic behind ‘World of Color’ includes
:
  • Nearly one full acre of engineered superstructure, longer than a football field and capable of settling on three levels – one for the performance, one under the water surface and one for maintenance
  • More than 1,200 powerful and programmable fountains
  • A vast underwater grid with more than 18,000 points of control. Each fountain has multiple points of control for lighting, color intensity, water angle, height and more.
  • Fountain heights that range from 30 feet to 200 feet in the air (by way of comparison, Mickey’s Fun Wheel reaches a height of 150 feet, some of it below the edge of the lagoon)
  • A precise system of flame projections, lasers, and special effects that will flood the senses as guests experience the animation
  • Scenic elements that rise more than 80 feet above the lagoon
  • The world’s largest projected water screen – a wall of water 380 feet wide by 50 feet high for a projection surface of 19,000 square feet
  • Nearly 30 high-definition projectors

For information on “World of Color” and other Disneyland Resort attractions, or to plan a celebration or vacation at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. To explore the expansion plans for Disney’s California Adventure, visit www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com.


Disney's California Adventure B-Roll Video

A Disneys California Adventure Expansion Exclusive

Behind the Scenes at the Construction of 'World of Color' at DCA:Video

Disneyland Paris HD - Goofy's summer camp Part 1 and 2





World of Color Concepts Shared at Blue Sky Cellar:Video

Artwork for World of Color at DCA

World of Color, a new water show scheduled to debut in 2010, July 16 at California Adventure








Thursday, July 16, 2009

This Day In History Of The Walt Disney World Resort July 16th & 17th

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

1971 Walt Disney World Commercial

Watch a Walt Disney World Promo from the 1970's

"E -Ticket Attractions - Toy Story Midway Mania" Release Date: 07/16/09






Name:
"E -Ticket Attractions - Toy Story Midway Mania"

Release Date:
07/16/09

Location:
Walt Disney World® Resort

SKU:
10975290

Retail:
$11.95

Edition Size:
1500

Celebrate some of the most beloved Walt Disney World® Attractions with the E-Ticket Attraction Collection. Chip and Dale attempt to score some points at Toy Story Midway Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios™ in this limited edition pin. Dale is inlcuded as a pin-on-pin element.

To order this pin:

  • Contact Walt Disney World® Merchandise Guest Services at 407-363-6200 or send an e-mail: wdw.mail.order@disneyworld.com to place an order.
  • Please reference the SKU number(s), description of the pin(s) and quantity desired.
  • Open Edition pins available for order after release date.
  • Applicable sales tax plus shipping and handling fees will apply.
  • All pins will be available while supplies last.
  • All sales are final - no refunds, no returns via Walt Disney World® Mail Order.
  • All Limited Edition pins may not be available for ordering via Walt Disney World® Mail Order at time of inquiry.

Please Note - All information is subject to change including but not limited to artwork, release dates, edition sizes and retail prices.