This time next month, all the new entertainment and attractions at Disney California Adventure park will be open for you to enjoy. I, for one, can’t wait to see everything. June 15 will be a full day of memorable experiences, capped off with the stunning “World of Color” nighttime spectacular!

Since “World of Color” made its debut back in 2010, the show has featured occasional updates and surprises, delighting audiences with forays into new worlds ranging from “TRON: Legacy” to “Prep & Landing.” Just in time for one of the biggest summers in Disney California Adventure park history, “World of Color” is set to introduce another new sequence, inspired by the Disney•Pixar film “Brave.”

Set to “Brave” composer Patrick Doyle’s stirring Scottish score, the sequence introduces us to the film’s adventurous heroine Merida, as she races across the Scottish Highlands, bow and arrow in hand, on her faithful horse Angus, and follows the mysterious will o’ the wisps on an epic journey to change her fate.

“Brave” opens in theaters June 22, but you’ll be able to catch the “Brave”-inspired sequence in “World of Color” starting June 15.

With the opening of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort only a few weeks away, the Disney Parks Blog sat down with Disney Design Group Artist Bob Holden to review some of the new merchandise we’ve developed. You may recall that Bob has previously discussed his work with merchandise for Disney Vacation Club Resorts and Disney’s Aulani, a Resort and Spa in Ko ‘Olina, Hawai’i. Bob told everyone that Walt Disney Imagineering was a key partner for the creation of this merchandise.

“The Walt Disney Imagineering team was an outstanding partner,” exclaimed Bob. “They provided the art files that we used for the merchandise. The designs that you see on the shirts and other items were lifted directly from artwork that guests will see at the new resort.”

You can see the main art we used on merchandise on the outside of Animation Hall, the check-in building at the Resort. Bob also used the colorful diamond pattern found at the resort as a background for on several items. The shirt images were also taken directly from the resort (look for the Ariel image and others inside Animation Hall).

There will be two pins created for the opening. The open edition pin uses an image of Crush from the Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” wing. The limited edition pin has an edition size of 500 and will be released at theInk and Paint Shop in the resort on May 31.

As for future items, Bob said they are still developing retail versions of lamps and shower curtains that are similar to items that will be found in guests’ rooms. Those retail items will be arriving at a future date.

Bob said he was most impressed with the colorful details found throughout the resort.

“I really found myself being immersed in a colorful and fun environment,” explained Bob after he visited the location. “The details made me feel like I was being transported to each character’s world, which is what we do best at Disney.”

On May 10th,

Disney Legend and Imagineer Alice Davis was awarded one of the highest honors one can receive at the Walt Disney Company – her own window on Main Street, U.S.A at Disneyland park. Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs and Disneyland Resort President George A. Kalogridis presented the window to Davis, which is located alongside the window honoring her husband, legendary Disney animator Marc Davis.

As a costume designer with Walt Disney Imagineering, Alice Davis collaborated with art director and fellow Disney Legend Mary Blair on the “it’s a small world” attraction for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, and later translated pirate attire from Marc Davis’ original drawings into clothing designs and patterns for Pirates of the Caribbean in 1965.

The tradition of dedicating windows at Disneyland park began more than 50 years ago when Walt Disney dedicated many of the windows along Main Street, U.S.A., to individuals who helped make the park a reality. It is a long-standing tradition to honor individuals who have had a significant impact on Disneyland park by dedicating a window to them. On the windows, honorees are made the proprietors of fictional businesses, usually relating to their occupation or hobby, which influenced the creation or operation of the park. To date, more than six dozen people have been honored with their own Main Street, U.S.A., windows.

From the Disney Parks Blog…

The exciting new Carthay Circle Restaurant opens Friday, June 15, at Disney California Adventure park, with reservations opening on May 10th.

Recalling the grandeur of the original Carthay Circle Theatre in Los Angeles, where “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” premiered in 1937, the Spanish Colonia Revival-style restaurant is a warm setting to showcase contemporary Southern California cuisine – seasonal, artisanal ingredients; locally sourced produce, seafood and meats; hand-crafted cocktails, and California craft beers and wines.

Award-winning Executive Chef Andrew Sutton of Napa Rose brings his second concept to the Disneyland Resort, this time focusing on seasonal products and the diverse flavors found in Southern California. His protégé, Gloria Tae, also from Napa Rose, will be at the helm of the kitchen, while Chef Andrew will split his time as executive chef between Napa Rose and Carthay Circle Restaurant. “The culinary team is a group of true artists with passion and confidence for creating delicious food,” says Sutton.

Southern California’s cultural diversity is the foundation for the global flavors. For lunch, there are delectable tastes such as crispy firecracker duck wings finished with soy, lime and Sriracha chili sauce; sautéed northern halibut with roasted red bell pepper, caperberry and orange relish; and Angus flank steak cobb salad with Mine Shaft Blue Cheese, bacon, avocado and arugula with Cabernet essence.

The dinner menu showcases entrées like Colorado rack of lamb with fried zucchini blossoms, fennel puree and summer succotash; grilled Jamaican jerked kingfish with a tropical salsa of pineapple, mango, black beans and lime; and strawberry-lemon roasted organic chicken salad with jicama, haricot verts, upland cress (greens) and buttermilk-lemon vinaigrette.

You’ll want to save room for seasonal desserts, including toasted lemon pound cake with fresh marinated blueberries, lemon curd cream and Tahitian vanilla chantilly, and “Peaches In All Their Glory” with peach and white chocolate cannolis with fresh grilled peaches and peach sorbet. (But we think the best-seller just might be the fried banana split Monte Cristo sundae with raspberry and chocolate fudge ice creams, toffee nuts and warm caramel rum bananas.)

The 256-seat restaurant (200 inside, 56 on a terrace) on the second floor of the building is open daily for lunch and dinner. Diners at Carthay Circle Restaurant can also enjoy reserved center stage viewing at the World of Color nighttime spectacular. To request reservations, call 714-781-DINE, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., or email reservation requests to dine@disneyland.com.

From the Disney Parks Blog…

As a child, one of the most memorable scenes that I vividly remember from Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back is when Captain Han Solo is frozen in carbonite on Darth Vader’s orders. Coming this year to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests will have the opportunity to relive that scene with the Carbon-Freeze Me experience. This new experience was created especially for Disney Parks, and is part of the “D-Tech Me” line that uses technology to take personalization to a whole new level (advance reservations are required. Please see below for details).

Using state-of-the-art imaging technology, this experience casts your likeness as a three-dimensional, eight-inch figurine. At the Carbon-Freezing Chamber (located adjacent to The American Idol Experience), several cameras will capture multiple angles of your face. The images are then reconstructed in a computer for processing, and in approximately four weeks, the completed figurine is shipped directly to your house. I had my image captured during early tests for this experience, and it was surreal to see a digital version of my head.

Each carbonite figurine is $99.95 (plus shipping). You can order additional figurines using the same image scan for $74.95 each. The replica figurine can be hung on a wall, just like the gangster Jabba the Hutt did in Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi (I plan on doing the same thing when I receive mine). Guests also receive a light-up wristband.

The experience will officially open on May 18 with the launch of Star Wars Weekends.

Reservations are required and can be made starting Monday, May 7 by calling 407-WDW-TECH (407-939-8324).

May the Force be with you!

Please note: Separate Theme Park admission required for Disney’s Hollywood Studios. No discounts apply unless otherwise noted. Guests must be at least three (3) years of age to participate. A valid accepted credit card number is required at time of booking. No-shows or in the event a reservation is cancelled within 48 hours of scheduled experience will result in such credit card being charged a $25 cancellation fee. The experience, due to its personalized nature is non-refundable and not eligible for an exchange. Children must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age or older during the entire experience. Certain restrictions may apply. All prices, components and information are subject to change without notice.

Tables in Wonderland

Members to receive a 35% discount at

La Nouba

Cirque du Soleil

Written and directed by Franco Dragone

May 29, 2012 – June 22, 2012

Performances on Tuesdays – Saturdays, 6:00pm and 9:00pm

Discounted Price

for Category 2 Tickets:

Adult: $57.85 plus tax

Child: $46.80 plus tax

Call 407-WDW-SEAT (407-939-7328) to purchase tickets!

Tables In Wonderland members may purchase tickets for themselves and up to three (3) Guests

Must show current, valid Tables in Wonderland card to receive discount, when tickets are picked up at Box Office

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Tables in Wonderland

The Wave . . . of American Flavor’s Discovery Dinner

At Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Thursday, May 17, 2012

6:30 p.m. Reception; 7:00 p.m. Dinner

Meet at The Wave… of American Flavor’s Main Podium

Dress Code – Casual Evening Attire

$110 per person, includes tax and gratuity

This is the last dinner at The Wave until after the 2012 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is over! 

This month’s Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner is focused on the delicious Triple Sweet Corn from Hank Scott’s Farm in Zellwood, Florida.  Hank’s son Sonny and daughter Haley represent the 4th generation of the family operation and the farm has expanded further into retail operations.  Long & Scott’s agri-tainment division:  Scott’s Maze Adventures, hosts over 30,000 guests each fall, along with Scott’s Country Market, the on-site farmer’s market that features produce grown on the farm, as well as local produce.  Long & Scott’s newest venture:  Scott’s Country Café, features the Scott family recipes, most of which are made from the café’s own garden.  The Scotts remain proud of their farm and are looking forward to celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2013.

The Wave… of American Flavors welcomes Master Sommelier Joseph Spellman as our wine representative for the May Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner. Joseph is the Winery Sommelier for JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery. He has worked with wine since 1979, principally as a sommelier, in Chicago’s top restaurant cellars, including Tango, Maxim’s, The Pump Room, The Park Hyatt Hotel, and Charlie Trotter’s. Joseph earned the prestigious Master Sommelier Diploma in 1996, held now by 85 Americans, and 140 individuals worldwide.

Reception in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Lounge

Arepas with Queso Blanco, Chipotle, and Scallions

Blue Corn Mini Tacos with Duck Confit, Zesty BBQ

Polenta Tapas, Pulled Pork, Granny Smith Chiffonade

Justin Sauvignon Blanc

Dinner in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Private Dining Room

Appetizer

Florida Shrimp and Grits with Long & Scott Locally Harvested Corn

Justin Chardonnay

Salad

Zellwood Corn and Heirloom Avocado Salad

Baby Greens, Corn-Olive Charcoal

Lime Chile Vinaigrette, Cotija Cheese

Grilled Huitlacoche Ravioli

Landmark Overlook Chardonnay

Entrée

Char-crusted Cowboy Rib Eye Steak with Mexican Blackened Corn, Cilantro Lime Butter, Quinoa and Black Beans

Justin Justification

Cheese Course

Montegrappa Cow’s Milk Cheese from Veneto, Italy

Taleggio Semisoft from Lombardy

Pecorino Toscano Hard Sheep’s Cheese

Landmark Grand Detour Pinot Noire

Dessert 

Berry and Queso Blanco Masa Empanada

Corn Meal Chipotle Chocolate Crackle Cookies

Popcorn Infused Dulce De Leche Ice Cream

Justin Obtuse Port

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis.  Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 46 Guests. The event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.

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Tables in Wonderland

Special Event

The Great Movie Ride Dinner at Disney’s Hollywood Studios™

Friday June 15 and Saturday June 16, 2012

8:00 – 10:30pm

Arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios™ and walk through the courtyard of the Majestic Graumann’s Chinese Theatre. Then you will be invited to come inside The Great Movie Ride after the attraction is closed with exclusive backstage VIP access!

We’ve cleared the track for you to walk through and dine inside the attraction where you will experience some of the most classic scenes in motion picture history. Sets from Busby Berkeley musicals, crime dramas, old-fashioned Westerns, and more!

Price: $165.00 per person, plus tax. Gratuity is included.

8:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Passed Reception in the Gangster Scene

• ·         “Squid and Beans” Salad

• ·         “Gambino” Balsamic Beef with Palermo Roasted Tomato

• ·         “Terranova” Blistered Artichoke Cheese Quenelle

8:30 – 10 p.m.

Plated Dinner in the Western Scene

• ·         Creamy Free Range Yard Bird Corn Chowder with Piquillo Peppers and Ciabatta Bread
• ·         Wild Greens and Herbs with Cactus Cilantro Vinaigrette with Beet Tumbleweeds with Mandarin Rice Wine Marinade
• ·         Poblano Barbeque Braised Beef Short Rib with Tobacco Onions
• ·         Smoky Cheddar Potatoes Gratin
• ·         Black Skillet Roasted Baby Green Beans with Mushrooms
• ·         House-made Fire Roasted Corn Bread with Butter

10:00 – 10:30 p.m.

Dessert Buffet in the Land of Oz

• ·         Wicked Witch Pistachio Cannoli
• ·         Emerald Cheesecake Pushups
• ·         Ruby Strawberry Panna Cotta
• ·         Dark Forest Chocolate Decadence with Raspberry Gel
• ·         Yellow Brick Caramel Milk Cake
• ·         Auntie Em’s Apple Cake

Beer, Wine, Specialty Beverages

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  Please indicate which event date you are requesting, June 15 or June 16.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis.  Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  This may take up to 2 weeks to hear from us; please send only ONE email.  The event is limited to 80 Guests per event date.  This event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.

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Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant

Mid-Summer Feast

6pm on the Summer Solstice

Wednesday June 20, 2012

$90.00 per person plus tax & gratuity

Tables in Wonderland discount accepted

For Reservations, Please Call 407-938-0300

First Course

Picnic Basket of Assorted Homemade Pates and Jams to feature:

Ham Hock Terrines, Potted Prawns, Brandied Chicken Liver Pate, Tomato Bavaroie, Smoked Salmon Mousse and Vegetable Consomme

Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, St James Gate, Dublin

Second Course

Champagne Splashed Raspberry Sorbet

Third Course

Roast Stuffed Suckling Pig, Braised Vegetables, Raisin & Cider Glaze and Potato Roasties

Jai Alai India Pale Ale, Cigar City Brewery, Tampa, Florida

Dessert

Pimms Knickerbocker Glory

Bunratty Mead, County Clare, Ireland

Master Chef Kevin Dundon has created a tantalizing menu incorporating fresh seasonal flavours for a special Midsummer’s Night Feast which takes place on the 20th June.  Midsummer is such a joyous occasion long associated with ancient summer customs and traditions.

The June festival of Midsummer’s Day is held as part of the summer solstice which is the longest day of the year. In ancient times the Summer Solstice was hugely significant; it was a time when the power of the Sun was at its highest and crops & fields were blessed to ensure a good harvest.

Celebrations take place across Europe dating back thousands of years, with festivals of music & dancing, bonfires and feasting.  The summer solstice is often the time of the first harvest and hence a celebration of nature’s bounty.

Midsummer was traditionally celebrated in Ireland by the lighting of bonfires.  Family and friends came together for an evening of music, storytelling, feasting and merrymaking.  It was the custom for the ashes from the fires to be thrown on fields as an ‘offering’ to protect the crops.

Nowadays people gather around some of Ireland’s famous Neolithic sites Newgrange (a passage tomb built over 5,000 years ago) and Hill of Tara (a magical Medieval site which has been home to gods and goddesses, to druids and warriors, and to Ireland’s High King) to celebrate the summer solstice.

Important Note:  Please do not call or email Tables in Wonderland to book this event.   This is a Raglan Road event that is open to all guests.  Please call Raglan Road to book this event, and you may use your Tables in Wonderland discount, when you present your Tables in Wonderland card upon arrival.

According to TouringPlans.com…

Soarin’ at Epcot has now reopened. California Adventure is not open yet, but we are hoping that Soarin’ over California will open at the regular time today.

According to WDWMagic.com and TouringPlans.com…

Last night, Soarin’ closed on both coasts for urgent maintenance. According to WDWMagic.com, a guest somehow exited the glider before take off. This has led to an investigation of the restraint system to determine how the guest got out.

Since Test Track is still closed, this means Epcot is missing two major high-capacity attractions and wait times for other attractions will be very high.

From the Disney Parks Blog…

Earlier this week, you may have heard about a new pirate-themed offering coming to Walt Disney World Resort. Well, we can now officially confirm that The Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow will open this fall at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Details are still emerging, but the attraction will give guests a chance to become immersed in the world of the four “Pirates of the Caribbean” films, and an opening date will be announced later this year.

According to Jason Roberts, show producer for Walt Disney Imagineering, “This is going to be an immersive experience. We’ll really delve into the story of Captain Jack Sparrow and put our guests in the middle of it all in new and exciting ways. Story is always the most important thing for us at Walt Disney Imagineering, but we’re always looking at new ways to tell the story that our guests have never seen before. In this attraction, we’ll let you walk in the footsteps of Jack Sparrow. It’s not ‘the making of,’ not ‘behind the scenes’ … it is really a first-person experience. We worked with the archives as well as the filmmakers while they were shooting the last movie. And as a fan, I just loved sitting through those films again and again, going through all the details and leveraging them for this new experience. It’s really been a blast.”

Those of you who are already busy planning fall vacations will be happy to hear that tickets are now on sale forMickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a Halloween-themed special event held on select evenings at Magic Kingdom Park. Purchase of an additional admission ticket is required to attend, and plenty of fun is in store, including trick-or-treating, performances of Mickey’s Boo-to-You Parade and Happy HalloWishes Fireworks, Disney characters in costume, themed décor and much more.

Parties will take place:

• September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 and 30
• October 4, 5, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31
• November 2

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a special event that takes place on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park throughout the holiday season. Don’t miss Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, a very special holiday fireworks display, live entertainment with your favorite characters, snow on Main Street, U.S.A., free hot cocoa and cookies, and so much more! Purchase of an additional event admission ticket is required to attend.

Parties will take place:

• November 9, 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29 and 30
• December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 21

TIP: Purchasing tickets ahead of event dates may get you a discount of $10 per ticket!

From the Disney Parks Blog…

In preparation for the Disney Magic’s arrival in New York City, Captain Mickey Mouse made a special appearance at Yankee Stadium, where he greeted fans and players and even got his photo taken with Yankee center fielder Curtis Granderson.

Has your sweet tooth been aching during the refurbishment of Candy Palace and Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street, U.S.A.? If so, you’ll be glad to know that both of these Disneyland park favorites will re-open on May 2!

At the new, expanded candy kitchen inside Candy Palace, you will be able to watch our talented team of Candy Makers create some of your favorite sweet treats right before your eyes. Gourmet and caramel apples, toffee, fudge and other candy classics will line the shelves of this opulent turn-of-the-century location.

Next door, Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor has undergone a transformation to make your ice cream experience easier and more convenient. With more registers and scooping space, you will be able to get your ice cream fix quicker than ever before!

You can get ice cream by the scoop or one of the specialty sundaes, but what I’m most excited about are the new floats added to the menu – in addition to the traditional root beer float, Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor will offer Coca-Cola floats and Fanta Orange floats.

And you Penny Arcade fans will be pleased to know that the arcade will also re-open on May 2 alongside Candy Palace and Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor.

Many of you have asked about opening dates for the attractions and restaurants planned for New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park. We’re thrilled that we finally have some news to share today!

The next phase of Storybook Circus, which includes the second half of the Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction and the Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station, will open in July 2012.

And, it looks like we’ll have plenty to celebrate this holiday season, including the openings of Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Gaston’s Tavern, and Ariel’s Grotto.

Additionally, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will debut in 2014.

This month, the Walt Disney World Resort landmark icon was named one of the Top 100 Buildings in Florida by The Florida Association of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Florida) as a part of their “Florida Architecture: 100 Years. 100 Places.” celebration for the organization’s 100-year anniversary. Cinderella Castle was also named Top Building in the Recreational Architecture category.

AIA Florida is an association of architects with a mission to unite, educate and position architects to lead the shaping of Florida’s future. The members of AIA Florida are leaders in their communities and passionate about good design; the health, safety and welfare of others; and preserving architecture through sustainable practice.

AIA Florida Immediate Past President and former Imagineer Michael Lingerfelt, FAIA, LEED AP, presented the award to Magic Kingdom Park Vice President Phil Holmes on Wednesday, April 18. It was a homecoming of sorts for Lingerfelt, whose 15-year tenure with WDI included working on Magic Kingdom Park projects such as New Tomorrowland, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Mickey’s PhilharMagic.

In March, AIA Florida launched the Top 100 Buildings statewide online competition, inviting the public to vote for their favorite Florida building. More than two and a half million votes were cast, both by architects in the association and the general public. This year marks the 100th anniversary of AIA Florida, recognizing the important contributions architects have made in the Sunshine State. The awards are just one of the events the association has planned throughout the year to celebrate its anniversary, which is Dec. 14.

Starbucks Coffee Company and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts today announced that Starbucks will soon be available at all Disney theme parks at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif., and Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

This summer, the first of six Starbucks cafes will open at Disney California Adventure. The additional stores are planned for Disneyland Park and Walt Disney World Resort, including locations at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

“Starbucks and Disney have many things in common,” said Arthur Rubinfeld, president, Global Development, for Starbucks. “We share a passion for providing excellent customer service, delivering high quality in everything we do, and ensuring that every experience with our brand exceeds our customers’ expectations. This is something our customers and partners (employees) have asked for through MyStarbucksIdea.com since the site launched more than four years ago, so we are pleased to bring this idea to life.”

Starbucks is not completely new to Disney. In June 2009, the company opened a store in Disney Village at Disneyland Paris, which has become a guest favorite.

At Disney California Adventure, Starbucks will be located in the Fiddler, Fifer and Practical Cafe on Buena Vista Street, a place that transports guests to 1920s Los Angeles when Walt Disney arrived in California and a cup of coffee was the perfect way to jumpstart a busy day. The store’s location plays off the Spanish/Mexican architecture of the period, and baristas will wear 1920s-inspired attire.

The cafe will serve Starbucks items including coffee and espresso beverages, Frappuccino(R) blended beverages, and signature breakfast sandwiches and pastries. Guests also will have their choice of Disney favorites, including signature sandwiches and other items, as well as delicious desserts and sweet treats.

“We know food and beverage offerings are an important part of the memories our guests make at Disney Parks and now they will be able to enjoy their favorite Starbucks(R) beverage as part of their experience,” said Maribeth Bisienere, vice president, food and beverage line of business for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Many of our guests have shared their passion for Starbucks with us, and we look forward to making their feedback a reality as we debut the first location at Disney California Adventure.”

D23 PRESENTS TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES, which encompasses more than 500 historic artifacts from nearly nine decades of Disney history, opens at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum on July 6, continuing through April 2013.

Presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library, D23 PRESENTS TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES is the largest exhibition ever curated by the Walt Disney Archives, at 12,000 square feet. From Oswald the Lucky Rabbit and Mickey Mouse to Captain Jack Sparrow and Captain America, the exhibition features more than 500 artifacts, at least half of which have never been seen by the public — including models, props, costumes, set pieces, and artwork from throughout Disney history.

“Ronald Reagan and Walt Disney were longtime friends, two optimists who shared an unwavering belief in the essential goodness of the American way of life,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “We’re proud to partner with the Reagan Library and the National Archives to showcase Disney’s rich entertainment legacy. This extraordinary exhibit will offer visitors an unprecedented look into Disney’s history and celebrate the connection between these two American originals.”

Among the extraordinary items to be featured are:

        --  The original script, written by Walt Disney, for Mickey Mouse's film
            debut in 1928's Steamboat Willie;
        --  A faithful recreation of Walt's formal office from the Walt Disney
            Studios in Burbank, Calif., including original furnishings and many of
            his personal items;
        --  Hand-drawn artwork and hand-sculpted models used in the production of
            some of the most beloved Disney animated film classics ever created,
            including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Bambi,
            and Sleeping Beauty;
        --  Props from classic Disney live-action productions, including Mary
            Poppins, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, The Absent-Minded Professor,
            The Shaggy Dog, Babes in Toyland, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and more;
        --  Breathtaking props, costumes, and set pieces from recent Disney
            classics, including the Pirates of the Caribbean films, Tim Burton's
            Alice in Wonderland, TRON: Legacy, National Treasure and Captain
            America;
        --  Intricately sculptured busts of all 44 U.S. Presidents that were
            created for Audio-Animatronics(R) figures seen in the The Hall of
            Presidents attraction at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World
            Resort;
        --  A salute to Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World,
            showcasing theme park artwork, Audio-Animatronics(R) characters,
            memorabilia, and authentic attraction vehicles

The exhibition also pays tribute to the long personal friendship and professional collaboration between Walt Disney and Ronald Reagan, which began many years before President Reagan’s political career.

On July 17, 1955, Ronald Reagan was one of the co-hosts of ABC Network’s live coverage of the opening of Disneyland, and as governor of California, he frequently visited Disney’s first theme park. After leaving the Oval Office, one of his first public events was a return to Disneyland, where he officiated at the park’s January 1990 35th-anniversary celebration, proclaiming it “one of America’s national treasures.”

“Walt Disney and Ronald Reagan shared a passion for America, a belief in the human spirit, and an innate optimism that, in both men, galvanized the public,” said John Heubusch, executive director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation. “President Reagan was a great admirer of Walt Disney, and we are tremendously proud to host this wonderful exhibition of Disney treasures, and to honor the bond between Walt and President Reagan.”

For exhibit hours and additional information, visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum online at www.reaganlibrary.com , or www.Disney.com/D23 . Admission to the exhibition is included with the purchase of admission to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. Through April 2013, when the exhibition is scheduled to end, members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club also save $2 on every adult admission.

“At 12,000 square feet, this is the largest special exhibit the Reagan Library has ever put on,” said Duke Blackwood, director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. “It is a testament to the relationship between Walt Disney and our nation’s presidents, as well as the story of Disney itself. The Reagan Library and National Archives are honored to host this extraordinary exhibit.”

The Ronald Reagan Library and Museum is located in Simi Valley, Calif., about 60 minutes north of downtown Los Angeles and approximately two hours north of the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.

As Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs and Disneyland Resort President George Kalogridisannounced at the D23 Expo in August of last year, Carnation Plaza Gardens at Disneyland park is being reimagined into the new Fantasy Faire – an enchanting village square that will immerse guests in the stories of their favorite princesses. Carnation Plaza Gardens Stage will become the Fantasy Faire Stage, where the tales of Disney’s fairy tale heroes and heroines will be brought to life each day.

This transformation will begin with the closing of Carnation Plaza Gardens at the end of the Disneyland park operating day on April 30. There are three more chances for Disneyland park guests to enjoy the Jump, Jive, Boogie Swing Party at Carnation Plaza Gardens before it closes:

• April 14 – featuring Doc Anello & the Swing Machine
• April 21 – featuring Stompy Jones
• April 28 – featuring Swingtown

And starting May 5, Disneyland Resort guests can keep on dancing each Saturday night when the Jump, Jive, Boogie Swing Party continues at the Westside Stage in the Downtown Disney District.

As you may know, Disneyland Resort guests may book dining reservations through the Disney Dine Line (714-781-DINE) but, beginning today, Disneyland is  offering a new way to request a dining reservation at the resort.

Here’s how it works:

• Guests may now email their dining reservation requests to dine@disneyland.com
• Requests will be reviewed the same day, when received during the hours of 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., 7 days a week
• Requests received after hours will be reviewed the next day
• Guests may request Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Studio Disney 365 reservations through this email address as well
• Email requests should include the following information:
  • Name of the restaurant or experience you’d like to book
  • Requested reservation date and meal period (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
  • Total number of guests in your party
  • Your name and phone number
• Remember: Your request is not confirmed until you’ve received a confirmation number

For a list of Disneyland Resort restaurants that accept reservations, click here.

We know that Disneyland Resort guests are very excited about the upcoming opening of Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure park on June 15. Dining reservations are not available at this time, but keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog and @Disneyland on Twitter for updates on when the booking window for this brand-new restaurant will open.

With Donald Duck doing his best Darth Maul impression in the 2012 event logo, seen here, Star Wars Weekends 2012 will welcome several celebrities from Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace for the Force-filled fun. In fact, Donald will have the chance to meet Ray Park, the action star who portrayed Darth Maul, during an extended engagement. Ray (pictured below) is scheduled to appear in both Weekends I and II.

Another 2012 highlight: keep a sharp eye during Weekend IV when bounty hunters — a favorite among many fans — take center stage in their very own weekend (doesn’t that seem appropriate, considering Star Warsbounty hunters generally work on their own anyway?). As an added surprise, Weekend IV will be a “Bonus Boba”weekend! Both actors who portrayed laconic enforcer Boba Fett in the saga — Jeremy Bulloch and Daniel Logan — will appear during the event’s closing weekend.

Each weekend will also feature a visiting celebrity voice actor from the popular animated TV series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

Here’s the scheduled celebrity lineup for Star Wars Weekends 2012 (subject to change):

Weekend I (May 18 – 20)

• Ray Park – (Darth Maul – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• Jerome Blake (Rune Haako/Mas Amedda – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• Dee Bradley Baker (voice of Clone Captain Rex and Clone Commander Cody – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend II (May 25- 27)

• Andy Secombe (Watto – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• Tom Kane (voice of Yoda – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend III (June 1 -3)

• Jake Lloyd (Anakin Skywalker – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• Silas Carson (Nute Gunray/Ki-Adi-Mundi – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• (Star Wars: The Clone Wars voice talent – currently TBD)

Weekend IV (June 8- 10)

• Michonne Bourriague (Aurra Sing – Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace)
• Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett – Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back and Star Wars: Episode VIReturn of the Jedi)
• Daniel Logan (Boba Fett – Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones)
• Nika Futterman (voice of Asajj Ventress – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

While most daily events are still being scheduled, we have received a few additional news of note and tips forStar Wars Weekends 2012 (all activities & entertainment subject to change):

• “Hyperspace Hoopla”: This high-energy, one-of-a-kind show is a chance to see some of the famed Star Wars characters performing like never before. It will take place on a stage in front of the Sorcerer Mickey hat on Hollywood Blvd., and is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. each event evening.
• Autograph Opportunities: As always, there is no additional charge for the celebrity autograph sessions at Star Wars Weekends. The autograph lines will once again be handled via a FASTPASS-type system. The meet-and-greet session/autograph opportunities are extremely limited, so guests need to arrive early to receive a FASTPASS. Please refer to this link, which will take you to the official Star Wars Weekends event page on DisneyWorld.com. There, you’ll find more detailed information under “Celebrity Autographs.”
• Star-Studded Event: Keep in mind, autograph opportunities are not the only place to see the celebrities.Star Wars stars take part in fun throughout the day in Star Wars-themed talk shows, behind-the-scenes presentations, the gala “Legends of the Force” parade and more.

From Walt Disney’s groundbreaking Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to the upcoming Wreck-It Ralph, guests will go on a two-day journey filled with unforgettable moments of heart-tugging emotion, laughter, and classic music and song that have captivated generations the world over.

Event Information

DATES
August 11 and 12, 2012

LOCATION
Grand Ballroom, Disneyland Hotel

TIME
Panels, presentations, and events to run from approximately 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

TICKETS
On sale April 18, 2012, at 10 a.m. PST. Check back here for link to order tickets.

COST
$225 per person and $1,000 per person for Diamond-level
(see details below)

Highlights of the event include exclusive previews of upcoming films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, salutes to the great Disney animators and artists of the past, hands-on activities, an extraordinary reunion of Disney animated voice talent, a glimpse at how the Disney animated features have influenced the Disney parks, rare and never-before-seen artwork and film footage, plus a special salute to Snow White (the film that started it all), and numerous surprises. Saturday ends on a “Jolly Holiday” note with a concert by Dick Van Dyke and The Vantastix performing timeless Disney songs and pop standards. We cap Sunday with a rare concert appearance by eight-time Oscar®-winning composer/songwriter Alan Menken, who will perform some of his most memorable songs from many modern-day Disney film classics, and more.

D23′s Destination D series has become one of the fan club’s most popular member events. Past “destinations” have celebrated 55 years of Disneyland and 40 years of Walt Disney World Resort. Now it’s time to celebrate the diamond anniversary of one of the most universally beloved and unique film genres—the world of Disney animated features.

If you love the Disney animated features, this event will be a dream come true—an unprecedented celebration of the art, storytelling, music, voices, imagination, and innovation of Disney’s benchmark films. Presented at the newly re-Imagineered Disneyland Hotel, this is one D23 event that will leave you truly animated!

Diamond-Level Ticket Details
($1,000 each, limited availability)

Diamond level guests enjoy all the experiences of the first two days of Destination D plus a full third day of activities on Monday, August 13 that continue D23′s celebration of 75 years of Disney animated features.

Included in the cost of each ticket:
— Reserved VIP seating for all presentations and concerts
— Meet and Greets with select speakers and presenters from the event
— Special Diamond-level gift bag

Third day of Animation fun includes:
— Round-trip motor coach from Disneyland Resort to The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank*
— Grab-and-go breakfast
— Tour of the Roy E. Disney Feature Animation Building
— Tour of the original Animation Building and the Ink & Paint department
— Tour of the Disney Animation Research Library
— Delicious lunch on the Studio Lot
— And some signature D23 surprises along the way!

*Guests who do not require transportation to and from The Walt Disney Studios may make other arrangements. Breakfast will only be available to guests at the Disneyland Resort. No discount will be offered for guests who do not utilize provided transportation.

NOTE: Available only to D23 Members in good standing. Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest. There are a limited number of tickets available. The room will be cleared during several breaks; during these breaks seats may not be saved. D23 Members will be required to provide their membership number when purchasing tickets. Credentials may be picked up only with a valid photo ID AND D23 MEMBERSHIP CARD. D23 Members who do not bring their membership card may not be admitted to the event. Ticketed members who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event. Panels are subject to change. Talent is subject to availability. If you wish to request sign language interpreting services for this event, please submit your request to d23.guestservices@disneystore.com at least two weeks prior to the event date. All D23 Special Events are subject to change without notice. There are no cancellations or refunds. Tickets are not transferable.

Tables in Wonderland

Members to receive a discount at

La Nouba

Cirque du Soleil

Written and directed by Franco Dragone

April 17, 2012 – May 11, 2012

Performances on Tuesdays – Saturdays, 6:00pm & 9:00pm

Discounted Price

for Category 2 Tickets:

Adult: $66.75 plus tax

Child: $54.00 plus tax

Call 407-WDW-SEAT (407-939-7328) to purchase tickets!

Tables In Wonderland members may purchase tickets for themselves and up to three (3) Guests

Must show current, valid Tables in Wonderland card to receive discount, when tickets are picked up at Box Office

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Tables in Wonderland

The Wave . . . of American Flavor’s Discovery Dinner

At Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Thursday, April 19, 2012

6:30 p.m. Reception; 7:00 p.m. Dinner

Meet at The Wave… of American Flavor’s Main Podium

Dress Code – Casual Evening Attire

$110 per person, includes tax and gratuity

The Wave…of American Flavors proudly presents Matt McLean from Uncle Matt’s Organic Citrus as our host for the April Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner.  Uncle Matt’s Organic Citrus is a Florida-based, family-owned company offering premium quality organic citrus juices and organic produce.  All Uncle Matt’s products have no synthetic additives or preservatives and are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

Matt McLean is a pioneer, agricultural activist, and entrepreneur in the organic industry. Currently Vice President on the National Board of Directors for the Organic Trade Association (OTA), he helps shape the policies and standards for the organic industry.

Today, Matt carries on his family’s tradition of growing quality organic citrus on close to 1100 acres throughout the state.  Uncle Matt’s has also expanded their expertise to other Florida crops, and works with over 25 family growers to market not only organic citrus, but organic avocados, blueberries and peaches.

Wines will be presented by Eddie Fara, Florida State Manager for Boisset Family Wine Estates. His portfolio includes Deloach Vineyards, Raymond Vineyards, Buena Vista Winery, Lyeth Estates, Jean-Claude Boisset, Beni di Batasiolo, Charles De Fere, Neige and many other premium wineries.

Reception in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Lounge

Cold Smoked Pork Tenderloin Flatbread with Sun-Dried Blueberries

Rock Shrimp Fritters

DeLoach Vineyards “Barrel to Barrel” Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

Dinner in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Private Dining Room

Appetizer

Grilled Atlantic Shrimp with Vietnamese Peach Relish

Melon and Peach Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella

Pancetta wrapped Peaches with Micro Basil and Aged Balsamic

DeLoach Vineyards Russian River Valley Chardonnay

Entrée

Thyme and Rosemary Roasted Pin-Tail Pheasant with Blue Cornbread Stuffing

Peach and Blueberry Preserves

King Farm Vegetables of the Moment

DeLoach Vineyards Masut Vineyard Pinot Noir

Salad

Grilled Peach, Tomato and Radicchio Salad with Basil Oil

Charles de Fère Rosé

Cheese Course

Darby Port, Lamb Chopper Goat Cheese, White Diamond Cheddar, Gewurztraminer Blueberries

Raymond Vineyards “Barrel to Barrel” Cabernet Sauvignon

Dessert

Peach Gallette, Frozen Yogurt with Warm Blueberry Compote, Fresh Peaches, and Blueberry Leather

Neige Apple Ice Wine

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis.  Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 46 Guests. The event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.

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Tables in Wonderland Special Event

Flower Power Happy Hour

Norway Pavilion at Epcot^®

Saturday May 12, 2012   6:00pm – 8:30pm

Price:  $40.00 per person, plus tax.  Gratuity is included.

The Epcot^® International Flower & Garden Festival is a special spring event filled with a colorful array of flowers, lush gardens, topiaries, live music, unique shopping, and educational programs.  On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the festival, finish off the day with a melodious evening at the America Gardens Theatre adjacent to the American Adventure Pavilion and enjoy music from the 1960s and 1970s during the Flower Power Concert Series.  Join your fellow Tables in Wonderland members for a cocktail hour and then reserved seating for the concert of Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, best known for “I’m Henry the Eighth, I Am“.

Timeline

• 6:00pm – Happy Hour at Norway Pavilion. Hors D’oeuvres, Beer, Wine, and Specialty Beverages

• 7:00pm – Relocate to America Gardens Theater

• 7:45pm – Reserved seats for Herman’s Hermits show at the Flower Power Concert Series

Happy Hour Menu

Reclaimed Wooden Wine Barrel Covers of Artisan Cheeses with Berries, Chutney, and Breads

Spicy Vegetable Samosa with Greek Yogurt Cucumber Dip

Red Wine Demi Braised Mixed Grill Meatballs with Crispy

Beer, Wine, and Specialty Beverages

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 60 Guests.  The event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.

Beloved Academy Award®-winning actress, singer and best-selling children’s book author Julie Andrews, in collaboration with Target and The Walt Disney Company, introduce the first annual National Princess Week. During this enchanting week-long event, taking place April 22-28, children across the country are invited to celebrate the sparkle and wonder of every princess — real, aspiring or imagined.

“Throughout my career as an actress and author, I’ve encouraged children to use their imaginations and dream big,” said Julie Andrews. “Joining Disney and Target to create National Princess Week is an extension of my work — a moment in time for children to celebrate their individuality and let their inner sparkle shine.”

Throughout National Princess Week, Target will showcase a variety of products designed to engage every princess, including:

– 10th Anniversary release of a very special two-movie collection featuring two modern-day fairy tales, “The Princess Diaries” and “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement” — starring Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway, and available for the first time ever on Blu-ray™.

– Target guests will also find Julie Andrews’ “The Very Fairy Princess: Here Comes the Flower Girl!” co-authored with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton, and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. It is the latest publication in their critically-acclaimed No. 1 New York Times best-selling “The Very Fairy Princess” children’s franchise. The book follows a little girl, Geraldine, through her adventures readying for her aunt’s wedding and the magic that happens when she helps others.

– Fans of Disney’s beloved princess characters will find an array of themed merchandise at Target stores and Target.com. Items include Blu-rays, books, toys, bedroom décor, games and more, inspired by Disney’s classic animated films including “Beauty and The Beast,” “The Princess and The Frog,” and “Tangled,” starting at just $5. Guests can view the full selection of products by visiting Target.com/Princess.

“Disney and Julie Andrews have inspired the imaginations of generations of children and families,” said Casey Carl, Target’s senior vice president. “We’re excited to bring that magic to Target guests everywhere and offer them an opportunity to create a princess experience through re-released Blu-rays, books, toys and other merchandise.”

From the Disney Parks Blog….

While we’ll always have our favorites, oh, how we love delicious new food finds when we wander through Disney Parks. On a recent trek through Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, we were tempted to stop for our usual favorite – the rib and chicken combo at Flame Tree Barbecue, where the ribs are worth getting messy for while sitting at the outdoor picnic tables on a glorious spring day. (And where else can you find a basket of onion rings?)

But food lovers can be a fickle bunch, so we headed for Tamu Tamu, where they’ve replaced the burger with a slow-roasted pulled beef sandwich, spicy beef piled on a warm pita with mint-yogurt cucumber sauce. On the side are housemade potato chips (yes, housemade). You can opt for apple slices, but we just couldn’t.

Some days we prefer to sip our lunch, especially on hot days. We recently discovered three cooling cocktails at the outdoor Dawa Bar in Harambe Village: the Dawa Colada with Bacardi Razz Rum, pina colada mix and raspberry puree; the Harambe Cooler with African rum, Myer’s Original Dark Rum Pangani Punch (We’re not sure what Pangani Punch is, but we like it!); and the African Margarita with Sauza Gold Tequila, Van der Hum Tangerine Liquer, sweet-and-sour mix and lime juice.

Or check out the new Triple Yeti Blast, a frozen, layered margarita with lime, mango and strawberry at the Upcountry kiosk across from Kamal’s in Asia. Order your Triple Yeti Blast and head for the waterfront seating overlooking the Discovery River – an easy way to while away the afternoon.

Disney’s partners at Marvel Studios are bringing Marvel’s “The Avengers” to Walt Disney World Resort this spring!

In Marvel’s “The Avengers,” super heroes team up to pull the world back from the brink of disaster when an unexpected enemy threatens global security.

Similar to the “Tron”-themed wrap, one of our Magic Kingdom Park Monorails is currently undergoing a Marvel’s “The Avengers”-themed changeover to celebrate the May 4 opening of the film, which stars Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner and Tom Hiddleston, with Stellan Skarsgård and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury.

In the upcoming Disney•Pixar movie “Brave,” Merida is a headstrong teenager with a vibrant spirit and a softness of heart, struggling to take control of her own destiny. You’ll be able to discover Merida’s story when “Brave” opens in theaters June 22 and, beginning in mid-May, Merida will be coming to Disney Parks in an all-new character greeting experience.

At Magic Kingdom Park, Merida will appear in Fairytale Garden in a setting inspired by her Scottish Highlands home, where young guests will be invited to engage in archery lessons and other activities until it’s their turn to meet her. Joining Merida will be the three bear cubs from the film, who will no doubt be up to plenty of mischief.

To prepare for Merida’s arrival, Rapunzel will be moving from Fairytale Garden April 15, to a new spot at the outskirts of Adventureland where she will continue to greet her loyal fans and subjects.

When visiting Disneyland park in California this summer, Merida and the cubs will find a home away from home near “it’s a small world” in Fantasyland, where guests will also be able to participate in activities inspired by Merida’s story.

According to Creative Director Reed Jones, “These new play and greet experiences at both parks will immerse our guests in ‘Brave,’ giving them the opportunity to be a part of Merida’s Scottish clan. And we’re all excited to have the bear cubs join Merida with their silly antics, creating a whole new way to bring our beloved Disney Characters to life.”

“Regardless of where they find Merida,” said Reed, “Guests are really going to fall in love with her and the bears.”

Earlier this month, Disney celebrated the “soft-open” of phase one of Storybook Circus, which included the debut ofDumbo the Flying Elephant and Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini.

Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) has given Barnstormer an entirely new backstory, which can be seen in circus posters found throughout Storybook Circus.

Here’s the description, straight from WDI:

“The greatest show in the kingdom, The Storybook Circus, has just come to town and set up in beautiful Carolwood Park. There’s fun and pageantry to be had for everyone. But if it’s thrills you’re after, The Barnstormer featuring Goofy as the Great Goofini is one attraction you won’t want to miss!

“The circus’ fearless daredevil, the Great Goofini, has become the resident flying ace for his latest spectacular showcase of aerial acrobatics and bravery. It’s ‘plane’ crazy and sure to leave you breathless.

“And that’s just the beginning! The Great Goofini will stop at nothing to amuse and entertain his audience. The Canine Cannonball, the Reckless Rocketeer and Bear Wrasslin’ are just few of his notable feats of peril showcased in fully illustrated posters that line the circus walkways.

“So the next time you visit the Storybook Circus in search of some excitement, keep your eye out for the Great Goofini. You never know if he’ll be blasting, crashing, or soaring through the skies, but you know you’ll definitely have a good time watching!”

Hmm, there seem to be some hidden nods to Disney history here, both in the description and in the posters themselves. What hidden details can you find?

Image Courtesy of Walt Disney World

From the Orlando Sentinel and Jason Garcia…

Walt Disney World said Thursday that it will complete construction of its newest hotel ahead of schedule, ensuring more of the rooms will be available for rent during the busy summer months.

The first phase of the nearly 2,000-room Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is still expected to open May 31, as originally scheduled.

But Disney now says the hotel’s second and third phases will open June 18 and Aug. 10, respectively, each about a month and a half ahead of schedule.

And the hotel’s fourth and final phase is now expected to open Sept. 15 instead of at the end of the year.

Disney officials attributed the quicker construction to a combination of efficiencies at Walt Disney Imagineering, the company’s attractions-design unit, and favorable weather through the fall and winter.

“It’s a lot of people coming together — and so far, so good,” said Gary Hoffman, a senior project manager with Disney Imagineering.

Though Disney World already has about 26,000 hotels and time-share suites across its vast property, the resort is banking on Art of Animation to fill a gap in that inventory. More than half of the hotel –1,120 of 1,984 rooms — will be so-called “family suites” that will have space for up to six people but will sell for cheaper nightly rates than traditional, high-end hotel suites.

The resort currently has only 215 such suites, all at its All-Star Music hotel.

The first three phases of the new hotel — themed to the animated movies “Finding Nemo,” “Cars” and “The Lion King,” respectively — will be entirely suites. The last phase, themed to “The Little Mermaid,” will be conventional “value” rooms, Disney’s lowest-priced category.

Kevin Myers, Disney World’s vice president in charge of resort operations, said Disney is just beginning to release for rent the additional summer capacity created by the accelerated construction schedule. Disney has said in recent months that its customers are on average booking their trips about 13 weeks before their dates of travel.

Myers would not discuss the overall pace of bookings in Art of Animation, which has been accepting advance reservations for nearly a year.

“But this is certainly a market that we feel is there,” Myers said.

Last month, we welcomed five baby warthogs, three males and two females, to the Disney’s Animal Kingdomfamily. A few days ago, Gene Duncan stopped by to take some photos and we couldn’t resist sharing this photo of one piglets with a Pumbaa plush. Toys are among the items provided to the animals for enrichment as part of our commitment to excellence in animal care.

The piglets, which are still backstage, weighed 1 ½ to just over 2 pounds at birth. Adult females weigh 110-165 pounds and adult males are larger, ranging from 130-330 pounds. We expect the piglets to be out on theKilimanjaro Safaris savanna with their mom by late April.

With the new additions, we now have four male and three female warthogs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In the wild, warthogs are designated as vulnerable due to habitat destruction and being hunted for meat.

Warthog Fun Facts:

• Although the upper tusks are more impressive, it is the sharper lower tusks that are the warthog’s principal weapons.
• Warts, which are prominent only on males, are skin growths and have no bony support. The warts are located on the side of the head and in front of the eyes. They serve to cushion blows sustained during battles over females.
• Warthogs usually take over the abandoned burrows of other animals instead of making their own dens.
• In the wild, warthogs’ habitat is widespread—they live in all African countries south of the Sahara Desert.

For the second consecutive year, the TCM Classic Film Festival will celebrate the legacy of The Walt DisneyStudios. Turner Classic Movies (TCM), in collaboration with D 23: The Official Disney Fan Club, will present a 75th anniversary screening of Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), Disney’s first hand-drawn feature-length animated film. In addition, legendary actor Kirk Douglas will present the first general public screening of the newly restored (from original camera negatives) live-action adventure, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954).

On Saturday, April 14, Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will screen at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre at 1 p.m. This film revolutionized the art of animation with its cutting edge technique, design and storytelling – setting animation in pursuit of an ever more realistic look. Moreover, it demonstrated animation’s viability as a legitimate cinematic art form. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences bestowed a special Academy Award® on Walt Disney, recognizing Snow White as “a significant screen in novation which has charmed millions and pioneered a great new entertainment field.” The unique Oscar® trophy consisted of one full-sized statuette standing next to seven miniature versions. The film also earned an Oscar® nomination for Leigh Harline’s memorable score.

In 1997, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was named one of the 100 Greatest Films of All Time by the American Film Institute (AFI). The following year, the AFI named it the greatest American animated film of all time.On Friday, April 13, at 2:45 p.m., Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas will be present at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre for the first public screening of the newly restored 1954 adventure film epic, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, t he first live-action feature film shot at Walt Disney’s Burbank studios. Disney recruited an A-list cast including Kirk Douglas, James Mason and Paul Lukas, and a set budget of $9 million, the largest in Hollywood history at that time.

Walt Disney had originally planned to turn Jules Verne’s tale of Captain Nemo’s battle to wipe out warfare into an animated feature. But when he saw designer Harper Goff’s preliminary sketches, he decided to make the switch to live action. To film the massive production – the studio’s first in CinemaScope – Disney added a water tank and a third soundstage to his studio, rented additional space from 20th Century-Fox and Universal, and sent cast and crew to the Caribbean for underwater shooting. His technicians also had to develop new equipment for the film’s many underwater scenes and create a giant, two-ton squid for the film’s most impressive sequence.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea went on to earn two Oscars®, one fo r the eye-popping visual effects and one for John Meehan and Emile Kuri’s art direction and set decoration. The film earned a third nomination for Elmo Williams’ editing.

Operation Undersea, an episode of the Disneyland TV series highlighting the creation of the film, won Emmys® for Best Individual Program of the Year (1955) and Best Television Film Editing.

From the Disney Parks Blog…

t’s not too late to plan your Spring Break (and even early summer getaway) at the Disneyland Resort! Check out this new offer on Disneyland Resort hotels.

You can save up to 25 percent on stays for most Sunday through Thursday nights at a Disneyland Resort Hotel for travel between April 16 through June 9 when booked before May 26. Be sure to check for other discounts that may be available on the weekends. For more information, click here.

Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. Travel must be completed by June 10, 2012. Offer not valid on Suites or with previously booked rooms. Excludes applicable taxes and fees. Check for offers for different hotels and room types. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.