News & Press Releases
Broadway star Constantine Maroulis will rock out with Rock Star Mickey at D23 Expo
DISNEY
CONSUMER PRODUCTS TAKES GUESTS TO THE HEART OF THE MAGIC AT D23 EXPO 2011 INSIDE
THE DISNEY LIVING PAVILION
Anaheim, Calif. – August 4, 2011 – Disney Consumer Products (DCP) will showcase
an extensive collection of Disney merchandise and interactive experiences inside
its Disney Living Pavilion at the ultimate Disney fan event, D23 Expo, held at
the Anaheim Convention Center from August 19-21.
In
the Disney Living Pavilion, D23 Expo attendees can explore the ultimate Disney
lifestyle through the neighborhoods of "Style," "Play" and "Celebrations." From
the latest toys and newest fashions to the ultimate Disney birthday party and
some of the most beloved Disney classics such as Disney It's a Small World, guests can experience all things Disney
through an immersive environment featuring: exclusive and never-before-seen
products; meet and greets with artists, designers, authors and innovators;
hands-on demos and activities; and live performances at the Disney Living
Pavilion stage.
Guests
can commemorate the event with specially released D23 merchandise including a
new Hallmark keepsake ornament, a Toy
Story Woody action figure and Finn McMissile Cars vehicle from Mattel, a Minnie Mouse plush from Just Play,
limited-edition 25th anniversary items from Disney Store, and more.
Attendees
will have the opportunity to interact with Disney Consumer Products' online
communities in the Disney Living Social Media lounge. Watch favorite Disney
Living videos, virtually check-in and join social networking activities like Tweet-ups
and participate in giveaways.
DCP's
exciting line-up of events and attractions includes:
Stage Shows
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On
Stage 23, the United States Postal Service and Disney will celebrate the First
Day of Issue Ceremony for the DisneyPixar Send A Hello Commemorative Stamps featuring
original designs of beloved characters from films such as Cars, Ratatouille, Toy Story, Up and WALLE. With special guests John Lasseter, chief creative officer,
Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, and Ronald A. Stroman, Deputy
Postmaster General, United States Postal Service, plus an artist signing
following the ceremony, this is a must-see event. (Aug. 19, 4:15 p.m.)
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On
Stage 28, guests can enjoy the "it's a small world: Celebrating 45 Years" panel
discussion. Panel luminaries include experts from Walt Disney Imagineering,
Disney Parks and Resorts and Disney Consumer Products, as well as Disney legend
Alice Davis – who along with fellow legend Mary Blair researched, designed and
supervised the creation of more than 150 costumes for the original attraction. (Aug.
19, 1 p.m.)
Disney Play at the Disney Living
Pavilion
With
toys featuring everyone's favorite Disney characters and stories, there is
something for all ages.
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Making
its first public appearance, Rock Star Mickey, the new animated plush from
Fisher-Price will rock out at D23 Expo. Don't miss a special performance with
rocker and Broadway star Constantine Maroulis and Rock
Star Mickey on the Disney Living Pavilion center stage. Releasing this holiday
season at retailers nationwide, Rock Star Mickey is already generating buzz as
a must-have holiday gift. Mickey really gets things going as he sings, bobs his
head, dances across the stage and finishes with his signature move – the
mouska-split – where he plays the guitar with his nose!
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At
the Mattel booth, the whole family can enjoy some quality time playing with the
newest Disney toys from Mattel including the latest Cars die-cast vehicles and new space-themed Toy Story playset and action figures. Plus, be the first to see the
Ultimate Disney Princess castle and
VIP doll collection inspired by the hottest Disney Channel stars releasing this
fall just in time for the holidays. Fans can
snap up specially released D23 merchandise from Mattel including a Toy Story Woody action figure and Finn
McMissile Cars vehicle.
-
In
the JAKKS Pacific area, kids can live out their favorite stories with an
exciting display of Disney Princess
and Disney Fairies role play and
playsets. They can also enjoy carnival-style games from Just Play and check out
the limited-edition Minnie Mouse plush available for the first time at D23 Expo.
And no visit to the Disney Play neighborhood is complete without a picture next
to a life-sized Lightning McQueen created entirely out of LEGO® bricks.
Disney Style
Guests
can experience an array of Disney-inspired apparel, accessories and art in the
Disney Style neighborhood.
-
The
Disney It's a Small World area will
feature fashionable infant and children's clothing and accessories inspired by
Mary Blair's original art of the iconic attraction. Kids can create Disney It's a Small World-inspired arts
and crafts and participate in a shoe styling competition. A Nordstrom pop-up
shop will feature the latest infant and toddler apparel collection, TOMS Shoes
and BASQ personal care products.
-
Guests
can meet the artists and get an autograph from winners of fashion leader
Uniqlo's "Mickey By" global t-shirt design contest. They can also preview and
purchase Hallmark's cherished annual Disney keepsake ornament featuring a Pook-a-Looz style Steamboat Willie, available
first for D23 Expo guests. And at Retro 51, makers of fine writing instruments,
guests are invited to drop off the ugliest pen they own at their booth to
compete for cool prizes because "Life is too short to carry an ugly pen!"TM
-
At
the Disney Beauty lounge, guests can stop by for pampering and special beauty
demonstrations. Kids can have fun, too, with Disney face art and hair styling.
Nutrition, health and wellness will take center stage in the Disney Food and
Health area. Here guests will receive tips about nutrition and exercise, get
snack and meal ideas, learn fun ways to stay healthy and spin a prize wheel for
giveaways.
-
Guests
can enjoy The Wonderful Words of Disney sponsored by Disney Publishing and
discover classic tales and new adventures in this comfortable reading area.
From paper to iPad, guests can immerse themselves in the Disney library. There
are daily storytelling sessions, and guests can go "Behind the Page" at panel
discussions and signings with Disney authors Dave Barry, Ridley Pearson and Don
Hahn on Stage 28.
-
Throughout
the Disney Style neighborhood, collectors will find treasures and
limited-edition offers. This is the place to meet Disney artists, see them at
work, hear their inspirations and have pieces signed and dedicated. Guests may
wish to participate in the "Disney Storytellers: Artists of Walt Disney
Animation Studios" panel discussion (Aug. 20, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Disney Living
Pavilion Center Stage)
Disney Celebrations
At the
Disney Celebrations neighborhood, guests will not only be able to join the
festivities and activities of a real party with balloons and games, but also
have fun learning directly from party planning experts how to make magnificent
balloon bouquets, decorate a winning cake and cupcakes, and find the best
Disney party decorations. Guests will also be treated to daily birthday cupcake
giveaways from DecoPac.
Disney Store
Be one of
the first to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Disney Store in its
1,500 square foot pop-up shop at D23 Expo where guests can preview Disney
Store's new fall line, as well as specially released D23 Expo items such as
limited-edition anniversary merchandise (only available at the event, and to
D23 Members shopping on DisneyStore.com after the event, while supplies last),
Vinylmation, new Wish-a-Littles from the Kidada
for Disney Store collection, and more. On the pavilion's center stage,
guests can watch the unveiling of Disney Store's enchanting new Disney Princess
Designer Dolls and a fashion parade debuting the 2011 Disney Store Halloween Costume
collection. Additionally, Kidada Jones, celebrity jewelry designer, will also
make a special guest appearance and unveil her all-new Vinylmation.
Disney Baby
Upstairs in the
Baby Care Lounge hosted by Disney Baby, moms can enjoy a moment of
serenity and tend to young ones in private. Special prizes will be given away
in the lounge, which will be equipped with changing tables and product
samples.
Tickets
to D23 Expo
2011 are available at http://www.D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to
all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for
single days or for the full three days of festivities. Admission is $42 for a
one-day adult ticket and $32 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $121
for adults and $91 for children. Members of D23: The
Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on admission as
well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests.
More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events and special guests will be
announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting www.D23Expo.com, as well as by following "Disney D23" on
Twitter and Facebook.
About D23 Expo 2011
The D23 Expo-The Ultimate Disney Fan
Event-brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees
with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks. For
schedules, live updates, interactive features and tools, polls and much more,
check out the D23 Expo mobile app at www.D23mobile.com! To be part of the D23
Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with
#D23Expo. For questions during the D23 Expo, get answers by sending tweets
to @D23Expo.
About D23
The name "D23" pays homage to the exciting journey that began in
1923, when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is
the first official club for fans in Disney's 88-year history. D23 gives
its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them
in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at www.disney.com/D23; a new collectibles
line, the Walt Disney Archives Collection; and special events for D23 Members
throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August
19-21, 2011.
About Disney Consumer Products
Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of
The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) and its affiliates that extends the Disney
brand to merchandise ranging from apparel, toys, home décor and books and
magazines to foods and beverages, stationery, electronics and fine art. This is
accomplished through DCP's various lines of business which include: Disney
Toys, Disney Fashion & Home and Disney Food, Health & Beauty. Other
businesses involved in Disney's consumer products sales are Disney Publishing
Worldwide, the world's largest publisher of children's books and magazines, and
www.DisneyStore.com and www.DisneyStore.co.uk, the company's official shopping
portals. The Disney Stores retail chain, which debuted in 1987, is owned and
operated by Disney in North America, Europe, and Japan. For more information,
please visit Disney
Consumer Products
or follow us at www.YouTube.com/DisneyLiving, www.Facebook.com/DisneyLiving and www.Twitter.com/DisneyLiving.
News & Press Releases
New Updates and Exclusive Content from Jim Hill Media: Disney, Universal, and More
Boy oh boy, do I have some exciting news to share with all of you.
If you’ve been following our journey at Jim Hill Media, you know we’re all about peeling back the curtain to reveal behind the scenes insights, news, and history that surround the world of entertainment and theme parks.
And today, I’ve got a treasure trove of updates to share. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get into it.
A New Chapter on Patreon
As many of you know, we recently made the big leap over to Patreon, and let me tell you, it’s been quite a rollercoaster ride. This move was driven by your requests for more exclusive content (and the easy to use RSS feed and app is a BIG bonus).
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the driving force behind our passion for delivering the best of Disney and Universal content.
Moving to Patreon has opened new avenues for us to connect more deeply with our listeners, offering exciting perks and benefits that allow us to tailor our content more closely to your interests and preferences. It’s been an incredible journey of crafting special content, such as the launch of our video podcast series, [Disney Unpacked].
[Disney Unpacked] – A Video Podcast Series Like No Other
Imagine sitting down for a chat with a Disney Imagineer who’s helped shape your Disney experiences for over three decades. That’s what we’re bringing to the table with [Disney Unpacked]. Alongside the legendary Jim Shull and my partner in crime Len Testa, we explore Disney’s storytelling, sharing how beloved rides and attractions were created, through the eyes of an Imagineer like Jim Shull who personally contributed to these projects.
It’s a rare opportunity to host a video show with Jim Shull, a Disney Imagineer who’s worked on projects like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Toontown for over 33 years. If you’re curious about Jim and his work, check out our “Meet Jim Shull” video.
But that’s not all – as a patron, you’ll gain access to even more exclusive content. Our “Carry On” podcast, where Jim Shull and I explore stories that didn’t quite make it into the main episodes, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind [Disney Unpacked]. Plus, our regular Q&A sessions give you the chance to get answers to all your burning questions about the show.
Beyond the Podcast: Photos and Artifacts from an Imagineers Personal Collection
And if that wasn’t exciting enough, let me introduce you to our brand-new monthly video show, “Picture This.” Hosted by yours truly alongside Jim Shull and moderated by Lauren Hersey, “Picture This” offers a behind-the-scenes look at Jim Shull’s personal collection of over 60,000 photos and artifacts from his 33-year career at Disney. From rare behind-the-scenes shots to exclusive glimpses of Disney history, this show is a must-watch for any serious Disney fan.
The History of the Pixar Place Hotel
Recently, it was announced that Disneyland’s Paradise Pier hotel would be reopening as the Pixar Place Hotel.
Curious about the backstory behind this decision? Join Jim Shull and me as we delve into the history of the Pixar Place hotel. Explore its fascinating origins and gain insights into the inspirations drawn from Jim’s leadership on the Toy Story Hotel project at Shanghai Disney.
This YouTube documentary-style video offers a look into the creative process behind one of Disney’s iconic hotel projects.
Debut of “I Want That Too” Video Podcast
Introducing our newest podcast addition, “I Want That Too,” where Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the fascinating world of Disney products. From toys and collectibles to apparel and home goods, we’re here to unpack it all.
But we’re not just about the merchandise – join us as we explore the rich history and untold stories behind your favorite Disney goodies. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your Disney journey, there’s something for everyone on “I Want That Too.”
This show drops bi-weekly as a Podcast and a Video over on the Jim Hill Media YouTube Channel.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts today.
Welcoming Universal Fans with “Epic Universal” Podcast
And for all you Universal enthusiasts (or Universal Curious) out there, we’ve got you covered too! Introducing “Epic Universal,” a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Eric Hersey and yours truly.
Join us as we dive into the latest news, interviews, and trip planning tips from the Universal universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about what’s happening at Universal Studios, we invite you to join the conversation and stay updated with “Epic Universal.”
A Look Ahead: The Future of Jim Hill Media
Phew! It’s been an exhilarating few months at Jim Hill Media, with our Patreon move and new show launches, all dedicated to bringing you top-notch theme park news, insights, and history. Your support and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our efforts, and we’re incredibly thankful for it.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future, with more content and partnerships on the horizon. Whether you’re into Disney, Universal, Marvel, or Merch, we invite you to stay engaged and subscribe for more updates.
A huge thank you for being part of our journey.
News & Press Releases
Disney Will Bring D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event to Anaheim, California in August 2024
Expanded Disney Fan Experience Will Feature New and Exciting Events Across Multiple Locations, Including a D23 Takeover of the Happiest Place On Earth, Evening Entertainment at the Honda Center, D23 Day at Angel Stadium, and Much More
Fan Favorites Including Exhibits, Panels, Shows, and Shopping Will Dazzle Disney Enthusiasts at the Anaheim Convention Center
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is a one-of-a-kind fan experience like never before with spectacular shows, new venues, and multiple days of entertainment that will bring together the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!
Highlightswill include:
- Sunday, August 4: D23 Day at Angel Stadium, where D23 fans are invited to attend the Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Mets game.
- Thursday, August 8: D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort.
- Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11: Shopping, exhibits, panels, and presentations will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center, the bigger home to marquee shows.
Tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will go on sale in Spring 2024, with ticketing options to be announced later for access to the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center. Admission for D23 Day at Angel Stadium and the D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort will be available as separate ticketed events. Additional details for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be announced in early 2024.
You can get updates by staying connected to D23 via social media (@DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X), D23.com, and our weekly D23 FanFare email (sign up for free as a D23 General Member at JoinD23.com).
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 100-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic year-round through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the latest news and stories on D23.com; member-exclusive offers and discounts; the popular D23 Inside Disney podcast; and special experiences for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99/year), Gold Duo Membership ($129.99/year), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.
News & Press Releases
Star Wars Spoof: Space Robots in Outer Space Ep X: Battle for the Halcyon: The Last Starcruiser
Sure, Star Wars is cool and all. But let’s not forget about that other multi-part sci-fi cinematic spectacular, “Space Robots in Outer Space.” In fact, Hank Lonely (Hollywood’s ultimate hyphenate — actor / producer / director / writer / guy who makes sure the Porto Potties are kept squeaky-clean) just announced that there’ll soon be a 10th installment of this … Well, not exactly beloved. How about we say “admired from afar” instead? … series coming to a theater near you. In fact, here’s the highly anticipated teaser trailer for that project. Which is supposed to be titled “Space Robots in Outer Space X — Battle for the Halycon: The Last Starcruiser.”
Okay. Now the real story … In honor of Star Wars Day (i.e., May 4th. As in “May the Fourth Be With You”), Len Testa and I are sharing something that we produced with the help of all the nice folks who joined us last month aboard the Halycon.
We turned the Galactic Starcruiser as well as Black Spire Outpost into the backdrop for an affectionate send-up of all things Stars Wars. We hope that you (more importantly, the legal team at Lucasfilm) take this faux trailer in the spirit with which it was intended. Special thanks to Aaron Adams for so skillfully stitching all of this footage together. Also thanks to the team at Storybook Destinations, Touring Plans and the talented cast & crew aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” for making this “Disney Dish” fan event so memorable.
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