Search Results for: ICE!

ICE! To Return to Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando for 2022

17 August 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Become part of the story at Gaylord Palms ICE 2022 featuring Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

ICE! is back at Gaylord Palms. Don the signature, blue parka and step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice. You’ll see the story of the Grinch in larger-than-life sculptures and even plunge down slides made entirely of ice in this Gaylord Hotels original experience.

My family and I have been attending ICE every year since around 2007 and it is so exciting to see the wonderful Gaylord Palms ICE 2022 back in full swing in Kissimmee. This year it’s all about that mean, green, Christmas-stealing machine, the Grinch!

You can see some of our past coverage, photos and videos of Gaylord Palms ICE! while you wait to experience this season’s event in 2022!

Get ICE! tickets now!

VLOG: Riding the Polar Express at Gaylord Palms ICE!

25 November 2019 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

We freeze ourselves while trying to board the Polar Express, but it’s all worth it to see those sculpted Tom Hanks figures! And we get to check out the shows at ‘Christmas at Gaylord Palms’, including a HASHTAG LIT Christmas Tree Lighting! Be sure to like and subscribe for more Orlando fun!

Disclosure: Gaylord Palms hosted us for this event, but these opinions are our own!

Holiday Memories Await at Gaylord Palms ICE!

15 December 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

My family and I have been visiting Gaylord Palms ICE! as part of our holiday traditions since 2007, before I even wrote about it in Zannaland. It has really become one of the things my children most look forward to, and they ask every Fall – “when does ICE! start?” (Part of the perks of being Orlando locals; our holiday traditions are just a little bit bigger and over the top than many places.)

Over the years, we’ve seen the displays and offerings change and grow – ice skating outside, ice skating inside, snowball fights, snow tubing, enchanting circus performers, characters, and differing Christmas themes in ice. In all those years, none has been so magical, to me personally, than this year’s theme – A Charlie Brown Christmas.

Growing up in the 1980’s, I have very specific and very wonderful memories of Christmastime. Christmas is always exactly 2 weeks after my birthday, so the whole month of December has forever been overwhelmingly magical to me. I remember the weeks leading up to Christmas were filled with Christmas specials: Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!,” the Rankin Bass productions of “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” and of course, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

I can see myself clearly, sitting on the floor close to the T.V. in my festive Christmas nightgown, while the lights on the Christmas tree twinkled behind me and the scent of pine and the cookies my mother was baking wafted around me…watching those shows, commercials and all, once a year. At the risk of sounding even more ancient than I already do, this was before a time of cable and satellite television, before 300 channels and DVR’s and Netflix and Roku and Apple TV, or even Blockbuster and VCR’s at this point. So waiting all year to see these shows and making sure you didn’t miss them was a big thing. It became a part of the season, a part of the traditions, a part of the magic.

So to walk in to Gaylord Palms at 9 degrees (a very common temperature feel growing up outside of Boston), and see “A Charlie Brown Christmas” larger than life, right before my eyes, was pretty special for me. The detail was absolutely mind-boggling. Every character, every color, every detail from the television special was carved in perfection. Add to that the music and audio clips from the show, and it was truly a wonderland for anyone who’s grown up with the show, or the Peanuts in general. They were my grandmother’s favorite, and she loved Snoopy, so the Peanuts Gang were always a big part of family visits to her house. I left the ICE! display and wanted to go right back in and see it all again, so I could be little 8 year-old excited-for-Christmas-me once more. If anyone is a fan of the Christmas special or Charles Schulz’s work in general, you must go, you will not be disappointed. The night we were there, Charles Schulz’s son, Craig Schulz, was on hand and seemed to be enjoying himself as well. I can only imagine the memories he must have of these characters.

More to see at Gaylord Palms

Also a part of Christmas at Gaylord Palms is a tree lighting display, A Christmas Wish Light Show, which is the most impressive display yet. Returning for the second year is Cirque Dreams, an impressive show of acrobatic artisans performing in the lobby stage nightly. Alpine Snow Tubing also makes a come-back in the ICE! area, where you can tube down snow-covered slides, as well as other fun activities like photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus, a Build-a-Bear Workshop, and much more. ICE! runs this year through January 1, a perfect treat for winter break from school or work. The property itself is so beautiful, it’s like another world when you are inside and my kids ask me all the time when we can stay there next!

Thank you to Gaylord Palms for inviting my family and I to experience the magic of Christmas at Gaylord Palms and see ICE! and the other entertainment offerings first hand. My opinions, as you can see, are my own. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Gaylord Palms ICE! Returns to a Classic Christmas Tale

21 December 2015 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Gaylord Palms ICE! 2015 — Beautiful grand atrium tree

Continuing the grand tradition of millions of pounds of ice sculpted by artisans and formed into amazing displays for all to see, this year Gaylord Palms Resort returned to a classic Christmas story, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.This was actually one of my favorite Gaylord Palms ICE! displays in years past, so I was happy to see it return to Gaylord Palms in an updated form.

For those unaware, ICE! is an indoor winter wonderland featuring:

Walk-through holiday attraction, kept at a chilly 9 degrees
Two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures
Four ice slides
Six individual rooms depicting the story of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
The Frostbite Factory — a live carving zone
Final room is a breath-taking Nativity scene carved from crystal clear ice

In addition to the sculpted ICE! displays, there is Alpine Rush Snow Tubing in a separately ticketed area, for unlimited rides down snow-covered slides on tubes.

Both of the above ticketed events are part of the larger Gaylord Palms Christmas, including free events like an all-new show:

Cirque Dreams UnWrapped

Be dazzled by an array of seasonal characters brought to life in a dreamscape of imaginative costumes and creativity, while stunning feats of showmanship are unwrapped, performed on stage and in the air. Broadway director and Cirque Dreams founder Neil Goldberg is bringing the famed entertainment brand to Orlando for the first time in the company’s 22 years with this exclusive show. The entire family can enjoy this uniquely inspired 25-minute Christmas dream presented with the Broadway style and inventive theatrics for which Cirque Dreams is renowned.

This show was captivating and fun for the whole family, a wonderful addition to the beautiful decorations in the grand atrium – which also features SNOW this year after the Cirque Dreams shows.

You can find out more about the events and activities at Gaylord Palms on their site, and purchase tickets to ICE! and other events. Staying at the Gaylord Palms is always a magical experience, I find myself just not wanting to leave the resort because there is so much to see and do and experience. The holidays amplify that feeling, so if you haven’t booked your stay, go ahead and make plans now for this year or next!

Disclosure: I was invited to experience ICE! with my family by Gaylord Palms. My opinions and thoughts are my own.

Make Holiday Plans Now for Gaylord Palms ICE! and More

6 August 2014 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

After my recent visit a little further north of the hot Florida sun, the cooler weather got me thinking about the holiday season, so I was thrilled when this announcement about the Gaylord Palms ICE! theme and other Christmas events came through. This year, ICE! will feature The Nutcracker, one of my favorite holiday tales and one with a personal connection – my mother (a former professional ballerina) played the Sugar Plum Fairy for the Boston Ballet many years ago and it’s always been a family tradition to watch or experience The Nutcracker somehow each year. I think The Nutcracker is a perfect theme for the amazing ice sculptures featured at Gaylord Palms and can’t wait to see it in person. I’ll have to bring my mom too! This year they’ve also added Alpine Snow Tubing to the ICE! festivities. Can’t wait!

Here is more about ICE! and the other Christmas offerings at Gaylord Palms, which is beautiful year-round, but even more so during the holidays:

ICE! Featuring The Nutcracker

Dreams of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King will come to life in a full-on frozen wonderland this winter during Christmas at Gaylord Palms. On Nov. 15 scenes from everyone’s favorite ballet, the Nutcracker, will be reimagined in nearly 2 million pounds of hand-carved vibrant ice sculptures. ICE! will feature four slippery ice slides and live carving stations inside of the Artisans in Action Frostbite Factory.

New in 2014

That’s not the only exciting happening during this year’s annual Christmas at Gaylord Palms. Guests can now experience the rush – Alpine Rush Snow Tubing – an 18’ 8-lane giant snow hill created with 1.5 million pounds of real Florida snow. Children and adults of all ages will frolic with delight as they speed down these snow covered hills.

The Christmas Experience

Christmas at Gaylord Palms is a mystical experience that boasts the true nature of the season all under a glass enclosed atrium. Lush gardens sprinkled with poinsettias, grand holiday displays and more than 2 million twinkling lights. Don’t forget the famous 54-foot-tall majestic Christmas tree; character dining and meet and greets; delectable holiday dining; Cookies with Mrs. Claus and awe-inspiring live entertainment that crowds have grown to love including the rhythmic Luminescence show.

With so much to see and do, the best way to experience Christmas at Gaylord Palms is to spend the night with us. Packages are now on sale at ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com.

ICE! is open daily from Nov. 15, 2014 to Jan. 4, 2015, including holidays. The Christmas experience begins Nov. 21, 2014. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com. There are many specials, Florida resident deals and more to choose from!

Move It Move It to Gaylord Palms this Winter for ICE! Featuring Merry Madagascar

18 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Madagascar characters at Gaylord Palms — King Julien, Gio – my 3 year-old, me, and Mort!

This morning we learned that the 2012 season of Gaylord Palms Resort’s ICE! will feature Alex, Marty, Gloria and the whole gang with a Merry Madagascar theme. Alex the Lion and King Julien were on hand last year with the Kung Fu Panda themed ICE!, for character greetings. Now in addition to Alex and Julien, there is a Mort and Gloria and penguins characters as well. Mort is simply adorable and my favorite, so I was excited to see him there.

ICE! is an amazing display of sculpted ice along with some play areas as well. Gaylord Palms will present ICE! from November 10, 2012 – January 1, 2013 and will be themed after the Dreamworks Animation holiday special Merry Madagascar. An interactive world of colorful ice sculptures and four two-story ice slides carved entirely from two million pounds of ice. It is truly breath-taking (and don’t worry, winter parkas are provided!).

Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating will be back this year as well, where you can choose from two different options to create a gingerbread cookie family or a complete gingerbread house – don’t forget the gumdrop buttons! Gingy will be on-hand for photos after you finish your edible creations.

Gaylord Palms also offers amazing holiday decor throughout the sprawling Florida-themed resort. Holiday lights, trees and entertainment as well as scavenger hunts offer plenty to keep you in the Christmas spirit.

ICE! tickets start at $22.99 for adults and $13.99 for children – you can call 407-586-2000 or head to ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com for more information. There are also special packages starting at $189 per night, where you can enjoy the beautifully renovated rooms and Cypress Springs Water Park within the resort grounds.

I can’t wait to Move It, Move It! in November!

Oh, and as a special treat – Gaylord Palms brought in Vanilla Ice to sing his hit “Ice Ice Baby” for this fun announcement. Vanilla Ice is back and better than ever! Check out the video of his performance below:

Wreck-it-Ralph Trailer Debuts – Old School Gamers Rejoice!

6 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

We first caught the trailer and some behind-the-scenes info for Wreck-it-Ralph at last year’s D23 Expo in Anaheim and I fell in love. As a little girl who grew up with Atari 2600 and spent many a day playing Centipede, Donkey Kong, Pac Man and more in arcades, the storyline appealed to me instantly. Throw in some appearances by Q*Bert (I was SO addicted to that game!) and more classic video game characters, and you’ve got millions of kids from the 80’s ready to “press play” on this film.

Here’s the official synopsis from Walt Disney Animation Studios:

Walt Disney Animation Studios and Emmy®-winning director Rich Moore (TV’s “The Simpsons,” “Futurama”) take moviegoers on a hilarious, arcade-game-hopping journey in “Wreck-It Ralph.” Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly, “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby,” “Step Brothers”) is tired of being overshadowed by Fix-It Felix (voice of Jack McBrayer, “30 Rock”), the “good guy” star of their game who always gets to save the day. But after decades doing the same thing and seeing all the glory go to Felix, Ralph decides he’s tired of playing the role of a bad guy. He takes matters into his own massive hands and sets off on a game-hopping journey across the arcade through every generation of video games to prove he’s got what it takes to be a hero.

Wreck-it-Ralph's Sugar Rush — The land of Sugar Rush

On his quest, he meets the tough-as-nails Sergeant Calhoun (voice of Jane Lynch, TV’s “Glee”) from the first-person action game Hero’s Duty. But it’s the feisty misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman, “The Sarah Silverman Program”) from the candy-coated cart racing game, Sugar Rush, whose world is threatened when Ralph accidentally unleashes a deadly enemy that threatens the entire arcade. Will Ralph realize his dream and save the day before it’s too late? “Wreck-It Ralph” crashes onto the big screen on November 2, 2012, in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters.

Walt Disney Animation Studios released the first official trailer today so now everyone can see the genius that is Wreck-it-Ralph – check it out!

What did you think? I love it!

Disney Treasure Cruise Ship Reveal! Photos and Details of New Spaces and Sailing Info

5 September 2023 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Welcome Adventurers – this morning Disney Cruise Line revealed tons of news and info about its newest ship, the Disney Treasure – we’ve got the whole rundown and review of the new themed spaces, and what to expect on this Disney ship that sets sail in December of 2024!

Below is the official press release from Disney, which I am going to comment on with my thoughts (in italics) after each announcement, let’s step aboard the Treasure! (All images copyright Disney)

With the debut of new venues and reimagined familiar spaces, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Treasure, will bring captivating stories from beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar and Disney Parks adventures to life like never before. The spaces onboard the Disney Treasure will invite guests to step into colorful plazas in Mexico, navigate the many winding rivers of the world, dive below the ocean’s surface and more.

The Disney Treasure will embark on its maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 21, 2024, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral. Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club members can book a Disney Treasure cruise as early as Sept. 12, 2023, and bookings will open to all guests on Sept. 20, 2023. I bolded this important info if you want to know when the Treasure sets sail, and when you can book!

This is a countdown image from today (9/5) revealing the dates Castaway Club members and the general public can book. The days will not change on this image but you can see the dates below for when to book.

On board, guests will find fan-favorite spaces from the Disney Treasure’s sister ship, the Disney Wish, now themed to adventure, inspired by Walt Disney’s love of exploration. From bow to stern, guests will discover Disney storytelling around every corner as they encounter themed spaces and live entertainment inspired by memorable tales like “Aladdin,” “Coco” and “Zootopia.”

“The Disney Treasure will bring brand-new stories to life, blending one-of-a-kind experiences with the extraordinary entertainment, world-class dining and unparalleled hospitality that make every sailing so memorable,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “As we chart a course for adventure, we’re so excited for families to discover the excitement and exploration that awaits onboard the sixth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.”

Brand New Dining & Entertainment Inspired by Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios
Adventures from the vibrant, heartfelt worlds of Disney and Pixar will lend inspiration for two venues onboard the Disney Treasure.

Plaza de Coco will be the first theatrical dining experience themed to the Disney and Pixar film, “Coco.” This theater-in-the-round entertainment venue will feature dining tables surrounding a central stage, with performances and show effects that will spread throughout the room. Guests will enjoy two different nights of unique dining experiences at Plaza de Coco during their voyage.

On the first night, the story of Miguel and his familia will continue where it left off on screen as they gather in Mariachi Plaza to take guests on a colorful, music-filled journey that celebrates family memories and togetherness. On the second night, Miguel will reunite with his great-great grandparents, Hector and Mama Imelda, by transporting them to Santa Cecilia with the help of his magic guitar for a Día de los Muertos celebration. Both nights will feature a dinner menu of modern twists on traditional Mexican fare and a lineup of live entertainment.

Plaza de Coco will be in the spot where Arendelle’s Frozen dining experience is on the Wish. I think this is a wonderful addition and I’m *pretty sure* I’ll be shedding a tear here if it’s anything like the movie. It seems like a natural fit for cruise line dining and Disney Cruise Line was sorely missing some latin cuisine aboard its ships! I can’t wait to review all the vegan options on the Disney Treasure for VeganDisneyFood.com! 😀

Next, the sweetshop, Jumbeaux’s Sweets, will be reminiscent of the popular ice cream parlor, Jumbeaux Café, from the bustling mammal metropolis featured in Disney’s “Zootopia.” Surrounded by playful pink interiors, Victorian-style architecture and an endearing sculpture of Officer Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, guests will be served humor and heart by the cone full. From bunnies and elephants to sloths and foxes, all are welcome to indulge in more than 20 flavors of handmade gelato, 16 flavors of ice cream and sorbets, specialty treats, candies and more.

The artist renderings for this space look very fun, and it totally makes sense for an ice cream shop and a fun place to add some Zootopia references. I really hope we get some miniature stuff in here as well from Little Rodentia!

Disney Theme Park Adventures on the High Seas
For the first time, the nostalgia and lore from beloved theme park attractions will come to Disney Cruise Line with a unique lineup of Disney Parks-inspired venues aboard the Disney Treasure.

Skipper Society, a themed lounge near the Grand Hall, will bring Disney Parks’ iconic Jungle Cruise attraction to sea for the first time. The venue’s natural colorways and camp-style furnishings, paired with sly tributes to the trusty, dry-witted skippers, will offer an elevated, playful atmosphere. Guests will discover references to the famous attraction throughout the space, from a whimsical monkey-shaped chandelier to postcards and luggage tags brought back from travels abroad. Beneath a canopy of jungle foliage, guests will indulge in themed cocktails and light snacks and enjoy live entertainment.

Periscope Pub will become Disney Cruise Line’s first venue inspired by the spellbinding adventure of Walt Disney’s 1954 film, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” and the celebrated Disney Parks attraction that was open at Walt Disney World from 1971 to 1994. The design of the submarine-style interiors will call upon 19^th century steampunk influences with polished metals and industrial touches. A mysterious window into the depths of the uncharted oceans along the ceiling will make guests feel like Captain Nemo on the Nautilus, while a decorative statement rug in the center of the space will honor Captain Nemo’s fabled nemesis, the giant squid. This casual venue will be the ideal onboard locale for guests to unwind and watch live sports and news, while ordering from a menu of craft brews and light bites.

Embracing the adventures of the future, the Tomorrow Tower Suite will capture the same forward-thinking mindset that inspired the Walt Disney World Resort theme park, EPCOT, with an energetic design. Throughout the suite, dynamic art pieces, molten metal accents and futuristic, colorful glass accents will evoke the distinct atmosphere of EPCOT’s World Discovery neighborhood. Set high in the ship’s forward funnel, this one-of-a-kind suite will overlook the top deck of the Disney Treasure and glimpse the open horizon through an expansive two-story window. With nearly 2,000 square feet of living space, the Tomorrow Tower Suite will comfortably sleep eight guests and feature areas for eating, sleeping and playing, as well as other perks like a full kitchen and private ensuite elevator.

The distinct atmosphere of EPCOT’s World of Discovery neighborhood will be interpreted through dynamic art pieces, molten metals accents and futuristic, colorful glass accents throughout The Tomorrow Tower Suite aboard Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Treasure. (Disney)

I must say, I am *truly* shocked at the addition of these theme park-inspired spaces, especially the EPCOT tie-in (though it is very basic-looking from the images, there won’t be a Kitchen Kabaret wet bar or anything (or maybe they’ll surprise me?!) but still, paying homage to one of the greatest original theme parks of all time is nice to see (even if it’s a post 2020’s tribute).

As far as the Skipper Society and the Periscope Pub, brilliant way to get those nostalgic older Disney fans (and their willingness to invest in these types of experiences) on board (no pun intended) with this new ship. Seriously, they both seem like great themes, and if it gets people interested in park history and lore, I’m all for it.

Classic Disney Adventures in Familiar Spaces
The Grand Hall will embody the ship’s theme of adventure, with statues and décor that call on the gilded palace and wonder of Agrabah from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ classic tale, “Aladdin.” The space will serve as the ship’s most prominent gathering space and will offer its own dedicated entertainment moments and surprises.

Just off the Grand Hall, two casual walk-up cafes will serve a selection of coffee, tea, specialty beverages and snacks, with new themes that draw inspiration from two brave Disney Princesses, Moana and Mulan. Named for Moana’s trusty sidekick, Heihei Café will echo the scalloped seashells and reflective blue waters of the Southern Pacific Isle of Motunui as its portrayed in Disney’s animated feature “Moana.” The venue will feature furniture stylings that pay homage to a traditional construction technique used by the Polynesian people to craft seafaring vessels. Jade Cricket Café, inspired by the classic Disney film “Mulan,” will honor the Fa Family’s “lucky” cricket, Cri-Kee, who will be represented by a jade sculpture on the bar top. From the central moon gate to the plum blossom flowers adorning the walls, symbols of Mulan’s strength, beauty and heritage will fill the café, while the striking blue walls and metallic counters will be reminiscent of her armor.

I think Cri-Kee is a very underrated character and I love that he will be represented in this cafe. Most of all, I feel like the venues and stylings announced seem much more “theme park” and much less “cruise ship” which honestly, I think is what sets Disney apart and what they should be doing vs. typical cruise venue hardscapes.

Further, Sarabi, a central hub for a multitude of daytime activities and adult-exclusive evening entertainment, will evoke the natural beauty and openness of the savanna where its namesake, the lioness matriarch from Disney’s “The Lion King,” lived.

I don’t really have an opinion on this as I’m not sure how a lounge space with stage translates into The Lion King, but I guess we’ll see it when we see it! I just think there are a lot more IP’s to pull from that would’ve made more sense in this space. Pinocchio is one that comes to mind, because there are performances within the film, so it would lend itself to a space with a stage. I guess I did have an opinion.

AquaMouse: Curse of the Golden Egg, Disney Cruise Line’s own attraction at sea, will plunge guests into the world of Mickey Mouse animated shorts. Suspended high above the upper decks, powerful jets will propel two-person ride vehicles through 760 feet of winding tubes, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the ship below. Onboard the Disney Treasure, AquaMouse will introduce a new storyline that follows Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a zany misadventure into an ancient temple for a glimpse of the legendary treasure within.

I’m excited for a new storyline, but I feel overall the AquaMouse was a bit of a letdown on the Wish, and will remain so on the Treasure. Rather than the AquaDuck, which is a fun, fast-moving waterslide adventure, with major re-rideability, the AquaMouse is very slow-moving, with a very short portion of actual waterslide. It’s fun to do once, but not something worth waiting in an extended queue for, in my opinion. Hopefully the upcoming other ships will find the right balance of technology and thrills. (But I’m still looking forward to experiencing this new one at least once or twice!)

The artful accommodations aboard the Disney Treasure will be inspired by classic Disney tales of adventure. The 1,256 staterooms onboard will feature custom artwork and design elements that evoke the exploratory spirit of beloved Disney and Pixar films including “Aladdin,” “Pocahontas,” “Up” and “Encanto,” while the concierge and royal suites will bring to life the incredible character journeys – and some beloved feline sidekicks – from “The Lion King,” “The Jungle Book” and “Aladdin.”

Disney Treasure suites:

Finally, many Disney Cruise Line favorites will return to the Disney Treasure. In addition to an all-new, yet-to-be-announced stage production coming to the Walt Disney Theatre, “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure” will thrill audiences with tales as old as time, while the upper decks will come to life with music and fireworks during the swashbuckling Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party. Worlds of Marvel – which will include a new, second dining experience with more details to come – and 1923 will round out the family dining rotation, while The Rose, Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallament will continue to wow adults with exceptional views, gourmet meals and delicious beverages. For kids of all ages, Disney’s Oceaneer Club, Edge, Vibe and It’s a Small World Nursery return provide designated space to let their imaginations run free under the guide of Disney-trained counselors.

So the rest of the areas sound the same as the Wish, which is fine, it’ll give guests used to the Wish either reasons to explore a longer itinerary on the Treasure, or have time to explore the new areas that aren’t similar on the Wish. I personally haven’t been to the upcharge areas on the Wish yet, because we just didn’t want to miss out on anything on our first (and only) sailing on that ship. We didn’t feel the need to return to the Wish, but I do feel like the Treasure holds more intriguing and enticing spaces for me personally, so I hope I feel that way when the Treasure arrives. I cannot wait to see more concrete updates with physical images vs. artist renderings.

As far as booking and itineraries, obviously doing 7 night cruises will put this in a different price bracket than the Wish’s 3-4 night sailings. Holding the maiden voyage so close to the holidays will also ensure the prices are more than the average Disney Cruise Line first timer is probably willing to invest. However, prior to its newer Oasis class ships, Royal Caribbean had the market on more economical cruising without losing out on amenities or fun. Now, with ships like Wonder and Icon of the Seas, prices have been inching up, and we all know that though we will complain, most will also pay it to be on an inaugural sailing of a brand new ship. Time will tell, and we won’t have to wait long to find out, because booking opens as early as September 12 for Pearl Castaway Club members (25+ sailings), and September 13 for Platinum, September 14 for Gold but Silver has to wait for September 19 and general public September 20, which will drastically reduce inventory for the inaugurals. We hope this Disney Treasure review has helped with your potential planning!

I’d love to know what you think of the Disney Treasure news and what areas you’re most looking forward to experiencing first hand! Will you be securing a cabin for the inaugural sailings?

New Trailer for SING 2 + Posters and Stills from the Film!

4 November 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

Fans of Illumination’s 2016 film Sing rejoice! Announced earlier this year, the sequel has received a brand new trailer out today, with some stylish new promo art to boot.

I know I personally was a fan of the original film – featuring performances from Matthew McConaughey, Taron Egerton, Scarlett Johansson, and more. The gang is back together for this sequel, and to celebrate, the studio has released a fun poster collection of the cast.

This holiday season, the new chapter in Illumination’s smash animated franchise arrives with big dreams and spectacular hit songs as the ever-optimistic Buster Moon and his all-star cast of performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …all in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by global music icon Bono, in his animated film debut—to join them.

The cast of the original film returns for this exciting sequel. Joining them are a few fun new faces, and we were provided a set of posters to introduce them! Here are just some of the new members of this ensemble:

(From left to right, Halsey, Pharrell Williams, and Bono)

Advance tickets are now available for the film’s official release – but those who can’t wait can experience Sing 2 on Thanksgiving day. Tickets are available here for sneak preview screenings at more than 1000 theaters nationwide – get them while you can!

I know I’m excited for this one, so stay tuned here for my inevitable review of the film when it releases December 22!

New Featurette Released for DEAR EVAN HANSEN

26 August 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

Musical fans rejoice! The film adaptation of the Tony phenomenon DEAR EVAN HANSEN is practically here! Today, Universal released a new featurette of the film. In the featurette, the cast talks about the meaning and impact of the track “You Will Be Found.”

The breathtaking, generation-defining Broadway phenomenon becomes a soaring cinematic event as Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award winner Ben Platt reprises his role as an anxious, isolated high schooler aching for understanding and belonging amid the chaos and cruelty of the social-media age.

In addition to the featurette, Universal also released two singles from the film’s soundtrack on music streaming services. “Waving Through A Window” and “You Will Be Found,” as well as the preorder for the film’s soundtrack are available here.

The film is in theaters September 24, and you can bet we “Will Be Found” first in line to see it. Stay tuned here for our review!