Search Results for: shang chi

SHANG-CHI Advanced Tickets Now Available

16 August 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

The latest installment in Marvel Studios’ Cinematic Universe is another step closer to release. Starting today, SHANG-CHI is available for advanced purchase at select theaters.

Fans can purchase advance tickets through Fandango to see the movie on the big screen in select theaters.

To commemorate the sale, Marvel has released a brand new TV spot of the film as well,

Marvel Studios’ “Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization.

While advanced ticket sales at select theaters are available now, there has been no confirmation from Marvel or Disney on whether the film will be available on Disney+ Premier Access. If so, it will be the first major Disney release since Mulan to not be included on the service at it’s premiere date. Be sure to check here if there are any updates to this in the future.

SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS opens in theaters on September 3, 2021.

Marvel Studios Releases New SHANG-CHI Featurette

30 July 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

After the recent release of Black Widow, the train to the next inclusion in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is truly rolling. Today, Marvel Studios gifted us a new featurette of the film, SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS.

In the featurette, we join producer Kevin Feige, stars Simu Liu and Awkwafina, and director Destin Daniel Cretton as they provide some of the backstory to Shang-Chi as a character.

Marvel Studios’ “Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization

Marvel Studios’ SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS opens in U.S. theaters on September 3.

Be sure to check out our other updates on the film here.

New Poster and Trailer Revealed for ‘Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings’!

19 April 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

The next exciting entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe just got an exciting update! Earlier today, Disney released a new poster and teaser trailer for ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’. This comes on the birthday of actor Simu Liu. The actor – who plays Shang-Chi in the film – debuted the poster and trailer on his social profiles.

Marvel Studios’ “Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization. The film also stars Tony Leung as Wenwu, Awkwafina as Shang-Chi’s friend Katy and Michelle Yeoh as Jiang Nan, as well as Fala Chen, Meng’er Zhang, Florian Munteanu and Ronny Chieng.

“Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and produced by Kevin Feige and Jonathan Schwartz, with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso and Charles Newirth serving as executive producers. David Callaham & Destin Daniel Cretton & Andrew Lanham wrote the screenplay for the film, which opens in theaters on September 3, 2021.

If you’re looking for more MCU content, be sure to check out our reviews of the other Marvel films!

Marvel Studios Celebrates It’s Upcoming MCU Phase 4 Films!

3 May 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe has taken us into the world of superheroes ever since the 2008 release of HULK. Now, we’ve been everywhere with these characters: from a neighborhood in Queens to the outer reaches of the galaxy. In this new featurette, released today, Marvel Studios celebrates the movies with a special look at the upcoming feature films in Phase 4 of the MCU.

The world may change and evolve, but the one thing that will never change: we’re all part of one big family.

The featurette details the upcoming creations from Marvel Studios, including BLACK WIDOW and SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS, slated to release this year. The featurette also gives us a quick preview of new films starring our friends Doctor Strange, Thor, and Ant-Man.

If you’re excited about the future of the MCU in Phase 4, be sure to check out BLACK WIDOW when it releases on Disney+ later this year.

All Disney Parks Close in Wake of CoronaVirus Concerns

12 March 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

In an unprecedented move, ALL Disney Parks will be closing as of Sunday, with Disney Cruise Line suspending departures as of Saturday. This has not happened since the attacks of 9|11, but we knew this announcement had to be coming soon, the risks were just too great to remain open and provide a breeding ground for this spreading virus. Without being able to control guests arriving from other areas and other risk factors, it would be irresponsible to stay open for business. This is of course a difficult bit a news to bear, as so many folks from all over the world plan months and years in advance to make a yearly, or even once-in-a-lifetime visits to this resort.

If you currently have plans and a booked hotel vacation to any of these parks or destinations, we’d advise contacting your travel agent or whomever you booked with. Wait times will be long, and patience is a must in situations like this. The cast members or employees answering these calls can only do so much, and only have as much information as they are given. We hope Disney releases more information as to plans, and future solutions to these unplanned closures. We will update this post as we hear more official news.

Until then, here is an article from Variety.com, detailing the current closures as of the posting time of this article:

Disney is temporarily shuttering Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Paris, beginning this Sunday and lasting through the end of the month, due to the coronavirus pandemic. It follows the news that Disneyland California and Universal Studios Hollywood are temporarily closing starting March 14 as well.

The announcement means all Disney parks worldwide will be closed by next week.

The Disney Cruise Line is also suspending all new departures beginning Saturday through the end of March. The Walt Disney Company will pay its cast members during that closure period.

The hotels at Disney World and Disneyland Paris will remain open until further notice, as will the retail and dining complexes, Disney Springs at Walt Disney World and Disney Village at Disneyland Paris.

Universal Studios Hollywood expects to reopen on March 28, while Disneyland foresees opening its doors again at the end of the month.

“The health and safety of our team members and guests is always our top priority,” said a Universal Studios spokesperson. “Out of an abundance of caution and in response to the guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health, Universal Studios Hollywood will temporarily close beginning Saturday, March 14. The theme park anticipates reopening on March 28 as we continue to monitor the situation. We will provide timely updates as conditions evolve.”

Disneyland Resort hotels will remain open until March 16 so guests can make necessary travel accommodations. Universal CityWalk remains open, as does Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla.

It’s only the fourth time in history that Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., has fully suspended operations. The other instances were the Sept. 11 attacks, the morning after John F. Kennedy’s assassination and the Northridge earthquake.

“While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Disneyland Resort, after carefully reviewing the guidelines of the Governor of California’s executive order and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, beginning the morning of March 14 through the end of the month,” Disney said in a statement. “The Hotels of Disneyland Resort will remain open until Monday, March 16 to give guests the ability to make necessary travel arrangements; Downtown Disney will remain open. We will monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state officials and health agencies. Disney will continue to pay cast members during this time.”

The company added, “Disneyland Resort will work with guests who wish to change or cancel their visits, and will provide refunds to those who have hotel bookings during this closure period.”

Disney was slow to close doors to its theme parks, despite cancellations of major entertainment industry events like South by Southwest and Coachella. The NBA suspended its season Wednesday night after a player tested positive for coronavirus.

But the theme park closure seemed inevitable after California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday called for gatherings with more than 250 people to be canceled or delayed in an effort to halt the transmission of the virus, though Disneyland and other theme parks were exempted from that guidance. Officials have also been encouraging “social distancing” of six feet per person.

Disney closed its parks in Shanghai and Hong Kong in January, and has also temporarily shuttered its parks in Tokyo as well. The Shanghai Disney Resort will reopen some shopping, dining and entertainment options on Monday, but the main theme park will remain shut. Disney reported that it could lose $280 million in revenues due to closures in Shanghai and Hong Kong alone.

Disney heiress Abigail Disney, who has been critical of low wages for theme park employees, wrote Thursday on Twitter, “This is heartbreaking, but it’s the right thing to do. I just hope they honor their obligations to their employees.”

In a newly issued press release on Thursday afternoon, Newsom indicated that more theme park closures would be coming soon.

“Late last night, California put out a new policy on mass gatherings and engaged in deep conversations with Disney and other companies about how to meet it,” he said. “Using that policy, Disney made the right call in the interest of public health and agreed to shut down their California parks. Expect more announcements like this shortly.”

Per the California Dept. of Public Health on Wednesday, the new guidance is as follows through the month of March:

The California Department of Public Health finds the following:

Large gatherings that include 250 people or more should be postponed or canceled.

This includes gatherings such as concerts, conferences, and professional, college, and school sporting events.

Smaller gatherings held in venues that do not allow social distancing of six feet per person should be postponed or canceled.

This includes gatherings in crowded auditoriums, rooms or other venues.

Gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should be limited to no more than 10 people.

This includes gatherings such as those at retirement facilities, assisted living facilities, developmental homes, and support groups for people with health conditions.

A “gathering” is any event or convening that brings together people in a single room or single space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, cafeteria, or any other indoor or outdoor space.

This applies to all non-essential professional, social, and community gatherings regardless of their sponsor.

Knott’s Berry Farm closed early Thursday due to inclement weather but otherwise remains open for business. A spokesperson said it is “aware of the new guidance issued by the State of California last night,” and “is open today as we understand and evaluate what this means for our park, our guests and our associates.”

Representatives for Legoland and SeaWorld San Diego, both theme parks located in California, did not respond to request for comment.

Again, we advise contacting your booking provider if you had booked plans to any of these destinations. We will update as we learn more. Stay safe!

Top 13ish Disney Black Friday Gift Guide Must-Haves

26 November 2019 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

It’s hard to believe there are only 28 days until Christmas, even less shopping days, and even less if you’re shopping for Hanukkah! There are so many fun books and collectibles and accessories this year, I figured it would be a good idea to list some of my favorites as a Disney Gift Guide to help out with making your list and checking it twice!

Personally, my interests are wide and varied, I love a good historical Disney book, but I also love a fun purse or a unique t-shirt. I don’t think I’m alone in that sentiment, so I decided I’d list a few top Disney Gifts so ~~all~~ most of people’s favorites are covered!

Top 5 Disney Books for 2019

For this list, we have some descriptions and recommendations from Scott, who you should know from our Up the Waterfall podcast. While we are both huge fans of Disney park history and those who created the parks, he is much more of an expert than I, and with a vast 1000+ book library of Disney titles, I think a definite expert in the topic!

Marc Davis in His Own Words: Imagineering the Disney Theme Parks by Pete Docter and Christopher Merritt – this book has been on sale off and on since its release, it’s currently almost 50% off its original $150 price tag!

After the 2014 release of the amazing Renaissance Man book about Disney Imagineer and artist Marc Davis, one would be smart to think that all has been said if this creative genius. One would be wrong. Very wrong! This new 11 lb, 2 volume opus from Pixar artist Pete Docter and co-author and Disney Imagineer Christopher Merritt just might be … THE GREATEST DISNEY BOOK OF ALL TIME! This amazing set of books explores every aspect of Marc Davis’ theme park creations and designs and artwork, from Jungle Cruise to Enchanted Tiki Room, from the 4 Disney attractions at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair to Pirates of the Caribbean, from the Haunted Mansion to Country Bear Jamboree and much much more, this book is so incredibly full of detail and hundreds of pictures and Marc Davis drawings. This book is an absolute must have!! Put this one on your Christmas list!!!

The Art of Disney Costuming: Heroes, Villains, and Spaces Between by Jeff Kurtti and the Staff of the Walt Disney Archives – this one is also almost 50% off its original price

This large coffee table book from Jeff Kurtti and the staff at the Walt Disney Archives documents the many beautiful and visually spectacular costumes from most of the recent (and some older) Walt Disney Pictures productions. In conjunction with the incredible Archives display at August’s D23 Expo in Anaheim, this volume has vivid close-up photos of some of the most memorable costumes in Disney cinema, with descriptive explanations of each one.

3.
Travels with Figment On the Road in Search of Disney Dreams by Marty Sklar – also almost 50% off initial price

Having written all of Walt Disney’s speeches and dialogue from the Walt Disney Presents and Disneyland television shows, and having led the creative team Walt Disney Imagineering for several decades and much more, Marty Sklar has seen and done it all. He had such an amazing life and it was very sad when we lost this great man in 2017. But we’re also very blessed that he wrote the three books that he did, and this is the final volume in his trilogy of fun insider stories and ideologies. Marty was such an amazing storyteller and usually each one had an underlying message of leadership or common sense behind it. It’s always great to get an insider look from someone who was there during the creations of Walt Disney World and so many more of Disney’s greatest achievements. Make sure not to miss out on this one!

The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company by Robert Iger – also almost 50% off list price

Starting at ABC Television in 1974, joining the Disney senior management team in 1996, shortly after Disney’s takeover of ABC the year before, and replacing Michael Eisner as Disney’s CEO in 2005, Robert Iger has finally written his story thus far in this incredible autobiography. From his learnings in business to his rise to the top, and the seemingly unending stories being in the front row of the entertainment industry, Iger reveals the intimate tales of his journey, and details the sequence of events that led to the acquisitions of Marvel, Pixar, LucasFilm and Fox. This is a must-have book for any Disney fan’s library.

One Day at Disney: Meet the People Who Make the Magic Across the Globe by Bruce Steele and Bob Iger This is being released December 3, 2019 and is already down to $35 from $50

The very interesting idea for this book was introduced to the adoring Disney fans during a top-secret presentation at this year’s D23 Expo in Anaheim. Thursday, February 21, 2019, an otherwise random day, was selected as the 24-hour snapshot where over 80 Disney Cast Members from across the globe were profiled to showcase the variety and scope of what Disney is all about. Famous Cast Members such as Bob Iger and actress Brie Larson to more seemingly random, but nevertheless interesting, folks, such as Dr. Natalie Mylniczenko, a veterinarian at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, who appears on the book cover, are featured. From Paris to Tokyo, from Anaheim to Orlando, from Shanghai to Hong Kong, from Hawaii to the Bahamas, the sun never sets on the diverse endeavors and Cast Member stories that are featured in this book, along with a full-length documentary and 52 short-form episodes to be shown on the all-new platform Disney+. This book will be a curious look at the various careers and stories that take place around the world every day.

Top 10 13 14 99? ShopDisney Gifts for 2019

Now before we get into specifics, let me just remind you that the Black Friday Sale at ShopDisney has been Extended, and you can SAVE Over 40% Off Sitewide! So check that out if you’re looking for the best deals/sales for your Disney Gift Lists.

Frozen 2 Merchandise!

6. I still have to see this movie, but Christian’s Frozen II Review is making me very excited to see it. Also we recently saw some of the merchandise available at Disney Parks for Frozen 2, so I’m sure there’s something for *almost* everyone on your list, with more coming on 11/30!

7. But that said, I feel like I’m definitely going to want the little blue salamander guy (Bruni I’m told)

8. There are SO many LoungeFly, Dooney & Bourke, Harveys and more designer bags now at Disney Parks and Shop Disney…it’s hard to pick a favorite. But I really liked this new Minnie Mouse Loungefly quilted backpack with a black velvet bow. The color can go from the holidays to New Year’s Eve and beyond and it’s pretty subtle with its classy velvet bow, as subtle as a backpack with mouse ears can be of course. 😉

9. – 12.? I know when I had smaller kiddos, I always stocked up on the Disney Store (now Shop Disney of course) pajama Black Friday sales. There are some great sales, but poke around if you want to get some Christmas PJ’s for the whole family too!

13. Ok, this is pretty cool, I’ve just discovered that you don’t even have to go TO the parks to get the newest Starbucks+Disney coffee tumblers! The holiday style is so cute, but you can also get all the park-specific Starbucks tumblers too! The Disneyland one is pretty adorable, Santa, if you’re reading this, take note. 😉 AND, as of me writing this, some of the Disney Parks styles are Buy One Get One 50% Off!

14-27? If you want all the holiday Shop Disney items in one spot, head here and explore to your hearts content!

28. – 35.? One last Disney Gift Guide suggestion, there are a handful of new-to-ShopDisney Alex + Ani bracelets which I know are very popular so you might find one or two for some folks on your list. How adorable is this Disney “Love” one with the ring? I know lots of people get engaged during the holidays, so this would be a great idea for those loved ones! The Pixar Ball bracelet is pretty cute too!

36. – 99.? (Did I get all these numbers right?) One last note – I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the newest sensation sweeping the nation – BABY YODA!!! Watch this space because right now, there are a handful of Baby Yoda items at ShopDisney, but it looks like they just have a few images pulled from Mandalorian stills, and I don’t think The Child would approve haha. How did they not know this most precious baby would be the hit of the internet?! They are working on coming out with more. I’ll update this if the link changes or there are any must-see jaw-droppingly adorable items that come out. If you could buy a replica of the baby Yoda from the show, there would be only one item on my Disney Gift Guide.

Here’s a link to some Amazon Black Friday Deals for DISNEY items, you may find a stocking stuffer or holiday gift or two there!

Thanks for checking out my Black Friday Gift Guide, as you can see, some were sales, others were just really cute things that I think would be a great addition under anyone’s tree. I don’t know about you, but when I get on a site, I tend to keep finding more and more things to add to my cart, so I cut it off at 99 but you know, it’s up to you. 😉

Do you have a great gift idea that you think I missed? Let me know in the comments below! I may do another list closer in with some great Disney fan gift ideas. Also, if you have any etsy or small shops you love, let me know, I would to share some of those businesses as well!

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission which helps keep my site, videos, and podcast up and running but it won’t cost you a penny more)!

D23 EXPO 2019 Announcements and News

23 August 2019 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Well if nothing else, the D23 Expo always keeps us on our toes…or Disney in general does. Even though the 2019 D23 Expo doesn’t begin until today (Friday 8/23), and the Disney Parks & Resorts session isn’t happening until Sunday, Disney sent us a surprise update last night on twitter and the Disney Parks Blog with some Parks announcements. We will share them all below, and update this post throughout the Expo. So bookmark this or keep it up in a tab, and keep checking back for details as we get them – and add your comments, predictions and opinions below too!

DISNEY PARKS & RESORTS:

Disney Parks Pavilion at D23 Expo 2019

Disney Parks Pavilion D23 Expo 2019 — Disney Parks Pavilion at D23 Expo 2019

STAR WARS HOTEL –

We now have a name for the new “Star Wars Hotel” we heard about at the last Expo: “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will be a new, first-of-its-kind vacation experience where guests will check in for a two-night adventure aboard a glamorous starship. Once onboard, guests will interact with characters and become active participants in stories that unfold around them on their galactic journey.” – Disney Parks Blog

This is a very interesting twist, and the rumored price-points of this unique experience were also shared on twitter earlier last week…coming in at a whopping $3300 for the required 2-night stay with a cabin for 5 running $7200 (pricing as seen on WDWNT.com fansite). Again, these prices are just rumors and may (and probably will) change when they are officially announced. The pricing is all-inclusive, but we aren’t sure what exactly that means at this point.

We’ll have more on this as our Zannaland correspondent gets a view at this display within the Expo show floor and after the Parks & Resorts presentation on Sunday!

EPCOT

Boy oh boy, EPCOT is such a valuable and precious place to so many (myself included), and the rumors and plans and conjecture on what will be changing are keeping all of us die-hard fans on the edge of our seat and probably creating a bit of an ulcer in some cases. The bottom line is, Disney could, at any moment, just change everything. Get rid of Imagination and Figment, change it all to IP attractions, all beer, all merch, all festivals all the time…We are of course hoping that that does NOT happen, and the promise 2 years ago of attention and refresh of EPCOT to some form of its former glory, gave us all hope. We have now been given some updates that keep that hope alive. The fact that we are now reverting to spelling it EPCOT makes my tiny 80’s heart sing!

EPCOT ATTRACTIONS POSTERS –

Some folks were granted access early to the D23 Expo show floor, and one Disney Twitter fan captured photos of all the new EPCOT attractions posters – there will be a couple revealed on Sunday but have a look now:

AMAZING, right? Which is your favorite?

MOANA WATER PAVILION –

Announced last night on the Parks Blog – “The reinvention of Epcot will include Journey of Water, Inspired by “Moana.” This first-ever attraction based on the Walt Disney Animation Studios hit film, “Moana,” will let guests interact with magical, living water in a beautiful and inspiring setting.” If it’s one thing we love here at Zannaland, it’s Disney and water features, so this is very exciting and promising. We will share more as we learn it!

I’m also excited that we will get a new preview center at the Odyssey Pavilion (formerly the Odyssey restaurant and festival event space) so we can check on EPCOT’s coming soon projects and “…discover engaging and interactive exhibits that allow you to step inside the relentless innovation, energy and excitement and see some never-before-revealed details driving the future of Epcot all throughout this unprecedented period of transformation.” I do love a good model, so can’t wait to see this in person! Read all the EPCOT updates here.

Walt Disney Imagineering presents the Epcot Experience at the Odyssey Pavilion

AVENGERS CAMPUS – DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE –

The Disney Parks Blog shared, “When guests visit Avengers Campus, they will become part of an interconnected, global story that spans from California to Paris to Hong Kong with the Avengers recruiting new extraordinary people to join them.” We’ll have more on this as we get updates!

DISNEY+:

Last night at D23 Expo, Ricky Strauss, president, Content & Marketing for Disney+ and Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts announced One Day at Disney, a spectacular collaboration between Disney Publishing Worldwide and Disney’s new streaming service. The new, 224-page coffee table book and the documentary series will both arrive on December 3, highlighting the talented men and women who bring life to some of Disney’s most beloved stories.

On February 21 of this year, 76 unique photo shoots took place around the world, as Disney dispatched photographers to capture images of the employees and cast members who drive creativity and innovation at The Walt Disney Company. From Shanghai Disneyland and ESPN to Pixar and the set of Modern Family, these spectacular photographs—and the stories behind them—will be featured in the hardbound, collectible book, written by Bruce Steele, which is now available for pre-order.

On December 3, the same day the book arrives in stores, Disney+ will debut its new, 52-episode short-form series One Day at Disney, launching with a feature-length documentary. This exciting new series takes an in-depth look at the unique and surprising roles these men and women call their daily jobs. The series and documentary are from Endeavor Content’s Non-Scripted Division and executive produced by Michael Antinoro and David Chamberlin and produced by Victoria Chamlee.

Following the debut of the special, which features such talent as Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts and legendary animator Eric Goldberg, more than 50 One Day at Disney shorts, ranging in length between 4 to 7 minutes long and each profiling a single remarkable person and their fascinating job, will debut each week.

Disney+ Programming Line-up –

Lucasfilm’s Untitled Obi-Wan Kenobi Series Starring Ewan McGregor
New Marvel Studios Series “Ms. Marvel,” “Moon Knight,” and “She-Hulk,”
New “Lizzie McGuire” Series Starring Hilary Duff,
“The Muppets” Short-form Series

The above series join the lineup of originals from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic that have been previously announced. We’re really excited for some of these and will have more updates and photos soon!

World Premiere Trailers Released for Launch Titles:

“The Mandalorian” – this looks very promising. I’m excited. see the trailer!
“Lady and the Tramp” – I seriously teared up just at the TRAILER, I can’t wait for this full movie!!
“Noelle”- um, this is ADORABLE and I can’t wait to watch it with my daughter (and the whole family)- see the trailer!
“High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” – I will admit to having little to no interest in this but I was too old for the original and the new one is not for my age bracket anyway lol – see the trailer!
“The World According to Jeff Goldblum” – this needs NO explanation – see the trailer!
“Encore!” a reality series where high school theatre kids are now adults and re-create their musical performances. I swear I saw a show that did this same thing but can’t remember what it was now. Anyway, this is very much in my wheelhouse! – see the trailer!

Disney+ releases November 12, 2019 and you can learn more at DisneyPlus.com.

Two New Disney Cruise Line Ships on the Horizon

3 March 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

While we only have an artists rendering and not much more for these 2021 and 2023 Disney Cruise Line ships, the news is no less thrilling! Read more about this exciting update from this morning’s shareholders meeting below:

The Walt Disney Company announced plans today to build two additional cruise ships, each of them showcasing the immersive family entertainment, enchanting storytelling and unparalleled service that only Disney can deliver.

The company has entered into a memorandum of agreement with the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany. The schedule calls for the new ships to be completed in 2021 and 2023.

“We pride ourselves on the unforgettable vacation experiences we deliver to our guests each and every day, and the expansion of our Disney fleet will allow us to create even more magical memories for families at sea and in incredible cruise destinations around the world,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company.

Each new ship will be approximately 135,000 gross tons – slightly larger than the newest Disney Cruise Line ships, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy – and each is currently planned to include about 1,250 guest staterooms. While design plans, ship names and itineraries are still in development, the Walt Disney Imagineering team is already dreaming up exciting new ways to create the world’s most magical oceangoing adventures.

Since first setting sail in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has provided a quintessential family cruise vacation experience that combines the magic of Disney with the thrill of exploring different parts of the world. Guests step aboard majestic and beautiful ocean liners to enjoy legendary Disney entertainment, exquisite dining, spacious and well-appointed staterooms and magnificent public spaces.

The company also has been an industry leader in innovation and game-changing creativity. With the launch of the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy in 2011 and 2012, the company introduced several firsts for the industry, including a water coaster at sea (AquaDuck) and virtual portholes in interior staterooms (Magical Portholes) that provide real-time views of the sea as well as sightings of animated Disney characters.

Plans for the expansion of Disney Cruise Line come during a period of momentous growth and innovation for Disney properties around the globe.

“The expansion of Disney Cruise Line only adds to our excitement for the unprecedented growth taking place across our vacation destinations, from new Star Wars experiences coming to the Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts to the 25^th anniversary of Disneyland Paris and the grand opening of our newest park, Shanghai Disney Resort,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

More details about the Disney Cruise Line fleet expansion and onboard offerings will be announced at a later date.

My theory on names: I think because they will be twins like Dream and Fantasy, which kinda-sorta mean the same thing, that they’ll need to be similarly-meaning names too. So far, Imagination and Vision, or Imagination and Inspiration…Innovation…well, I have 5 years to think of many more! [Edit: I’m now going with “Disney Adventure” for at least one. I think that sounds like a winner. I still think Imagination would be good, despite the Carnival ship of the same name. There will be no confusion. Totally different class of ship!] We’ll update here and on social media as we hear any news.

Sea World’s Christmas Celebration Lights Up the Season

9 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Shamu Miracles — Shamu Christmas Miracles holiday show

One of my family’s favorite places during the holidays is SeaWorld – with their wonderful Christmas Celebration, included in the price of regular admission, the spirit of the season is sure to find you there. This year was no different and my children had a wonderful time seeing the shows and experiences SeaWorld has to offer. My favorite is the Sea of Trees, which light up the lake in the middle of the park and are just beautiful.

With everything from elves to Elmo, and from Santa to Shamu, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is where the season meets the sea. Events take place on select dates November 17 through December 31, 2012. The best way to experience SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration this season is with a SeaWorld Fun Card, which includes unlimited visits to SeaWorld through 2013, all for the price of a single day’s admission.

Returning Seasonal Favorites Include:

Families and friends can once again enjoy the spirit of Christmas during SeaWorld’s holiday-themed shows and festivities:

O Wondrous Night tells the greatest story never told, with more than 30 carols, based upon the Christmas Story and told through the eyes of a variety of live animals. Everyone will be entertained by this touching, light-hearted and glorious celebration featuring a host of angels, animals and the true glory of Christmas. And new this year, guests will have the opportunity to take photos with some of the stars from the show!

Oh Wondrous Night is a spirited retelling of the Christmas story

SeaWorld invites guests to experience the grace and beauty of our Shamu family at Shamu Stadium, during the night-time show, Shamu Christmas Miracles. Thrilling seasonal music rings out as whales soar through the air in a performance that will take the audience on a stirring voyage into the heart of the holidays.
Winter Wonderland on Ice is an ice skating extravaganza where Christmas comes to life through towering water fountains, magnificent fireworks and some of the most talented ice skaters in the world. This is a don’t-miss, holiday sensation.
In addition to the incredible seasonal shows and attractions, the amazing Sea of Trees includes more than 100 massive trees, each sparkling, lighted and choreographed to classic holiday tunes, making a dramatic display around SeaWorld’s center lake.

All Aboard! At the park’s Wild Arctic attraction, guests embark on a heart-warming journey to the North Pole aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience, based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. Discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the season as family and friends are immersed in the dazzling wonder of this beloved holiday classic. Upon arrival at the North Pole, guests can meet Santa Claus himself, and encounter astounding animals in a wintery wonderland.
Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Finale, with soaring fountains, dazzling lights, and festive fireworks, choreographed to joyous holiday musical favorites. Experience a wondrous SeaWorld Christmas connection that lights the night.

New this year is Show Express, which provides guests with reserved seating at all of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration’s shows, plus front-of-the-line access to THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience, All-Day Dining Deal and a complimentary holiday photo. Reserve you spothere.

Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas features Santa’s helpers, Clyde and Seamore, who are bringing their own brand of comedy to Christmas this year. Our loveable sea lions, along with a few mischievous otters, a comical elf, and a wintery walrus or two, search for Santa.

A Sesame Street Christmas is a festive and fun musical celebration that will have the little ones smiling all the way home. Through dance, laughter, and interactive sing-a-longs, Elmo, Telly Monster and the rest of Abby Cadabby’s Sesame Street friends teach her what Christmas means to them.

The Christmas Market, located on the park’s Bayside Pathway, features unique artisans and culinary delights. At this festive, bustling market, guests can find one-of-a-kind gifts and dine on scrumptious holiday delights.

Plus, enjoy a delicious dinner of Christmas favorites with Santa and Mrs. Claus during Santa’s Fireside Feast, a charming, warm-hearted holiday experience. Meet Santa himself, and listen to a classic holiday poem told onstage as never before to create Christmas memories that will last a lifetime. This sumptuous, all-you-can-eat seasonal meal takes place weekends of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Reservations are required, and include reserved seating at select holiday shows. To book your reservation, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Disclosure: my family was provided a complimentary viewing of the events mentioned above. All opinions are my own.

The Most Delicious Time of the Year?

22 July 2009 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

Epcot's International Food & Wine Festival
Well that has to be Epcot’s 14th Annual International Food & Wine Festival, which runs from September 25-November 8, 2009 this year at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Whether you have been to Epcot enough times to rattle off the location of each hidden Mickey in the park, or you are planning your very first visit – the World Showcase’s reputation for great food is well known. Roaming from the Margaritas in Mexico’s San Angel Inn to the steaks cooked to perfection in Canada’s Le Cellier, to the pastries in France’s Boulangerie, you will not go hungry in Epcot. However, if you want even more scrumptious treats, wines, and beers from countries that are not normally represented at Epcot, then you won’t want to miss the Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival .

: My daughter enjoying some champagne sorbet-shhh!

As soon as you enter the World Showcase section of Epcot with your theme park admission, the delicious smells of delicacies from across the globe waft around you, making your stomach growl in anticipation. Oh, did I mention to come hungry? That’s a must. No filling up on a character breakfast buffet before visiting the Food & Wine Festival – you will thank me later! Most likely, you’ll have a hard time deciding which of the tapas-style food creations (priced between $2-$7 a plate) to try. The unique wine and beer pairings simply add to the experience.

This year the festival, which always features a different annual theme (although many favorite dishes return each year), is focusing on “foodie” cities from around the world. There are more than 25 kiosks serving food and wine around the World Showcase promenade – highlights of which include Bologna, Italy; Bangkok, Thailand; Wellington, New Zealand; Santiago, Chile; Marrakesh, Morocco; Shanghai, China; with New Orleans going to bat for the United States.

Be sure you pick up a guide map at the park entrance, so you can follow along with all the great selections and decide which food and drink stations you can’t miss. While I could say to just try them all, even the most competitive eaters might not be able to pull off trying ever offering in one day. One way to go would be make one trip around to try all the new foods as you walk around and enjoy the sites and sounds of World Showcase, then take a break in Future World as you digest, and make another trip around for some of the wonderful desserts featured at the pavilions.

On a personal note, this festival has always been a ‘must-see’ for our family. We were here when it began in 1995, because we were cast members at the time. The 2nd year, my husband and I were getting married during the festival’s run, and showing our relatives and friends the amazing offerings in the days before we had our reception at the Walt Disney World Dolphin.

: eating SEAWEED salad!

Years later our children look forward to it each year as well. Would you believe my son’s favorite part is eating the escargot from France each year?? Yes, you read that right – snails! It’s a great way to get kids excited about trying new foods and learning about new countries and traditions in the process.

Here are some of our favorite kiosks, taken from the Disney Food & Wine Festival page:

Athens, Greece

Location: Canada Pavilion

* • Greek Salad with Pita Bread
* • Spanakopita (Savory Spinach and Cheese Pastry)
* • Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
* • Baklava
* • Beverage Selection: Boutari Moschofilero, Boutari Santorini, Kourtaki Mavrodaphne of Patras, Tsantali Rapsani

Greece is one of the most popular kiosks along with Canada (cheddar soup anyone?) so be prepared for a wait, with good cause!

Paris, France

Location: France Pavilion

* • Escargot Persillade en Brioche
* • Cabernet Short Ribs with Mashed Potatoes
* • Chocolate Milk Creme Brûlée
* • Beverage Selection : Chardonnay (Bouchard Ainee & Fils, 2007), Merlot (Chateau Mezain, Bordeaux, 2007), Sparking Pomegranate Kir, Parisien Cosmo Slush

As mentioned, my son LOVES escargot. It is a tradition he looks forward to each year. My daughter has taken to trying the French dessert each year, a girl after my own heart, she knows quality! Ooh, and I may have to try that Cosmo Slush!

Melbourne, Australia

Location: Africa Outpost

* • Seared Barramundi with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes, Arugula and Lemon Oil
* • Grilled Lamb Chop, Red Wine Sauce, Murray River Sea Salt
* • Lamington
* • Beverage Selection: Rosemount Traminer Riesling, Rosemount Pinot Noir, Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet, Penfolds Bin 2

I am not a big lamb person myself, but my husband and mother actually save room for this lamb chop every festival. It’s just that good so I’m told.

There are many more kiosks, including new offerings from Bangkok, Thailand and Rio de Janiero, Brazil. As if that wasn’t enough, there is also a new “Desserts and Champagne” kiosk which I think will be a must-visit for me this year!

Desserts & Champagne — NEW

Location: Showcase Plaza

* • Austrian Gugelhupf (Austrian Bundt Cake)
* • Strawberry Shortcake
* • Frozen Grand Marnier Parfait, Orange Coulis
* • Champagne
* • Beverage Selection: Moët & Chandon Wines: Impérial, Rosé Impérial, Nectar Impérial, Nectar Impérial Rosé

While you may come for the food, there is much more than just eating and drinking happening around the promenade. There are culinary demonstrations, beer and wine tastings from around the world, and Signature Dining Series for the true gourmands, featuring guest speakers and chefs serving up delectable lunches and dinners, for a separate fee. In addition to all the edible enjoyment, you can Eat to the Beat with some wonderful musicians that keep things rocking while you enjoy the tastes of the world.

There are the 17 scheduled performers for this year’s Eat to the Beat concert series which is included with Epcot admission and begin at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. daily. The lineup (subject to change) includes:

Eat to the Beat concert series schedule:*
Sept. 25-27 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (“You & Me & The Bottle Makes 3 Tonight (Baby)”)
Sept. 28-29 Richard Marx (“Hold On to the Nights”)
Sept. 30-Oct. 3 Starship starring Mickey Thomas (“We Built This City”)
Oct. 4-6 En Vogue (“Free Your Mind”)
Oct. 7-8 Better Than Ezra (“Good”)
Oct. 9-11 Sister Hazel (“All for You”)
Oct. 12-13 Kool & The Gang (“Celebration”)
Oct. 14-16 Spyro Gyra (“Morning Dance”)
Oct. 17-18 Jon Secada (“Just Another Day”)
Oct. 19-20 Sister Sledge (“We Are Family”)
Oct. 21-22 Vanessa Carlton (“A Thousand Miles”)
Oct. 23-25 Taylor Dayne (“Tell It to My Heart”)
Oct. 26-28 Boyz II Men (“Motownphilly”)
Oct. 29-31 John Waite (“Missing You”)
Nov. 1-2 Night Ranger (“Sister Christian”)
Nov. 3-5 Billy Ocean (“Caribbean Queen”)
Nov. 6-8 Los Lobos (“La Bamba”)

Don’t forget to grab an extra dessert, drink and a spot for viewing Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Epcot’s mesmerizing nighttime fireworks show, featuring awe-inspiring fireworks, fountains, lasers and music – the perfect nightcap to a delicious Disney day.

Additional Information may be found at Disney World’s Food & Wine Festival page.
*Entertainment subject to change