Things to Do

Never Before Seen Disney Dooney and Bourke Purses at Tren-D

14 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Today Downtown Disney’s Tren-D hosted a special Dooney & Bourke event to celebrate the release of the new Walt Disney World Retro and Charms lines. We were also treated to a trunk full of un-produced and unreleased Disney Dooney & Bourke samples.

Here are some photos from what was available this morning:

Prices ranged from $195 down to $85 and are probably not going to last long! Let’s hope Disney does this again soon, it was great fun!

Don’t forget to check DisneyStore.com for sales of select current released Disney Dooney & Bourke purses and Zannaland’s Disney Dooney & Bourke page with ALL handbag photos and info.

*DisneyStore.com links are affiliate links, which means it costs you nothing extra to click or buy, but if you do, I get a small commission. Thanks for reading!

FIRST TRAILER For Oz the Great and Powerful

13 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

After revealing the intriguing new movie poster for Oz the Great and Powerful starring James Franco, Disney has now released the first trailer, shown yesterday at San Diego’s Comic Con. Oz the Great and Powerful tells the story of how Oscar Diggs went from simple Kansas man to the great Wizard of Oz.

I’ll just say five words: We’re not in Kansas anymore!

What did you think? Definitely much darker (as anticipated, I think) than we are used to seeing from this familiar storyline. More “Wicked” than “Wizard of Oz” I believe. Oz the Great and Powerful will land in theaters in March of 2013.

AMAZING Disney Dooney & Bourke Event Details You Don’t Want To Miss!

13 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

Disney Dooney unproduced — Unreleased Disney Dooney & Bourke styles? Oh MY! ©Disney

The Disney Parks Blog just shared details that shocked even me. They will be offering never-before-seen unproduced Disney Dooney & Bourke bags for SALE at tomorrows event which premiers the Walt Disney World Retro line and Charms bags. Check out the news from the Parks Blog:

Laura Caszatt, product developer for accessories, gives a quote about what to expect.

“For the first time ever, we will be offering about 50 unproduced items for sale,” said Laura. “These items contain never-before-seen colors and trims. During the development process, we received these bags for review, and for various reasons, we decided not to produce them. The release party seemed like the perfect opportunity for fans of Dooney & Bourke to add a unique bag to their collection.”

The bags will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis starting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. There will be a limit of one bag per guest. Retails for the unique bags will vary from $85 to $350 (no discounts offered), and we will feature a variety of styles, including wristlets, cross body bags, barrel bags, and more. One of Laura’s favorite items is the large “sketch pattern” tote in purple (pictured above).

As a reminder, guests can meet Dooney & Bourke Creative Director Ian Ray and Disney Design Group Artist Susan Foy from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Laura said there will be another surprise guest joining the party early in the morning.

“We are excited to introduce the world to our newest fashion diva,” continued Laura. “We think guests will love her, so be sure to dress to impress.”

All-New Disney Epic Mickey 2 Opening Movie Titled “A Story Begins”

12 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

I am SO ready for Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two to be released! Disney Interactive just announced that the new game will be featured in a panel at the San Diego Comic Con show this Sunday, July 15th. In anticipation of that panel, the game’s creators have given us this never-before-seen opening movie for the game, called “A Story Begins.” Read all about the official news and watch the video below:

BURBANK, Calif. — (July 12, 2012) – “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” will be presented in a panel discussion taking place on Sunday, July 15^th at 1:00 p.m. at the San Diego Convention Center, Room 25ABC. Participating in the panel are video game designer Warren Spector of Disney Interactive’s Junction Point, Peter David, award-winning comic writer and author of the upcoming “Disney Epic Mickey 2 Graphic Novel” and Marv Wolfman, award-winning American comic book writer and co-writer of “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two.” The panelists will discuss how the team mapped out the story for this innovative new video game and unveil the first details surrounding the graphic novel, a 48 page retelling of Mickey’s return to Wasteland that will extend the video game experience for readers. Additionally, Becky Cline, Director of The Walt Disney Archives will be on hand to discuss the historical significance of Walt Disney’s first cartoon star, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, who is prominently featured in the video game. The panel will reveal all-new gameplay footage and artwork, and a special never-before-seen sequence of pages from the upcoming graphic novel.

“The story in ‘Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two’ will immerse players in an even deeper and richer gameplay experience than before as they take on the roles of Mickey Mouse and Oswald to befriend and battle their way through the world of Wasteland on a brand new journey of creativity and discovery,” said Warren Spector, creative director and vice president, Junction Point. “We’re honored to have collaborated with such talented individuals as Marv Wolfman, Peter David and Becky Cline on Mickey and Oswald’s next adventure, and we look forward to offering Comic-Con attendees a behind-scenes-look at the game and graphic novel.”

Written by Peter David and illustrated by Fabrizio Petrossi, the “Disney Epic Mickey 2: Graphic Novel” is a 48 page retelling of Mickey Mouse’s return to Wasteland to help Oswald the Lucky Rabbit as he faces the Mad Doctor. The graphic novel extends the videogame experience for readers and will include exclusive footage, a backstage pass, and more.

The “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” video game returns Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to Wasteland, an alternate world filled with more than 80 years of forgotten Disney characters and theme park attractions. But for the first time, Mickey and Oswald will join forces as true partners – Mickey with the magical paint brush that allows him to wield paint and thinner, and Oswald with a powerful remote control that allows him to command electricity. This new co-op play further enhances the idea that “PlayStyle Matters” – a unique approach to gameplay pioneered by Warren Spector where players tackle challenges the way they want to in order to explore a variety of possibilities and storylines, but always with consequences for their chosen actions.

Development for “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” for the Wii™ system from Nintendo, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system is being led by Disney Interactive’s Junction Point. Supporting the latest technology, the game will also feature full support for the PlayStation®Move motion controller. “Disney Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion” for the Nintendo 3DS™ hand-held system is under development by critically-acclaimed developer DreamRift, in collaboration with Junction Point. The games are currently unrated by the ESRB. For more information, go to www.disney.com/disneyepicmickey.

Can’t wait to play! Will you be picking up Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two?

Disney On Ice Rockin’ Ever After Features Merida and More-Reader Discount Tix

11 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

After attending the last Disney on Ice show – Dare to Dream, I was totally impressed with the performances and show that was presented. It was a wonderful time and my whole family loved it. Feld Entertainment is now producing their newest Disney on Ice show – Rockin’ Ever After, featuring four of my favorite princesses, including Merida from Brave! Check out the official release below and watch a preview of what was involved in creating the show. Be sure to keep reading for a code for discount tickets for Zannaland readers too.

Mickey and Minnie have searched the globe for the hippest and hottest acts to perform in the most sensational talent showcase to rock the ice in Orlando, Disney On Ice presents Rockin’ Ever After. Tickets for performances at the Amway Center go on sale July 20 at 10 a.m.

In a new twist on fairytale fun, favorite Disney characters compete to be the next superstar in comical segments leading up to the tales of show stopping princesses – Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, and Merida from Disney•Pixar’s BRAVE in her ice debut!

“The most exciting part of bringing a fearless and independent character like Merida to the ice for the first time is knowing that she has a powerful and inspiring message to deliver about finding the courage to determine one’s own fate,”says Producer Nicole Feld. “We think her story translates well to the ice and will really resonate with today’s audience.”

Produced by Feld Entertainment, Rockin’ Ever After remixes the stories of Disney’s most adventurous heroines with upbeat music and energetic choreography that will have audiences singing, dancing and cheering for their beloved Disney idols. Mickey and Minnie encounter the most talented performers in the land with an all-star lineup that includes Sebastian and the Daughters of Triton from The Little Mermaid, the rowdy pub thugs from Tangled and the spunky enchanted servants from Beauty and the Beast. The journey continues to the Scottish highlands where audiences will be captivated and star struck by Merida, as an exhilarating archery contest ensues for the right to marry the fiery redhead.

“Our challenge in developing Rockin’ Ever After was figuring out how to highlight moments from these beloved stories in a way that reflects the type of entertainment that families value today,” says Producer Juliette Feld. “By pulling elements from the talent show trend on contemporary television, we developed a truly unique way to lead into each fairytale.”

Friday, September 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 8 at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 9 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Amway Center, 400 West Church Street – Suite 200, Orlando, Florida 32801
$52 Front Row, $37 VIP, $27, $22, $15 (Ticketmaster service charges and facility fees notincluded.) All seats are reserved, and tickets go on sale to the public July 20 at 10 a.m. Tickets are available at DisneyOnIce.com or ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Amway Center box office (phone for information only: 407-440-7900). For group ticket sales and information, call 866-248-8740.

SPECIAL: Get 4 Tickets for just $48 with code MOM12, valid for specific performances!

New 50’s-Themed Family Suite and Value Hotel Announced at Universal Orlando

9 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Check out the interesting news out of Universal Orlando Resort this morning – an all-new uniquely-themed value resort will be built on-site, opening in 2014. The resort will be half family-suites, half traditional rooms, offering both value and moderate-priced experiences. I do love mid-century design so I’m excited to see how this unfolds before us! Here’s the official news and some artist renderings below:

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 9, 2012) – Universal Parks & Resorts and Loews Hotels & Resorts will build a new hotel development at Universal Orlando that will add high-quality, high-value options for families wanting an affordable on-site experience.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort will offer two distinct experiences within the development’s multiple buildings: 900 family suites, capable of sleeping six, that include kitchen areas and 900 standard guest rooms – offering both moderate- and value-priced accommodations. It will be operated by Loews Hotels & Resorts and is scheduled to open in 2014.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort Exterior – scheduled to open in 2014

The hotel will be themed differently than anything else currently available at Universal Orlando. It will evoke the driving vacations so many Americans grew up enjoying with their families – spending time at sweeping motor courts just off the highway, where families relaxed and played after a long day’s drive. The new hotel’s hip, vintage look will be accented with bold design, dramatic, clean lines, bright, period colors and touches of neon. Inside areas including the lobby, dining areas and large, comfortable rooms will follow suit. The hotel will have two themed pool areas.

“Our new hotel will give guests an affordable, incredibly themed on-site hotel experience unlike anything else at our resort,” said Tom Williams, chairman and chief executive officer, Universal Parks & Resorts. “Our new family suites and family-value pricing will give our guests on-site options they’ve never had before.”

The hotel will be built on a 37-acre site within Universal Orlando Resort and adjacent to Universal’s Islands of Adventure – just off Hollywood Way and Turkey Lake Road. Site work will begin soon. Pricing information, opening timeframes and room on-sale dates will be released over time.

Artist rendering of the new Cabana Bay Beach Resort Suite

The new hotel will allow families to choose between value pricing or the higher level of benefits and service that come with staying at other on-site Universal Orlando hotels – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort. It will provide early park admission, proximity to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios and resort-wide charging privileges – but will not offer complimentary Universal Express Unlimited Access.

“The Cabana Bay Beach Resort furthers our goal of operating special and distinct properties in important markets,” said Paul Whetsell, Loews Hotels & Resorts president and CEO. “This is another important step in our plan to expand the Loews system in major markets across the United States.”

Breaking: First Official Poster for Oz The Great And Powerful

4 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Disney’s fantastical adventure “Oz The Great and Powerful,” directed by Sam Raimi, imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved character, the Wizard of Oz. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot—fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful Wizard of Oz but into a better man as well.

Oz the Great and Powerful Teaser Poster — Oz the Great and Powerful official teaser movie poster – opening 2013 – click to enlarge

“Oz The Great and Powerful” is produced by Joe Roth and written by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire (credit not final). Grant Curtis, Philip Steuer and Palak Patel are serving as executive producers. “Oz The Great and Powerful” opens in U.S. theaters on March 8, 2013.

Fourth of July Festivities and Fireworks at Walt Disney World Resort

4 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

JULY 4TH CELEBRATED AT WALT DISNEY WORLD IN FLORIDA — Cinderella Castle with patriotic projections ©Disney

Here are all the official events going on at Disney Parks here in Florida tonight! For the first time ever, I’ll actually be attending Fourth of July activities at Epcot. I know it’ll be super busy, but it should be super fun too. The last time I was in a Disney park on the Fourth, I was working at the Magic Kingdom in 1995, so it’ll be nice to experience again, on the opposite side of the coin. I wish you all a wonderful patriotic day with family and friends! Enjoy good food and spectacular fireworks as we celebrate our freedom!

Walt Disney World Resort will pixie dust the night skies July 4 with special pyrotechnic shows, including a patriotic display at Magic Kingdom, a rock’n’roll spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a classic sky show at Epcot infused with an Independence Day finale. Here’s how you can celebrate America’s birthday – Disney-style:

Magic Kingdom will present “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” This patriotic fireworks spectacular, paying homage to the hopes and dreams of America’s forefathers, will light the skies at 9 p.m. July 4 – and for guests who would like to begin the Independence Day celebration early, the show also will be presented July 3 at 9 p.m.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, traditional Fourth of July fireworks take on a different spin when Mulch, Sweat, and Shears perform for the all-new “Rockin’ 4^th of July Celebration.” These resident landscapers – with serious rock and roll ambitions – take Disney guests on a musical road trip across America that will highlight each region’s contribution to rock and roll. Fireworks, lighting and special effects – backed by the driving live rock and roll of Mulch, Sweat, and Shears – combine to bring a new twist to celebrating Independence Day. Showtime July 4 is 9:45 p.m. Before the show, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can catch Disney’s Fantasmic!, performing July 4 at 9 p.m.
At Epcot, sky-watchers can check out “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” bursting high above World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations is a 14-minute spectacular during which pyrotechnics, lasers, water and music are all used to tell a story about the past, present and future of our planet. On the Fourth of July, the show will be enhanced with “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” an overture of traditional Americana themes displayed in a pyrotechnic and laser light event. The show is at 10 p.m.

In addition, Epcot guests may lend their ears to “Voices of Liberty 4^th of July Concert” and meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress at American Adventure.

Theme park hours on July 4 (subject to change without notice): Magic Kingdom, 8 a.m.-1 a.m.; Epcot, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Miranda Cosgrove Celebrates Despicable Me Minion Mayhem At Universal Orlando Resort

3 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity — Celebrity guests Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier and Elsie Fisher – the voices of Gru’s daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes, joined dozens of “minionized” children to celebrate the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s newest attraction, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, on July 2, 2012.
© 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Yesterday saw the grand opening and “yellow carpet” premiere of Universal Orlando Resort‘s newest attraction – Despicable Me Minion Mayhem at Universal Studios Florida. Stars from the film were on-hand to celebrate the ride and experience the fun for themselves. I can’t wait to get over there myself and check it out, during this “Year To Be Here” – but in the meantime, here’s all the official news and photos from Universal Orlando Resort:

Based on the blockbuster Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment film Despicable Me, the ride was created by Universal Orlando in partnership with Chris Meledandri, founder and CEO of Illumination, and his filmmaking colleagues. The ride places guests in the midst of an original adventure that combines a new storyline, new animation, the latest 3-D technology – and the heart, outrageous humor and memorable characters of the film.

There is something for every guest and every family: a heartwarming family story, hysterical minions and a disco-inspired dance party.

Guests will meet their favorite characters from the film – all voiced by the original cast: Gru (Steve Carell), the world’s greatest super-villain, and his daughters Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Elsie Fisher). They will enter the ride through the towering façade of Gru’s house, pick up 3-D “minion goggles” in his living room and be scanned for “human germs” in the Minionization Prep Room.

Gru is working on something “really big” and recruits guests for the job, transforms them into minions and
sends them off for minion training. From there, guests go on a wild ride where they evade water sprayers,
giant flyswatters, anti-gravity rooms and more.

“We worked to blend the spirit and heart of the film with a great new adventure for our guests and their families,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. “Where else can your family laugh, dance, celebrate and become a minion all at the same time?”

“We’re so excited to introduce an entirely new experience that truly captures all the heart, humor and emotion audiences have come to love about Despicable Me,” said Meledandri. “Fans of the film can now have fun and interact with their favorite Despicable Me characters in a way they haven’t been able to before.”

The attraction’s grand opening caps Universal Orlando’s “Year to be Here” – during which Universal debuted more new entertainment experiences across its entire destination than any other year in its history. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem follows the debut of a newly-enhanced Blue Man Group Show at Universal CityWalk, the high-tech re-launch of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the spring openings of Universal’s Superstar Parade and Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – 100 Years of Movie Memories at Universal Studios Florida.

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Check out a fun video from InsideTheMagic, showcasing the ride queue, post-queue and merchandise shop:

Medieval Times Premiers Epic New Show, Costumes, and Music!

28 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

One of the wonderful things about the Orlando area is that there are countless attractions and activities for everyone. Medieval Times is a well-known show with locations across the country, where you know going in what to expect – a royally good time. Before you write them off as just being a show with knights on horses and no utensils, Medieval Times has just premiered an all-new show to keep things fresh and exciting. I could not remember the last time I had been to Medieval Times, I think it was when my oldest (now 13) was a wee one. However, now that I’ve been back, I can’t wait to go again.

The whole Medieval Times castle is wonderfully themed and the time you can wait before seating begins is filled with knighting ceremonies, photo opportunities by roaming castle-dwellers, and merchandise to peruse. There are also three cash bars and a lovely “wine cellar” seating area which makes waiting for the show to start relaxing and fun. Soon the knights are announced and begin roaming around and taking photos before guests are called to their table by the color of their crowns they were given upon arrival. I was really impressed with the well-organized check-in process and reception area. It made my family and I genuinely excited for the night (and knights haha) ahead.

Medieval Times Orlando — I love the castle reception area – the ceiling is gorgeous and there are details everywhere.

Once inside, service instantly began with servers explaining the evening’s fare for us and how things worked. The menu is conveniently printed inside the napkin so you know what to expect. As recent vegetarians, my husband and I let the server know and we were and there were no issues with that. We were still able to enjoy the delicious tomato soup and garlic bread, and the main entree was a lovely combination of hummus and pita chips, a veggie kabob, wild rice and some of the potato wedges served with the regular dinner. I was pleasantly surprised. I do wish they’d have an alternative for small children though. My three-year old was not into any of the choices, and ended up eating bits of the bread and drinking orange juice for the night.

Medieval Times Orlando Menu — The bill of fare for the evening

Medieval Times Orlando vegetarian platter — The vegetarian platter was delicious – and they give you utensils! Shhh!

The new show was wonderful and definitely kept everyone entertained and happy. You’ll still find the action-packed knight battles, but this time there is an invader from the north to liven things up and keep the show going even after the winning knight triumphed. There are also beautiful and amazing horses who perform in between battles and a falcon who flies around the entire arena. New costumes and an exciting new musical score round out the new show. It was a fabulous night of entertainment that had everyone cheering and on their feet by the end of the night. I can’t recommend the show and the entire Medieval Times experience enough and I look forward to our next visit.

Medieval Times Orlando New Show — This amazing horse jumped straight in the air! Photo ©Medieval Times

For more photos, check out the Zannaland Facebook page album – and see the new parts of the show too! (and feel free to “LIKE” my Facebook page while you’re there!)

Check out more info at MedievalTimes.com and book your visit today online or by calling 1-888-WE-JOUST.

Guests also can find Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament on Facebook and Twitter.

My family and I were provided with complimentary admission to Medieval Times for this event, but as always, my opinions and thoughts were my own.