D23 Expo 2013

D23 Expo 2013 – What to Know Before You Go!

6 August 2013 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

If you’ve been reading Disney blogs, twitter, facebook or even instagram lately, you know that the D23 Expo is almost upon us! As you know, I am attending for my second time, and my fourth time at the happiest place on earth, the Disneyland Resort. This year, D23 has made some big changes in the way the Expo works, in response to guest and fan feedback from past Expos. Because of that, and the large amount of first-timers I’ve seen commenting online, I thought I would put together a D23 Expo 101. Here I’ll share my own personal tips and tricks, as well as get some insider info from D23’s own Jeffrey Epstein, who was nice enough to speak with me the other day and give me the run down.

What’s New:

In listening to guest feedback, according the Jeffrey Epstein, the biggest issue D23 worked to improve upon was capacity. As a result, they have doubled the size of the Stage 23 venue to 2000 seats. The Stage 28 venue also has an increased capacity and the Arena now has a 2000 seat overflow theatre, with closed-circuit live streaming of all Arena events. In addition, they have created a “StagePass” for the Stage 23 and Stage 28 sessions, similar to a FastPass system. We’ll discuss more about StagePass in a moment.

Additionally, D23 has added 2 concerts this year, of course the amazing combo of Alan Menken and Richard Sherman, which is a dream show for all Disney fans. There is also the Broadway and Beyond concert which is sure to thrill attendees and fans of Disney’s Broadway productions. Also this year, Imagineering is celebrating its 60th anniversary and has decided to showcase the creative process that fascinates so many who love the Walt Disney Company. Sunday will feature a full day of Imagineering panels, offering a look behind the scenes, which guests so often want to see. The full D23 schedule is available online and with the D23 App, which we’ll also discuss below.

StagePass:

When Stage Pass was first announced, there was a little confusion about how exactly it worked. Well our amazing pal Jeffery has given us the facts on how Stage Pass will work for us. Similar to a FastPass within a Disney Park, StagePass is free, and available on a first-come-first-served basis for sessions taking place after 11am in Stage 23 and Stage 28. StagePass is not available for morning sessions before 11am. Here’s exactly what to do:

For a session after 11am, line up with your activated D23 Expo credentials. Decide which session you want to get a StagePass for. Jeffrey recommends you have a second and even third choice because there will be a lot of people doing just what you are. Then if you want to get back in line to obtain another StagePass for a session after 3:00pm, you may do so after 12:30pm.

TIP: Also similar to FastPass in the parks, if you have activated credentials for other members of your party, you may bring them to obtain StagePasses for them as well. This will come in handy as you plan your Expo day. Someone may be waiting in line for a morning session, while someone else is in line for StagePass, letting you attend a later session with a guaranteed seat.

Unfortunately, StagePasses are not unlimited. When they are gone, they are gone, and that probably means that particular session will not have any seating. You are able to wait in a stand-by line for sessions if you do not have a StagePass, but you have to decide if that is a good use of your time, with no guarantee of seating. If you have a StagePass and still want to get a seat up front or center stage, you should probably still line up with a good amount of time to try and get a preferred seat location. StagePasses are for general admission seating and do not guarantee a particular seat location. Good luck!

What’s the Same:

Well, simply put, the lines and waiting. You will wait in line. You will probably miss out on some sessions you really want to see. It will be crowded. That is just par for the course with any convention and the D23 Expo is no exception. What’s also the same is LOTS of magic compressed into 3 days. Despite all the lines and waiting, you will have fun – it’s Disney! You’ll find the same great Walt Disney Company info and some great exclusive shopping too!

Surprises:

In addition to the larger venues and StagePass, the Show Floor is also expanded, offering even more ways to explore your favorite Disney interests and have fun. Roam the Collectors Forum to see your favorite Disney fan folks, websites, and vendors. Check out the latest from Disney Interactive, Disney Consumer Products, the Disney Channel, and more! As Jeffrey says,”the Disney Channel viewers of today are the Disney Geeks of tomorrow.” I love that quote, and it’s true! There are some great family options at the Expo and while fans of Disney history and news may not be heading there as our first choice, the fact that the Expo offers such great opportunities for all ages, is wonderful.

The biggest surprise may be finding something you never expected to enjoy. If you can’t get into a session, don’t think of it as a loss, think of it as a way to see something you never thought you would. You just may be happy with where you end up. I’ve heard there will be a fun Virtual Scavenger Hunt announced during the Expo, and don’t forget the amazing alternate reality game, The Optimist, which has been playing out online and in person over the past month or so, and may culminate at the Expo. Be sure to visit the Disney Cartography booth on the Show Floor and visit Wallace for more info!

TIP: Head to the Disney In-Home Entertainment section of the Show Floor to see the latest in Disney home entertainment releases…and…enjoy the free charging station!

If you are looking for some unique things to check out, ESPN is joining the Expo for the first time this year and will feature their moving film The 99ers. The Disney Citizenship booth showcases 30 years of VoluntEARS and attendees become an honorary VoluntEAR. Also be sure to check out the Once Upon a Time Q&A session, hosted by Jeffrey Epstein. Be sure to say hi and thank him for speaking with us here! He promises the content they are sharing in that session is NEW and unique to the Expo. I can’t wait!

Jeffrey also let us know there will be a few other surprises and reveals sprinkled throughout the 3 days…so keep your eyes and ears open!

Must Do’s:

If you do nothing else, (and you should have already done this if you’re attending the Expo!) download the D23 App for your mobile device. It has tons of fun and important info for your Expo experience. You can plan your schedule, take and edit silly photos, and so much more. During the Expo, the app will be pushing live info and updates to us. Sweet!

Hopefully this gives you a little more idea of what to expect when you walk through those convention doors. Plan, prepare, but keep an open mind for changes or plan B’s (or C’s). You know, just like a Disney Parks vacation!

Huge thanks again to Jeffrey Epstein for taking time out of his insanely busy schedule to share with us here. It is an amazing amount of work to put together these Expos and as a fan, I am so appreciative of the opportunities D23 gives us to learn and share more about the company and the magic we all know and love.

{ P.S….If you are arriving early to the Disneyland Resort for the Expo, my great friend and fellow blogger Nicole of SparklyEverAfter and I are having a meet-up on Thursday night! Join us at Disney California Adventure’s Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe on Buena Vista Street at 7pm on August 8 for some sparkles and Starbucks! We’d love to share a coffee with you and chat! If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by! }

NEW D23 Expo Disney Dooney and Bourke Purse Revealed

29 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

After the exciting news a few weeks back sharing some of the unique D23 Expo merchandise (including Disney Harvey’s Seatbelt Bags), today the Disney Parks Blog revealed the newest Disney Dooney & Bourke design, which will be for sale at the Disney Dream Store during the D23 Expo, August 9-11 2013.

This new design is in black and white, featuring Mickey and Minnie in classic animated form. The style will be available in the tassel tote, cross body and pouch styles. Edit: pricing obtained for the new styles! ~~No word on pricing yet, but hopefully they will be on par with the current designs out in similar styles. As I find out more info, I will share it here. Until then~~, enjoy the first look at this new style. What do you think? Will you be picking one up at the Expo?

Pricing for the new styles are as follows:

Pouch – $65.00

Crossbody bag – $175.00

Tassel Bag (shown above) – $285.00

Go Behind the Scenes with Disney Studios at the D23 Expo-More Presentation Info

29 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Here is the latest update from D23, with some additional info on who will be appearing at the Walt Disney Studios presentation and other arena shows at the Expo:

Exclusively at Disney’s D23 Expo August 9–11 at the Anaheim Convention Center, Disney fans are invited to explore the incredible roster of film, stage, and music projects on the horizon at The Walt Disney Studios, with a variety of panel discussions, sneak peeks, and exhibits.

This year the Studio will present two arena shows, kicking off the Expo at 10 a.m. Friday, August 9, with “Art and Imagination: Animation at The Walt Disney Studios,” a showcase of upcoming animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, and DisneyToon Studios. John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer of Disney’s Animation Studios, will host a lively exhibition chock-full of never-before-seen footage, celebrity and filmmaker appearances, and live performances from films like Disney’s Frozen, Pixar’s The Good Dinosaur and the Mickey Mouse short Get a Horse!. Then at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 10, Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn, Disney Live Action Production President Sean Bailey, and Marvel Studios President and Producer Kevin Feige will host “Let the Adventures Begin: Live Action at The Walt Disney Studios,” an expedition through the Studio’s exciting live-action offerings from Disney as well as several powerhouse pictures on tap from Marvel Studios, with exclusive clips and surprise guests from a range of films including Saving Mr. Banks, Tomorrowland,Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier and much more.

Fans can expect appearances from Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel (Frozen), Dane Cook (Disney’s Planes), Jason Schwartzman and B.J. Novak (Saving Mr. Banks), Ty Burrell (Muppets Most Wanted) and top Marvel and Disney•Pixar talent. And in typical D23 Expo fashion, fans can also anticipate surprise appearances from more of their favorite stars.

In “Broadway & Beyond…Celebrating the Stars of Disney on Broadway,” Friday, August 9 at 6:30 p.m., audiences will take a musical journey with Disney Theatrical Productions President Thomas Schumacher and a bevy of stage stars, including Heidi Blickenstaff (The Little Mermaid), Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins, Beauty and the Beast), Merle Dandridge (Tarzan^® and AIDA), Josh Strickland (Tarzan) and Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King), who sing beloved songs from the award-winning musicals they starred in as well as classic tunes from the Disney on Broadway catalog.

Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes with the animation artists at Disney and Pixar with several featured panels, including:

* Inside the Ice: The Art of Disney’s Frozen – Walt Disney Animation Studios’ big-screen comedy adventure Frozen, with its icy setting and colorful cast of characters, presented breathtaking opportunities, plus a few challenges for filmmakers. Join the team behind the movie for an exclusive look at the art and animation of Frozen. (Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.)

* The Art of The Good Dinosaur – Pixar Animation Studios’ latest feature explores what might have happened if the cataclysmic asteroid that forever changed life on Earth actually missed the planet completely and giant dinosaurs never became extinct. Take a closer look at this imaginative world of possibility and the artistry and production design behind it. (Saturday, August 10, 3 p.m.)

* Toy Story OF TERROR! and the Motivation Behind Pixar’s Short Form Content – From toys on vacation to tow-riffic four wheelers, Pixar keeps some of their most beloved characters alive and well through short-form content. Angus MacLane, director of Toy Story OF TERROR!, a new adventure featuring Woody, Buzz and the Toy Story gang set for release on TV this fall; producer Galyn Susman; and other Pixar short-form filmmakers share their experiences and discuss the exciting challenges of expanding the worlds of these characters loved by audiences across the globe. (Saturday, August 10, 5 p.m.)

* Pixar: Doing Our Homework – Research is an integral part of the filmmaking process, and with a story in hand, Pixar artists set out to become experts, immersing themselves in places, people and experiences that inspire and inform their filmmaking, whether it be spirited Scots, delectable French cuisine, or deep sea adventures. (Friday, August 9, 6 p.m.)

* Women of Pixar – Jessie. Dory. Sally. Merida. Although they never cross paths and exist in different worlds, these iconic Pixar females have one thing in common: girl power. Meet a dynamic group of women from Pixar, whose experience and success at the studio have helped craft some of the most memorable animated films in recent history. They will share stories from their journeys and the lessons they have learned along the way. (Sunday, August 11, 1 p.m.)

Expo attendees will also have access to an Exclusive Screening of Disney’s Planes in 3D, featuring an introduction by some very special guests. (Friday, August 9, 3 p.m.)

As Disney welcomes Lucasfilm into the family, fans will have a chance to delve deep in the Star Wars universe with “Crash Course in the Force: Star Wars Saga 101,” an immersive journey into the rich history of the worldwide phenomenon, led by Lucasfilm’s resident authority Pablo Hidalgo. (Saturday, August 10, 5 p.m.)

Music fans will be treated to performances by Good Luck Charlie star and platinum-selling Hollywood Records artist Bridgit Mendler, and Hollywood Records artists R5, fronted by Teen Beach Movie and Austin & Ally star Ross Lynch. D23 will also present Richard Sherman and Alan Menken, two of the world’s most celebrated songwriters and composers who have won a combined 10 Academy Awards for their work with Disney. In addition, Grammy^® Award-winning producer and resident Disney Music Historian, Randy Thornton, will take fans on a musical journey with inside stories of songs written for classic Disney films.

Out on the Expo floor, fans can explore the world of The Walt Disney Studios at their leisure with comprehensive exhibits, including:

* Walt Disney Animation Studios Pavilion – Attendees can summon their inner artist and escape into diverse worlds of where there’s much to explore, from the stunning snow-covered setting of Frozen to the high-tech, action-packed world of Big Hero 6, featuring the latest animation technology, sneak peeks, and giveaways.

* Disneytoon Studios Pavilion – Aviation aficionados and fairy fans will be on cloud nine as they explore projects including Disney’s Planes and immerse themselves in the world of Pixie Hollow and the magical heroines from Disney’s Fairies with exciting demonstrations and presentations.

* Walt Disney Studios In-Home Entertainment Zones – Dive into cutting-edge home entertainment technology and learn what the future holds for Disney movie fans, with sneak peeks of upcoming films in breathtaking high-definition Blu-ray 3D^™, including new hit films and new-to-Blu classics, the latest on Disney Second Screen and more. Also, the adorable Disney “Buddies” are back with an all-new movie—Super Buddies—coming August 27! Fans can get a picture with one of the real puppy super heroes. They are appearing live at D23 Expo for the first time—Saturday and Sunday!

Tickets for the D23 Expo are $57 for a one-day adult admission and $47 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $50 for a one-day adult admission and $42 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public, and D23 Members can save as much as $84 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for members and general admission, visit D23Expo.com.

Designer Disney Princesses Gowns on Display at the D23 Expo

22 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

What a fun update from D23 – exclusive designer Princess gowns that were originally displayed in Harrod’s of London in 2012. See more below:

A stunning display of exclusive gowns inspired by Disney’s iconic Princesses will make their U.S. debut at the D23 Expo inside the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit. These handcrafted designs by world-leading designers will be available for viewing each day of the event, August 9–11 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Included are works inspired by the individual stories of the Disney Princesses by Ralph & Russo (Tiana), Versace (Cinderella), Elie Saab (Aurora), Marchesa (Ariel), Escada (Jasmine), Missoni (Mulan), Roberto Cavalli (Pocahontas), Jenny Packham (Rapunzel), Valentino (Belle), and Oscar de la Renta (Snow White). The stunning dresses were first showcased in an ultra-glamorous set of window displays at Harrods, the luxury store in Knightsbridge, London, during the 2012 holiday season.

In addition, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is announcing two additional presentations. As we near the award-winning film’s 50th anniversary, Disney Legend and Walt Disney Archives Chief Archivist Emeritus Dave Smith will host “Behind the Scenes of Walt Disney’s Mary Poppins.” Guests will learn the complete story of how Walt Disney first discovered the book, worked on the script with author P.L. Travers, brought in the Sherman Brothers to write a memorable score, selected an unforgettable cast, oversaw actual filming, and celebrated at a gala Hollywood premiere.

During “Secrets of ‘The Lost Chords,’” Grammy® Award-winning producer and resident Disney Music historian, Randy Thornton will reveal some of the secrets behind Disney’s “lost” songs written for classic Disney films by legendary Disney composers (such as the Sherman Brothers) that were essentially lost for decades—until now. Plus, as a special part of this exclusive D23 event, guests will be among the very first to hear songs currently in production from a significant upcoming “Lost Chords” release.

Disney Artist and Historian Stacia Martin will present “Sounds Delightful: An Illustrated Audio Adventure,” which will take guests on an entertaining trip across the decades via vintage Disney Vinyl Recordings from her extensive personal collection. Forgotten favorites from the family turntable of yesteryear will be heard along with rare promotional and production tracks… including never-before-heard musical moments from Walt Disney’s own “journey down the Yellow Brick Road.”

For presentation times, dates, and locations (subject to change), please visit D23Expo.com.

runDisney to Host a Special Fun Run for D23 Members at the 2013 Expo

16 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Taking a running leap off of the enormous success of the runDisney community of races, runDisney has partnered with D23 for the 2013 Expo in Anaheim, and created a Fun Run for select participants. I know many of my running friends will be thrilled about this! Take a look at the official details and how to register below:

runDisney is excited to be at the start line of Disney’s D23 Expo and lead the way with the runDisney D2.3 Fun Run on Friday, August 9.

A limited number of D23 Members will get the opportunity to experience the magic of a runDisney event and take part in a 2.3-mile fun run. The experience will include signature runDisney elements like Disney characters and the opportunity to run through a theme park, Disney California Adventure. In addition, runners will receive a shirt for participating and enjoy a little extra pixie dust along the way.

“runDisney is committed to helping people live a healthy and active lifestyle by providing races of various distances so the entire family can participate,” said Faron Kelley, director of Marketing for Disney Sports. “It’s exciting to be part of the D23 Expo and to provide a memorablerunDisney experience for some of the most passionate Disney fans in the world.”

This experience will only be available to D23 Members and a Membership number will be required at the time of registration. Fans can join D23 at www.D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. Details on how to register to be selected for the runDisney D2.3 Fun Run will be available the week of July 22 on the Disney Parks Blog, Facebook (runDisney), @runDisney, and @DisneyD23.

About runDisney
runDisney is a series of seven event weekends providing runners unique opportunities to run various distances through Disney theme parks. Race participants earn Disney-themed medals, experience legendary Disney entertainment and guest service, and ultimately celebrate their accomplishments with a Disney vacation. The original event in the series, the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna, takes place in January followed by the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend in February, Expedition Everest Challenge in May, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler in October, and the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend in November. Disneyland hosts the Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend in January and the Disneyland Half Marathon in September during Labor Day Weekend.

More than 125,000 running enthusiasts participate in runDisney events each year. For more information, visit www.runDisney.com and follow us on Facebook (runDisney) and Twitter @runDisney.

Disney Studios To Host Two Arena Presentations At D23 Expo 2013-Celebrities and Exclusive Sneak Peeks

16 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

The Studios presentation is always a highlight of the D23 Expo and this year, we get two presentations! I can’t wait to see the sneak peeks and which celebrities will be making appearances. Here are the official details below:

D23 Expo 2013 will celebrate its grand opening with a welcome from Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger followed by the first of two arena presentations hosted by The Walt Disney Studios at the Anaheim Convention Center. On Friday, August 9, The Walt Disney Studios will surprise and delight fans with sneak peeks of the incredible slate of upcoming animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, and Disneytoon Studios, hosted by Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter. Then, on Saturday, August 10, Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn will host The Walt Disney Studios live action arena presentation which will pull back the curtain on upcoming releases from Disney Live Action and Marvel Studios. Both presentations will feature exclusive clips and behind-the-scenes footage, filmmaker discussions, and surprise celebrity appearances.

The 4,000-seat arena, the largest venue at The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, will for the first time feature a 2,000-seat overflow theater where guests will be able to watch these once-in-a-lifetime happenings though a live feed.

Art and Imagination: Animation at The Walt Disney Studios (Friday, August 9, 10:00 a.m.): Disney and Pixar Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter, filmmakers and star talent will take guests on a journey through The Walt Disney Studios’ slate of upcoming animated features, including Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen and Pixar Animation Studios’ The Good Dinosaur. Plus, catch the U.S. debut of the new Mickey Mouse short Get A Horse!, major movie announcements, and a not-to-be-missed live musical performance.

Let the Adventures Begin: Live Action at The Walt Disney Studios (Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.): The Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn will showcase the Studios’ exciting live-action release slate, including Disney’s Saving Mr. Banks and Tomorrowland, Marvel’sThor: The Dark World, and much more.

Impressive List of Disney Legends Announced for the 2013 D23 Expo Presentation

10 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

At the 2011 D23 Expo, one of my favorite moments was the Disney Legends presentation. It’s a wonderful look into Disney history and the impact individuals have had on the company and its fans. The list for 2013’s Disney Legends has just been released by D23 and it is quite an impressive roster, from Imagineer favorite Tony Baxter to Steve Jobs to Billy Crystal and John Goodman. Ed Wynn has always been a personal favorite, I loved him in Mary Poppins and Alice and Wonderland. Glen Keane has always been a favorite animator. His distinctive style is much beloved among fans. Read the full list and press release below:

BURBANK, Calif. – July 10, 2013 – Monsters Inc. and Monsters University stars Billy Crystal and John Goodman, technology visionary Steve Jobs, television icon Dick Clark and other beloved contributors to the Disney legacy will be named and honored as official Disney Legends during the D23 Expo 2013 at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, in the D23 Expo Arena at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The Disney Legends Awards program is a 26-year tradition of The Walt Disney Company. The three-day D23 Expo provides a rare opportunity for the public to be a part of the always touching and memorable presentation, hosted by noted television personality Tom Bergeron (host of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and America’s Funniest Home Videos).

“The Disney Legend Award is our highest and most coveted honor,” said Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger. “It’s reserved for the extraordinary visionaries and artists behind the Disney magic, the men and women who push the limits of innovation and creativity to ensure Disney remains truly special. The eight Legends we honor this year helped create some of our most beloved characters along with exciting new worlds and thrilling attractions. They also entertained millions of people and expanded our definition of what’s possible. They are all indelible parts of our legacy, and we are proud to recognize them as true Disney Legends.”

The 2013 Disney Legends Award honorees (listed alphabetically) are:

TONY BAXTER has developed beloved Disney attractions including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Journey Into Imagination, Splash Mountain, and countless more over the course of his 43-year career with Walt Disney Imagineering. Revered by Disney fans, he is best known for his commitment to storytelling, attention to detail, and ability to develop new ideas and attractions by combining time-tested design practices with modern technology.

COLLIN CAMPBELL touched almost every part of the Walt Disney Company, from animated classics to legendary theme park attractions, with stints in live action film and television. Collin’s work with Walt Disney Imagineering includes the development of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as concept illustrations of Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot Center.

DICK CLARK brought rock and roll to 40 million homes across the country with the national debut of American Bandstand on ABC in 1958. He went on to produce game shows, award shows including the Golden Globes® and the Academy of Country Music Awards, comedy specials movies, and other popular television specials. Dick might best be remembered, however, as the host of ABC’s annual Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve from 1973 until 2011.

BILLY CRYSTAL is an acclaimed actor who lends his voice to Mike Wazowski, the frenetic, green cyclopean monster from Monsters Inc. andMonsters University. Best known for his memorable roles in When Harry Met Sally…, The Princess Bride, and City Slickers, Billy, who has won six Emmy Awards and one Tony Award, has also been a fixture on ABC television, where he hosted the Academy Awards® broadcast nine times and found his breakthrough role as Jodie Dallas on Soap from 1977-81.

JOHN GOODMAN is a celebrated actor of stage and screen, and the voice behind James P. Sullivan, better known as “Sully,” from Monsters Inc. and Monsters University. Among John’s notable film appearances are The Big Lebowski, The Flintstones, and most recently Argo andFlight. John’s appearances in Disney-produced films include the Hollywood Pictures films Arachnophobia and Born Yesterday, as well as Touchstone Pictures’ Stella, Coyote Ugly, O Brother, Where Art Thou, and Confessions of a Shopaholic.

STEVE JOBS changed the world of consumer electronics as the founder of Apple, and was known throughout the world for his visionary attitude and penchant for innovation. He was an early investor and chief executive of Pixar, and became the Walt Disney Company’s largest shareholder overnight when it acquired Pixar Animation Studios in 2006. That same year, he joined the Disney board of directors, and remained a valuable sounding board and advisor to the company until his passing in 2011.

GLEN KEANE has brought to life many of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ most popular characters. Since becoming a Disney animator in 1974, he has animated classic Disney characters such as Penny in The Rescuers, Elliott in Pete’s Dragon, Ratigan in The Great Mouse Detective, the Beast in Beauty and the Beast, and the titular characters in The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pocahontas, and Tarzan. In 2010, Glen served as Executive Producer and Animation Supervisor for Tangled, a story he developed for more than ten years.

ED WYNN, a comedian whose career began on Broadway in the early 1900s, appeared in numerous Disney classics of the 1960s, includingMary Poppins, Babes in Toyland, That Darn Cat, The Absent-Minded Professor, and Son of Flubber. Fans of Disney animation know him as the manic and distinctive voice of the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland.

Each honoree receives a two-foot-tall bronze Disney Legends sculpture that signifies the imagination, creativity and magic they have brought to the Company. Disney Legends Award recipients also participate in a handprint ceremony, and their bronzed prints will be displayed in theDisney Legends Plaza at the Company’s Burbank headquarters.

Admission to the ceremony will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is included in the price of a ticket to the D23 Expo. In addition to the 4,000-seat D23 Expo Arena, the ceremony will be simulcast into a 2,000-seat overflow theater inside the Convention Center.

The first Disney Legend, actor Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire), was named in 1987. Including this year’s honorees, a total of 237 Disney Legends have been named. Past Disney Legends include Tim Allen, Robin Williams, Julie Andrews, Howard Ashman, Regis Philbin, Annette Funicello, Peter Jennings, Angela Lansbury, Steve Martin, Alan Menken, Hayley Mills, Fess Parker, Sir Tim Rice, Dick Van Dyke and Barbara Walters. At the inaugural D23 Expo in 2009, the Legends Awards ceremony, which honored Robin Williams, Beatrice Arthur, Estelle Getty, Rue McLanahan, Betty White, Tony Anselmo, Bill Farmer, Harry Archinal, Don Iwerks and Leota Toombs Thomas, was presented to thousands of Disney fans for the first time.

Tickets and pricing information for D23 Expo 2013 are available at D23Expo.com Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on admission, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests. More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events, and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting D23Expo.com or by following “DisneyD23” on Twitter and Facebook.

Disney’s Ultimate Fans to Enjoy Access to Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Content and Merchandise

9 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Disney Consumer Products just announced their offerings for the D23 Expo in August. I can’t wait to see the Sephora Ariel booth!! Check out all of the details below:

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) will give Disney’s most loyal fans an up close look at an extensive collection of interactive experiences and merchandise that celebrate Disney, Marvel and Star Wars timeless characters during the bi-annual D23 Expo, the ultimate Disney fan event. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center from Aug. 9-11, 2013, Disney fans will have the chance to follow their favorite products from “sketch to shelf” and learn how Disney Consumer Products extends storytelling from character and content extension to product development through featured discussions, art and sculptures and final product displays.

While at the D23 Expo fans will also be able to immerse themselves in exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, special signing opportunities and exclusive product offerings at the Disney Consumer Products Pavilion.

Disney Consumer Products’ exciting lineup of events and attractions includes:

Celebrating Disney, Marvel and Star Wars
· Disney Junior Fun Spot – Get a sneak peek of brand-new toys before they hit store shelves this fall and enjoy special giveaways while supplies last.

· Disney Princess Ariel-Themed Sephora Pop-up Shop – Sephora Pro artists and manicurists will give attendees the royal treatment with products from the Disney Ariel Collection by Sephora. The collection will be available for purchase along with an exclusive-to-D23 Expo-only Swarovski crystal-encrusted Ariel compact mirror. Attendees will receive starfish hair clips with every complimentary beauty service each day, while supplies last.

· The Mystical World of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen – See feature animation art concepts, storyboards, unreleased film clips, and products from the mystical world of Frozen, the daring comedy-adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios releasing in November 2013.

· Steamboat Willie Redux – Celebrate the history and timelessness of the most cherished Disney character through this graphically re-interpreted mash-up of the pioneering 1928 cartoon short, Steamboat Willie.

· Spider-Man’s Ultimate Innovation – Come check out products on the cutting edge of product innovation and design featuring one of the most popular Super Heroes in the world, Spider-Man, in Marvel’s first-ever appearance in the DCP showcase at the D23 Expo.

· Star Wars at the D23 Expo! – For the first time at the D23 Expo Star Wars fans can have access to experiences created for them by Lucasfilm and Disney. Darth Vader: The Evolution of a Villain, located in the DCP pavilion, showcases the development of the iconic villain from early concepts to striking realization. Crash Course in the Force: Star Wars Saga 101, presented by Lucasfilm’s resident authority Pablo Hidalgo at Stage 23, will give Star Wars newbies and experts alike a thorough grounding in all matters of the Force and the Star Wars legacy.

Fans will have the opportunity to participate in other immersive experiences, including: Find Your Voice with The Little Mermaid, a karaoke experience celebrating the music from the film; Journey through the Art of Tink, a gallery where Disney artists, designers, illustrators, and animators from around the world have re-imagined our magical, sassy and feisty fairy, Tinker Bell; What Makes a Puppet a Muppet?, which will help fans learn what it takes to create a Muppets “plush” and then create your own; Take a Ride with Disney∙Pixar’s World of Cars and Disney’s Planes, which explains how the highly collectible diecast vehicles are made; Assembling The Avengers Franchise, an exclusive tour through the history of The Avengers and the chance to see the latest The Avengers products; and I heart Mickey & Minnie, a rarely seen collection of beloved Mickey Mouse toys, apparel, and accessories from past decades, along with a showcase of Minnie Mouse-inspired fashions from around the globe.

2013 D23 Expo Guests to See Special 3D Screening of Disney Planes

1 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

D23 has just announced that Expo guests will be among the first to see Disney’s Planes on its opening day, with Special Appearances from Select Filmmakers and Stars. Just another fun perk to attending the 2013 D23 Expo! Official release below.

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club reveals plans for a special 3D screening of the high-flying big-screen adventure Disney’s Planes at the D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

D23 Expo attendees will be among the first to see Disney’s Planes on its opening day. An action-packed 3D animated comedy adventure from Disneytoon Studios, Disney’s Planes will take flight in theaters nationwide August 9, but D23 Expo guests will see this special 3D presentation featuring an introduction by some very special guests. Dusty Crophopper dreams of competing as a high-flying racer, but he’s not exactly built for racing—and he happens to be afraid of heights. So he turns to a seasoned naval aviator who helps him train to take on the defending champ of the race circuit. Dusty’s courage is put to the test as he aims to reach heights he never dreamed possible, giving a spellbound world the inspiration to soar.

Directed by lifelong aviation enthusiast Klay Hall (King of the Hill, The Simpsons), and produced by Traci Balthazor-Flynn, Disney’s Planes features the voices of Dane Cook, Stacy Keach, Brad Garrett, Teri Hatcher, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Priyanka Chopra, John Cleese, Cedric the Entertainer, Carlos Alazraqui, Roger Craig Smith, Anthony Edwards, Val Kilmer, Sinbad, Gabriel Iglesias, Brent Musburger, Colin Cowherd, Danny Mann, Oliver Kalkofe, and John Ratzenberger.

The screening is slated for Friday, August 9, 2013, at 3 p.m. at the Arena inside the Anaheim Convention Center. For more information about the movie, check out Disney.com/Planes, like us on Facebook: facebook.com/DisneyPlanes and follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/DisneyPictures.

D23 Expo to Honor 60 Years of Disney Imagineering

28 June 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

The main reason I joined Disney’s D23 back when it was first announced, is a promised peek into Disney history and just what made this company we all know and love, so great. I may have missed the first Destination D and Expo out in California, but I have attended each subsequent Destination D and 2011’s Expo. The things I learned, the history shared, the stories, the images, cannot be compared, and really, cannot have a price put on them. I, as a fan, am so grateful for the things the Walt Disney Archives and D23 have done, to share and nurture the legacy that is the Walt Disney Company.

So it was with great excitement that I read the news below, revealing an Imagineering “Open House” to give attendees a glimpse behind the creative process of Imagineering. In addition, several panels with Imagineers, discussing various projects and company history. The only downside will be deciding which panels to attend! Read below for the full press release from D23 – and I hope to see you at the Expo!

Disney Takes Fans Behind the Magic with an Unprecedented Look at the Imagineering “Dream Factory”

BURBANK, Calif. – June 28, 2013 – In honor of the 60th anniversary of Walt Disney Imagineering and the origins of Disney Parks and Resorts, Imagineering is hosting an “open house” at the D23 Expo, August 9-11, opening the doors of its unique facilities and offering an unprecedented look at its creative processes—all on the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center. In addition, Imagineers past and present will host an entire day of panel discussions on Sunday, August 11, celebrating their 60 magical years of “dreaming and doing.”

Within the “open house” pavilion, D23 Expo guests will get an up close look at an eclectic array of Imagineering’s creative minds—ride engineers, model builders, pre-visualization artists, special effects designers, inventors, and show animators—as they share the skills and talents behind Imagineering’s creative process. In addition, guests will have the chance to glimpse at the “workspaces” of several project teams from around Disney’s global portfolio of parks and resorts, perhaps spotting a few clues into coming attractions along the way.

For the first time at the D23 Expo, Walt Disney Imagineering will be showcasing some of its most historical and revered concept art from its Art Library, including Herb Ryman’s original drawing of Disneyland. Also in the Disney Parks pavilion, D23 Expo guests will again have the chance to explore Mickey’s of Glendale, an outlet of Walt Disney Imagineering’s employee-only store, to shop for unique souvenirs and collectibles and Walt Disney Imagineering merchandise not available anywhere else.

In addition to the Imagineering Open House, D23 Expo attendees will be able to attend 12 unique presentations and panel discussions that will take fans on the incredible journey behind the latest Disney resorts, attractions, and entertainment including:

· The Art and Artistry of Aulani – Imagineers Joe Rohde and Jeanette Lomboy will share the authentic tapestry of art and stories found at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa.

· Mayhem, Mischief, and Monkeys: The Magic of Mystic Manor – Join Imagineers Joe Lanzisero and others for the strange stories behind Hong Kong Disneyland’s Mystic Manor, the newest and one of the most sophisticated attractions ever built.

· Undiscovered Disneyland – Legendary Imagineer Tony Baxter shares rare and never-before-seen footage of the early days ofDisneyland, from design and construction through opening day.

· Broadcasts from Buena Vista Street – Enjoy the latest ‘soundtrack’ from Disney California Adventure’s Buena Vista Street, featuring a live performance of Scary Symphony from radio station KBVS and a panel discussion led by Imagineers.

· Disney Ambassadors – Join current Disney Parks Ambassadors from around the world as they discuss this renowned program and share insights about its rich heritage, current outreach efforts, and the importance of sharing Disney goodwill.

· Voices of the Disney Parks – Back by popular demand, this panel of famous Disney voices will gather for an encore panel discussion, including recreations of some unforgettable Disney Parks sayings.

· Charles Phoenix Presents – Noted humorist and self-proclaimed “retro daddy” Charles Phoenix shares some of his favorite images from around Disney, featuring classic kitsch, clashing colors schemes, and hairdos that truly defy gravity.

The panels continue on Sunday August 11, with a full day dedicated to the celebration of Walt Disney Imagineering’s 60th anniversary. The presentations in the 2,000-seat Stage 23 with current and former Imagineers will explore a wide range of topics, from working with Walt Disney himself and the exploration of creativity, innovation, and humor in the parks, to a lively discussion of what it’s like to lead one of the world’s most creative organizations. More details on these exciting panels and presenters will be revealed soon. D23 Expo tickets are available now.