Travel to Walt Disney World

Art of Animation Resort scheduled to open in May

2011-11-06T19:20:00.003-06:00

Disney's newest resort, Art of Animation, is scheduled to open this coming May. The first part to open in the new value hotel will be the resort's 1,100 suites with standard rooms to open at a later date.

The Art of Animation suite's will sleep six, which is great news for most families. Currently, most guests must go to the higher priced deluxe resorts for this convenience. The suites will feature a master bedroom, 2 bathrooms and 3 separate sleeping area. This is a huge benefit for families.

The resort will also feature 3 swimming pools and 4 playful courtyards. The resort and courtyards will be themed to four Disney movies. The four movies are supposed to be, "The Lion King," "The Little Mermaid," "Finding Nemo," and "Cars."

Disney World Parking Lots Get a Name Makeover

2011-10-25T21:00:00.002-05:00

Disney has gone ahead and renamed the different sections of its 12,000-space parking lot at the Magic Kingdom. Until recently, the names of the aisles at the Magic Kingdom parking lot have been named for the classic Disney characters such as Goofy, Donald, and the Seven Dwarfs. Now, the aisles are named after Disney heroes and villains, the more current Disney characters.

So instead of parking your car way out in Goofy, you will be parking your car in Woody or Hook. The name changes are part of a larger change that will make it easier for guests to remember and find their vehicles. There will be two separate trams leaving the TTC, one for the heroes and one for the villains. Each group will consist of 6 sections and provide more visual cues to help guests remember where they left their cars.

Walt Disney World to Begin Charging No-Show Diners

2011-10-21T20:12:00.002-05:00

If you make a dining reservation for a table service restaurant at WDW and fail to give at least 24 hours notice for a cancellation, it'll cost you $10 per person.

Beginning October 26th, guests who make a dining reservation will be asked to secure it with a credit card. This new policy applies to 19 signature restaurants, including Victoria & Albert's, where the no-call cancellation charge is $25 per person.

By doing this, Disney is hoping it will make it easier for guest to make reservations at the restaurants they'd like to dine at. Keeping people to their reservations will also ensure they don't have dining rooms full of empty tables at noon because people failed to show up or made multiple reservations for the same time.

This new policy should help those who are making their dining reservations closer to the time of their arrival. The policy is fair and the penalty isn't so severe if you have to miss your reservation. I think this is a much needed change that should have been implemented at the time the Dining Plan was introduced.

Upcoming Magic Kingdom Refurbishments

2011-10-20T20:30:00.002-05:00

Well, one of my favorite rides in the Magic Kingdom is scheduled for refurbishment early next year. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Actually, January 9th - May 27 to be exact! From the sounds of it, the ride will be receiving a makeover but to what extent is not known. Whatever the makeover includes, it'll consist of more than just a fresh coat of paint. I'll be excited to see the changes. For those of you heading to Disney World early next year, I'm sorry, you won't be able to experience this ride.

Also slated for refurbishment will be Dumbo, January 9th - February 17th, as well as Liberty Square Riverboat, January 28th - February 3rd. Fantasyland construction will continue into 2012 with half of Storybook Circus set to open early in the year feature double Dumbo rides. Given the currently listed close schedule for Dumbo one would believe that Storybook Circus will be opening in the second half of February.

I'll keep you posted if anymore refurbishment or closures are announced.

Taking the Site in a New Direction

2011-10-19T18:45:00.002-05:00

Well, I've decided to take the site in a new direction. I've been running this site for nearly 14 years, most of which this site has been used as a platform for me to share interesting articles related to Walt Disney World. I'd like to begin using this site as a way to help other Disney World fans plan and prepare for their Walt Disney World vacations. My intention is to provide useful links to Walt Disney World vacation planning material, provide information on upcoming deals and specials, post refurbishment updates and list other useful information to ease the vacation planning process. If you have any suggestions as to what you'd like to see, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Stay Tuned!

10 free things to do with kids at Disney World

2011-09-12T20:12:00.002-05:00

Source: USA Today

Some news you can use for the Disney-bound: It's possible to enjoy some of the perks at Florida's Walt Disney World Resortwithout shelling out $85 ($79 for ages 3-9) to get through the turnstile.

Mary Waring of Mousesavers.com and A.J. Wolfe, who blogs about Disney food, detail 10 free experiences in their twice monthly Frommers.com family-travel column.

The tips are particularly useful for visitors who are arriving late in the day or departing early and don't want to spring for a full-day ticket to the parks. They even give advice on how to avoid parking fees. (Tell the attendant you're going to check out the Magic Kingdom resorts, in which case, parking is free.)

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What Was It Like at Walt Disney World on 9/11

2011-09-11T22:06:00.006-05:00

Source: The Huffington Post

When people usually talk about what happened on 9/11, the focus (for obvious reasons) is on New York City, Washington D.C. and that field just outside of Shanksville, PA.

But -- that said -- it's also important to remember what happened immediately after those four planes crashed. That sudden surge of panic that swept across the country. All because people in the U.S. had no idea what was going to happen next.

In several of the books that have since been written about 9/11, it's noted that the Walt Disney Company quickly closed its stateside theme parks that day. Reportedly out of concern that the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts might also be on the terrorists' target list.

The Mouse (for very obvious reasons) has never officially commented on what actually happened in Anaheim & Orlando on September 11, 2001. But over the past 10 years, I've managed to talk with a number of Cast Members & Guests who were either working for or staying at Walt Disney World that day. And these folks have some pretty memorable stories to tell.

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Disney World apps help navigate Happiest Place on Earth

2011-09-03T16:13:00.005-05:00

Source: USA Today

... We tried several apps and found three of them — Walt Disney World Pro, Disney World Magic Guide, and Disney World Wait Times, Dining and Maps — particularly comprehensive and useful because they combine resort details with live updates and crowd-sourced information.

All were equally impressive. Disney World Magic Guide stood out because of its "Near Me" feature that searches for rides nearby. Disney World Wait Times, Dining and Maps might be attractive for visitors who travel in large groups because it comes with a GPS tool for finding each other at the park.

For the sake of comparison, we focused only on the apps for the Disney parks in Orlando, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. (There are similar apps for Disney parks in other cities, including Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif.)

The three apps contain basic information: wait times for rides, photos, detailed maps with icons, restaurant lists with prices and menus, hours for parades and fireworks, ride descriptions, hotel information and key phone numbers.

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WDW Monorail to Stop Running Earlier Than Normal

2011-07-10T15:31:00.000-05:00

Source: NETCOT.com

“From time to time, we make adjustments to our operations to accommodate for planned transportation maintenance. With that in mind, operating hours for the Epcot Monorail system will be modified to operate one hour after regular park close beginning July 11, 2011 and the Magic Kingdom Monorail system will also operate one hour after regular park close beginning August 1, 2011. At that time, watercraft (where applicable) and additional buses will be available to transport guests to their destination.

Return service from evening Extra Magic Hours in the parks will be supported by watercraft (where applicable) and bus transportation.

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Disney Fantasyland Expansion Update

2011-01-25T23:00:00.002-06:00

Source: Disney Dreaming

The Disney Parks Blog recently released an update about the Fantasyland Expansion taking place at the Magic Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort. After the expansion is finished, Fantasyland will nearly double in size and a number of new rides, attractions and dining areas will be introduced at the park.

One of the rides at the park is Under the Sea: Journey of The Little Mermaid. The ride-through adventure will feature characters from Disney’s movie “The Little Mermaid” as well as a number of songs from the animated movie.

Then, guests will be able to dine at the Be Our Guest “Beauty and the Beast” Restaurant. The restaurant will seat up to 550 guests and offer quick service dining by day and full table service dining by night. Right outside the restaurant will be Belle’s Village, including Gaston’s Tavern and Bonjour! Village Gifts.

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Our QR Code

2011-01-25T22:57:00.000-06:00

Walt Disney World gains sushi restaurant, new safari adventure

2010-07-17T20:42:00.005-05:00

Source: Examiner.com

Yesterday the Walt Disney World Resort released some exciting news about a popular restaurant and also about an upcoming attraction Guests can expect to see later this year.

First, the Kona Island Sushi Bar in the Polynesian Resort, located right outside of the Kona Café next to the monorail station, is now a permanent fixture. The 20-seat eatery serves coffee, tea, pastries and fruit in the morning, and after 5pm it transforms into a sushi restaurant, offering rolls, sashimi (fish without rice) and nigiri (fish with rice). Guests who prefer their fish cooked can try the shrimp tempura roll with fresh mango or the Kona crab cake roll with fresh jumbo lump crab cake, avocado and Asian tartar sauce. Vegetarians can sample the cucumber roll.

Whatever you choose, pair it with a classic Kona cocktail or some sake and you'll have yourself a fine meal. Sitting at the bar is quick and convenient, and the meal is sure to satisfy sushi lovers everywhere.

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Disney to build 2,000-room hotel dubbed Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

2010-05-17T21:19:00.002-05:00

Source: The Daily Disney

Walt Disney World is about to begin building its first new hotel in seven years, a 2,000-room resort that will open in 2012.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will feature 1,120 suites with room for as many as six people each and another 864 traditional hotel rooms, with a design theme based on four of the company’s most popular animated movies.

The complex will be priced as a “value” hotel, at the low end of Disney World’s scale, similar to Disney’s Pop Century and All-Star resorts, where standard rates begin at $82 a night.

The announcement is one of the strongest signals yet from Disney that it thinks a sustained recovery is under way from the long travel slump brought on by the global recession. Disney executives, who have been weighing construction of a family-suites hotel for several years, finally approved the project in January.

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Lotso from Toy Story 3 at Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-05-17T11:56:00.002-05:00

Walt Disney World iPhone App v2.7: Another Update

2010-05-17T09:54:00.002-05:00

Source: Product-Reviews.net

A great app for visitors of Walt Disney World has just received an update. World Disney World Notescast 2.7 for the iPhone and iPod Touch contains in-depth interactive information and a vast collection of photos.

Released by Portland based TimeStream Software, the app is a great vacation planner for people visiting Disney, it covers almost everything of the entire resort and all four theme parks. With over 500 superb photos and 300 pages of information the app provides a complete guide to Disney.

This latest update includes information on the constantly changing and exciting new shows on the parks. Some of the information includes guides for guests with disabilities, hidden Mickey tours, Disney’s Magical Express, what’s new, what’s coming, and much more.

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Disney attendance up in 2009

2010-04-27T14:31:00.002-05:00

Source: bizjournals

A newly released industry report shows that attendance at Walt Disney’s theme parks grew in 2009.

The theme park numbers compiled by Aecom and the Themed Entertainment Association estimate attendance at the Magic Kingdom at 17.2 million visitors in 2009.

The 1 percent increase from the prior year kept the Magic Kingdom at the No. 1 position among theme parks worldwide. Disneyland in Anaheim was estimated at 15.9 million visitors, the second position among theme parks. The top six spots were occupied by Disney properties.

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Ridermakerz opens in Walt Disney World; more changes to Downtown Disney in 2010

2010-03-29T15:54:00.001-05:00

Source: Examiner.com

RIDEMAKERZ®, a toy car and radio control (RC) car customizing entertainment experience, celebrated its grand opening at its new locations at Downtown Disney West Side in Walt Disney World yesterday, March 25.

RIDEMAKERZ allows guests of all ages to build and personalize their own RC car, choosing its bodystyle, color, wheels, lights and sounds, accessories and decals. With all those options to trick out one’s RC ride, over 649 million combinations, RIDEMAKERZ allows guests to own their dream cars, called RIDEZ.

RIDEMAKERZ also works with several automotive manufacturers to offer RC versions of contemporary cars, such as the Ford Mustang, Chevy Corvette, Dodge Viper, and MINI Cooper. Guests, who are called “Customizers,” can also chose from among vintage wheels, retro designs, racecars, and service-vehicle selections.

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2 Tour Buses Crash at Disney World, Injuring 8

2010-03-23T21:50:00.000-05:00

Source: Fox News

At least eight people were injured when a Walt Disney World bus and a charter bus collided Tuesday in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, according to local reports.

Witnesses told MyFoxOrlando.com the Mears charter bus was parked just off the right lane of Epcot Center Boulevard and the driver was standing outside of it when the Disney bus hit it. No passengers were on the charter bus.

All of the injured passengers were aboard the Disney bus, Florida Highway Patrol said.

The Disney bus driver was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center in serious condition, MyFoxOrlando.com. The seven injured passengers were taken by ground to Florida Hospital Celebration Health with non life-threatening injured.

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Disney unveils monorail makeover

2010-03-15T09:45:00.003-05:00

Source: My Fox Orlando

Walt Disney World Resort offered a sneak peek at an exterior makeover planned for the popular monorail line serving Epcot and the Magic Kingdom.

The transformed trains will feature futuristic motorcycle-like vehicles from the upcoming film "Tron: Legacy." The trains will also include walls of trailing colored light.

"Tron: Legacy" is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world inspired by the 1982 film, "Tron," starring Jeff Bridges , who recently won an Oscar for his role in "Crazy Heart," and Bruce Boxleitner ("Babylon 5" and "Heroes").

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Park visitor hits Disney employee with car in ride

2010-03-15T09:35:00.001-05:00

Source: Miami Herald

A Walt Disney World attraction has reopened following a crash that involved a park employee.

Disney spokesman Bryan Malenius said the employee was struck by a car that was part of the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway ride Sunday afternoon. The car was being driven by a park guest.

The ride closed temporarily but was able to reopen later in the day.

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Walt Disney World Resort Celebrates U.S. Military in 2010 With Special Ticket, Lodging Offers

2010-01-09T11:36:00.001-06:00

Source: PR Newswire

As Disney Parks ask "What Will You Celebrate?" and invite guests to turn their personal milestones into magical family vacations in 2010, America's military personnel will have more reasons to celebrate: Special offers on theme park tickets and accommodations.

With Disney's Armed Forces Salute, from Jan. 3 to July 31, 2010, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard and active members of the National Guard or Reservists) or their spouses can purchase Disney's 4-Day Military Promotional Base Tickets for $99, plus tax, for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends for use at Walt Disney World Resort. The Park Hopper and Water Park Fun & More options can be added for an additional $26, plus tax, per option, per ticket. No more than six Disney's 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets (with or without options) may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (and/or spouse) pursuant to this offer.

All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by Sept. 30, 2010. However, the tickets and options are not valid for use on the following blockout dates: March 27, 2010, to April 9, 2010, for all Walt Disney World theme parks and other gated attractions; and July 3 to July 4, 2010, for the Magic Kingdom park.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel also can save up to 40 percent on rooms at select Disney resorts! This offer is good for stays most nights Jan. 3-Sept. 30, 2010, except not available 3/28-4/10/10 and 7/1-7/5/10, and can be booked through July 31, 2010. (The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Minimum length of stay requirements may apply for Friday or Saturday arrivals. Savings based on non-discounted price for the same room. Valid Military ID will be required upon check-in. No group rates or other discounts apply. Advance reservations required. Additional per-adult charges apply if more than two adults per room. )

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Walt Disney World raises parking fee

2009-10-11T16:44:00.001-05:00

Source: Orlando Business Journal

Walt Disney World Resort raised its parking rates $2 from $12 to $14 starting Oct. 4, said company officials.

The rate increase is “part of the normal course of doing business. We regularly evaluate and adjust our pricing,” said Zoraya Suarez, manager of media relations at Walt Disney World, via e-mail.

In addition, “guests staying at our Disney resort hotels and annual pass holders will continue to receive complimentary parking,” Suarez added.

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Walt Disney World testing reserved table system for quick service dining

2009-10-08T18:09:00.001-05:00

Source: examiner.com

Disney World is testing a new reservation system at its quick service restaurants with the dual goal of seating guests at a faster pace and increasing profits. As a result, the practice of sending a family member to save a table while another family member orders food and beverages is no longer allowed when Disney's theme park restaurants experience peak traffic.

Under the new reservation system, Disney World cast members seat groups at tables, much like they would do at a traditional table service restaurant (minus the server). According to the Orlando Sentinel, select Magic Kingdom restaurants now restrict guest access to tables during peak dining periods while guaranteeing seating for diners.

Although this new approach to quick service dining will help maximize profits for Disney World during the recession, it will inconvenience families with babies and young children, who will be required to stand in long lines instead of waiting at their table. Before this new system was implemented, one family member was free to feed a baby, park diaper bags and cumbersome packages, and allow young children and the elderly to rest at a table while another member of the party ordered food. It would appear that disabled guests will also be prevented from waiting at a table, although few lines accommodate disabled guests at the pick-up station.

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Disney World hotel discounts continue with $59 rate on select nights through December

2009-09-25T23:15:00.001-05:00

Source: examiner.com

Extending its recession-prompted discounts through the holidays, Walt Disney World is offering discounted rates at its resort hotels for as little as $59 per night through December 17.

Rates for Disney World passholders and Disney Vacation Club members are even lower, reflecting a total savings of more than 30% at Disney's value resorts.

The $59 rate is available November 29-30, December 1-3, and December 12-17. A different discount is offered most other nights through mid December, averaging just $15 more per night.

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Disney World starts recruiting for Moms Panel Sept. 10

2009-09-03T15:24:00.001-05:00

Source: Examiner

For any mom—or dad—who has always wanted to share their knowledge of Walt Disney World with other families, here is your chance. The Walt Disney World 2010 Moms Panel will begin accepting applications after 9:00 a.m. EDT on September 10, 2009. Thousands will enter, but less than two dozen will be chosen to serve a 12 month term on the Moms Panel.

According to the Walt Disney World Web site, the Moms Panel is "an online forum of vacation advisors made up of everyday people who will answer questions, offer advice and address specific concerns of families in the process of planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort." By "everyday people," Disney means no current employees/cast members of the Disney company (or their immediate family members) and no persons employed by the travel or theme park industries. Panelists will receive a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort to participate in training classes for the 2010 Moms Panel.

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Walt Disney World Annual Pass - FL residents get 15 months for price of 12!

2009-09-02T21:23:00.001-05:00

Source: Examiner

Walt Disney World announced today a brand new Annual Pass special offer for Florida Residents. When you purchase a new Seasonal, Annual, or Premium pass by December 31, 2009, you receive 15 months for the price of 12! Now, there's an offer for new as well as existing Walt Disney World Annual Passholders (see last paragraph)! Since these don't come around very often, now's your chance to get a great Disney Deal and feel like you own a piece of the magic!

What is the difference between each of the passes? Here's the breakdown:

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Walt Disney World monorail crash kills employee

2009-07-05T13:40:00.002-05:00

Source: Yahoo! News

ORLANDO, Fla. – Two monorail trains crashed early Sunday morning in the Magic Kingdom section of Walt Disney World, killing one train's operator, emergency officials said.

The transit system, which shuttles thousands of visitors around the sprawling resort each day, was shut down while authorities investigated the holiday weekend wreck.

The monorail operator died at the scene of the crash, which happened around 2 a.m., said Bo Jones, deputy chief for Reedy Creek Fire Department. The other train operator was not injured, but was taken to a hospital because he was emotionally shaken. Five park guests were treated at the scene.

Disney Vice President of Communications Michael Griffin identified the driver as 21-year-old Austin Wuennenberg. Griffin would not discuss how long Wuennenberg had been with Disney or the circumstances surrounding the crash.

"They are extremely rare," Griffin said of accidents at the park. "The safety of our guests and cast are a top priority above all else."

It is unclear what caused the crash, Jones said. Orange County Sheriff's officials are investigating the cause.

Jones said the crash happened at the park's ticket and transportation center. About a dozen guards wearing blue Disney security uniforms guarded the monorail station Sunday morning and prevented visitors from approaching the area.

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Walt Disney World News and Rumor Mill for the week of June 22, 2009

2009-06-24T13:48:00.001-05:00

Source: WDW Radio

Walt Disney World online dining reservations system for its restaurants via is now available at disneyworld.disney.go.com/restaurants. Simply search for your dining location of choice in the "search box" or select the "restaurants" or "dinner shows" boxes below and find your location, and put in a single date or range of possible dates. If it’s available, you can book online with no charge. If that time or location is not available, an alternate will be offered to you. Guests can book 90 days in advance, and will need to provide the names of everyone dining, also the ages of the children. Modifications will still need to be made by phone at 407-WDW-DINE. A credit card may be required to secure the reservation, depending on the location

Disney’s PhotoPass has introduced some new options for their CDs, including a CD that includes all of the stock photos you will find available for use in products other than the PhotoCD on disneyphotopass.com. For just $39.95, you can own over 300 hi-res images of Walt Disney World stock photos including many not available on the PhotoPass site. Purchasing the Photo Gallery CD grants you a license to unlimited personal use of the images, but unlike traditional Disney’s PhotoPass photos, you are prohibited from distributing the photos. Additionally, for all of the photos you have uploaded and added Disney borders to, you can now order an archive CD for $19.95 which includes the license to print the photos with the graphics.

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Kris Allen, American Idol Champion is going to Disney World

2009-05-21T23:08:00.001-05:00

Source: examiner.com

Soon after being crowned "American Idol", Kris Allen recorded the now famous "What's Next" commercial singing "When You Wish Upon A Star" combined with a film montage of Kris "through the years" and ending with him exclaiming that he's going to Disney World. Once there, he will be grand marshaled in the parade down Main Street, U.S.A. and then appear at a number of exciting events. There's more to come on that as information comes in.

As you may or may not know, The American Idol Experience attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios officially opened on February 14 of this year and in addition to drawing thousands of theme park guests, it attracted hundreds of American Idol hopefuls who auditioned before a live audience for their chance to become the next American Idol.

Here's how it works. Throughout the day, there are several shows in which "Idol" wannabes compete. Winners are chosen by the guests in the audience who have the power to vote right from their seats. The winner of each show then competes in a "finale" show at the end of the day and the winner of that show, receives the "dream ticket" which entitles them to audition at one of the show's official audition cities around the country. If you think you have what it takes, then you too can audition for your chance to win the "dream ticket" and quite possibly become the next "American Idol."

If performing is not your thing, well being in the audience is just as much fun at least for me. Once in your seat, the performers come on stage and sing a "Disney" approved song, are judged by three judges who capture the essence of Randy, Paula and Simon – hilarious actually -- and you vote for your favorite. It's a lot of fun for the entire family!

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Haunted Mansion Rehaunting Video

2009-05-11T21:49:00.001-05:00

Walt Disney World Resort Now on the iPhone & iPod touch

2009-05-10T14:55:00.000-05:00

Source: prMac

TimeStream Software announces the release of the powerful new "Walt Disney World" Notescast(R) for the iPhone and iPod touch. With over 200 pages of information, over 150 photos, and rich in-depth content, the new Walt Disney World Notescast is a comprehensive vacation planner and in-park guide covering nearly every aspect of the entire resort and all four theme parks, including the Magic Kingdom(R), Epcot(R), Disney's Animal Kingdom(R), Disney's Hollywood Studios(TM) and more.

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Free Ticket Upgrade

2009-05-07T10:01:00.001-05:00

Source: PR Web

If you have ever wanted to take a Disney World vacation....now is absolutely the best time to do it. Airlines, car rental companies, hotel wholesalers and specialty travel organizations are cutting prices across the board and the deals that are being offered are almost unbelievable. One particular offering was from orlandovacation.com, where they are upgrading all 4 day Disney World tickets to 7 day tickets for free.

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Disney's Hollywood Studios Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

2009-05-02T12:07:00.001-05:00

Magic Kingdom is busiest theme park in year of flat attendance

2009-04-17T08:39:00.002-05:00

Source: Orlando Sentinel

Attendance growth at Central Florida's theme parks stalled in 2008, according to an annual report released Thursday, as the spreading recession caught up with everyone.

The report found that the combined gate of Walt Disney World's four theme parks was essentially flat for the year, while attendance slipped slightly at Universal Orlando and slightly more at SeaWorld Orlando. It also again ranked seven Orlando-area parks among the 10 busiest in North America.

But the parent company of SeaWorld immediately condemned the estimates, which were prepared by Los Angeles-based Economics Research Associates and the Themed Entertainment Association.

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Walt Disney World Epcot TEST TRACK

2009-04-12T15:29:00.001-05:00

Disney World Fireworks Display "Wishes" Magic Kingdom

2009-04-09T15:32:00.001-05:00

Disney World remains storm ready

2009-04-09T15:28:00.001-05:00

Source: bizjournals

The National Weather Service has renewed Walt Disney World’s status in its StormReady Community program though 2012.

The designation recognizes Disney’s emergency management preparations. The company has a program for continually reviewing and improving communication and safety procedures that would be used during severe weather.

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Walt Disney World Space Mountain to be closed from April to November

2009-04-04T08:05:00.001-05:00

Source: Orlando Sentinel

Walt Disney World has filed notice that work is about to begin on its Space Mountain overhaul.

The filing doesn't provide many new details about what's in store for the iconic Magic Kingdom coaster. But it does say improvements will be made in four areas: Facility, ride control, fire alarm and guest flow.

Disney has previously said the rehab will include installing new track (though the track layout won't change), a new queue enclosure and a new ceiling.

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The Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World [Official Trailer]

2009-04-03T13:02:00.001-05:00

Free Dining Plan at Disney World

2009-04-02T11:09:00.001-05:00

Source: About.com

Yet another Disney deal -- they just keep on comin', in 2009.

This one's actually a repeat, back for a limited engagement: once again, guests can buy a package that includes accommodation at a Disney World Resort, theme park tickets, and a free Disney Dining Plan. Dates are from Aug. 16 to Oct. 3, 2009.

Disney World has Luxury Resorts, Moderate Resorts, Value Resorts... Rooms at a Value Resort sleep four at a very reasonable price, and guests have all the perks of staying at a Disney World Resort.

Number of packages available is limited, and you need to book by June 21 2009 with a special code...

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Disney World Magic Kingdom schedule change gives us bonus hours

2009-03-29T11:13:00.001-05:00

Source: Orlando Sentinel

I was at the Disney World Magic Kingdom with visiting family last night when I experienced something new: Disney changed the park's hours and kept it open later.

In all my visits to Disney's Magic Kingdom, I haven't encountered that situation before. We watched (and hugely enjoyed) the 9 p.m. "Wishes" fireworks. 9 p.m. was supposed to be Magic Kingdom closing time. But as soon as the show ended, a live parkwide announcement was made, stating the Kingdom would remain open until 11 p.m. with an encore performance of the "SpectroMagic" parade at 10.

A lot of people left anyway; perhaps they didn't hear or understand the announcement in the post-fireworks chaos. Or, just as likely, they were beat after a long day.

But we stayed and rode old favorite Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters and Snow White's Scary Adventures, which we hadn't gotten around to doing during the day. We caught another showing of Monsters Inc. Comedy Laugh Floor, which my cousin's 8-year-old had taken a shine to. And, we gave Disney some more money: We had a late dinner at Cosmic Ray's and watched Sonny Eclipse.

In other words, it was a fantastic bonus for us.

I do think Disney World should have made more than one announcement about the extended hours: Maybe announcing the change before the 8:15 p.m. "SpectroMagic" and before "Wishes" would have given more people time to change their plan.

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Reports: Hundreds laid off at Disney World

2009-03-27T22:21:00.001-05:00

Source: bizjournals

Hundreds of Walt Disney World employees were handed pink slips and escorted off the property Thursday, according to media reports.

The reports do not have specific numbers, but estimates range from 400 to 800. The reports say that Disney's back-office functions are one area where the layoffs are taking place.

One report, from television station Central Florida News 13 reported the restructuring is not affecting union workers.

Disney announced March 11 that about 50 executives in the company’s theme park division accepted buyouts as part of a workforce reduction plan announced in earlier this year.

The company offered buyouts to about 600 executives, half of them working at Walt Disney World. The company didn’t say how many of the 50 parks and resorts division executives who accepted buyouts worked at Walt Disney World.

[Read On]

Disney World offers Easter activities for the whole family

2009-03-27T09:20:00.001-05:00

Source: Examiner.com

There can be no better Easter than waking up in the morning and going on an Easter egg hunt right at your Walt Disney World Resort. Follow the hunt with a nice brunch at one of many of the Disney restaurants. Then get to spend the day at one of the theme parks, which will be holding a variety of Easter activities for guests of all ages.

Information is just starting to be released about a variety of activities that will be available throughout the Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Resorts. Below is an overview of some activities that are in the process of being planned.
During Easter week, you will have a chance to meet the Easter Bunny, who takes time out of his busy schedule to visit the Magic Kingdom Park. The Easter Bunny is generally near the front of the park, however, check with the parks guide map and times sheet for exact times and location.

The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival occurs over the Easter holiday and offers a variety of activities themed around both events. Check with the park guide upon entering the park for specific details.

Every year many resorts offer either an Easter egg hunt or “candy scramble” for the little guests at many of the moderate, deluxe and Disney Vacation Club resorts. Other Easter activities, which have been offered in the past at the resorts, include pool parties, lawn games (water balloon toss, sac races and more), Easter coloring, jelly bean tasting contest and other Easter-themed crafts and activities. Upon checking in to a Walt Disney World Resort ask for an Easter activity schedule which will list activities, locations and times. Many recreation departments are still in the planning process for Easter activities, but I have been told that they will be similar to previous year’s events.

Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club will be offering a variety of Easter-themed crafts and activities. Everyday there is a pool party and guests can dance the Cupid Shuffle with the lifeguards. Every night there is a sing-along campfire where guests can make their very own s’mores and afterward grab a beach towel and enjoy a movie along the shores of Crescent Lake.

[Read On

Cat Cora to open Mediterranean restaurant at Disney World

2009-03-26T15:01:00.002-05:00

Source: USA Today

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — Disney World has a new cat in town. Celebrity chef Cat Cora is partnering with the Orlando area theme park to open a new Mediterranean-style restaurant.

Kouzzina, to be owned and operated by Disney, is scheduled to open by fall 2009 on Disney's BoardWalk in the space currently occupied by Spoodles.

[Read On]

Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade 1-26-09 Part 1 of 3

2009-03-08T14:41:00.001-05:00

Walt Disney World's Downtown Disney Virgin Megastore To Close

2009-03-07T14:58:00.002-06:00

Source: Magical Mountain

Downtown Disney, at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, will be losing the Virgin Megastore location that has been located there for years. Simon Wright, Virgin Entertainment Group CEO, made the announcement on Friday at their corporate offices in Los Angeles.

Due to mass closures, approximately 100 corporate employees will lose their jobs as well as hundreds of retail workers. The cuts are due to the economic times, as well as the emergence of online businesses such as iTunes and Amazon.com as music retail giants.

[Read On]

Park for free at Disney World

2009-03-03T11:36:00.000-06:00

Source: Examiner.com

I know, free parking at the Walt Disney World Resorts sounds a lot like a fairy tale. But it is true. There are still some locations at the happiest place on earth where parking is free. You just need to know where to find it.

With parking at the Disney World Theme Parks now at $12 for cars ($13 for campers and trailers and $16 for busses and tractor trailers), cost of parking alone for a five-day vacation can reach up to $60.

Think of what you can do while on vacation with that $60. You can add six pins to your pin collection; buy a few stuffed animals or a couple of T-shirts; eat a nice lunch for two (depending upon where you go); or any combination of the above options. The possibilities are endless.

Now the question is “where can I get free parking at Disney World?” There are a few options, depending upon what you want to do during your vacation and where your plans take you.

Downtown Disney, where shopping is a pleasure, has no charge for parking. There you can enjoy lunch, walk around the lake, rent a boat at the marina or shop. After you are done at Downtown Disney you can save on gas and leave your car there. Take advantage of the Disney transportation system. You can grab a bus to almost anywhere on Disney property, but keep in mind, that the busses do not go to any of the theme parks from Downtown Disney. Bus stops are located at the Marketplace and Pleasure Island.

You can also take a boat for a ride on the Sassagoula River and head to Port Orleans Riverside or French Quarter. There is also a boat that will take you across the lake from Captain Jack’s Restaurant to the dock at Downtown Disney’s West Side.

[Read On]

Disney World top chef takes buyout

2009-02-28T15:19:00.002-06:00

Source: Orlando Sentinel

The man who has led the development of new restaurants at Walt Disney World for more than a decade is stepping down.

Dieter Hannig, Disney World's vice president for new food-and-beverage concepts, said earlier this week that he will leave the resort at the end of March.

"I'm sad to say goodbye," Hannig said. "But you know, we must be willing to let go of the life we had planned in order to have the life we have waiting for us."

Hannig, 59, accepted one of the buyouts that Disney last month offered to more than 600 executives across its domestic theme-park division, as the Burbank, Calif.-based media-and-entertainment giant cuts costs amid a deepening global recession.

Disney has not said how many executives will depart through the buyouts, saying only that it received a "satisfactory response." The company also plans to lay off an undisclosed number of employees in coming weeks as part of a plan to combine back-office operations at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., and Disney World.

Disney has been hit hard by the worst recession in decades. Operating profit at its worldwide parks-and-resorts division fell by $123million, or 24percent, during the three months ended Dec.27; attendance at Disney World fell 5percent during the period.

Hannig has overseen the development of dozens of new restaurants at Disney World over the years. Critics credited him with elevating the resort into a top dining destination in the early 1990s, when he began encouraging executive chefs at Disney restaurants to run their eateries as if they owned them.

[Read On]

Typhoon Lagoon set to Reopen on March 22nd

2009-02-25T09:01:00.002-06:00

Source: LaughingPlace.com

Spring break is here and surf’s up at Walt Disney World Resort beginning March 22 when Typhoon Lagoon water park reopens following refurbishment. A day later, would-be surfers will learn to ride the wave during the season’s first Cocoa Beach Surf School session.

Guests can enjoy both “bobbing” and surfing-size waves during regular Typhoon Lagoon operating hours, but activity is limited to body surfing. However, during reservation-only sessions before and after park hours, “surf’s up” and the boards are in the water:

Cocoa Beach Surf School – With mentoring from professional surf instructors, participants learn the basics during the 2½-hour early-morning class on select mornings. Instruction begins on land, then moves into the water on boards provided by the surf school. Class enrollment is by reservation and size is limited to 12 to 14 participants. For more information and reservations, guests can call 407/WDW-PLAY.

Private Surf Events – Accomplished surfers can hold events with custom surfing waves either on mornings when the surf school isn’t in session or after normal operating hours. Information and reservations are available by calling 407/WDW-SURF.

[Read On]

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

2009-02-24T12:12:00.001-06:00

Indy Racing returns to Walt Disney World

2009-02-23T08:40:00.004-06:00

Source: Boston Herald

Vacationers who aren’t auto racing fans may not realize when their standing at the entrance of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, they’re less than a half mile from a former Indy Racing track. They may suspect something, however, when they hear the sounds of a hurtling race car as they walk through the parking lot to their cars.

Nine years after the last Indy 200 sped around the 1-mile Walt Disney World Speedway, Indy Racing has returned in the form of an attraction that leaves other Disney car adventures in its dust. For $109, thrill seekers can take a minute trip in comfort, hurtling three times around the track at speeds of up to 165 mph.

If the idea sounds familiar, it may be because the Richard Petty Driving Experience shares the same track, offering NASCAR vehicles as its ride. The Indy Racing Experience picks up when the Richard Petty experience stops, operating from 4 p.m. to dusk each day.

[Read On]

Toy Story Midway Mania [Full Ride]

2009-02-22T10:50:00.001-06:00

Random WDW Image of the Day - 02/21/09

2009-02-21T09:45:00.003-06:00

Source: Orlando Sentinel

Disney hears big outcry over 'small world'' change

2009-02-21T09:30:00.001-06:00

Source: Orlando Sentinel

More than 40 years after the "it's a small world" ride is lowercase, song is not ride opened to promote world peace and showcase the cultures of the world, Disney is populating one of its most beloved attractions with its own trademark vision of the planet: Aladdin, Nemo, Ariel and more than two dozen cartoon characters plucked from its movies.

And those were not the only changes visitors found when the ride reopened at the end of January Friday to the general public: Disney has woven a few bars from some of its hit soundtracks into the classic "Small World" melody and added a new America section that includes a nod to Los Angeles' famous Hollywood Bowl, a quaint farm scene and Toy Story characters.

[Read On]

Be aware of refurbishments that could alter Disney vacation plans

2009-02-20T09:26:00.001-06:00

Source: examiner.com

It all goes back to what Walt Disney himself started just hours after the opening of Disneyland. He was already changing and updating things as guests were entering the park for the very first time. The Disney company still does that today and randomly closes attractions to update and make repairs.
Unfortunately, the closing of attractions can sometimes be a disappointment. Especially when you are looking forward to seeing a particular attraction. If you know ahead of time what attractions are closed it will not make the disappointment feel so bad.

Below is a list, park to park, of attractions that will be closed during the month of March for refurbishment. You will also want to check the parks map and tip boards for any unexpected closures.

Magic Kingdom Park

Hall of Presidents will be closed all month for refurbishment.

Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin will be closed from March 2 through March 6 for refurbishment.

Epcot Theme Park

Ellen's Energy Adventure in Future World will continue to be closed for refurbishment through March 22.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Sounds Dangerous - Starring Drew Carey will remain closed for the month of March. This attraction only operates seasonally.

Studio Backlot Tour will be closed starting March 1 for refurbishment and is scheduled to reopen March 28.

[Read On]

David Cook and Carrie Underwood Duet at Walt Disney World

2009-02-19T14:50:00.001-06:00

Management-structure overhaul planned for Disney World, Disneyland

2009-02-19T14:39:00.000-06:00

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced it will overhaul its theme park management structure with the goal of consolidating much its decision-making process for Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

The theme-park division of Walt Disney Co. (NYSE: DIS) offered scant details about specific changes, only saying that the announcement would accelerate efforts to streamline back-office operations.

The company originally announced a plan to reorganize operations in 2005, creating what it called a “one-Disney” structure that would unify the company’s theme park operations.

Disney didn’t say how many jobs might be eliminated as part of the overhaul. Last month it announced plans to cut 600 high-level management jobs through voluntary buyouts, 300 of them at Disney World.

Disney’s theme parks have been grappling with slowing attendance as the global economy worsens. It a news release, the company said the streamlining program is designed to “implement an organization and a cost structure that meet today’s realities.”

Earlier this month, Disney reported a 32 percent drop in profit in its first quarter, with its parks and resorts reporting revenue of $2.67 billion, down 4 percent. Disney reported a decline in attendance and occupied room nights at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort during the last three months of 2008.

[Read On]

Fact meets fantasy in Disney 'Small World' remake

2009-02-08T21:16:00.000-06:00

More than 40 years after the "It's A Small World" ride opened to promote world peace and showcase the cultures of the world, Disney is populating one of its most beloved attractions with its own trademark vision of the planet: Aladdin, Nemo, Ariel and more than two dozen cartoon characters plucked from its movies.

And those aren't the only changes visitors will find Thursday when the ride reopens: Disney has woven a few bars from some of its hit soundtracks into the classic "Small World" melody and added a new America section that includes a nod to Los Angeles' famous Hollywood Bowl, a quaint farm scene and "Toy Story" characters.

Disney says it supplemented the human dolls with make-believe figures to keep the aging ride appealing to younger generations and give it a new twist. Yet some angry fans see an unabashed marketing ploy that trashes the pacifist message at the heart of the "Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed the World" and ruins one of the few rides that remained unchanged since the days of Walt Disney.

"What message are they actually saying about the world?," said Jerry Beck, an animation historian who runs the blog Cartoon Brew. "That you can go anywhere and there will be a Disney theme park?"

[Read On]

Become an 'American Idol' at Disney World

2009-01-06T20:27:00.000-06:00

An attraction inspired by the American Idol TV show offically opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios Feb. 14.

Walt Disney World guests can register to audition in front of a Disney casting director for a chance to take part in the theme park show. Contestants who make the cut must then audition for a Disney producer. Those selected by producers will perform in front of an onstage panel of judges and an audience of park guests who vote on each show's winners.

Performing guests with the highest votes compete in an end-of-day grand finale show at the attraction. The winner of that competition gets a guaranteed reservation, with no waiting in long lines, for a future regional audition for the real American Idol TV show.

[Read On]

Disney Cruise Line® Panama Canal Crossing

2008-10-12T11:10:00.002-05:00

In 2009, come to a DISNEY PARK on your birthday and get in FREE!

2008-09-23T14:01:00.000-05:00

NEW YORK. Everyone who visits a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free, as Disney Parks embraces a newly identified family-travel trend called "celebration vacations"

A June 2008 survey of approximately 4,600 adults conducted by Ypartnership reveals that vacationers are increasingly motivated by events of high "personal significance" - milestone anniversaries,and birthdays, weddings and honeymoons, graduations and reunions and more. Seventy percent of respondents revealed they have taken a vacation primarily to celebrate a special occasion.

In 2009, Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts will lead this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences.

And to kick it all off: a first-ever opportunity for guests to receive a free ticket to one of the Disney theme parks on their birthday in 2009.

"Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year" said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, at an announcement event today in New York. "We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this new ’celebration vacation’ trend to Disney Parks"

"The motivations revealed in this fascinating piece of work suggest that vacations are increasingly viewed as an appropriate way to either recognize or reward the participants for some event of great significance in their lives" said Peter C. Yesawich, whose marketing services firm conducted the survey. "As such, we call them ’celebration vacations’"

Research showed that when families take that "celebration vacation" they are looking for destinations that provide activities for children and - better yet - activities that adults and children can enjoy together, Yesawich said.

[Read On]

Disney Vacation Club Continues Unprecedented Growth

2008-09-16T20:50:00.000-05:00

Here are two press release videos regarding the new additions to the Disney Vacation Club.

USA ‘Culinary Olympics’ at Walt Disney World

2008-08-20T08:01:00.000-05:00

In a quest to represent the United States at the world’s most prestigious culinary competition, culinary greats will put their spatulas to the test to compete for the Bocuse d’Or World Cuisine Competition. This spectacular event will serve as the kick off for the opening weekend of the 13th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in Walt Disney World.

Renowned Chefs Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller and many of the country’s leading chefs have created a not-for-profit organization to recruit, train, and support the American team for the Bocuse d’Or, held every two years in Lyon, France.

Eight semi-finalist teams will turn up the heat in the kitchen at Walt Disney World Resort in the hope their culinary creations land them a top spot representing Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or World Cuisine Competition – commonly called the “Culinary Olympics” – in Lyon, France, in January 2009.

Walt Disney World guests can attend the competition and observe the chefs performing their culinary wizardry and savor the flavors. Each of the eight teams will serve up elaborate fish and beef dishes before a live audience and prominent panel including the country’s top chefs, Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, Charlie Trotter, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Georges Perrier, Michel Richard, Laurent Tourondel and former Bocuse d’Or USA competitors.

[Read On]

Disney World 3D in Google Earth

2008-07-19T23:43:00.002-05:00

The title explains it all.

Plan A Disney World Visit In 3-D

2008-06-17T16:09:00.002-05:00

From: Courant.com

Tourists overwhelmed by the mind-boggling size of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., will now be able to plan their tour with the help of a 3-D Google Earth map created by The Walt Disney Co.

The map of the four theme parks and 22 hotels at Disney World shows souvenir shacks, merry-go-round horses and even benches for resting. Google Earth, an interactive 3-D mapping program, allows you to create travelogues by embedding photos, videos and commentary about locations they highlight. Disney's Google Earth entry also contains links to blogs and YouTube videos. Nearly nine in 10 park guests plan their vacations online, Disney said. Visit www.disneyworld.com/3dparks for more information.

[Read On]

No Signs of a Slowdown in Traffic at Disney's Parks

2008-05-07T00:08:00.001-05:00

From: The New York Times

LOS ANGELES — Mickey Mouse, so far at least, is not a discretionary expense.

Consumers, buffeted by rising costs for gasoline and groceries, have been finding ways to cut back on nonessential spending. But the Walt Disney Company said Tuesday that it saw no weakness in its theme park business, a unit that has come under scrutiny as an indicator of whether declining consumer confidence is seeping into more nooks and crannies of the economy.

Disney, reporting results for its fiscal second quarter, said that operating income in its parks and resorts division rose 33 percent on revenue of $2.7 billion. The Easter holiday, which fell early this year, delivered a significant lift. But even when the Easter bump was factored out, attendance at Disney’s theme parks was slightly higher, Thomas O. Staggs, the company’s chief financial officer, said in a conference call with analysts.

“Our parks offer a unique experience that simply is not available elsewhere,” said Robert A. Iger, Disney’s chief executive. Mr. Iger declined to speculate on how the parks would fare in the months ahead, but noted that hotel room reservations at Walt Disney World in Florida were “very strong” in April, the first month of Disney’s third quarter.

For the first three months of 2008, Disney reported net income of $1.1 billion, or 58 cents a share, a 22 percent rise from $931 million, or 44 cents a share, a year earlier. Revenue increased 9.5 percent, to $8.71 billion.

Strong DVD sales for “Enchanted” and “No Country for Old Men” helped drive a 61 percent jump in profit at Walt Disney Studios. The division also got a lift from blockbuster ticket sales for “Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour.” The movie, presented in 3-D, was filmed on a shoestring budget but generated more than $65 million in tickets at North American theaters.

At the media networks unit, which includes ABC and ESPN, profit soared 14 percent on revenue of $1.3 billion. Disney said that ESPN had benefited in the quarter from contractual increases in carriage fees from cable networks. ABC Studios, which produces shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” fueled the rise in profit because it recorded lower production costs.

[Read On]

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

2008-04-30T00:09:00.002-05:00

Disney Channel Games To Begin This Week in Orlando

2008-04-28T14:45:00.002-05:00

From: Gear Live

Walt Disney World’s Wide World of Sports will be the center of the known tween world this week when The Disney Channel Games kick off tomorrow in Orlando.

Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, the Cheetah Girls and the ubiquitous Sprouse brothers from The Suite Life of Zack & Cody are among Disney stars continental and international who will compete this week with winnings going to charity.

Tuesday and Thursday production will be free and open to the public, albeit in a very limited way. Disney officials told the Orlando Sentinel, “We can’t have regular kids on the field.” That is due in part to the fact that the games aren’t really a sporting event, it’s more like a series of reality TV challenges. Footage shot this week will culminate in five half-hour shows that debut in late July on the Disney Channel.

[Read On]

Disney World's Flamingo Crossings roadwork starts

2008-04-16T23:39:00.001-05:00

From: Orlando Sentinel

Site preparation is beginning for the future road network that will serve Walt Disney World's planned new lower-rent commercial district, Flamingo Crossings.

Contractors working for the Reedy Creek Improvement District are pushing dirt around outside the interchange of State Road 429 and Western Way, the western entrance into Disney.

At that interchange, Disney World is planning a 450-acre commercial area of small restaurants, stores, service shops and "value-oriented" hotels and motels.

Last week Disney filed paperwork with the Orange County Comptroller's Office announcing property swaps that give Reedy Creek the land it needs to build some of the roads in the area. Plans call for Hartzog Road, which is mostly unpaved there, to be relocated somewhat and paved. A loop road will come off Hartzog to the west. The above picture, shot in late March, shows the area where the loop road will be built, along with a sign warning people to keep an eye out for indigo snakes.

Reedy Creek Administrator Ray Maxwell said contractors will be mostly leveling land and installing utility lines for the next few months.

Flamingo Crossings is to be built in phases over eight to 10 years.

Disney's land company, Buena Vista Land Co., began advertising parcels in the area in November.

Plans call for 4,000 to 5,000 rooms in low- to mid-rise lodges -- priced to compete with moderate hotels and motels off Disney property.

The 300,000 to 500,000 square feet of retail space at Flamingo Crossings would target merchants of practical wares and services that tourists, Disney employees and area residents might need, such as groceries, toiletries or basic clothing -- thereby competing with area shopping centers and outlet stores that draw many visitors off Disney property. The restaurants might include a mix of fast-food and casual-dining franchises not common on Disney grounds.

[Read On]

Expedition Everest video from Walt Disney World

2008-04-16T15:50:00.004-05:00

Here is a user submitted video of Expedition Everest from Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Know when to stay at Disney World resorts for the lowest rates

2008-04-16T15:40:00.001-05:00

From: SmarterTravel.com

Disney World is famous for being secretive about its inner workings, but one thing it does make public is its seasonal hotel pricing. Instead of having to do an individual date search, you can find the high and low rates for each of its 24 resorts and the dates to which those rates apply on the Disney website. Knowing these price schedules can help you pick the travel dates that promise the lowest rates.

Here's a quick price rundown:

Disney's nightly rates range from $42 for a campsite at the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground during the low (value) season to $2,155 for a deluxe villa at the BoardWalk Villas during the holiday season.
The starting 2008 nightly rates for hotel rooms are $82 at value resorts, $149 at moderate resorts, $225 at deluxe resorts, and $265 at deluxe villa resorts.
The cheapest times to stay at value and moderate resorts are right after the December holidays, late summer to early fall, and early December. Rates are slightly higher from April through Memorial Day, and from October to December. The most expensive times are during the December holidays, winter and spring breaks, and summer.
The cheapest times to stay at deluxe and deluxe villa resorts and Fort Wilderness are right after the December holidays, late July to early fall, and early December. Rates go up from April to mid-July and from October to December. The most expensive times are during the December holidays, followed by winter and spring break.

[Read On]

Runners gear up for Walt Disney World Marathon

2007-11-29T13:00:00.000-06:00

From: Airflights.co.uk

Thousands of people from around the world are expected to dust off their running shoes in order to take part in the annual Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in Orlando, Florida.

On Saturday January 12th, people running the half-marathon will line up at the starting line in Epcot at 6am before speeding off to the Magic Kingdom and back.

The next day, the full marathon will set off from Epcot, running through the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Disney-MGM Studios before returning to Epcot to finish under the huge sphere of the Spaceship Earth attraction.

However, the really ambitious runners will be attempting to complete both events as part of Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge.

As the weekend will mark the 15th anniversary of the event, runners who complete either the half or full marathon will get a special medal and entrance to a special post-race party at Disney's entertainment complex at Pleasure Island.

Of course, spectators and runners who have not had enough excitement for the day can opt to explore Epcot, which houses both futuristic rides such as Mission Space and Test Track and more sedate cultural attractions at the World Pavilion.

[Read on]

Wishes

2007-10-26T20:10:00.001-05:00

Walt Disney World adds 3 more hotels to Fla. Green Lodging program

2007-09-16T21:25:00.000-05:00

Walt Disney World's Contemporary, Old Key West and Saratoga Springs Resorts were designated Tuesday by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection as the 34th, 35th and 36th Florida hotels in its Florida Green Lodging Program.

The program is a voluntary state initiative that provides the hotel industry with technical assistance and encourages it to adopt cost-saving "green" practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Among the measures taken by the three Disney (NYSE: DIS) hotels are a formal communication program between staff and guests, promoting environmental education and public feedback. In addition, the hotels conserve water through towel and linen reuse programs and low-flow toilets, faucets and other fixtures, and conserve energy with programmable thermostats, indoor and outdoor lighting sensors, a computerized energy management system and high energy-efficient lighting.

Waste is reduced by recycling office paper, newspaper, aluminum and steel cans and corrugated cardboard, purchasing products with 30 percent post consumer content and instituting policies such as bulk purchasing and reduced packaging. Indoor air quality is improved by utilizing high quality air-conditioning filters, using environmentally preferable cleaners and following a preventative maintenance schedule for all air-conditioning systems.

The state program was launched in March 2004. It establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. As a reward for designation, the state recommends facilities within the Green Lodging Program to companies and trade organizations seeking environmentally conscious lodging and convention facilities.

[Read on]

Walt Disney World - Splash Mountain

2007-09-02T13:14:00.001-05:00

Random WDW Image of the Day - 08/29/07

2007-08-29T15:06:00.000-05:00

Random WDW Video of the Day - 08/26/07

2007-08-26T03:19:00.001-05:00

High School Musical 2 Parade - Walt Disney World - Disney-MGM Studios

Random WDW Link of the Day - 08/25/07

2007-08-25T10:19:00.000-05:00

AllEarsNet.com

This is a great information and planning guide for Walt Disney World. I used this site to plan most of my last trip. I highly recommend that you visit if you're planning on going to Disney World, especially if you're planning on staying on site.

Random WDW Image of the Day - 08/23/07

2007-08-23T11:45:00.000-05:00

Epcot restaurants cooking up a world of changes

2007-08-22T21:14:00.000-05:00

With Soarin', Turtle Talk, and Nemo and Friends attractions successfully lining up visitors at Epcot, Walt Disney World planners are turning attention to the park's other lineup of attractions -- involving sushi, tequila and pasta.

Numerous culinary changes are under way at Epcot, which might be the only theme park in the world where food and drink compete with shows and rides. The Walt Disney World theme park has its share of attractions, but it also features a dozen full-service restaurants where average checks run $20 to $40 a person or more.

From 1998 through last year, the dining lineup at Epcot's World Showcase went almost unchanged. Now, three new restaurants are on the way, several others are being expanded or renovated, and menus are being rewritten throughout the park to encourage more healthful cooking styles.

The more extensive renovations are bringing some of the restaurants in line with the latest concept in the theme-park business -- creating "immersive experiences." Jim MacPhee, Epcot vice president, said the park is seeking more "interactive dining" experiences that can provide more show-style cooking in the dining room, such as the Japanese teppanyaki style, or more interaction with Epcot's other attractions.

Among the changes are new restaurants in Italy and Japan, and changes at the eatery in China. Mexico's restaurant has already been expanded with a new menu. Next, Mexico will get a tequila bar and outdoor waterfront seating so visitors can see the nighttime "Illuminations" show on the lagoon, MacPhee said.

The United Kingdom restaurants also could one day get more outdoor waterfront.

[Read on]

Disney Channel to Launch HD Channel

2007-08-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

Disney Channel will be launching an HD simulcast channel, according to DirecTV, which said it will debut the service early next year.

Disney Channel officials couldn’t be reached for comment Tuesday, but the nation’s largest satellite provider disclosed plans for Disney Channel HD in a press release Tuesday on High School Musical 2. DirecTV has exclusive rights to air the premiere of the HD version of the record-breaking movie Aug. 21.

DirecTV also noted that next year it will debuting Disney Channel HD, which will feature the channel's original movies in HD, as well as original live action and animated series for older kids and Playhouse Disney programming for preschoolers.

DirecTV will have the exclusive HD broadcast of the premiere of Disney Channel’s hit movie High School Musical 2 Aug. 24 at 6 p.m., 9 p.m. and midnight. DirecTV customers can watch the three screenings in HD, with 5.1 digital audio, by tuning into the satellite provider’s original entertainment channel, The 101.

High School Musical 2 will air three times on The 101, providing multiple opportunities for viewers to catch the HD adventures of some of their favorite high school heroes. In between each airing, The 101 will also feature additional Disney Channel programming including a sneak peek of the brand new upcoming animated comedy series Phineas and Ferb, High School Musical: The Concert and a variety of the channel's short form programming.

[Read on]

Random WDW Image of the Day - 08/20/07

2007-08-20T13:58:00.000-05:00

It's salad for Mickey as Disney parks ban junk food

2006-10-18T01:08:00.000-05:00

DISNEY has joined the healthy eating revolution by banning junk food at its theme parks in Europe and the United States.

The entertainment giant said that it would also veto any plan to use its characters to promote unhealthy food or drinks.

The move comes after the ending this year of a decade-long deal with McDonald’s to promote its films with Happy Meals. Cars and Pirates of The Caribbean II were used to promote the burger firm this summer.

Robert Iger, the Disney chief executive, said that the move came in response to comments from parents about the eating habits of their kids. The company was “well aware of the huge responsibility we have, given our reach and our ability to impact people’s behaviour and opinions”, he said. “It was the right thing to do.”

Under the proposals, the company’s theme parks, including Disneyland Paris, Disneyland and Disneyworld in Florida, will no longer sell burgers or chips. They will instead start to serve vegetables and fruit juice or low-fat milk, rather than soft drinks. [read on]

See The World, One Disney Park At a Time

2006-09-30T08:25:00.000-05:00

The rain was pouring, the skies were a murky gray and Mickey's magic wasn't working on the visitors cursing and scampering for cover at Hong Kong Disneyland.

But Keith Simpson and his six friends from Sydney — all Disney fanatics sporting matching polo shirts that show Mickey ears over Australia's map — couldn't have been happier.

The group was in Hong Kong on the second leg of their Disney-themed round-the-world tour, realizing months of planning for a 32-day trip that takes them to every Disney park in the world — from Tokyo to Hong Kong to Paris, to the U.S. flagships, Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., and Walt Disney World near Orlando. [read on]

Walt Disney World Rumor Mill for The Week of September 10, 2006

2006-09-11T20:19:00.000-05:00

We've heard a rumor that Cast Members who have worked in the Adventurers Club have been encouraged to audition for the Monsters, Inc.: The Laugh Floor Comedy Club opening in Tomorrowland next year. This may imply the Laugh Floor will be a very improvisational show.

Epcot's Canada pavilion may finally be getting a new updated CircleVision film. On the British Columbia Film Commission's web site, "Disney's Canada CircleVision Film" is listed as a documentary under production this week. Hopefully this means a new film will be in the theater within a year or so.
Chase Flexible Rewards

At The Seas, testing of Nemo's Undersea Adventure has begun, with Clamobiles making the rounds currently without people. Lou thinks it may be as little as three to four weeks before some unannounced soft openings.

Disney is testing free Wi-Fi internet access at the Wide World of Sports complex. Why they have chosen such an unusual location is unknown. [read on]

New at Disney World: Comedy club, wish-granting and Nemo musical

2006-09-11T18:52:00.000-05:00

Disney World is launching a new program called "The Year of a Million Dreams" ---- but you'll have to luck out to take advantage of it.

Starting Oct. 1, Disney cast members will be empowered to grant wishes big and small to guests ---- including free dining, ticket upgrades, FastPasses that allow entry into all the major attractions, shopping sprees and opportunities to travel the world to be grand marshal at parades in Disney parks globally. Starting in January, families visiting the park will be chosen at random to stay atop Cinderella's Castle in Disney's first-ever castle suite.

Disney World is also debuting a new attraction in early 2007 ---- the Laugh Floor Comedy Club at Magic Kingdom, which will allow guests to laugh, joke, sing songs and match wits with the animated characters from Disney-Pixar's "Monsters, Inc."

Also new at Disney is "Finding Nemo ---- the Musical," at Animal Kingdom, opening in November, and the conversion of 400 guest rooms to 192 family suites, each sleeping up to six people, by mid-October at Disney's All-Star Music Resort. [read on]

Disney: It's a secure world after all

2006-09-07T12:40:00.000-05:00

Walt Disney World, which bills itself as one of the happiest and most magical places anywhere, also may be one of the most closely watched and secure. The most popular tourist attraction in the United States is beginning to scan visitors' fingerprint information.

For years, Disney has recorded onto tickets the geometry and shape of visitors' fingers to prevent ticket fraud or resale, as an alternative to time-consuming photo identification checks.

By the end of September, all of the geometry readers at Disney's four Orlando theme parks will be replaced with machines that scan fingerprint information, according to industry experts familiar with the technology. The four parks attract tens of millions of visitors each year.

"It's essentially a technology upgrade," said Kim Prunty, spokeswoman for Walt Disney World. The new scanner, like the old finger geometry scanner, "takes an image, identifies a series of points, measures the distance between those points, and turns it into a numerical value."

She added, "To call it a fingerprint is a little bit of a stretch." [read on]

Enjoy Walt Disney world events with a special offer

2006-08-18T10:28:00.000-05:00

As the year comes to an end, the fun is just beginning at Walt Disney World Resort. The vacation kingdom offers guests a new Disney celebration, an impressive lineup of special events, and even a little something extra - a special package for guests visiting most nights Oct. 1 through Dec. 23, 2006.

Guests booked on the Walt Disney Travel Company's Magic Your Way Package can enjoy a 5-night, 6-day package for as little as US $355 per adult, US $217 per junior and US $176 per child (based on adult double occupancy at a Disney Value Resort standard room). This specially-priced Magic Your Way Package includes accommodations and theme park tickets and must be booked by Sept. 30, 2006.

This discount times perfectly with the kick-off of Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams" as well as an array of Walt Disney World special events happening throughout the fall. Guests can visit the Magic Kingdom in costume and trick-or-treat for candy and goodies during Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween party starting on Sept. 15. They can also sample delicious cuisine and wonderful wines from around the world at the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival from Sept. 29 - Nov. 12, or they can delight in the sights and sounds of the holidays at the many seasonal events taking place in Disney theme parks beginning Nov. 13.

To book this offer, guests can call 1-407-WDW-STAR and ask for booking code ZAY, or contact their local Travel Agent or visit www.disneyworld.ca for more information. [read on]

Radio Disney Streams via iTunes

2006-08-17T13:37:00.000-05:00

In an effort to continue to allow Disney fans to access content wherever and whenever they want it, Radio Disney programming is now available via iTunes.

The programming is streamed live on the iTunes radio tuner under the Top 40/Pop section, according to Mediaweek. Radio Disney is also available on both XM and Sirius Satellite Radio, as well as on the on-demand music channel on Verizon/VOD (Music Choice digital cable) and on its own RadioDisney.com website. [read on]

Disney's Orlando resort to get new leader

2006-08-17T13:35:00.000-05:00

Walt Disney World this afternoon will announce the new leader of the Orlando resort.

Last November, Al Weiss, who has run the organization since 1994, was promoted to oversee all Disney parks worldwide. Weiss was running the local operation in the interim but said then there would be a search for a new person to oversee the local theme parks, water parks, time shares and hotels. Walt Disney World is the region's largest employer with about 58,000 employees.

Insiders and observers have speculated that possible candidates for the job include Karl Holz, president of Euro Disney SCA and a former senior vice president of operations for Disney World; and Jim Lewis, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club timeshares. [read on]

World's smartest people meet in Disney for competition

2006-08-11T21:47:00.000-05:00

So where do the smartest people in the world go for a good time? Walt Disney World, of course. This weekend, about 2,000 people with an IQ of at least 130 gathered in Orlando to celebrate the 60th birthday of the group Mensa.

The event, the first of its kind in America, drew more than 2,000 brainiacs from over 38 countries and all US state's except Wyoming

So what do the world's smartest people do for a good time? The weekend included 300 speeches, how-to's, seminars and classes, trivia competitions, dodgeball games, yoga and, of course, lots of stimulating conversation.

The event was also a fund-raiser for Mensa scholarships, which total around $58,000 annually at the national level and give aspirant students a plum resume bulletpoint. [read on]

Radio Disney Signs Another Mobile Media Deal

2006-07-21T10:02:00.000-05:00

Radio Disney and MobiTV said they will launch a Radio Disney mobile channel to be broadcast via MobiTV's MobiRadio service.

"Radio Disney's base of millions of listeners can turn on to new technology with MobiRadio, and they can now use their mobile phones to access their favorite Radio Disney content," the companies stated.

The broadcast company also has a mobile phone multimedia service agreement with another supplier, mSpot.

MobiTV provides television and digital radio services for cellular, WiFi and broadband enabled devices. The company's Erik Smith said MobiTV has more than 1 million subscribers for its mobile TV and radio services. "We know that consumers enjoy the thrill of getting their media on their mobile device." [read on]

Disneyland, Walt Disney World Pirates Of The Caribbean Attraction Concept Art (Via Disneyland Paris)

2006-06-06T16:20:00.000-05:00

The unofficial Disneyland Paris Resort site currently features concept art from the upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean attraction refurbishments in Florida and California.

The refurbishments will incorporate Johnny Depp's Jack Sparrow, Geoffrey Rush's Captain Barbossa and Bill Nighy's Davy Jones characters into the classic attractions, just in time for the premiere of Dead Man's Chest.

For those of you curious as to what you might expect when the attractions reopen in June (California) and July (Florida), click this link (warning: possible spoilers!) [read on]

Hilton to build hotels near Disney World

2006-06-05T08:48:00.000-05:00

Hilton Hotels Corp. said Wednesday it plans to build two new hotels on property adjacent to the Walt Disney World theme park.

Construction of a new 1,000 room Hilton Hotel and a 500-room Waldorf Astoria is expected to break ground at the end of this year, with the hotels scheduled to open in the summer of 2009 in the Bonnet Creek resort development.

Project developers and owners include Merrill Lynch Global Principal Investments, GEM Realty Capital Inc., Bonnet Creek Venture, Ltd. and Hilton Hotels Corp. Hilton will also manage the hotels. [read on]

NOAA NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DECLARES WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT STORMREADY

2006-05-31T09:15:00.000-05:00

Officials from the NOAA National Weather Service have declared Walt Disney World® Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., as a StormReady® community. As the first theme park and resort in the nation to achieve this recognition, Walt Disney World joins more than 1,050 StormReady communities throughout the United States. (Click NOAA illustration using StormReady poster for larger view. Click here for high resolution version. Please credit “NOAA.”)

"More than 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 2,500 floods and 1,000 tornadoes affect the United States annually, and hurricanes pose a significant threat—especially to the coastal regions of the Gulf and southeastern states," said retired Air Force Brig. Gen. David L. Johnson, director of the NOAA National Weather Service. "The National Weather Service developed the StormReady program to help protect every American from such hazardous weather." [read on]

$120m saltwater system eyed for Disney toilets

2006-05-23T10:08:00.000-05:00

The government is seeking approval to spend HK$119.5 million to construct a saltwater supply system in Penny's Bay so Hong Kong Disneyland can flush toilets without wasting fresh water.

The planned construction, put off once before and part of the original agreement to construct the theme park, is set to be completed by 2009, if the public works subcommittee approves the measure at a meeting on June 21. According to information from the Economic Labor and Development Bureau to the economic services panel Monday, the original plan was to build a saltwater supply station "on a site to be reclaimed under the Tai Ho development" by this year.

Since no construction has gone forward, Disneyland has been using fresh water to flush its toilets.

The proposed new saltwater service reservoir and the proposed saltwater pumping station will join an existing saltwater main that runs along the North Lantau Highway in Ta Pang Po.

The reservoir will be constructed about 450 meters south of the highway, next to the current Sunny Bay fresh- water reservoir in Yam O Tuk. The reservoir's capacity will be 2,500 cubic meters of water. [read on]

Disney No Longer In The Happy Meal Business

2006-05-08T16:08:00.000-05:00

The ten-year marriage between two global monoliths of mass-market junk nourishment--McDonald's and Disney--will soon be coming to an end, according to the LAT, as the fast food chain has had second thoughts about helping contribute to an America in which hypertension-suffering 9-year-olds shop for back-to-school wear in the "Obese Lil' Miss" section of Wal-Mart. We can't help but feel a twinge of sadness as the iconic arches and ears go their separate ways, however, knowing that it's the last time we'll be able to admire our Captain Jack Sparrow Pull-Back-Motor Haunted Go-Ship while simultaneously gorging on deep-fried chicken byproduct units drenched in the dipping sauce of our choice. [read on]

Disney offers Magical Beginnings packages

2006-05-06T20:21:00.000-05:00

Disney parks in Florida and California have launched a program called Magical Beginnings aimed at families with children age five and under.

The programs were developed in response to research from the Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell firm showing that 80 percent of families believe the ideal age for their first big vacation is when the kids are five or younger.

"Age-appropriate activities and attractions are very important to this group of family travellers,'' said the firm's chair, Peter Yesawich, in a statement.

The program, which includes a discounted package deal on accommodations, food and park tickets, begins Aug. 13 and runs through Sept. 30 at Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., and through Nov. 21 at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif.

Disney World is offering a $950 US package from Aug. 13 to Sept. 30, for families with one child age three to nine.

The $950 covers a five-day, four-night stay; Magic Your Way theme park tickets and a Disney Dining plan. Additional children are $173 per child. [read on]

Disney to offer a milder thrill ride to Mars

2006-05-04T08:57:00.000-05:00

Florida's Walt Disney World on Wednesday said it will offer a toned-down version of Mission: SPACE after two people in the past year became ill aboard the thrill ride and later died.

Visitors will have the choice of the original ride aboard a rocket simulator and a version in which the ride's centrifuge, which works to give people a momentary feeling of weightlessness, is turned off.

Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty said the change was prompted not by safety concerns but by a desire to let more people experience the sensation of lifting off on a trip to Mars.

"No. The Mission: SPACE experience is safe as designed for people who heed the health warnings," Prunty said.

Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement that a choice of rides will "encourage all guests to carefully consider posted health advisories when making their decisions."

Both people who died after riding Epcot's Mission: SPACE had serious underlying health problems, autopsies showed.

A medical examiner said that 49-year-old Hiltrud Bluemel of Germany, who suffered a stroke last month, had signs of severe and long-standing high blood pressure.

In June 2005, 4-year-old Daudi Bamuwamye of Pennsylvania lost consciousness while riding with his mother. An autopsy found that Bamuwamye had an undiagnosed heart defect that the medical examiner said put him at risk for sudden death under stress. [read on]

Disney World to cast for new Pirates of the Caribbean show with Captain Jack Sparrow

2006-04-25T14:05:00.000-05:00

Walt Disney World recently announced that its entertainment department was seeking improv actors who would play the roles of Captain Jack Sparrow or a fellow pirate in a new character show at the Magic Kingdom.

Walt Disney World Pirates of the Caribbean concept art for entrance to the newly refurbished version of the ride. Captain Jack Sparrow is the lead character played by Johnny Depp in Walt Disney Pictures' hit movie Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, as well as its sequel, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, which is set to be released this summer. The films were inspired by the popular Disneyland attraction Pirates of the Caribbean.

The casting call seeks comedic actors with strong improvisational skills for a new “high-spirited” and humorous show involving “audience participation.” Captain Jack Sparrow and his assistant, a fellow crew member named Mack, will teach audience members in a fun participatory show how to live a “pirate’s life” and the secrets of the “pirate brotherhood.”