LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A stylish boutique with designer flair and eclectic offerings becomes a premier shopping spot at Downtown Disney Marketplace with the March opening of Tren-D. The urban-inspired Walt Disney World specialty store is a one-of-a-kind, hip destination for fashion-conscious shoppers seeking trendy apparel and novel accessories.
“This unique environment, filled with textured fabrics, new silhouettes, and whimsical art and design allows us the opportunity to push the creative envelope as it relates to fashion and our characters,” said Mark Perrotta, director of Product Development and Design. “Our guests continue to respond to trend merchandise and novel products that they can’t purchase at home. Tren-D speaks to what is happening today with a blend of vintage and hip with stylized Disney influences.”
Offerings include organic loungewear, embroidered handbags, jeweled sunglasses and trendy accessories set among stylish art and unique furnishings. The eclectic environment offers a raw and unfinished feel with jeweled chandeliers, distinct fixtures and mod furnishings.
Much of the merchandise will not be available anywhere else at Downtown Disney. Designers such as Kidada Jones, Tarina Tarantino and Roxy will showcase their artistry – blending it with Disney-inspired creations.
“With its exclusive product lines and new environment, we think Tren-D will complement the existing merchandise offerings at Downtown Disney,” said Perrotta.
Tren-D is in a 2,500-square-foot venue near Pin Traders and Once Upon A Toy. The space previously was used by Summer Sands.
Lake Buena Vista, Fla.– Florida residents can experience a world where dreams and reality intertwine, La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil, at 20 percent off the regular price of Category 2 seats for performances March 10 through June 27 (block out dates apply) at Downtown Disney.
Also for a limited time promotional discounts are available on select items in the La Nouba boutique.
La Nouba transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary and stimulates the imagination from beginning to end. With dazzling choreography, vibrant music and an international cast that speaks a youthful language, La Nouba promises to surprise, excite and mystify.
TICKET INFORMATION Discounted tickets for La Nouba are $52 (child) and $64 (adult) plus tax and are available at the box office or by calling (407) WDW-SEAT. The special priced seats are on sale now for shows from March 10 through June 27 (block out dates of April 4 through 18 apply). The discount applies to Category 2 tickets only (regularly $67 and $83 plus tax). Proof of Florida residency is required. Tickets are subject to availability and restrictions apply.
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The theater is dark Sundays and Mondays and May 17 through 31, 2009. For details, visit disneyworld.com/Cirque.
La Nouba is performed exclusively at Downtown Disney® West Side at Walt Disney World® Resort.
GROUP RESERVATIONS For group reservations of 12 or more call 866.353.5625, email orlando.sales@cirquedusoleil.com or visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/groups for more information.
ABOUT CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginning in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a major international organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. Since its founding, Cirque du Soleil has thrilled over 70 million spectators in close to 200 cities on five continents.
Cirque du Soleil has privileged partnerships with Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando and MGM MIRAGE in Las Vegas to create and present unique and innovative productions. In addition to presenting La Nouba at Downtown Disney® West Side, Cirque du Soleil currently presents six shows in Las Vegas: Mystère™ at Treasure Island, “O™” at Bellagio, Zumanity™, The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil ™ at New York-New York Hotel & Casino, KÀ™ at MGM Grand, The Beatles™ LOVE™ at The Mirage and CRISS ANGEL Believe™ at Luxor Las Vegas. For more information, visit cirquedusoleil.com.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – From May through August 2009, summer simmers with exciting new attractions and events at Walt Disney World Resort. The smash TV hit “American Idol” inspires a new attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios while, at Magic Kingdom, a Liberty Square icon reopens its doors and street parties turn up the spirit as Disney’s “What Will You Celebrate?” hits full-stride. Treehouse lodging is back, resort guests now can save some time by checking in online before they arrive, Stars Wars Weekends let guests release their inner Jedi, and Downtown Disney unwraps new fun – on the ground and in the air…
Summer Fun at The American Idol Experience
While guests are usually the ones to enjoy the attractions and shows at Walt Disney World Resort, “The American Idol Experience” places Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests in the spotlight, immersing them in the thrill of auditioning and performing or voting on their favorite musical performances.
Modeled after the famous “American Idol” television show, the newly opened Walt Disney World attraction makes dreams come true by showcasing the talents of park guests age 14 and older who have aced the auditions (audition slots are limited and interested guests are encouraged to arrive early).
Like the television show, fans – not the onstage judges – have the final say on who is deemed the best of the best. With seating to accommodate 1,000 audience members, the high-tech theater is wired so guests can vote for their favorite singer.
What Will You Celebrate? Adds Gifting Option, Park Fun
During “What Will You Celebrate?” inviting Disney Parks guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences, ways for guests to customize and personalize a visit are endless.
With everything from fireworks cruises, street parties and behind-the-scenes tours to specialty cakes and in-room decorations to choose from, guests who have decided their answer to “What Will You Celebrate?” have more choices as they ponder, “How will I celebrate?” The fun is nonstop, too, with a party spirit stamping the new “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” street party in the Magic Kingdom. Floats, a cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and more “move it” down Main Street, Come True parade, a tweaked send-up of the former Dreams Come True parade with changes to some of the floats and soundtracks and the grand marshal in the lead role. Singers and dancers as before invite guests lining the parade route to come join in the celebration.
With all there is to do in Disney parks, guests can tailor a celebration with favorite attractions, favorite characters and special experiences. Thanks to new Web planning tools, learning about available choices and then customizing a “celebration vacation” itinerary – or “gifting” a celebrating family member or friend with a personalized Disney experience – is easier than ever. Through www.disneyparks.com, guests (or their travel agents) choose the celebration destination – Disneyland Resort in California or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With a click, they access an interactive online celebration “planner” to shop the many experiences that are a cornerstone of a “celebration vacation” at Disney Parks – experiences that transform guests into the stars of their own party whether the occasion is a birthday, anniversary, Quinceanera, personal triumph or any celebration.
Now there is also a way to participate in a guest’s upcoming celebration visit when you can’t be there: by “gifting.” The giver reviews the possibilities using the online planner, then calls a Disney Dream Maker to personalize and customize the gift. At Walt Disney World Resort, Dream Makers can be reached at 407/WDW-GIFT.
Star Wars Weekends Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Once again, the power of the Force and the magic of Disney combine in May and June for Star Wars Weekends, a sci-fi fan-fest inspired by the popular film saga.
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 22-June 14, 2009, Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes the temporary home for a band of out-of-this-world characters, including Wookiees, Sith, droids, Jedi, Ewoks, bounty hunters and Rodians. Dates are May 22-24, May 29-31, June 5-7 and June 12-14.
A giant, “A to Z” gathering of Star Wars characters – from Anakin Skywalker to Zam Wesell – will roam the streets of the theme park during meet-and-greet sessions. Jedi Training Academy – one of the interactive entertainment experiences featured in the theme park – takes place throughout the day on the event’s main stage and allows young guests to learn from a Jedi Master before testing newly acquired skills in a battle with Darth Vader.
Also featured: the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, special Star Wars parades, rides on the famed Star Tours attraction, and autograph sessions and star conversations with famous Star Wars actors and creative geniuses.
Event activities are included in theme park admission. For more information, guests may go online to www.starwars.com or www.disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.
Hall of Presidents to Reopen in July
A July reopening is planned for the Hall of Presidents, an iconic attraction in Magic Kingdom. An Audio-Animatronics version of President Barack Obama will join representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States as part of an attraction that has been celebrating American history since Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971. Disney Imagineers are also updating a broad array of show elements.
Whole New World of Lodging Greets Summer Guests
New home-like accommodations presented by Disney Vacation Club are debuting in time for summer guests. New options will combine to revive “treehouse living” at Walt Disney World Resort and immerse guests in the African experience.
Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – Treehouse living, a cherished Disney World tradition from 1975-2002, returns with the opening (scheduled for summer) of 60 three-bedroom villas elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest glens where they are nestled, providing Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa with a new room category.
Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Fresh from the conversion of select rooms at Jambo House (at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) into vacation villas, Kidani Village is taking shape (for phased openings scheduled in the spring and fall) with thatched roofs and hewn timber design. Kidani means “necklace,” and the building is shaped like a piece of native African jewelry with villas forming the beads, garden-like walkways creating the knots in between and the lobby representing the ornament or jewel at its center. With the spring opening comes Sanaa, a new family dining location, featuring savanna views and serving familiar foods from tandoor ovens and slow-cooked specialties with flavorful spices of Africa.
Walt Disney World Resort Debuts Online Check-In Service
Walt Disney World Resort has launched Online Check-In Service, designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. The new service is complimentary and available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts.
Within 10 days of their arrival dates, guests are able to provide check-in information, advise the resort of their arrival times and request room preferences (although those cannot be guaranteed). Guests can also register the names of all the people in their party and provide a credit card to cover charges at the resort hotel.
Upon arrival at their resorts, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Disney Cast Members are also available to provide additional information and answer questions.
Meeting professionals can also arrange private group check-in at a Disney resort convention center or other locations.
For more information about the new Online Check-In Service or to make a resort reservation, call 407-W-DISNEY or your travel agent or click on disneyworld.com.
New and Aloft at Downtown Disney: Aerophile!
Imagine an eagle’s-eye view of the Downtown Disney area, with sweeping, 10-mile panoramas of Lake Buena Vista and environs. Downtown Disney greets summer guests with a new iconic attraction in the form of a giant tethered balloon – Aerophile — that will take guests 300 feet into the air from the waterfront. The 72-foot-diameter balloon can lift up to 30 guests at a time on a six-minute ‘’flight,’’ by day or night. Aerophile made a spring debut at Downtown Disney’s West Side. It joins other newcomers at Downtown Disney for summer:
TrenD, a hip new Downtown Disney Marketplace boutique with urban-inspired fashions.
Disney Design-a-Tee, presented by Hanes, inviting Marketplace guests to personalize the popular souvenir to their own tastes.
T-Rex : A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover – a fun prehistoric environment millions of years in the making.
Downtown Disney restaurant from E-Brands, Paradiso 37, a restaurant from E-Brands featuring a selection of menu offerings representing the 37 countries of the Americas.
‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’’ Dance Party Debuts
He’s the Guru of Gross-Out, the Maker of Mischief. Now, everybody’s favorite galactic pal stars in ‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration,’’ a high-energy, retro-futuristic music video dance party in Magic Kingdom. The fun features Stitch, an interactive dance troupe and a DJ celebration host who invites all Tomorrowland guests to come party, dance and celebrate.
CELEBRATION, Fla. (Nov. 17, 2008) – Disney Cruise Line is revolutionizing movie entertainment at sea with the debut of Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience premiering exclusively onboard the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder.
Guests will delight as first-run Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension thanks to Disney Digital 3-D technology being added to both the Walt Disney Theatre and Buena Vista Theatre. Disney Cruise Line is the first cruise line to introduce 3-D entertainment onboard its ships. Disney Digital 3-D will premiere onboard the Disney Wonder during the Nov. 20 sailing and on the Disney Magic during the Dec. 6 sailing.
Leveraging this new technology, Disney Cruise Line will take 3-D into uncharted waters in early 2009 with the debut of an exciting new cinematic experience that combines full length Disney Digital 3-D films with in-theatre effects. Tridimensional images will combine with lasers, fog, streamers, and special lighting effects to create an immersive movie-going experience like no other at sea. During these once-a-cruise special engagements, guests will feel the rush of being part of hottest show in town as in-theatre effects enhance 3-D films featuring popular Disney popstars in concert.
“With Disney Digital 3-D we can provide extraordinary cinematic experiences for our guests that no other cruise line can offer,” said Tom McAlpin, president of Disney Cruise Line. “Innovation and high-quality family entertainment are Disney Cruise Line hallmarks, and the addition of Disney Digital 3-D perfectly complements our industry-leading collection of entertainment options already onboard our ships.”
Disney Cruise Line will celebrate the debut of Disney Digital 3-D by hosting a special screening event for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ newest animated feature, “Bolt,” onboard the Nov. 20 three-night Disney Wonder cruise. As the calendar turns from Nov. 20 to Nov. 21, guests will be invited to a special midnight screening of “Bolt” at the Walt Disney Theatre – complete with meet-and-greet opportunities with lovable walk-around characters from the film.
The film features super-dog Bolt (voice of John Travolta), whose every day is filled with adventure, danger and intrigue – at least until the cameras stop rolling. When the star of a hit TV show is accidentally shipped from his Hollywood soundstage to New York City, he begins his biggest adventure yet – a cross-country journey through the real world to get back to his owner and co-star, Penny (voice of Miley Cyrus). Armed only with the delusions that all his amazing feats and powers are real, and the help of two unlikely traveling companions – a jaded, abandoned housecat named Mittens (voice of Susie Essman) and a TV-obsessed hamster named Rhino (voice of Mark Walton) – Bolt discovers he doesn’t need superpowers to be a hero.
“Disney Cruise Line picked the perfect time to introduce Disney Digital 3-D to its guests,” said Mark Zoradi, president, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Group. “ ‘Bolt’ kicks off an extraordinary lineup of 3-D movies debuting over the course of the next year, including ‘Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience,’ Disney•Pixar’s ‘Up,’ ‘G-Force,’ Disney•Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Disney’s A Christmas Carol.’ The 3-D immersive experience is better than ever.”
Disney Digital 3-D is the latest enhancement to join the robust menu of premium guest experiences and amenities included with a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Dazzling Broadway-style musical spectaculars, over-the-top deck parties with the only fireworks display at sea, a unique rotational dining concept, first-run movie releases and fantastic kids programming are just some of the advantages of cruising with Disney.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort are also available.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The lakeside setting of Downtown Disney becomes the backdrop for more than 150 artisans displaying original creations during the 33rd annual Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort, Nov. 7-9, 2008. Festival of the Masters, presented by Sharpie®, is a nationally recognized art show which is ranked among the country’s best outdoor art festivals each year.
To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and samples of their art to a jury of art experts who select the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the festival will be treated to one of the finest collections of art in the nation.
Sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, and digital art are just some of the art genres showcased at this year’s event. Street painters from the Florida Chalk Artists Association will decorate some 6,000 square feet of sidewalk with unique drawings. Youngsters can take in the fun with live music, face painting and interactive kid’s zones.
House of Blues will celebrate the creative spirit of folk art during the 10th annual “Where the Art Meets the Soul” Folk Art Festival at Downtown Disney West Side.
To add an international flair to the festival, Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will host the works of three artists associated with the Cherrylane Fine Arts Gallery in Delgany, County Wicklow, Ireland.
Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission is complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, contact 407/824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com/artfestival.
BC Daytime Stars to Appear at ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Presented by Colgate® Total® at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Eden Riegel (“All My Children”), Kassie DePaiva (“One Life to Live”) and Bradford Anderson (“General Hospital”) are among the talent completing the list of 31 stars from ABC Daytime scheduled to appear at the ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Nov. 15-16. “All My Children’s” Cameron Mathison will headline the event – which will once again be sponsored by Colgate Total – at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort.
Completing the list from “All My Children” are Rebecca Budig, Bobbie Eakes, Melissa Claire Egan, Ricky Paull Goldin, Thorsten Kaye, Alicia Minshew, Aiden Turner and Darnell Williams. The talent from “One Life to Live” includes Kristen Alderson, Brandon Buddy, Michael Easton, Farah Fath, Susan Haskell, John-Paul Lavoisier, Erika Slezak, Jason Tam, Brittany Underwood and Bree Williamson. Completing the list from “General Hospital” will be Brandon Barash, Julie Berman, Tyler Christopher, Jason Cook, Rebecca Herbst, Kelly Monaco, Kirsten Storms, Jason Thompson and Laura Wright. “All My Children’s” Susan Lucci is currently competing on ABC’s hit show “Dancing with the Stars.” Her participation in the event is pending her “Dancing with the Stars” schedule.
As previously announced, this year will mark the last Super Soap Weekend as ABC’s Daytime Division embarks on the 2009 Soap Nation Tour, a series of nationwide events designed for interaction with fans on a year-round basis, offering greater access to stars in more cities, more often. The final Walt Disney World weekend will be dedicated to the fans with special retrospectives and exclusive productions, including special trivia and commemorative clip packages honoring the 45th anniversary of “General Hospital,” the 40th anniversary of “One Life to Live,” “All My Children’s” 10,000th episode and past Super Soap Weekends. Super Soap Weekend will become more interactive than ever with the introduction of new mobile programs and text trivia. A special musical number will be developed for Colgate Total Street Jam that honors the final event as well.
Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to meet favorite stars from “All My Children,” “One Life to Live” and “General Hospital.” Festivities include celebrity motorcades, autograph sessions, game shows, interviews and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind memorabilia from each of the shows. The Colgate Total Street Jam will close the event each day with live musical performances by some favorite Daytime stars.
ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend is included with theme park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – where guests of all ages are caught up in the glitz, glamour and excitement of show business. For future updates and more information about ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend, guests may call the Super Soap Hotline recording at 407/397-6808, or visit the ABC Daytime Web site at soapnet.com.
Downtown Disney Becomes Lively Outdoor Gallery During Festival of the Masters, Nov. 7-9
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The lakeside setting of Downtown Disney becomes the backdrop for more than 150 artisans displaying original creations during the 33rd annual Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort, Nov. 7-9, 2008. Festival of the Masters, presented by Sharpie®, is a nationally recognized art show which is ranked among the country’s best outdoor art festivals each year.
To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and samples of their art to a jury of art experts who select the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the festival will be treated to one of the finest collections of art in the nation.
Sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, and digital art are just some of the art genres showcased at this year’s event. Street painters from the Florida Chalk Artists Association will decorate some 6,000 square feet of sidewalk with unique drawings. Youngsters can take in the fun with live music, face painting and interactive kid’s zones.
House of Blues will celebrate the creative spirit of folk art during the 10th annual “Where the Art Meets the Soul” Folk Art Festival at Downtown Disney West Side.
To add an international flair to the festival, Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will host the works of three artists associated with the Cherrylane Fine Arts Gallery in Delgany, County Wicklow, Ireland.
Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission is complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, contact 407/824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com/artfestival.
Funosaurus! T-Rex at Downtown Disney Takes Guests
On a Dining Adventure to a Prehistoric Time
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World guests can go on an adventure back in time to dine among the dinosaurs as T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discoveropens it doors at Downtown Disney. Following an October launch, November marks the first full month of operation.
T-Rex, developed by Schussler Creative, Inc., and operated by Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., features dining and retail in a 30,000-square-foot, 600-seat family-friendly interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice: Guests are greeted with life-size animatronic dinosaurs among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more.
Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler, the founder of Rainforest Café and the T-Rex restaurant, depicts the experience as “edutainment,” noting that this “treat for all five senses” includes artifacts such as fossils – all carefully labeled – that are hundreds of millions of years old, carefully crafted animatronic dinosaurs, and even a meteorite found in Argentina. A full-size skeleton replica of Argentinosaurus, one of the largest of the dinosaurs and copied from a museum specimen about 125 feet in length, looms over the entrance, joined by a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
The theme carries over to the menu, which features items with names such as Caesarsaurus (Caesar salad), Raptor Ribs (Asian BBQ ribs), Pterodactyl Wings (Buffalo chicken wings), Triassic Tortellini (tri-colored cheese tortellini) and Gigantosaurus Burger (think really big hamburger!).
Tinker Bell Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to New Fairy Friends
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – To celebrate the animated film “Tinker Bell,” Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a new meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest inspired by Pixie Hollow, a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.
Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic “Peter Pan,” for her “hostess” role in Disney television specials and for “flying” above the Disney theme parks, is joined by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy. Guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at disneyfairies.com.
Last Call: November Marks Final Days of Epcot Food & Wine Fest
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Like a great meal with memorable courses still to go, there is still time to savor the best of the 13th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The six-week festival continues through Nov. 9 with great tastes from more than 25 festival marketplaces serving up tapas-sized portions of regional specialties, complimentary wine and beer tastings, and culinary demonstrations – plus the nightly Eat to the Beat! concert series featuring these upcoming acts:
Children’s Miracle Network Classic Brings PGA TOUR Pros
To Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart will be played Nov. 6-9 on Disney’s Magnolia and Palm courses, with practice rounds Nov. 3-5 on the same Walt Disney World Resort layouts.
The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic marks a continuation of the longest-running PGA TOUR event in Central Florida – a 38-year heritage that has produced a champions list which includes Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Vijay Singh, Payne Stewart and many more top professional golfers. Defending champion is Stephen Ames.
As the last event on the 2008 TOUR schedule, the Classic takes on added significance for many golfers striving to earn full playing exemptions for 2009 by finishing among the top 125 money winners in 2008. The purse is $4.6 million, with a share of $828,000 to the winner.
Tickets ($20 for one tournament day, $30 for the whole week including practice days) can be purchased online at childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com or at the tournament entrance. Guests can call the Classic hotline at 407/824-2250 for more information.
Guests Test Archery Skills at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – As part of exciting new additions to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the resort now invites William Tell-wannabes to grab bow and arrow and test their skills at a new archery range. Whether novice or expert marksman, an archery guide offers training and tips on how to hit the bull’s-eye. Offered on select afternoons and open to resort guests and non-guests alike, the 90-minute experience costs $25 (plus tax) per person, includes instruction and equipment and can be booked ahead by calling 407/939-7529.
New ‘High School Musical’ Fun Comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A high-energy cast of 14 singers and dancers takes to the streets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the new guest-immersive experience, “High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!”
Celebrating the infectious energy of the theatrical motion picture “High School Musical 3: Senior Year,” the show takes place on a traveling “rock concert” stage that stops in front of the iconic Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat for production numbers featuring new songs from the movie. Debut of the show is concurrent with the opening of the movie (Oct. 24).
Guests are treated to a total of six original songs from the movie, including a memorably rousing finale entitled “High School Musical.”
Envelope, Please: Industry Awards Bestowed on Florida’s Vacation Kingdom
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World Resort was the recipient of recent industry awards for excellence:
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa walked off with the honor as “North America’s Leading Resort” in the UK-based World Travel Awards as rated by thousands of agents and travel professionals globally.
Epcot’s “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth” nighttime spectacular earned the Golden Ticket Award as “Best Outdoor Night Production” in an international poll of the amusement industry conducted by Amusement Today, a leading trade publication.
Magic Kingdom a Holiday Festival
As Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Returns
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Magic Kingdom decks the halls, walls, byways, skies, castle spires and more as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes center stage again this holiday season. The special after-hours event treats Walt Disney World guests to magic and merriment on 18 select nights in 2008: Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30 and Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19. The fun begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours.
It’s a magical night of special holiday entertainment including Castle Dreamlights, an enchanting parade, a nighttime fireworks spectacular, Disney character greetings, tasty treats, “snow” on Main Street, U.S.A. plus the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions.
Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party requires a separate ticket. Tickets purchased in advance for select nights are $42.95 plus tax for ages 3-9, $48.95 plus tax for ages 10 and over. Day-of-event pricing is $7 more for each ticket. For general information, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit disneyworld.com/holidays.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Shines With Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Nothing says “Joy of the Season” quite like the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by Sylvania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This year’s spectacular – Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009 – stars millions of blinking, twinkling lights “dancing” to a high-energy holiday symphony.
Guests are treated to twirling carousels, sparkling snowflakes, heavenly angels, majestic trees, twinkling bells, colorful wreaths and Santa with his reindeer. The “dancing lights” moments occur every 10 minutes.
Holidays Around the World Shine Brightly at Epcot
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – “Holidays Around the World” turns Epcot into a fantasy of celebrations Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009. World Showcase comes alive with holiday traditions of food, fun and entertainment from across the globe. There are holiday storytellers, a whole world of holiday shopping and a magnificent tree glistening with lights and color. A grand Epcot tradition, the Candlelight Processional, features celebrity narrators delivering a special retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by an orchestra and mass choir. Even the nighttime spectacular, “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” is topped with a surprise grand finale for the joyous time of year.
New Year’s Eve ‘Cirque-Style’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla – Guests can ring in the New Year “Cirque-style” with La Nouba, by Cirque du Soleil. The eye-filling show features breathtaking performances, moving live music, dazzling choreography and endless imagination all wrapped up with a special finale. Show times are 6 and 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at disneyworld.com or by calling 407/WDW-SEAT (407/939-7328).
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Rocks to ‘Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – It’s a holiday combination as perfect as milk and gingerbread cookies. “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade” blends the spirit of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with the spirit of the season into an unforgettable holiday offering. Dates are Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009.
Inside the Disney Ambassador Program: A True-Life Fairy Tale Revealed
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Much like Cinderella’s Prince Charming searching for the perfect fit in the glass slipper, Disney officials have spent the last few months rigorously looking for a select few cast members who can step into the role of Walt Disney World Ambassador, a 44-year tradition that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences for those who demonstrate poise, passion and knowledge of Disney heritage.
The honor of being selected Disney Ambassador began during the 10th anniversary of Disneyland when Walt was overwhelmed with requests for appearances and needed a few good surrogates. He selected the first Ambassador in 1964, and the tradition has continued ever since.
Serving as the face of the company and good will ambassador to the world, the 2008 Walt Disney World Ambassador Team of Kerri MacPherson (originally from Melrose, Mass.) and TC Newman (originally from Tustin, Calif.) has participated in more than 1,300 events, visited 38 children’s hospitals during a 22-city national tour and logged tens of thousands of miles traveling to Disney destinations around the globe during a term of service that began in January. They’ve hosted VIPs and dignitaries at Walt Disney World Resort, cut hundreds of grand-opening ribbons, shared third-shift breakfasts at 1 a.m. and read story books to Central Florida children.
Their successor team will participate in training during November for the year-long temporary assignment that begins Jan. 1, 2009. For them, the experience of representing the 62,000 cast members of Walt Disney World Resort will make it one of the most memorable years of their lives.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World guests can go on an adventure back in time to dine among the dinosaurs as T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover® opens it doors at Downtown Disney in mid October.
T-Rex, developed by Schussler Creative, Inc. and operated by Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., features dining and retail in a 30,000-square-foot, 600-seat, family-friendly interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice: Guests are greeted with life-size animatronic dinosaurs among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more.
Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler, the founder of Rainforest Cafe and the T-Rex restaurant, depicts the experience as “edutainment,” noting that this “treat for all five senses” includes artifacts such as fossils – all carefully labeled – that are hundreds of millions of years old, carefully crafted animatronic dinosaurs, and even a meteorite found in Argentina.
A full-size skeleton replica of Argentinosaurus, one of the largest of the dinosaurs and copied from a museum specimen about 125 feet in length, looms over the entrance, joined by a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
The prehistoric theme extends to the menu, which features items with names such as Caesarsaurus (Caesar salad), Raptor Ribs (Asian BBQ ribs), Pterodactyl Wings (Buffalo chicken wings), Triassic Tortellini (tri-colored cheese tortellini) and Gigantosaurus Burger (think really big hamburger!).
Menu choices range from starters (appetizers, salads and soups) to pastas, burgers and sandwiches to a broad selection of entrees plus desserts. Some favorites include rotisserie chicken, fried shrimp, steaks and ribs, tarragon chicken salad sandwich, Cobb salad and “Chocolate Extinction.”
Guests can make reservations by calling 407/WDW-DINE.
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