First Look at Winston from Feast, Villains’ Sinister Soiree Debuts, and More in News Briefs

Meet Winston from Feast
Feast, a new short from first-time director Patrick Osborne (head of animation, Paperman) and Walt Disney Animation Studios, is the story of one man’s love life as seen through the eyes of his best friend and dog, Winston, and revealed bite by bite through the meals they share. Feast debuts with Big Hero 6 on November 7, 2014.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
Summer and Fall 2014
D23 Disney Fanniversary Celebration
August 24
Mary Poppins 50th Anniversary Celebration
September 13
From the Vaults: The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad
September 27
D23 Member Night at Aladdin on Broadway
October 11
From the Vaults: Sleeping Beauty
November 8
Walt Disney Studios and Archives Tour
November 11
The Hunchback of Notre Dame VIP Experience
November 22-23
Destination D: Attraction Rewind at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World
Through January 4, 2015
Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
August 14-16, 2015
D23 Expo 2015 returns to Anaheim, California
Television
September 2
The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic premieres at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Parks
September 1, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, and 28; and October 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 31
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties at Magic Kingdom Park
September 26, 30; October 3, 6, 8, 10, 14, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, and 31
Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Resort
November 7, 10, 13, 14, 16, 20, 21, and 30; and December 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, and 19
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties at Magic Kingdom Park
Studios
October 10
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day opens in theaters.
November 7
Big Hero 6 opens
December 25, 2014
Into the Woods opens in theaters
March 13, 2015
Cinderella opens in theaters
June 19, 2015
Inside Out opens in theaters (along with the short Lava)

Newsies on Broadway Takes Its Final Bow
August 24 marked the 2-year-old show’s last performance on the Great White Way. But in October, a 25-city North American tour launches with stops planned for Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco, Miami, and more. The show opened on Broadway in March 2012 and earned Tony® Awards for its score and choreography. Check newsiesthemusical.com for more tour information or to purchase tickets for the show’s remaining Broadway performances.

Villains’ Sinister Soiree Provides Sweet Ending to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Guests planning on enjoying Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party have one more Halloween-themed event in which to indulge. Guests who purchase tickets to the Villains’ Sinister Soiree: A Wicked Takeover of Cinderella Castle will attend a new dessert party, set within the magical halls of Cinderella’s Royal Table, where guests can mingle with a mix of malevolent special guests, listen to live music, and indulge in decadent desserts and specialty non-alcoholic beverages. Guests who purchase a ticket to both Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and the Villains’ Sinister Soiree will receive preferred viewing for the 8:15 p.m. performance of Mickey’s “Boo-too-You” Halloween Parade and preferred viewing for the Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular. Tickets for the Villains’ Sinister Soiree are $99 for ages 3 and over, plus tax (gratuity included), and may only be reserved by calling (407) 939-5262. There are no online reservations for this event.

Bring On the Disney Infinity (2.0 Edition) Toy Box
Disney Interactive has announced many of the new characters that will be available in the 2.0 Edition of Disney Infinity, and you’ll be able to bring those favorite characters together in the 2.0 Edition Toy Box. Check out the trailer above to see some of the 2.0 Edition Toy Box’s features—the Toy Box is bigger and better than before, with new toys, improved on-boarding, and updated online services. Play without limits!

Phineas and Ferb Are Getting Lost
The Emmy Award®-winning series Phineas and Ferb will pay tribute to ABC’s hit series Lost with a special episode that premieres Monday, September 29 on Disney XD. The special episode, “Lost in Danville,” features a story by Lost co-creator and writer Damon Lindelof and guest stars Terry O’Quinn, known to Lost fans as the series’ John Locke. In the episode, a mysterious locked capsule falls into Phineas and Ferb’s backyard and they struggle to open it, only to discover they have unleashed something they cannot control. Meanwhile, Perry learns that Dr. Doofenshmirtz has been abducted and tracks him to Seattle, where another evil scientist, Professor Mystery, has his own sinister plan. Actors Jane Kaczmarek and Rob Morrow guest star, voicing capsule inhabitants Denise and Bernie.

Star Wars: Commander Now Available For iOS
Star Wars: Commander, the new free-to-play combat strategy game from Disney Interactive and Lucasfilm lets you crush the rebellion or restore freedom to the galaxy, using a full array of vehicles, weapons, and technology from the Star Wars universe. Players who rally to the Rebellion will call upon iconic heroes such as Han Solo, Chewbacca, and Princess Leia to support missions for justice and freedom, while leaders of the Imperial forces will command AT-ATs, TIE fighters, and Stormtroopers to gain control of the galaxy. Star Wars: Commander also offers an original Star Wars storyline set within the Galactic Civil War of Episodes IV–VI, where “commanders” determine whether it’s the Empire’s strength and relentlessness or the Rebellion’s heroism and resourcefulness that will win the war. Players can join the battle for control of the galaxy on iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch by downloading the game from the Apple App Store.

Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved Bonus Tracks
From now through October 20, 2014, fans who pre-order Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved from participating retailers will receive a free three-song bundle of game tracks, including “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen performed by Demi Lovato. “Counting Stars” from the pop rock band OneRepublic and “Lay Me Down” by AVICII round out the bonus trio of tracks. The musical motion video game, inspired by the classic animated film Fantasia, will be available for purchase on October 21, 2014.

Disney Fairytale Designer Collection Available Soon from Disney Store
The Disney Fairytale Designer Collection will feature apparel, accessories, and home items, and is focused on five iconic Disney Princesses and their leading men: Tiana and Naveen, Pocahontas and John Smith, Cinderella and Prince Charming, Mulan and Li Shang, and Aurora and Prince Phillip. Items from the collection will be available online and in select North American stores beginning September 2, but Disney Store announced this week that an online-exclusive set that includes all five couples will be available for pre-order through DisneyStore.com on Tuesday, September 2, for $649.75—to be delivered the week of October 21. This will be the only way to guarantee a purchase of all five couples, and is only available to North American guests. Each Limited Edition Doll Set features exquisite detailing and is presented in a special keepsake display case with intricate details on the base, including a golden plate with the name of the specific Disney Princess and her partner. The individual doll sets are limited to a global edition of 6,000 each and retail for $129.95 US. One new couple will become available for purchase every week. Tiana and Naveen will be the first to be released, in stores September 23 and online September 24. Check The Official Disney Store Blog for release dates for the other doll sets, as well as European release information.

Tsum-thing New
A new collection of Tsum Tsum plush stackable toys made its debut last week with Disney Store’s launch of the Alice in Wonderland collection. The new collection includes Alice, White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter, March Hare, Dormouse, and their Majesties the Queen and King of Hearts in the mini size; and are available at Disney Store and DisneyStore.com. The initial set of Tsum Tsum characters were introduced in July.

Club Penguin Gets Even Cooler
From now through September 3, Club Penguin is bringing the magic of Disney’s Frozen to Club Penguin Island. During the Frozen Party, members can dress up like their favorite characters from the film, and will start the party by searching for Elsa’s magic snowflakes that are hidden around the island. Once members complete the snowflake quest, they will earn the ability to transform into Olaf or Marshmallow and freeze objects around the island. While players are searching for the snowflakes, Elsa will construct her Ice Palace on Club Penguin Island for players to explore. Once the Ice Palace is complete, players will be able to hear a special performance of “Let It Go” when they visit. The Frozen Party is the first party available on the Club Penguin app since it launched.

Once Upon a Time Season Four Preview

In the Fall 2014 issue of Disney twenty-three, now shipping to D23 Gold Members, D23 sat down with Once Upon a Time creators Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz to discuss their very cool plan to incorporate Frozen into the new season. But there’s much more happening in Storybrooke this fall! Here’s our D23 Member “web extra” previewing what’s to come for Snow, Charming, Hook, Regina, Emma, and the rest of the characters when the ABC hit returns September 28. Plus, get ready for a reveal that will have you reeling!

So, looking back to the end of last season, can you explain what exactly happened when the Wicked Witch disintegrated, turned into dust, got into the box with the emerald pendant, and opened the portal?
Adam: She died. She turned into some kind of dust and disappeared because of her magical nature. What happened was, the pendant—which had her magic in it—was triggered at the moment of her death and opened the portal. That wasn’t Zelena in smoke form coming out—it was the magic that we had seen that was absorbed into the pendant Glinda gave her. The pendant became the source of Zelena’s power. Regina removed it and put it into her vault. And at the moment of her death, that triggered the portal opening.
Eddy: Of course, “death” is a relative term.

Emma has finally opened—to her family and to Hook—how do you see their relationships evolving?
Eddy: One of the big themes that tied Never Land and the Wicked Witch together is that happy endings aren’t what we think they are. They are something you have to fight for every day. Now it seems like Emma has found her home and she’s happy where she is. Rumple is married to Belle and that seems to be his happy ending. Snow and Charming have a child and they now share one heart. The question is, what happens next? For us, it’s continuing to evolve the characters—especially with Regina. We left her in a really tough spot. People immediately thought she would go “crazy evil.” For us, that’s what’s interesting—now that we’ve done 66 episodes, how does Regina react? We know how she would have reacted in season one. How does she react in season four? We want to honor that and deepen the characters and create some fun mystery along the way.

Do you think it will be difficult for Hook to see a “little Prince Neal” running around as a constant reminder of Neal and Emma’s relationship?
Adam: I think Hook ultimately recognizes Neal for the hero that he was. And because of that, hearing the name and seeing him carried on in a new generation—he sees that as a good thing.
Eddy: He’s far too confident to be worried about other people.

For a while, David and Mary Margaret were arguing about whether to stay in Storybrooke or go back to the Enchanted Forest. Will that arise again?

**To find out what Eddy and Adam had to say—plus which other characters will be making surprising arrivals in Storybrooke, more on Elizabeth Mitchell’s mysterious character, and a Disney “icon” that will be showing up, log in to D23.com and read the full article. If you’re not already a member, join for free today.**

Revisiting River Country

June 20, 1976, marked the opening of River Country, the first water park at Walt Disney World Resort.

In the 25 years that followed, approximately 4,000 guests would arrive daily to splash, soak, and sun at the park until its closing in September 2001.

Let’s take a look at some documents and images from a bygone, hootin’, hollerin’ fan-favorite spot near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.

Letter written by First Daughter Susan Ford, who helped officiate at the grand opening ceremonies of River Country — While celebrating the epic “Bicentennial Summer” of 1976 at Walt Disney World Resort, First Daughter Susan Ford helped officiate at the grand opening ceremonies of River Country, which was attended by more than 700 reporters and their families.

Walt Disney World River Country celebratory coins — For the grand opening festivities, public relations and press officials wore admittance bracelets with specially designed celebratory coins (like the one pictured here) to designate their status as guests for the day’s gala events.

Slippery Slide Falls @ River Country — One of the featured attractions at River Country, Slippery Slide Falls, was always a test of young (or young at heart) mettle. Consisting of a rapid descent down two 16-foot long chutes ending with a seven-foot drop into Upstream Plunge (a large kidney-shaped clear water pool), it was a simple and hair-raising attraction that made the water park memorable.

With the continued popularity of activities at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, and the added success of River Country, additional (and ultimately unrealized) expansion projects for Fort Wilderness were considered. Ideas swirled about possible additions to the property including the creation of a rustic “fun house” and growing the resort past the water park.

If you’re curious to see for yourself the kind of “fun in the sun” that was once had on the shores of Bay Lake, check out this brief clip from 1977’s The Mouseketeers at Walt Disney World when The New Mickey Mouse Club paid a visit to River Country—the old swimmin’ hole!

Back to School: D23 Salutes Disney’s Animated and Live-Action Teachers

August 21, 2014March 27, 2018

It’s that time of year when students go back to school and meet up with that special person who will enlighten them… or is his or her worst nightmare! Disney teachers, like any other, come in all shapes, sizes, and even temperaments. From as far back as the Oswald the Lucky Rabbit cartoon short titled Oh Teacher to the most recent example of Cory Matthews as the father/teacher on Disney Channel’s Girl Meets World, Disney has filled its stories with pixie-dusted professors and demonic disciplinarians.

Let’s take a look at some of our favorites!

Goofy as a teacher in Teachers Are People

Wise Old Owl from So Dear to My Heart

Mr. Rzykruski from Frankenweenie

Dean Hardscrabble from Monsters University

Professor Owl from Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom

Professor Derek Knight from Monsters University

Teachers from Meet the Robinsons

Mr. Bernie Kropp from The Incredibles

Mr. Ray from Finding Nemo

Ichabod Crane from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Mr. Woolensworth from Chicken Little

Merlin as a mentor to the Wart in The Sword in the Stone

Professor Ludwig Von Drake from An Adventure in Color/Mathmagic Land

Professor Phillip Brainard from Flubber

Emelius Browne from Bedknobs and Broomsticks

Professor Ned Brainard from The Absent-Minded Professor

Disney’s heavy class load doesn’t end there.

There’s also Jiminy Cricket in the I’m No Fool series, Friend Owl from Bambi, Alice’s sister from Alice in Wonderland, Professor from Lady and the Tramp, Charles Bryan from Summer Magic, Professor Wonderful from the Mickey Mouse Club, Alice from The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band, Albert Dooley from Million Dollar Duck, Professor Quigley from The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes, Professor Shattuck from The Misadventures of Merlin Jones, John Keating from Dead Poets Society, Miss Bliss from Good Morning, Miss Bliss (the forerunner to Saved by the Bell), Glenn Holland from Mr. Holland’s Opus, Anna Montgomery from The Big Green, Jim Morris from The Rookie, Papale from Invincible, Professor Harold Hill from Meredith Willson’s The Music Man, Mary Helperman from Teacher’s Pet, Mr. Parentheses is a character from Hercules: The Animated Series, Ms. Nesbit from Monsters, Inc., Ms. Muriel P. Finster from Recess, George Feeny from Boy Meets World and Girl Meets World, Sir Gillium from Sofia the First, Mary from The Muppets, Emily Kristal from Doug, Principal Powers from Sky High, Mr. Pulman from Dinosaurs, Miss Hatchet from Kim Possible, Mr. Zimbaldi from A.N.T. Farm, Miss Taylor from Pete’s Dragon, Principal Mazur from A Goofy Movie, Mr. Flaco Moleguaco from The Emperor’s New School, Ms. Darbus and Coach Bolton from High School Musical, and Ms. Birch from American Dragon: Jake Long. Whew!

Also, the sea colony teacher in Horizons at Epcot, who appears with her students and a seal, and the teachers in Spaceship Earth (the mathematics/Greek teacher and later, in the Renaissance sequence), are some Audio-Animatronics® teachers.

Did we miss any?

WDI Reveals the Story Behind Disney Springs, A First Look at Paul Rudd in Marvel’s Ant-Man, and Much More in News Briefs for August 19, 2014

WDI Reveals the Story Behind Disney Springs

How does Walt Disney Imagineering re-imagine an area of Walt Disney World that guests have enjoyed for more than 40 years? That’s the creative challenge our Imagineering team, including Executive Creative Director Theron Skees, has been tasked with—to transform the area currently known as Downtown Disney into Disney Springs, a destination that’s being expanded to include more than 150 shopping, dining and entertainment experiences.

The first “neighborhood” in Disney Springs—the opening of The Landing—is set for 2015. Construction on Disney Springs will continue into 2016.

Save the Date!

Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
Summer and Fall 2014
D23 Disney Fanniversary Celebration
August 24
Mary Poppins 50th Anniversary Celebration
September 13
From the Vaults: The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad
September 27
D23 Member Night at Aladdin on Broadway
November 8
Walt Disney Studios and Archives Tour
November 11
The Hunchback of Notre Dame VIP Experience
November 22-23
Destination D: Attraction Rewind at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World
Through January 4, 2015
Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
August 14-16, 2015
D23 Expo 2015 returns to Anaheim, California
Television
September 2
The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic premieres at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Parks
August 23
Villains Unleashed at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
September 1, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, and 28; and October 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 31
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties at Magic Kingdom Park
September 26, 30; October 3, 6, 8, 10, 14, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, and 31
Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Resort
November 7, 10, 13, 14, 16, 20, 21, and 30; and December 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, and 19
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties at Magic Kingdom Park
Studios
October 10
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day opens in theaters.
November 7
Big Hero 6 opens
December 25, 2014
Into the Woods opens in theaters
March 13, 2015
Cinderella opens in theaters
June 19, 2015
Inside Out opens in theaters (along with the short Lava)

Elsa & Anna’s Boutique Announced for Disneyland Resort

Studio Disney 365 at Downtown Disney, Disneyland Resort, will undergo a transformation starting August 25, and will re-open in mid-September as Elsa & Anna’s Boutique with new transformations, inspired by beloved characters like Anna, Elsa, and Olaf. Here’s a look at the art for the logo that will grace this “cool” new location.

Get a First Look at Paul Rudd in Marvel’s Ant-Man

Principal photography has begun on Marvel’s Ant-Man, which brings one of Marvel Comics’ original founding members of The Avengers into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and Marvel has released a first photo of the movie’s star, Paul Rudd, as Scott Lang, aka Ant-Man. Michael Douglas co-stars as Lang’s mentor, Dr. Hank Pym. Armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, con-man Scott Lang must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats. Against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Pym and Lang must plan and pull off a heist that will save the world. The cast also includes Evangeline Lilly as Pym’s daughter, Hope Van Dyne, and Peyton Reed is directing the film, which is set for release on July 17, 2015.

Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion Premieres Friday, October 3

The highly anticipated new series, Star Wars Rebels, will make its debut Friday, October 3 (9 p.m. ET/PT) on Disney Channels around the world with an animated one-hour movie, Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion. Episodes of the series will debut Monday nights beginning Monday, October 13 (9 p.m. ET/PT) on Disney XD. The movie will be available on Disney Channel SVOD and to verified users beginning Monday, September 29, on WATCHDisneyXD.com and the Watch Disney XD app. The talented voice cast includes Freddie Prinze Jr. as Kanan, Vanessa Marshall as Hera, Steve Blum as Zeb, Tiya Sircar as Sabine, Taylor Gray as Ezra, David Oyelowo as Agent Kallus, and Jason Isaacs as the Inquisitor.

Go Behind the Scenes of Frozen on ABC This September

Walt Disney Animation Studios and ABC are giving viewers unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the making of Frozen. The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic offers a look at the origins and evolution of the Academy Award®-winning blockbuster, and tells the real story of making a modern movie based on a timeless tale that nearly overnight became a cultural touchstone for legions of fans. The special will also offer an exclusive sneak peek at Big Hero 6, which hits theaters this November. The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic premieres Tuesday, September 2 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Anna and Elsa Together in Storybrooke

This week ABC released photos showing the eagerly awaited new arrivals to Storybrooke, Anna (Elizabeth Lail) and Elsa (Georgina Haig)—and Anna is holding something that looks remarkably like a wedding gown. Season Four of Once Upon a Time premieres September 28 at 8 p.m. ET.

Big Hero 6 Spotlighted in Latest Version of Disney Animated

Disney Animated, the 2013 Apple iPad App of the year, has been updated to give viewers an inside look at Walt Disney Animation Studios’ upcoming release, Big Hero 6. Delve into the art and inspiration behind Hiro and Baymax in futuristic San Fransokyo, and view concept art, character sketches, posters, and more. This update also offers exclusive art and behind-the-scenes details from Feast, the new short from Walt Disney Animation Studios that will debut in theaters with Big Hero 6 this fall. Throughout Disney Animated, explore pages packed with interactive images and multi-layer animated clips. Animate authentic 3D character models, control a Disney visual effects simulation, browse a rich timeline of all 53 Disney animated feature films—and more. Dozens of top animators, artists, technicians, and designers contributed to making Disney Animated an unprecedented hands-on experience.

Meet Star Wars Rebels‘ Sabine in “Art Attack”

In “Art Attack,” the latest Star Wars Rebels short to be released, Sabine sneaks into an Imperial compound, looking to create a diversion for her friends aboard the Ghost. Spotted by stormtroopers, she proves too quick to be captured—and leaves behind an explosive surprise. Star Wars Rebels premieres on Disney Channel this October.

New Merchandise Coming to Disney Parks, Disney Store, and Retailers Near You

Vinylmation Villain 5 is now available at Disney Store and DisneyStore.com. Each blind-boxed package contains one of eight different designs in the series, which includes The Incredibles‘ Syndrome, Brave‘s Mordu, a bug’s life‘s Thumper, Up‘s Charles Muntz, Finding Nemo‘s Darla, Monsters, Inc.‘s Waternoose, and Monsters University‘s Dean Hardscrabble—plus a Mystery Figure.
PANDORA Jewelry and Disney have announced a new collection of hand-finished sterling silver and 14K gold charms that will feature inspirations from some of Disney’s most beloved characters. The collection will include 25 different styles, with an additional 16 styles found only at Disney Parks.
DisneyStore.com has launched a dedicated shop page for “Bouncing Bouquet” by Vera Bradley, a collection created especially for Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. The collection includes a wristlet, backpack, zip ID case, and hipster bags featuring Vera Bradley’s signature cotton quilted exterior in a colorful print of vivid florals with a subtle Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse design.
Disney Consumer Products and Le Sportsac have launched a “frightfully fashionable” 14-piece collection of totes, satchels, cosmetic bags, and backpacks inspired by DisneyŸPixar’s Monsters, Inc. and featuring artwork from the film’s production designer, Harley Jessup. The line is available at Le Sportsac stores and LeSportsac.com.

Re-Live Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Drop with MyMagic+

Walt Disney World Resort guests with a Magic Band and an active Memory Maker entitlement will now be able to receive a video memento of their 13-story drop. The feature utilizes new technology provided by Disney PhotoPass Service, including the ability to view and share the video with friends.

WATCH Disney Channel Launches Disney Replay

Disney Replay is bringing back 10 episodes from some of your favorite long-lost Disney Channel shows: Even Stevens, Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Kim Possible, That’s So Raven, and Cory in the House. Fifty episodes are available now through September 30 at WATCHDisneyChannel.com or via the WATCH Disney Channel app.

Meet Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Newest Resident

Say “karibuni,” or “welcome,” to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s newest resident, a baby gorilla born to mother Azizi and father Gino. The newborn male gorilla was born August 7 and is being watched closely by members of the primate team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. He’s the fourth gorilla born as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan, which manages genetic diversity among species through detailed records of individual animals. Park guests who travel down the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail just might catch a glimpse of Azizi and her new arrival.

Your Favorite Disney Channel Characters Make a Comeback

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?

Well, dig up your old puka shell necklace and bust out your laptop, tablet, or mobile device and download WATCH Disney Channel. The service is launching Disney Replay, which will bring back 10 episodes from the first seasons of some of your favorite, long-lost Disney Channel shows: Even Stevens, Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Kim Possible, That’s So Raven, and Cory in the House.

Here are the five characters we can’t wait to see again:

Louis Stevens (Even Stevens)

With his messy hair and hilarious hijinks, Louis Stevens was the character we secretly wanted to be best friends with in Even Stevens.

Dr. Jumba (Lilo & Stitch: The Series)

This former evil scientist eventually made his way into our hearts—especially because he was the mastermind behind Experiment 626, aka Stitch. Doesn’t he look really, really huggable?

Rufus (Kim Possible)

This pink, adorable, naked mole rat was the best (and cutest!) Disney Channel sidekick ever!

Raven (That’s So Raven)

The multi-talented Raven could sing, design… and see the future. Doesn’t she sound like the perfect teenager?

Cory (Cory in the House)

Cory’s address was pretty spectacular—1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. Who wouldn’t want to pay him a visit and taste his dad’s scrumptious food?

To join this throwback extravaganza, visit WATCHDisneyChannel.com. All 50 episodes are available now through September 30.

Production Artwork From “The Mightiest Motion Picture of Them All”

Sixty years ago, “The Mightiest Motion Picture of Them All,” Walt Disney’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, first whisked away moviegoers, diving to new depths of imagination and artistry. Having corralled an industry “who’s who” of technicians and artisans, Walt knew that something as large as the vision he had for Verne’s epic needed an equal sense of ambition. Culled from the Walt Disney Archives collection, the production artwork featured here is meant to begin to showcase just how “epic” the scale of this now-iconic film was, from its very conception, more of which will be celebrated on tour across the U.S. in this year’s D23 Disney Fanniversary Celebration road show, presented by Walt Disney Records The Legacy Collection.

The photo illustration featured here blends a black-and-white reference photograph of one of the massive "Vulcania" matte paintings created for the film by Peter Ellenshaw with a modern-day color image of the painting  as it currently appears in the Walt Disney Archives. — The photo illustration featured here blends a black-and-white reference photograph of one of the massive “Vulcania” matte paintings created for the film by Peter Ellenshaw with a modern-day color image of the painting  as it currently appears in the Walt Disney Archives.

Here is another of the large matte paintings featuring Nemo's caldera-concealed hideout on Vulcania. Both paintings (like the film itself) represent a towering accomplishment in special effects photography, and help to showcase the immense talent that matte painter Ellenshaw was. — Here is another of the large matte paintings featuring Nemo’s caldera-concealed hideout on Vulcania. Both paintings (like the film itself) represent a towering accomplishment in special effects photography, and help to showcase the immense talent that matte painter Ellenshaw was.

Working with Art Director John Meehan, artists  like Harper Goff and Set Decorator Emile Kuri crafted the  interiors of the luxurious Nautilus from scratch. The concepts featured here provide a pre-visualization for the interior look of the sub's salon, with its exposed industrial inner hull and Victorian furnishings brilliantly juxtaposing each other. — Working with Art Director John Meehan, artists  like Harper Goff and Set Decorator Emile Kuri crafted the  interiors of the luxurious Nautilus from scratch. The concepts featured here provide a pre-visualization for the interior look of the sub’s salon, with its exposed industrial inner hull and Victorian furnishings brilliantly juxtaposing each other.

The concepts shown here highlight how the Nautilus itself plays an integral character in the film. At once ominous and beautifully powerful, we see how the vessel was imagined to coexist and blend in with the alien oceanic world around it, drawing inspiration from the very undersea wilderness from which it seeks to protect its crew.

20000-leagues-under-the-sea-concept-art-feat-10 — Undoubtedly, the most dramatic and exciting scene from the film is the climactic sequence where Nemo and crew ward off the vicious and invasive tentacles of a giant squid, which has set its sights on the Nautilus. During the production, many concepts were created to try and capture the sense of chaos and danger that the filmmakers wanted to convey to the audience with this integral scene’s ambitious special effects. The stunning result is, still to this day, nothing short of Hollywood magic.

Michael Giacchino Puts His Spin on the New Ratatouille-Inspired Attraction at Disneyland Paris

Academy Award^®-winning composer Michael Giacchino is Pixar’s go-to guy when it comes to scoring its animated films.

The noted American composer got his big-screen break when director Brad Bird asked him to score Pixar’s The Incredibles in 2004. Since then, Giacchino has brought his unique musical stylings to several other Disney/Pixar films, including Ratatouille, Cars 2, and Up for which he won the Oscar^® for Best Original Score in 2009—the first-ever for a Pixar film.

So when the folks at Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar decided to create a one-of-a-kind Ratatouille-inspired dark ride at Disneyland Paris, it’s no surprise that they invited Giacchino back for a second helping.

“The music is in touch with the story every step of the way,” Giacchino says about the soundtrack to Disneyland Paris’ latest addition, L’Aventure Totalement Toquée de Rémy, which loosely translates to “Remy’s Totally Zany Adventure.” “And that’s what’s really fun about the ride. It really is a lot like the film as far as the story goes. You start off really beautiful—here’s what I’m dreaming, here’s what I want—and then you get dumped into an environment that could give you what you want, but you’re going to have to fight for it.”

Now those lucky enough to enter the world of Remy, can feast not only their eyes, but also their ears, on this culinary adventure, knowing that the crème de la crème gave the brand-new attraction its signature sound. Bon Appétit!

The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic to Air This Fall

If the air feels crisp this September, it’s not just the cool fall breeze. Walt Disney Animation Studios and ABC are giving viewers unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the making of Frozen. The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic premieres Tuesday, September 2 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. The special will also offer a glimpse toward the next chapter for Anna, Elsa, and friends, as well as an exclusive sneak peek at Big Hero 6 which hits theaters this November.

The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic offers a look at the origins and evolution of the Academy Award®-winning blockbuster—now the biggest animated feature of all time.

The special tells the real story of making a modern movie based on a timeless tale that nearly overnight became a cultural touchstone for legions of fans.

Viewers will get a rare look inside Walt Disney Animation Studios and unprecedented access to the creative team that brought Frozen to life. Throughout the one-hour special, the audience will hear from Frozen stars Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel, the directors, songwriters, producer, and artists, as well as Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter—the team who dreamed of making a cherished Hans Christian Andersen story into a spectacular big-screen animated musical.

Viewers will journey to the breathtaking Norwegian villages and landscapes that inspired the look of Arendelle, Frozen‘s fictional kingdom, and see images and footage from the research trips to Norway, Quebec, and points beyond that helped create the film’s unforgettable look and feel.

This special will also include some exciting announcements about the next chapter of Frozen and a never-before-seen preview of the Frozen characters, who are set to appear on the ABC hit series Once Upon a Time when the show returns Sunday, September 28. Members of D23 will get a special peek at what’s to come on Once Upon a Time in the Fall 2014 issue of Disney twenty-three.

The program will culminate with an exclusive sneak peek at the action-packed comedy-adventure Big Hero 6, currently in production at Walt Disney Animation Studios—under wraps until now—as the team prepares for their next big-screen epic. Sounds like September 2 will be the perfect night to “chill out” at home.

D23 Expo Tickets On Sale This Thursday, Disney Infinity 2.0 News, Parks Updates, and Much More in News Briefs for August 12, 2014

D23 Expo 2015 Tickets On Sale Thursday, August 14

On Thursday, August 14, at 10 a.m. PT, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will begin selling tickets for the next D23 Expo, which will take place August 14–16, 2015 at the Anaheim Convention Center. The largest Disney fan event in the world, the D23 Expo celebrates all the wonderful worlds of Disney entertainment, uniting all parts of The Walt Disney Company under one roof, including The Walt Disney Studios (including Marvel, Pixar, and Lucasfilm); Walt Disney Parks and Resorts; Disney Consumer Products; Media Networks (including ABC, Disney Channel, and Radio Disney) and Disney Interactive. D23 Expo 2015 marks the fourth bi-annual event held in Anaheim. Visit D23.com for more information and ticketing information.

Save the Date!

Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
Summer and Fall 2014
D23 Disney Fanniversary Celebration
August 24
Mary Poppins 50th Anniversary Celebration
September 13
From the Vaults: The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad
September 27
D23 Member Night at Aladdin on Broadway
November 8
Walt Disney Studios and Archives Tour
November 11
The Hunchback of Notre Dame VIP Experience
November 22-23
Destination D: Attraction Rewind at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World
Through January 4, 2015
Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
August 14-16, 2015
D23 Expo 2015 returns to Anaheim, California
Television
August 15
How to Build a Better Boy premieres on Disney Channel (8 p.m. ET/PT)

Bring On the Princess! Bring On the Street Rat! Bring On… The Duck!

The “whole new world” of Disney Infinity 2.0 continues to grow with the announcement that Donald Duck, armed with his trusty mallet, will be bringing some “duck-feathered fun” to the Toy Box this fall. Disney Interactive also announced this week that Aladdin, his scimitar sword, and magic lamp will help you stay one jump ahead of your enemies when the character joins Disney Infinity 2.0 in the fall, while Jasmine will be able to summon desert winds upon her release in early 2015. You’ll also be able to soar around the Toy Box with Aladdin’s Magic Carpet Power Disc, or use the Rags to Riches Power Disc to transform Aladdin into Prince Ali. Each character is sold separately and has unique abilities only playable in the 2.0 edition of Disney Infinity.

Frozen Summer Fun Continues at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is keeping the summer cool by extending Frozen Summer Fun LIVE! through September 28, four weeks longer than originally scheduled. Most entertainment and features will continue daily, though the Frozen Fireworks Spectacular will switch to Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from September 5–28.

Dress Like A Villain

Just in time for “Villains Unleashed” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Neff’s Disney Villains Collection lets you wear your villainous heart on your sleeve—or on your head—with a new collection of items that include sweatshirts, T-shirts, watches, and caps. The collection of street-inspired apparel captures the spirit of Never Land and Captain Hook and is available at Tilly’s and tillys.com.

Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Medals Revealed

More than 12,000 runners will take on the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon this November 14–16 at Disneyland Resort, and runDisney has unveiled the finisher medals for the half marathon, as well as the Avengers Super Heroes 5K and the runDisney Kids Races. The Inaugural Mission finisher medal for the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon features a spinning inner medallion with a signature “A” for “Avengers” on one side, and symbols that invoke the spirit of Captain America, Thor, and the Hulk on the other side. The races are sold out, but a limited number of spots may still be obtained through runDisney charities and travel providers. Visit runDisney.com for the most up-to-date information and details.

Get Ready to Meet Baymax at Disney Parks

Big Hero 6 hits theaters November 7, but you’ll be able to meet the film’s hero, robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada, and his closet companion, a robot named Baymax, at both the Disneyland Resort and the Walt Disney Resort this fall. More details will follow in the coming weeks.

ABC Family’s “Fun Day” to Spotlight Fan-Favorite Movies

ABC Family is about to introduce “Fun Day,” a monthly programming event that allows viewers to kick back, grab some snacks, and spend the weekend enjoying fan-favorite films. Mulan, Tangled, The Little Mermaid, and Pocahontas will all air Saturday, August 16, beginning at 6 p.m. ET/PT (and repeat Sunday, August 17, beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET/PT). Fans can also visit fundayapp.com to decorate their social media profile photos with beach-themed images, and use the app to upload photos and videos—which they just might see on-air.

WDI Reveals the Story Behind Disney Springs

Save the Date!

Elsa & Anna’s Boutique Announced for Disneyland Resort

Get a First Look at Paul Rudd in Marvel’s Ant-Man

Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion Premieres Friday, October 3

Go Behind the Scenes of Frozen on ABC This September

Anna and Elsa Together in Storybrooke

Big Hero 6 Spotlighted in Latest Version of Disney Animated

Meet Star Wars Rebels‘ Sabine in “Art Attack”

New Merchandise Coming to Disney Parks, Disney Store, and Retailers Near You

Re-Live Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Drop with MyMagic+

WATCH Disney Channel Launches Disney Replay

Meet Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Newest Resident

Louis Stevens (Even Stevens)

Dr. Jumba (Lilo & Stitch: The Series)

Rufus (Kim Possible)

Raven (That’s So Raven)

Cory (Cory in the House)

Academy Award®-winning composer Michael Giacchino is Pixar’s go-to guy when it comes to scoring its animated films.

The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic offers a look at the origins and evolution of the Academy Award®-winning blockbuster—now the biggest animated feature of all time.

D23 Expo 2015 Tickets On Sale Thursday, August 14

Save the Date!

Bring On the Princess! Bring On the Street Rat! Bring On… The Duck!

Frozen Summer Fun Continues at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Dress Like A Villain

Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Medals Revealed

Get Ready to Meet Baymax at Disney Parks

ABC Family’s “Fun Day” to Spotlight Fan-Favorite Movies

Academy Award^®-winning composer Michael Giacchino is Pixar’s go-to guy when it comes to scoring its animated films.