Gold Member Offer: 10% Off at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, Downtown Disney, CA

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio
Where: Downtown Disney
What: 10% Off Your Bill
Expires: April 15, 2025

Spice up your life at the newly reimagined Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio in Downtown Disney, and enjoy contemporary coastal cuisine, live jazz entertainment, and good vibes!

D23 Gold Members can receive a 10% discount on all food items available for dine-in guests and at Beignets Expressed, from Monday – Friday before 4:00 p.m.

To redeem your offer in-person, please follow the instructions below:

Please present proof of D23 Gold Membership at the time of transaction to receive the discount.

NOTE
Offer only available Monday – Friday before 4:00 p.m. (excluding alcohol, gratuity and tax. $50.00 max discount allowed. Not valid on special events, weekend, or major holidays). Valid at Downtown Disney location only. Proof of D23 Gold Membership must be presented prior to payment to receive the discount.

All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.

Phone featuring the 2024 D23 Gold Member Card and surrounded by sparkles.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Showcased are the four 2025 D23 Gold Member Premiums: Disneyland 70th Collection, including The Happiest Place on Earth, a replica Disneyland Park entrance plaque, and a reproduction of the Disneyland Entrance plaque text draft; Gold Member Fan Pack including a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse water bottle, crossbody bag, and hat; a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Spirit Jersey; and a 10-piece Pin Set.

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Every Way to Celebrate May the 4th with Fortnite

By Jocelyn Buhlman

May the 4th is just around the corner, and with it comes the promise of Star Wars once again making the lightspeed jump into Fortnite for limited-time fun. Whether you’re hopping on the Battle Bus or building a village in LEGO® Fortnite,  there’s so many ways to play in Fortnite. Here’s all the ways you can celebrate during the Fortnite | Star Wars collaboration, from May 3 to May 14:

A Star Wars Island Arrives in LEGO Fortnite
Rebel and Imperial ships have crash-landed into LEGO Fortnite, which means players can explore the all-new Star Wars island, which will continue to be available in game after Fortnite | Star Wars 2024 ends! Help the Rebel troops survive and build up their village, craft new Star Wars items, explore new locations, and—of course—wield lightsabers! While aiding the Rebellion, make progress in the LEGO Pass: Rebel Adventurewhich has free and premium rewards based on Tatooine and Mos Eisley!

Plus, crash the crash site of the Empire’s Star Destroyer; but be warned—the Empire is trying to make your world their home. You can choose to destroy the Imperial camps, or keep them for yourself. The site will remain in LEGO Fortnite beyond v29.40, so you can admire (or destroy) the Star Destroyer whenever you like.

The new update also brings more LEGO Styles for past Outfits that haven’t gotten a LEGO style yet, including Star Wars Outfits like Darth Vader and The Mandalorian!

Chewbacca Joins Battle Royal
Next time you jump off the Battle Bus (after thanking the bus driver, of course), set your sights on the new Camp landmark to rescue Chewbacca! Our favorite Wookiee will join players in battle with his trusty Bowcaster, and you can liberate your own Bowcaster from Imperial Chests at Stormtrooper roadblocks across the Island.

Plus: Check out new reward Quests and returning gameplay like the Darth Vader boss, Stormtrooper NPCs, E-11 Blasters, and more, available through May 14. Yes, that means you can swing Darth Vader’s Lightsaber once again… assuming you can defeat the mighty Sith Lord in battle! Battle Royale’s Star WarsQuests will be released in two phases: the first on May 3 and the second on May 7.

Fortnite Festival’s Own Hive of Scum and Villainy
Speaking of Fornite Festival… A stage inspired by Mos Eisley’s famous Cantina will be coming to FortniteFestival’s Jam Stage on May 3! Plus, complete Fortnite Festival’s Star Wars Quests to unlock a Battle Pass Level Up Reward and the Seven String Hallikset Guitar. These Quests go live May 3.

Make sure you’ve got the perfect intergalactic instruments for jamming to “Cantina Band,” with new items arriving in the item shop. “Ewok” and roll with the Endorian Drums, or become a Nalargonist with the Nalargon Keytar! Start your galactic grooves on May 3, when the “Cantina Band” Jam Track, Endorian Drums, and Nalargon Keytar will be in the Fortnite Shop with the release of v29.40.

Now THIS is Rocket Racing!
Star Wars Quests land in Rocket Racing on May 3, with more coming starting May 7. Inspired by one of Tatooine’s favorite (and most dangerous) pastimes, players can earn the podracing-inspired Energy Binders Trail and other rewards when completing the Quests. With v29.40, players will be able to earn separate rewards like Anakin’s Podracer Decal and the Darth Maul Decal when completing Quests.

Galactic Goodies in the Item Shop
Add some extra Star Wars swagger to your next game with the new Lando Calrissian, Dagobah Luke, and AWR Trooper Outfits. All three outfits include a LEGO Style, so your Star Wars adventures can continue in LEGO Fortnite. Hitting the road? Make your machine Mando-inspired with the Beskar Car Body, which also grants the car for Rocket League players. For those of you looking for the ultimate track to jam to in FortniteFestival, we’ve got great news: the “Mad About Me” (a.k.a. “Cantina Band”) Jam Track will be available for purchase throughout the event!

Missed out on previously Star Wars Outfits? A large selection will return during the event, including Han Solo, Leia Organa, Finn, Kylo Ren, and Rey!

Virtual Gallery: The Early Years of Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Like the name “Disney,” there is inherent magic in the word “Hollywood.” It represents a cache of cultural nostalgia for the movies we love. When the Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park opened at Walt Disney World on May 1, 1989, its dedication plaque described the park’s Hollywood experience as “a state of mind that exists wherever people dream and wonder and imagine, a place where illusion and reality are fused by technological magic.” The resulting park history has become one part memory lane, one part dream factory, and one part starring role for every guest who finds themselves immersed in the mythology of Hollywood, the moviemaking process, or the worlds of their favorite television shows and films.

Upon its debut, the park unveiled an impressive roster of new and unique attractions but could also legitimately boast of being a real production facility supported by state-of-the-art soundstages, an expansive backlot, and a functioning animation studio. Disney films of the era were also heralded and promoted throughout the park, oftentimes by way of special costume and prop exhibits, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, and celebrity appearances which helped to further tie the in-park experience to its Hollywood roots.

In 2008, the park officially changed its name to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, reflecting a new direction—away from actual production and a behind-the-scenes focus to wholly immersing guests in their favorite TV and film experiences through new and exciting attractions and environments. Still, the park perfectly retains its fantasy aura of classic Hollywood seemingly filled with stars, sky-tracing klieg lights, and cement handprints, successfully creating a nostalgia for “a Hollywood that never was and always will be.”

To celebrate Disney’s Hollywood Studios on its 35th anniversary, the Walt Disney Archives proudly presents a virtual gallery of iconic merchandise, ephemera, and props that chronicle the park’s early years, including its Grand Opening Spectacular weekend (April 28 to May 1, 1989):

Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park Special “Sneak Preview” Guide, 1987
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park Guide Book, 1989
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park “World Premiere Night” Invitation, 1989
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park “Earffel Tower” Postcard, ca. 1989
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park Commemorative Child Ticket No. 1, ca. 1989
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park Souvenir License Plate, ca. 1989
Grand Opening Promotional Button Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park 1989
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park Souvenir Baseball Cap, ca. 1989
“Indiana Jones” Audio-Animatronics® Costume Fedora, The Great Movie Ride [1989–2017]
Star Tours Starspeeder Model made by Industrial Light & Magic, ca. 1987

Opening text adapted from A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of the Most Magical Place on Earth (2021) by Disney archivists Kevin M. Kern and Steven Vagnini and Disney author/historian Tim O’Day, now available from Disney Editions.

D23 Exclusive: Three New Variant Covers for Marvel’s Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime

By the D23 Team

What happens when the world’s wealthiest duck teams up with Marvel Comics? It’s a legendary pairing that means one thing for certain: comic fans are in for a treat! For the first time ever, Scrooge McDuck is getting his very own Marvel Comics one-shot, Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime #1, helmed by prolific Marvel writer Jason Aaron—known for penning some of the X-Men and Avengers’ most iconic stories. Aaron is teaming up with established Scrooge artists to bring together the world of Uncle Scrooge with the hallmarks of Marvel Comics storytelling.

Uncle $crooge and The Infinity Dime #1 sees Scrooge embark on a time-honored Marvel adventure as he explores the Multiverse to stop a twisted alternate Scrooge from becoming the all-powerful and incomprehensibly rich Scrooge-Above-All! Along the way, the story will introduce exciting new takes on the iconic tycoon with a heart of gold and feature appearances by Scrooge’s nephew, Donald Duck; grandnephews, Huey, Dewey, and Louie; and a supporting cast of characters, including Gyro Gearloose.

The comic hits stands June 19, but you can get a taste of the action now with a first look at three variant covers for the comic, created by artists Pepe Larraz, Skottie Young, and Frank Miller.

Uncle $crooge and The Infinity Dime #1 variant cover illustrated by Skottie Young
Uncle $crooge and The Infinity Dime #1 variant cover illustrated by Pepe Larraz
Uncle $crooge and The Infinity Dime #1 variant cover illustrated by Frank Miller

Learn more about this historic collaboration at Marvel.com, and look for Uncle $crooge and The Infinity Dime #1 at your local comic book shops in June!

COMIC SHOP LOCATOR

JUST ANNOUNCED: Two Exhibitions Featuring the Artistry of Disney Costumes, Jewelry, and Accessories to Open in Texas

By the D23 Team

Today, the Arlington Museum of Art in Arlington, TX, announced the September 14 opening of Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume and All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives. Both exhibitions are presented in partnership with the Walt Disney Archives.

“Whether on television, in a movie theatre, or at a Broadway show, when we meet a Disney character for the first time, we instantly begin to understand them. That is how extraordinarily important costume design is to conveying persona,” said Chris Hightower, President & CEO of the Arlington Museum of Art, “and how Disney truly sets the standard of excellence. By bringing these two exhibitions together for the first time, the Arlington Museum of Art surrounds visitors in the transformative power of wardrobe while celebrating the artists whose creativity and talent is conveyed in every design, every stitch, and every jewel.”

This will be the first time that the two collections will be exhibited at the same time by a single venue. Together, they feature more than 300 stunning pieces spanning over 65 years.

Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume

Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume immerses visitors in the textural storytelling and character development woven into Disney’s iconic costumes. The exhibition is organized into three Disney archetypes: heroes, villains, and the spaces between, dedicated to the complex and intriguing antiheroes of Disney storytelling.

The exhibition features a stunning collection of original costumes, including the Sanderson Sisters’ wicked wardrobe from Hocus Pocus 2 (2022), Mary Poppins’ delightful traveling dress from Mary Poppins Returns (2018), Belle’s ball gown from 2017’s Beauty and the Beast, the Evil Queen and Hook’s costumes from Once Upon a Time (TV, 2011-2018), and the dress worn by Bette Davis as Letha in Return from Witch Mountain (1978).

Through original items including ball gowns, sorcerers’ capes, a pirate’s jacket, and iconic glass slippers, Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume celebrates the artistry of some of Hollywood’s preeminent designers. Included in the exhibition are costumes created by Academy Award® winners Colleen Atwood, Sandy Powell, and Tony Walton, as well as Emmy® winner Ellen Mirojnick and Emmy nominees Eduardo Castro and Penny Rose.

All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives

All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives dazzles with prized pieces of jewelry and accessories. From crowns and tiaras to watches, rings, and necklaces, this exhibition gives visitors the rare opportunity to see these iconic jewels up close, while gaining an understanding of how integral they are to completing the ensemble and informing the character.

The exhibit is presented in five parts: “Every Little Detail” brings together over 80 small pieces from earrings, cuff links, rings, and more; “The Feature Vault” is an incredible collection of crowns, tiaras, necklaces, and pendants; “Watches Through the Decades” chronologically showcases the Walt Disney Archives’ collection of wrist and pocket watches; “Made for Screen” gives visitors a peek behind the curtain to see the process of creating some of the most iconic jewelry props; and “Reflections of Reality” showcases jewelry and accessories that were heavily influenced and inspired by real life people and stories.

Bringing together some of the best of old and new, All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives includes King Brian’s crown from Darby O’Gill and the Little People (1959) used by Jimmy O’Dea, Elizabeth Swann’s pirate medallion necklace from Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl(2003) used by Keira Knightley, Mia’s coronation crown from Princess Diaries 2: The Royal Engagement(2004) used by Anne Hathaway, and Ursula’s shell necklace from The Little Mermaid (2023) used by Melissa McCarthy to capture Ariel’s voice.

More information, including press preview opportunities, will be announced later this spring. Tickets for the exhibitions will be available starting in June, only at arlingtonmuseum.org. Museum members will have early access to free tickets as a part of their membership benefits.

Disney Unleashes First Look and Casting News for Mufasa: The Lion King

By Alison Stateman

Get ready to roar: Disney has unveiled the first teaser trailer for Mufasa: The Lion King! The new film, arriving in theaters on December 20, explores the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands.

Also announced is an all-star roster of talent bringing new and fan-favorite characters to life—including Beyoncé Knowles-Carter who will voice Nala, and introducing her daughter Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, daughter of King Simba and Queen Nala.

What’s more, award-winning songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda is penning the film’s songs, which he’ll produce alongside Mark Mancina. The soundtrack will also feature additional music and performances by Lebo M.

Said Miranda: “Elton John. Tim Rice. Hans Zimmer. Lebo M. Mark Mancina. Beyoncé, Labrinth, Ilya Salmanzadeh. Beau Black, Ford Riley, the incredible music team on The Lion Guard,” referring to the animated series from Disney Junior, “and so many musical contributors over the years. The Lion King has an incredible musical legacy with music from some of the greatest songwriters around, and I’m humbled and proud to be a part of it. It’s been a joy working alongside [director] Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa’s story to life, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters.”

The official poster for Mufasa: The Lion King shows a young lion cub at the edge of a watering hole, facing the camera. Reflected in the water is the countenance of an adult male lion with the words: “Disney Mufasa The Lion King” at center, and “In Theaters December 20” below.

Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala—with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny… their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.

New and returning cast include Aaron Pierre as  Mufasa; Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka, a lion prince with a bright future who accepts Mufasa into his family as a brother; Tiffany Boone as Sarabi; Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki; Preston Nyman as Zazu; Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, a formidable lion with big plans for his pride; Thandiwe Newton as Taka’s mother, Eshe; Lennie James as Taka’s father, Obasi; Anika Noni Rose as Mufasa’s mother, Afia; Keith David as Mufasa’s father, Masego; John Kani as Rafiki; Seth Rogen as Pumbaa; Billy Eichner as Timon; and Donald Glover as Simba.

Additional casting includes Braelyn Rankins, Theo Somolu, Folake Olowofoyeku, Joanna Jones, Thuso Mbedu, Sheila Atim, Abdul Salis, and Dominique Jennings.

Blending live-action filmmaking techniques with photoreal computer-generated imagery, Mufasa: The Lion Kingis directed by Barry Jenkins, produced by Adele Romanski & Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen.

Everything You Need to Eat, See, and Do at Pixar Fest 2024

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

Get ready to dive into the world of Pixar magic with Disneyland Resort’s Pixar Fest—returning bigger and better than ever! From April 26 to August 4, the Resort will be transformed into a playground of Pixar delights. From playful encounters with beloved characters to delectable food delights, here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect from this Pixar frenzy:

In the Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration parade, characters Joy and Sadness from Inside Out are in a life-size Rocket Wagon, which stands on Memory Orbs. Crowds of excited spectators line the parade route, capturing the magic with cameras. Further in the background stands the iconic Pixar-Pal-A-Round attraction. Behind that is the Incredicoaster, featuring red enclosed tunnels.

Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration

Disney Live Entertainment unveils its latest daytime parade, Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration—bursting with vibrant floats and beloved characters from Pixar Animation Studios. Join Red Panda Mei and her Turning Red crew as they rock out to the tunes of boy band sensation 4*Town, while Soul’s Joe Gardner and 22 merge their worlds in a celebration of life’s sweetest moments.

Alongside them, Luca, Alberto, and Giulia from the charming coastal town of Portorosso bask in the sun-drenched delight of friendship, celebrating Pixar’s Luca—and that’s just a glimpse of the Pixar magic awaiting in this procession…

During a recent panel presentation about this year’s Pixar Fest, Robin Trowbridge, show director at Disney Live Entertainment, revealed that the parade’s infectious melody was crafted to be “as catchy as possible”!

During the Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular, dazzling fireworks illuminate the sky above Disneyland’s iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. On the castle is a purple and blue projection showcasing moments from Soul, featuring Joe Gardner.

Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular

“Lights, camera, action” is truly the anthem of this unforgettable nighttime spectacle. Featuring more than 70 beloved Pixar characters (including the five newest Emotions from Inside Out 2), and enhanced with fireworks on most nights, Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular feels straight out of a movie.

Fun fact: Every Pixar film is included in this show!

The stage comes to life during Pixar Pals Playtime Party. with an ensemble of beloved Pixar characters and Disney Live Entertainment dancers, bathed in the hues of iconic Pixar coloring: blues, yellows, and reds. From left to right, the stage’s lineup includes Sadness, Joy, Woody, Jessie, Bo Peep, Frozone, Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, and Edna Mode.

Pixar Pals Playtime Party

The Pixar Pals Playtime Party will delight the young and young-at-heart at the Fantasyland Theater several times a day. And in between performances of this high-energy dance show, a selection of iconic Pixar shorts will be shown on the theater’s big screen. Plus, you’ll have the chance to mingle with beloved Pixar stars like Ian and Barley from Onward, Ember and Wade from Elemental, and Luca and Alberto from Luca.

 

The Merch is Here!

New merchandise inspired by Pixar films has made its way around Disneyland Resort, from timeless tees to a must-have bucket hats. Don’t miss this wonderful chance to bring a slice of the Pixar magic home with you!

At Disney California Adventure Park, Hollywood Land transforms into Club Pixar for Pixar Fest. Beneath the “Hollywood Studios” arch, a neon sign reads “Club Pixar,” featuring the Pixar logo and the iconic Pixar lamp. Below the sign, a billboard showcases posters from Inside Out 2 and Disneynature's Tiger documentary.

Club Pixar

Every evening throughout Pixar Fest, The Hollywood Backlot in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure Park will ignite with Pixar magic. Experience an interactive DJ dance party, live performances, Pixar-themes games, photo ops, and a delightful “drive-in” theater featuring favorite Pixar Shorts, such as the Oscar®-winning Bao.

To fuel guests through the night, Club Pixar has themed cuisine, with lots of Pixar-inspired goodies, this event will make you hungry for more!

Pixar or… Food Fest?

Speaking of eats and treats, Pixar Fest is lining up to be a foodie’s paradise—with even more culinary creations launching on May 10 at special marketplaces around Disney California Adventure, each ensuring a Pixar story that’s not just watched but savored.

Gold Member Offer: 50% Off Admission to the Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, MO

Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline
Where: Walt Disney Hometown Museum
What: 50% Off Tickets
Expires: December 31, 2025

The Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, Missouri, is the recipient of a unique collection of family effects, never seen anywhere else. The museum, in the heart of the town where Walt lived from 1906 to 1911, provides an intimate understanding of Walt and his amazing life history and family!

Exclusively for D23 Gold Members, the Walt Disney Hometown Museum is offering a 50% discount off admission.

*This discount is NOT valid for The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, California.

To redeem your offer in-person, please present a valid D23 Gold Membership card at time of purchase to receive the discount at checkout.

NOTE
D23 Gold Membership card must be shown at time of purchase. For hours, operating schedule, and more information, please visit WaltDisneyMuseum.org.

All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.

Phone featuring the 2024 D23 Gold Member Card and surrounded by sparkles.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Showcased are the four 2025 D23 Gold Member Premiums: Disneyland 70th Collection, including The Happiest Place on Earth, a replica Disneyland Park entrance plaque, and a reproduction of the Disneyland Entrance plaque text draft; Gold Member Fan Pack including a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse water bottle, crossbody bag, and hat; a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Spirit Jersey; and a 10-piece Pin Set.

Where Disney Fans Belong
Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.

JOIN TODAY

Gold Member Offer: Get 15% Off Your Stay & Complimentary Parking at Holiday Inn Orlando, Disney Springs Area

Holiday Inn Orlando
Where: Holiday Inn Orlando, Disney Springs
What: 15% Off Regular Rates and Free Self-Parking
Expires: April 15, 2025

Located within easy walking distance to Disney Springs®, Holiday Inn Orlando, Disney Springs Area is in the middle of the magic and is the only Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort.

As an official Walt Disney World® hotel, we offer unique Disney Springs® Resort Area benefits, including Early Theme Park Entry and shuttles every hour to all four Walt Disney World®Theme Parks. Our hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, heated zero-entry pool, game room, and Kids Eat Free!

D23 Gold Members can enjoy 15% off regular rates in addition to complimentary self-parking during their stay at Holiday Inn Orlando, Disney Springs Area.

Kids Eat Free Terms and Conditions apply.  For more information, contact the hotel at guestservices@hiorlando.com or 407-828-8888.

To redeem your offer online, please follow the instructions below:

D23 Gold Members can book their stay using the link below:

NOTE
Blockout dates apply. Subject to availability. Self-parking is for one vehicle per night and does not apply to other offers or discounts. Proof of D23 Gold Membership must be presented at check-in. Membership card may be a physical card or a digital membership card found in the D23 app.

 

All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.

Phone featuring the 2024 D23 Gold Member Card and surrounded by sparkles.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Showcased are the four 2025 D23 Gold Member Premiums: Disneyland 70th Collection, including The Happiest Place on Earth, a replica Disneyland Park entrance plaque, and a reproduction of the Disneyland Entrance plaque text draft; Gold Member Fan Pack including a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse water bottle, crossbody bag, and hat; a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Spirit Jersey; and a 10-piece Pin Set.

Where Disney Fans Belong
Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.

JOIN TODAY

Beauty and the Beast: 30 Years of the Broadway Musical

By Katie Strobel, Walt Disney Archives

There may be something there that wasn’t there before...

November 22, 1991: Disney’s animated film Beauty and the Beast was met with critical acclaim and would later be nominated for six Academy Awards® —winning two. Gene Siskel of the Chicago Tribune described the feature as “an instant classic, with songs worthy of a Broadway musical,” and Frank Rich of the New York Times even called the film’s soundtrack “the best Broadway musical score of 1991.” Less than three years later...

April 18, 1994: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast debuts at the Palace Theatre on Broadway as The Walt Disney Company’s first venture into what would become Disney Theatrical Group. Nine Tony® nominations (with one win) and 30 years later, this stage musical has been seen by over 25 million people in some 37 countries.

Black billboard with a silhouette of Beast holding a rose, advertising the “2nd Smash Year” of Beauty and the Beast at the Palace Theatre on Broadway. (Photographer: Joan Marcus)
Beauty and the Beast billboard at the Palace Theatre for its “2nd Smash Year” and Beauty and the Beast at its European premiere at Vienna’s Raimund Theater in 1995.

Ever just the same, ever a surprise...

With a Tony-nominated book written by Linda Woolverton, the screenwriter of the ’91 animated feature, the musical expands upon the film’s themes. As Disney’s then-CEO Michael Eisner and then-Studios chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg challenged the creative team, “You need the essence of the movie, but... you have to bring it its own qualities—qualities that can only be experienced in live theater.” From studying the costuming of rock groups to brainstorming how kitchen utensils would move, the multi-talented team indeed brought that “quality” production to life.

Composer Alan Menken expanded upon his Oscar®-winning original score for the ’91 film, writing several new songs for the Broadway musical with lyricist Sir Tim Rice—who came on to the project after the passing of film lyricist Howard Ashman. Menken and Ashman originally thought of the film as a musical, wanting the characters to “sing their thoughts and feelings within the story.” The film’s original Menken and Ashman tunes remain in the live stage production, including “Human Again,” which was cut from the ’91 film. These songs and that music have, over the years, gained new life with elaborate set decorations and the talents of various casts. (All three songwriters would later be named Disney Legends, the highest honor bestowed by The Walt Disney Company.)

One of those newly penned songs is a ballad for Belle called “Home,” which she performs after becoming the Beast’s captive. Its rich yet cold emotion served as inspiration for scenic designer Stan Meyer in designing Belle’s room in the Beast’s castle. He explained, “It juxtaposes... a fairy tale bedroom with the reality that Belle is the Beast’s prisoner.”

Beast—“the most fascinating character in the show,” according to Woolverton, though he didn’t have a full vocal number of his own until this production—also has a new song from Menken and Rice. “If I Can’t Love Her” reveals his tender, compassionate side after he has regrettably pushed Belle away. The song partly builds off the musical theme of the “Prologue” as well as a motif from “Belle Enters the Beast’s World” and “Beast Lets Go” from the original motion picture soundtrack. In repurposing original themes, Menken explained that he tried to “thread [the songs] out of themes that [he] had used in underscoring for the film,” giving the audience a sense of familiarity.

Sketch and inspiration for Belle’s costume by costume designer Ann Hould-Ward. (Costume design by Ann Hould-Ward)
Sketch and inspiration for Belle’s costume by Costume Designer Ann Hould-Ward. Costume design by Ann Hould-Ward.

One of the larger shifts from film to musical was the transformation of the castle staff (i.e., Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and friends). Instead of donning the same appearance throughout the course of the show, the staff gradually becomes more and more like household objects by way of costuming. This proved to be a challenge for Tony® Award-winning costume designer Ann Hould-Ward, who needed to ensure the actors’ physical ability to move about the stage while dressed as a clock or a teapot. She also wanted the performers to enhance that transformation by leaving “enough room in the designs for their acting to be part of the illusion.” (See photo collage below.)

Disney fans will also be no stranger to various cast members of the show over the years. Susan Egan, the voice of Megara in Hercules (1997), originated the role of Belle—a character who’s also been performed by Disney favorites Christy Carlson Romano (Even Stevens, Kim Possible), Ashley Brown (original Mary Poppins on Broadway), and Anneliese van der Pol (That’s So Raven, Raven’s Home). Even actor Donny Osmond has donned the red tunic and hunting boots of Gaston.

Belle (Susan Egan) and Beast (Terrence Mann) from the original cast of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on Broadway. (Production photography by Joan Marcus)
Belle (Susan Egan) and Beast (James Barbour). Production Photography by Joan Marcus.

For now I love the world I see, no change of heart, a change in me...

Beauty and the Beast had its last Broadway performance on July 29, 2007, ending its run with a total of 5,464 performances and 46 previews. With its 13-year run, the musical remains in the top 10 longest runs in the history of Broadway, even three decades later. And it was Beauty in the first place that launched Disney Theatrical Group, a stage musical powerhouse that would go on to produce three of the 15 longest-running shows in the history of Broadway—and change the theatrical landscape globally. Disney Theatrical Group chief creative officer Thomas Schumacher, who produced Beauty and the Beast through virtually all of its onstage life (and served as executive producer of the 2017 live-action film), thinks the reason the show remains so beloved is that “characters’ hearts and minds are changed, and people are figuratively and literally transformed by the power of love and understanding.”

The show has since been performed in hundreds of theaters around the world, including through popular touring productions. From 2018 to 2020, a Mandarin-language version played in the Walt Disney Grand Theatre in Disneytown at Shanghai Disney Resort. And in October 2022, Japan’s Shiki Theater Company, in association with Disney Theatrical Productions, debuted a version in the Maihama Amphitheater at Tokyo Disney Resort.

Whether six or 96, the Beauty and the Beast stage musical will remain in audiences’ hearts and minds for years to come. Near the time of its premiere, former Disney CEO Michael Eisner reflected, “I enjoy the thought that Disney’s Beauty and the Beast will be a lifelong memory for a new generation of theatergoers, and that it will bring a new meaning to the word ‘Disney’ for veteran theatergoers.” That holds true... at least for this former 6-year-old!

Author and her brother stand side by side holding black Beauty and the Beast programs with a silhouette of Beast holding a rose.
Author and Disney archivist Katie Strobel and her brother at a performance of Beauty and the Beast in Los Angeles in May 1995, then pictured in 2024 with their original 1995 Shubert Theatre programs.

This sentiment will continue with an entirely new generation when a reimagined 30th anniversary production of Beauty and the Beast makes its debut in North America in summer 2025. Anne Quart, executive producer of the new production, conveys the team’s passion for the show: “We are thrilled to have once again gathered this world-class creative team on Beauty and the Beast, under the masterful direction of original team member Matt West. Together they created a beloved show in 1994, and today they’re telling that story with all the charm and romance of the original production, and newly resonant for today’s audiences. It’s a pleasure to be back in the room with this peerless team as they re-discover and expand Beauty and the Beast.” Learn more about the upcoming production here.