Disney100: The Exhibition to Open November 18 in Chicago—Birthplace of Walt Disney

The Walt Disney Archives and Semmel Exhibitions, a worldwide exhibit presenter and producer, announced today that Disney100: The Exhibition will open at the 35,000-square-foot Exhibition Hub Art Center (formerly known as the Windy City Fieldhouse) in Chicago on November 18, 2023. The facade of the building will be transformed and rebranded through Disney magic to include stunning visuals that are sure to catch the attention of fans and tourists alike. This date is also special because it’s Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse’s birthday. The pair made their first on-screen appearance in Steamboat Willie, which premiered in New York City on November 18, 1928.

The show is presented in partnership with Exhibition Hub and Fever, both leaders in global live-entertainment operations. Guests can experience ten immersive galleries with visual, audio, and interactive elements, as well as more than 250 unique and rarely seen works of art, artifacts, memorabilia, costumes, and props from the historical collections across the many realms of Disney, all on display as The Walt Disney Company celebrates its centennial anniversary on October 16, 2023.

“It took several years to plan and assemble the artifacts for Disney100: The Exhibition, and many of them will be on display for Disney fans for the first time,” said Christoph Scholz, Director, Semmel Exhibitions. “Most of the artifacts are presented from the Walt Disney Archives collection with some additional treasures from Marvel Studios, the Pixar Living Archives, the Walt Disney Animation Research Library, and Walt Disney Imagineering, including some that will be displayed for the first time in Chicago.”

The city of Chicago plays an important role in the Disney story: Walter Elias Disney was born in Chicago’s Hermosa neighborhood; Walt purchased his first motion picture camera in Chicago; he attended McKinley High School where he divided his attention between drawing and photography; and attended night classes at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts. The Windy City provided inspiration for the project that eventually became known as Disneyland® Park, including by way of the Chicago Railroad Fair.

“We are incredibly excited to bring this fantastic exhibition to Chicago,” said Rebecca Cline, Director, Walt Disney Archives. “We can’t wait for guests to experience some of their favorite Disney stories, characters, and attractions in new and immersive ways as we celebrate all the wonderful worlds of Disney.”

Visitors will be taken on a visual journey where they can explore seldom viewed works of art including visual development drawings for Sleeping Beauty (1959), created by artist and Disney Legend Marc Davis. A very special piece of art from Mary Poppins (1964), which can also be seen in the opening titles of Mary Poppins Returns (2018), created by artist and Disney Legend Peter Ellenshaw will also be on display. Also included in the experience are some of the iconic props from various films such as the Mad Hatter’s teapot from Alice in Wonderland (2010); the poisoned caramel apple from Enchanted (2007) used by Timothy Spall and Amy Adams; and the dinglehopper from The Little Mermaid (2023) used by Halle Bailey. Fans won’t want to miss seeing Disneyland® Park Employee Badge #1, issued to Walt Disney in 1955, and early photography of Walt Disney’s birthplace in Chicago. Disney enthusiasts will have the chance to leave with both memories and memorabilia, as the exhibition will include several extraordinary backdrops and photo opportunities along with exclusive merchandise offered inside the Disney100: The Exhibition gift shop.

“Chicago is proud to host Disney100: The Exhibition, returning to the very city where the Walt Disney legend first began,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “We welcome Disney fans from all corners of the world to enjoy this immersive exhibition and spend time in the city that inspired the imagination of a young Walt Disney, one of the 20th century’s most influential Americans.”

The waitlist for tickets opens today, September 6, 2023, and ticket sales will begin on September 12, 2023, at 10 a.m. CDT. For images, please visit the press kit here. Disney100: The Exhibition is scheduled to be open throughout the holiday season and into 2024.

The Exhibition Hub Art Center in Chicago is located inside the Lincoln Park neighborhood at 2367 W. Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647 and is easily accessible from Chicago’s public transit system. For more information, please visit https://disney100exhibit.com/chicago

Your Watch Guide to All Things The Little Mermaid

By Emily Hewitt

After much anticipation, this year’s The Little Mermaid finally dove onto Disney+ on Wednesday. To celebrate this magical occasion, we’ve put together a watch guide of the best The Little Mermaid-themed content, ready to make a splash onto your television or other viewing devices. All titles are available on Disney+.

The Little Mermaid (2023)
Of course, you have to start with The Little Mermaid (2023)—even if you’ve already seen it once… or twice… or more. The classic plot remains: Upon falling for the charming Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King), who lives on land, Ariel (Halle Bailey) goes to the wicked sea witch, Ursula (Melissa McCarthy), and reluctantly agrees to trade her voice temporarily for legs. As Ariel experiences land for the first time, Ursula plots a way to keep Ariel’s voice forever.

The Little Mermaid (1989)
After seeing the new live-action film, you can throw it back to the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic, inspired by the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. Relive the cascade of songs and thingamabobs and remember why this Ariel was instrumental in making her voice, Jodi Benson, a Disney Legend. After your pipes are warmed up, you can watch The Little Mermaid Sing-Along next.

The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000)
A second generation of mermaids graces the screen in The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea, as Ariel and Eric’s daughter, Melody, voiced by Tara Strong, explores the place her mother once called home—the sea. Once there, however, Melody finds herself entangled with a plan by another evil sea witch, Morgana (Pat Carroll), to bring down King Triton (Kenneth Mars). Ariel (Jodi Benson) must return to Atlantica to find her daughter and save her family.

The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning (2008)
Before Ariel and Eric met, she was just a young mermaid under the sea, swimming along with her sisters. A prequel to the original film, The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning takes place just after the death of Athena, Ariel’s mother, which leads King Triton (Jim Cummings) to ban music from the kingdom of Atlantica. Watch Ariel (Jodi Benson) rebel against her father’s law while Sebastian (Samuel E. Wright) does his best to keep the rhythm going.

The Little Mermaid (1992–1994)
Set between The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning and the original film, this 31-episode series follows the adventures of Ariel (Jodi Benson), her six sisters, and her trusty companions, Flounder (Edan Gross) and Sebastian (Samuel E. Wright). Watch the mighty mermaid fight off threats to her family and build relationships with her loved ones.

The Wonderful World of Disney: The Little Mermaid Live! (2019)
Ariel’s story becomes part of our world in The Little Mermaid Live!, a stage retelling of the film that aired on The Wonderful World of Disney. Although Ariel (Auliʻi Cravalho) doesn’t get too far flipping her fin in this version, you will definitely get to see her dance under the stage lights. The cast includes Queen Latifah as Ursula, Graham Phillips as Prince Eric, Shaggy as Sebastian, and John Stamos as Chef Louis.

The Art of Restoring 27 Classic Walt Disney Animation Studios Shorts

By Zach Johnson

This past summer, Disney+ began debuting a collection of 27 newly restored Walt Disney Animation Studios shorts, ranging from classics to lesser known titles. A new batch will roll out this week—including Trolley Troubles (1927); All Wet (1927); The Barn Dance (1929); Playful Pluto (1934); Mickey’s Kangaroo (1935); Merbabies (1938); Bone Trouble (1940); and Pluto, Junior (1942)—before the final installment of shorts arrives on Friday, October 6. It’s an important passion project, as this year marks the centennial of the Walt Disney Animation Studios, which is being honored as part of the ongoing Disney100 celebrations.

The restorations were spearheaded by Walt Disney Studios Restoration and Preservation team, led by director Kevin Schaeffer. Creative advisors from Walt Disney Animation Studios included special projects and 2D animation producer Dorothy McKim, production designer Mike Giaimo, and animator/director Eric Goldberg. Below, Karen Weissman, Restoration and Preservation Manager at The Walt Disney Studios, details the team’s creative process.

Paint us a picture of how some of these shorts looked and sounded before they were restored. What did you all find as you as you revisited each one of these classic shorts?
Karen Weissman (KW): It’s definitely a mixed bag, that’s for sure. They all are very different as far as what we were able to work with. For a lot of the shorts from the late ’20s and early ’30s, we didn’t always have the original elements [at our disposal]. Some of them didn’t make it over time, but some of them did. It made it a little more challenging, so we had to try to find the best source in order to get the best image quality and audio possible.

Were you familiar with all of these shorts prior to the restoration project?
KW: Definitely not all of them! Disney has hundreds of classic shorts. But once you start working on them, you get very familiar with every frame. Now I have a little more expertise.

Mickey Mouse stands with both arms outstretched. Mickey faces a smiling kangaroo, who is wearing boxing gloves and is standing at the bottom of a short staircase.

Which of these shorts would you consider the most valuable restoration?
KW: It’s tough, because so many of them have different significance. To see Pluto in his early stages and then to see how much he’s changed is, for me, super interesting. Working on the Oswald the Lucky Rabbit shorts felt important, because for a long time, the rights didn’t belong to Disney; they belonged to Universal. [Walt Disney Company CEO] Bob Iger did some deals and got some of them back, so it’s really neat to have them available. We also got to work on Bone Trouble [1940]; a long time ago, they had replaced the original title cards, so we didn’t have them. But we were able to track them down and we put them back in, so when everybody gets to see it now, they’re going to see the original main titles.

During the restoration process, how do you honor the different versions of certain characters? For example, Minnie Mouse is animated much differently in Building a Building (1933) than in Bath Day (1946). How do you account for that kind of evolution?
KW: We would use whatever references we could find from the times. We also sometimes consulted with the animators; a few of them have been around for a while, and they know how the characters should look in the shorts. We’re usually just fixing issues of consistency.

With 100 years of Disney animated shorts, do you have a favorite?
KW: That’s always tough. We love all our children! [Laughs] I’ve always been a big Chip and Dale fan, so working on Chips Ahoy [1956] was really neat; it was also an early example of Cinemascope. We have a small handful of shorts filmed in Cinemascope, so that was really cool. Although… you work on these shorts and you learn to love them all, of course!

How does it feel to bring these restored shorts to a platform such as Disney+?
KW: It’s really great to have them there. So many people—even within the Studio—have reached out to say, “I watched the shorts with my family, and some of my kids had never seen them. We had never seen them!” It’s really great that it’s so accessible. It’s fantastic that Disney+ made it a priority to restore all of these shorts this year for 100th anniversary.

Listen to the complete D23 Inside Disney podcast interview with Karen Weissman on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, Stitcher, and TuneIn.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Watch the Trailer for the New Video Game Gargoyles Remastered

Gargoyles Remastered is now available for pre-order on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Steam and GOG!

 

Launching October 19th, Gargoyles Remastered is an artfully crafted revival of the ‘90s classic 16-bit side-scrolling platform adventure. Relive the epic journey of Goliath and the Gargoyles featuring enhanced visuals, animations, and SFX, all inspired by the acclaimed animated series. The world of Gargoyles comes to life with a level of detail that will thrill fans of the animated series and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. Experience classic gameplay that stays authentic to its predecessor while including new features such as achievements, gameplay rewind, and more!

Click here to learn more about Gargoyles Remastered.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

By Courtney Potter

It’s a veritable smorgasbord of entertainment from around the worlds of Disney this weekend—everything from classic animation to Jedi adventures and live-action situation comedy… with a certain mermaid’s debut on Disney+ thrown in for good measure! So kick back and relax with a cavalcade of fantastic things to watch. But don’t forget to tune into the most fantastic thing of all: the Destination D23 livestream on Saturday, September 9! Check it out on D23’s YouTube or Facebook pages (@DisneyD23)—or right here at D23.com/DestinationD23.

In an image from Disney’s live action The Little Mermaid, Ariel (Halle Bailey) and Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) are sitting in a rowboat, surrounded by branches thick with swamp-like leaves; these branches and leaves are hanging down all around them, and are filled with fireflies, lending a romantic atmosphere.

The Little Mermaid—now streaming on Disney+
The live-action reimagining of the 1989 Walt Disney Animation Studios classic is now on the streaming service—so get ready to go under the sea all weekend long. Disney+ subscribers will even have access to special bonus content! If you need a refresher: The film follows Ariel (Halle Bailey), a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. The youngest and most defiant of the daughters of King Triton (Javier Bardem), Ariel longs to find out more about the world beyond the sea. After visiting the surface and falling for the dashing Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King), she makes a deal with evil sea witch Ursula (Melissa McCarthy), which gives her a chance to experience life on land… but ultimately places her life, and her father’s crown, in jeopardy.

In an image from the second season of Disney+’s I Am Groot, Baby Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel) is sitting in his small white flowerpot, which has a crack in its side, and is looking up at something off camera. There are some bits of dirt surrounding the pot, and the pot itself is sitting on a table—seemingly inside one of the Guardians’ spaceships.

I Am Groot—now streaming on Disney+
All five new shorts in season 2 of this adorable series—written and directed by Kirsten Lepore—have crash-landed on Disney+! The troublemaking twig returns to mischief… and this time ’round, Baby Groot finds himself exploring the universe and beyond aboard the Guardians’ spaceships, coming face-to-face—or nose-to-nose—with new and colorful creatures and environments. Vin Diesel returns to the galaxy as the voice of Baby Groot. Read all about the series via a D23-exclusive chat with Lepore herself!

In an image from the 1940 classic Walt Disney animated short Bone Trouble, Pluto is walking by a tall mirror while holding a large bone between his teeth. He lifts one front paw and one back paw high in the air as he walks. The mirror distorts his image, making him look taller than he really is.

Walt Disney Animation Studios classic shorts (next batch)—now streaming on Disney+
The third batch of hilarious classic animated shorts, from the early days of The Walt Disney Company, will hit the streaming service from Tuesday, September 5, through Friday, September 8. Look for gorgeously restored versions of Trolley Troubles (1927), All Wet (1927), The Barn Dance (1929), Playful Pluto (1934), Mickey’s Kangaroo (1935), Merbabies (1938), Bone Trouble (1940), and Pluto, Junior (1942). Hear more about how these restored shorts came to be, thanks to a recent episode of the D23 Inside Disney podcast.

In an image from Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures, Master Yoda (voiced by Piotr Michael) with Jedi Younglings, Kai Brightstar (voiced by Jamaal Avery Jr.), Lys Solay (voiced by Juliet Donenfeld) and Nubs (voiced by Dee Bradley Baker), and their friends Nash Durango (voiced by Emma Berman) and RJ-83 (voiced by Jonathan Lipow) are seen standing together on the planet Tenoo. It is nighttime, and lit-up dwellings can be seen behind them. Hills can be seen in the distance.

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures—Friday, September 8, at 9 a.m. ET on Disney Channel and Disney XD and 7:35 p.m. ET on Disney Junior
The episode’s two stories include: “Tree Troubles,” in which Nubs (voiced by Dee Bradley Baker) and the Jedi protect his favorite tree; and “Big Brother’s Bounty,” where the Jedi help a young bounty hunter find her brother.

In a promo image for Disney Branded Television’s BUNK’D, Miranda May as Lou (at center), Trevor Tordjman as Parker, Mallory James Mahoney as Destiny, Israel Johnson as Noah, Shiloh Verrico as Winnie, Luke Busey as Jake, and Alfred Lewis as Bill are standing or seated on the porch of a rustic-looking cabin; above the doorway is a sign reading “Kikiwaka Ranch.”

BUNK’D: Learning the Ropes—Sunday, September 10, at 8:30 p.m. ET on Disney Channel
Who says summer’s over! Camp’s still in session on Disney Channel’s BUNK’D: Learning the Ropes… In an episode titled “Don’t Hate the Mayor, Hate the Game,” Jake (Luke Busey) and Parker (Trevor Tordjman) compete to be mayor; meanwhile, Lou (Miranda May) creates a fake treasure hunt to spend time with Bill (Alfred Lewis) and Destiny (Mallory James Mahoney).

New Goosebumps Series Coming to Disney+ and Hulu This October

By Zach Johnson

On Friday the 13th, Disney+ and Hulu are giving audiences goosebumps in more ways than one! Goosebumps, the chilling new series inspired by R.L. Stine's worldwide bestselling Scholastic book series of the same name, will debut on both streaming platforms on Friday, October 13. From Disney Branded Television and Sony Pictures Television, the 10-part series will launch with a five-episode drop as part of Disney+'s "Hallowstream" and Hulu's "Huluween" celebrations, with subsequent new episodes streaming weekly. The first two episodes will also air October 13 on Freeform as part of its "31 Nights of Halloween" event.

"R.L. Stine's Goosebumps franchise is a pop culture phenomenon that holds a special place in the hearts of people of all ages," says Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. "We are delighted to bring this spooky new series to audiences everywhere in a big way on Disney+ and Hulu, which we hope will not only captivate new audiences with its elevated thrills and chills, but also lifelong fans nostalgic for the stories that are a staple of their generation."

Plunging viewers into a world of mystery and suspense, the series follows a group of five high school students as they embark on a shadowy and twisted journey to investigate the tragic passing three decades earlier of a teen named Harold Biddle—while also unearthing dark secrets from their parents' past. Goosebumps stars Justin Long and Rachael Harris, as well as newcomers Zack Morris, Isa Briones, Miles McKenna, Ana Yi Puig, and Will Price.

Published by Scholastic, Goosebumps is one of the bestselling book series of all time, with more than 400 million books in print in 32 languages. The new television series draws on elements from five of the most popular middle grade books: Say Cheese and Die!, The Haunted Mask, The Cuckoo Clock of Doom, Go Eat Worms!, and Night of the Living Dummy.

Nicholas Stoller and Rob Letterman developed the Goosebumps series and serve as executive producers alongside Hilary Winston, Neal H. Moritz, Scholastic Entertainment's Iole Lucchese, Pavun Shetty, Conor Welch, Scholastic Entertainment's Caitlin Friedman, Erin O'Malley, and Kevin Murphy. James Eagan and Nick Adams are the co-executive producers.

Can't wait to watch? Through Wednesday, September 20, new and returning customers can subscribe to Disney+ Basic (with ads) for $1.99/month for three months by visiting Disney+.

Unlocking the Disney Treasure, Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Ship

By Courtney Potter

Adventure awaits… so come aboard the newest ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet and unlock treasures untold! Scheduled to set sail in December 2024, the Disney Treasure will feature both brand-new venues and reimagined fan-favorite spaces, bringing captivating stories from beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar and Disney Parks adventures to life like never before. Spaces onboard will invite guests to step into colorful plazas in Mexico; travel below the ocean’s surface; and so much more.

From bow to stern, the Disney Treasure—inspired by Walt Disney’s own love of exploration, and the sister ship to the Disney Wish—will delight guests with memorable Disney storytelling around every corner as they encounter themed spaces, delicious eats and treats, and live entertainment inspired by terrific tales such as Aladdin, Coco, and Zootopia. If you’re anything like us and already packing your bags, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Disney Treasurebookings will begin in just a few weeks’ time!

“The Disney Treasure will bring brand-new stories to life, blending one-of-a-kind experiences with the extraordinary entertainment, world-class dining, and unparalleled hospitality that make every sailing so memorable,” says Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “As we chart a course for adventure, we’re so excited for families to discover the excitement and exploration that awaits onboard the sixth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.”

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves: Like any good adventurer, we’ve got to follow a map… and in this case, thanks to Disney Cruise Line’s rollicking Disney Treasure virtual reveal on Tuesday, September 5, D23 was given a magical chart… err, well, at least a notable peek into what guests can expect from this astonishing ship:

In an artist’s rendering of Plaza de Coco onboard Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure, a family of four—a grandmother, a father, and two young children—sits at a table and enjoys a meal while a performer dressed as Miguel from Disney and Pixar’s Coco is on stage, playing a white guitar and singing. The room is full of colorful lanterns and flags, and other families and waitstaff are watching the performer as well. The performer is dressed in a red hoodie and jeans.

Dining and Entertainment Inspired by the Worlds of Disney and Pixar
Adventures from the colorful, heartfelt worlds of Disney and Pixar will lend inspiration for two venues onboard the Disney Treasure. Plaza de Coco (pictured above) will be the first theatrical dining experience themed to the Disney and Pixar film Coco. This theater-in-the-round entertainment venue will feature dining tables that surround a central stage, with performances and show effects that spread throughout the room.

Guests will enjoy two different nights of unique dining experiences at Plaza de Coco during their voyage. On the first night, the story of Miguel and his familia will continue where it left off onscreen as they gather in Mariachi Plaza to take guests on a colorful, music-filled journey that celebrates family memories and togetherness. On the second night, Miguel will reunite with his great-great grandparents, Hector and Mama Imelda, by transporting them to Santa Cecilia with the help of his magic guitar for a Día de los Muertos celebration. Both nights will feature a dinner menu of modern twists on traditional Mexican fare and a lineup of live entertainment.

Additionally, Jumbeaux’s Sweets will be reminiscent of Jumbeaux Café, the adorable ice cream parlor from the bustling mammal metropolis featured in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia. Surrounded by playful pink interiors, Victorian-style architecture and an endearing sculpture of Officer Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, guests will be served humor and heart by the cone full. From bunnies and elephants to sloths and foxes, all are welcome to indulge in more than 35 flavors of handmade gelato, ice cream and sorbets, along with specialty treats, candies, and more.

In an artist’s rendering of the Skipper Society lounge, onboard Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure, a server brings a plate of food to a woman seated towards the left of the frame. The room has a jungle-like feel, with vines and plants peeking through draped clothes on the ceiling. There is a bar towards the back of the image, as well as several booths—other patrons are located at each, enjoying drinks. A jungle-themed pattern adorns the space’s rug. The colors of the room are muted browns and greens, adding to the jungle feel.

Travel the High Seas with Disney Parks
For the first time, the nostalgia and lore from several beloved theme park attractions will come to Disney Cruise Line, with a unique lineup of Disney Parks-inspired venues aboard the Disney Treasure.

Skipper Society (pictured above), a themed lounge near the Grand Hall, will bring the iconic Jungle Cruise attraction to the sea; the venue’s natural colorways and camp-style furnishings, paired with sly tributes to those trusty, dry-witted skippers we know and love, will offer an elevated, playful atmosphere. Guests will discover references to the famous attraction throughout the space—from a whimsical monkey-shaped chandelier to postcards and luggage tags brought back from travels abroad. Beneath a canopy of jungle foliage, guests will indulge in themed cocktails and light snacks and enjoy live entertainment.

Periscope Pub will become Disney Cruise Line’s first venue inspired by the spellbinding exploits from Disney’s 1954 film 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and the Walt Disney World attraction that delighted guests from 1971 to 1994. The design of the submarine-style interiors will call upon 19th century steampunk influences with polished metals and industrial touches. A mysterious window into the depths of the uncharted oceans along the ceiling will make guests feel like Captain Nemo on the Nautilus, while a decorative statement rug in the center of the space will honor Captain Nemo’s fabled nemesis, the giant squid! This casual venue will be the ideal onboard locale for guests to unwind and watch live sports and news, while ordering from a menu of craft brews and light bites.

In an artist’s rendering of the living room area from the Tomorrow Tower Suite on board Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure, a dining table can be seen on the left, with a couch and chairs to the right. A large, geodesic sculpture is hanging from the ceiling over the seating area. Towards the back of the image, part of a staircase can be seen. To the far right, part of a large two-story window overlooking the horizon. The upper level of the suite can partially be seen at the top of the image. The feel of the room is futuristic, with a lot of blues, silvers, and browns.

Fantastical Accommodations
Embracing the adventures of the future, the Tomorrow Tower Suite (pictured above) will capture the same forward-thinking mindset that inspired EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort. Throughout the suite, dynamic art pieces, molten metal accents, and futuristic, colorful glass accents will evoke the distinct atmosphere of EPCOT’s World Discovery neighborhood. Set high in the ship’s forward funnel, this one-of-a-kind suite will overlook the top deck of the Disney Treasure and glimpse the open horizon through an expansive two-story window. With nearly 2,000 square feet of living space, the Tomorrow Tower Suite will comfortably sleep eight guests and feature areas for eating, sleeping, and playing—as well as other perks like a full kitchen and private ensuite elevator.

The other artful accommodations aboard the Disney Treasure will, of course, be inspired by classic Disney tales of adventure. The 1,240-plus staterooms onboard will feature custom artwork and design elements that evoke the exploratory spirit of beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios and Disney and Pixar films including Aladdin, Pocahontas, Up, and Encanto, while the concierge and royal suites will bring to life the incredible character journeys—and a few cherished feline sidekicks—from The Lion King, The Jungle Book, and more.

In an artist’s rendering of the Grand Hall from inside Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure, the three-story atrium can be seen, evoking the golden splendor of the palace of Agrabah from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Aladdin. A statue of Jasmine and Aladdin riding the magic carpet can be seen towards the middle of the image, at the bottom of the staircase, which wraps around most of the room and up to the third floor. Many doorways and corridors can be seen; the color scheme is mostly blue and gold.

Classic Adventures in Familiar Spaces
As with every Disney Cruise Line Ship, the Grand Hall, above, will embody the ship’s theme—in this case, evoking adventure—with statues and decor that call on the gilded palace and wonder of Agrabah from the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic Aladdin. The space will serve as the ship’s most prominent gathering space and will offer its own dedicated entertainment moments and surprises.

Just off the Grand Hall, two casual walk-up cafés will serve a selection of coffee, tea, specialty beverages, and snacks, with new themes that draw inspiration from two beloved Disney Princesses: Moana and Mulan. Heihei Café, named for Moana’s hilarious sidekick, will echo the scalloped seashells and reflective blue waters of the Southern Pacific Isle of Motunui as its portrayed in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana. The venue will feature furniture stylings that pay homage to a traditional construction technique used by the Polynesian people to craft seafaring vessels. Meanwhile, Jade Cricket Café, inspired by the Disney classic Mulan, will honor the Fa family’s lucky cricket Cri-Kee—who will be represented by a jade sculpture on the bar top. From the central moon gate to the plum blossom flowers adorning the walls, symbols of Mulan’s strength, beauty, and heritage will fill the café, while the striking blue walls and metallic counters will be reminiscent of her armor.

Plus, Sarabi—a central hub for all sorts of daytime activities and adult-exclusive evening entertainment—will evoke the natural beauty and openness of the savanna where its namesake, the lioness matriarch from Disney’s The Lion King, lived.

AquaMouse, Disney Cruise Line’s very own attraction at sea, will plunge guests into the world of Mickey Mouse animated shorts. Suspended high above the upper decks, the attraction’s powerful jets will propel two-person ride vehicles through 760 feet of winding tubes—offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the ship below. Onboard the Disney Treasure, AquaMouse will introduce a brand-new storyline, Curse of the Golden Egg, that follows Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a zany misadventure into an ancient temple for a glimpse of the legendary treasure within.

In a promotional image from Disney Cruise Line, the cast of Disney Seas the Adventure is seen on stage at the Walt Disney Theatre. Among the characters are Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Minnie Mouse, and Donald Duck in their nautical best, as well as Princess Tiana, Hercules, Merida, Cinderella, Belle, Aladdin, Moana, Mulan, and Elsa. Behind the cast, projected, is the Disney Cruise Line logo surrounded by virtual fireworks. Audience members can be seen in silhouette, applauding the show.

But that is, of course, not all: So many Disney Cruise Line favorites will be returning to the Disney Treasure! In addition to an all-new, yet-to-be-announced stage production (!) coming to the Walt Disney Theatre, Beauty and the Beast and Disney Seas the Adventure (pictured above) will thrill audiences with tales as old as time, while the upper decks will come to life with music and fireworks during the swashbuckling Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party. In terms of delicious food, Worlds of Marvel—which will include a new, second dining experience with more details to come—and 1923 will round out the family dining rotation, while The Rose, Palo Steakhouse, and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallament will continue to wow adults with exceptional views, gourmet meals, and delicious beverages.

For kids of all ages, Disney’s Oceaneer Club, Edge, Vibe, and It’s a Small World Nursery return provide designated space to let their imaginations run free under the guide of Disney-trained counselors.

The Disney Treasure will embark on its maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, on December 21, 2024, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral. Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club members can book a Disney Treasure cruise as early as Tuesday, September 12, 2023—while bookings will open to all guests on Wednesday, September 20, 2023.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a cruise on the Disney Treasure, visit www.disneycruise.com/treasure; call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500; or contact your travel agent.

KA-CHOW! Celebrate Lightning McQueen Day with Cars Products

Today, September 5—otherwise known as 9/5—is Lightning McQueen Day! So in honor of #95, get your gears turning with this list of products that will take any gift straight across the finish line for Disney and Pixar’s Cars fans!

Disney and Pixar Cars Glow Racers Launch & Criss-Cross Playset

Ready, set, GLOW! Lightning McQueen and his rival Jackson Storm are in a vibrant new race… The Launch & Criss-Cross Glow Race playset is a brilliant way to showcase the glow-in-the-dark Cars Glow Racers vehicles. With two ways to play and glow-in-the-dark features, kids can launch the racers straight across when configured in “daytime mode,” or reconfigure for “nighttime mode” criss-cross stunting. The playset includes Lightning McQueen and Jackson Storm Glow Racers vehicles, so fans can get the race started as soon as they’re set up!

Disney and Pixar Cars Organic Sheet Set & Pillowcases

Snuggle up after a long day of racing with this beautifully soft, organic sheet set and pillowcases from Pottery Barn Kids. The design features Lightning McQueen, Mater, and other favorites from the Cars films.

5 Minute Racing Stories

Getting ready for bedtime can feel like a big race! With this adorable book, you can share fun stories—each meant to be read aloud it about five minutes—with some favorite characters from the Cars films and inspire dreams of crossing the finish line.

Disney and Pixar Cars Snack Containers

Every great racer needs fuel—and what better way to store it than this tower of snack containers featuring the faces of Lightning McQueen and Mater? Ka-chow! Snack time = solved!

LEGO DUPLO Disney and Pixar’s Cars Lightning McQueen & Mater’s Car Wash Fun

Adventures on the road can lead to some messes, both real and imaginary! Children ages 2 and up can run their own Car Wash and make sure Lightning McQueen and Mater are always showcase ready.

Disney and Pixar Cars Mini Vehicle – 15 Pack

Can’t get enough Cars? We’ve got the solution for you! Check out this 15-pack of mini vehicles, featuring a colorful collection of characters from the Cars films.

What to Expect From Season 2 of I Am Groot

By Emily Hewitt

What trouble is Baby Groot getting into now? As Season 2 of I Am Groot premieres on September 6, D23 sat down with Kirsten Lepore, writer, director, and executive producer of I Am Groot, to discuss what’s in store for the mischievous twig.

In Season 1, audiences saw Groot burst out of his planter, learn how to walk and talk, and go on adventures. Groot was the human equivalent of around 5 years old through the first series of shorts; now he is about 6 or 7 in human years, Lepore said.

“He’s definitely got the same childlike essence,” she promised. “In the first episode, he gets a taste of parenting, so he’s growing and learning in that way. As with all kids, you still have moments where they act like a tiny toddler, and then you have moments where they’re wise beyond their years.”

When first creating Baby Groot’s character for I Am Groot, Lepore spoke with James Gunn, executive producer of the shorts and director of the Guardians of the Galaxy films, to make sure she stayed true to the character he created. Gunn’s best nuggets of wisdom about Groot were that he is a “bad baby” and an “emoji guy.”

“He has a very simple face, and all he has to do is strike a pose and you understand that face—like what an emoji is,” Lepore said.

Lepore had the opportunity to develop Groot’s personality further in the series, much of which is inspired by funny stories from the childhoods of herself, story editors, and storyboard artists. The goal for Season 2 was to make it even more specific and personal, allowing audiences to relate even more to Groot’s universal childlike essence.

“For example, the ice cream truck episode [in Season 2], at least for me, ripped a page out of my childhood,” Lepore said about Episode 4 when Groot frantically scours the spaceship for coins as an intergalactic ice cream truck approaches. “It’s so relatable.”

Early on, Lepore and her team came up with about 30 one- to two-sentence loglines for stories, and from those, the executives chose five to develop into the shorts of Season 2. She snuck a logline into the pile in which Groot gets an actual, functioning nose—she thought it was so ridiculous that the executives would never go for it. Lo and behold, it is now Episode 2 of Season 2.

“They really let me run with my weird ideas, which felt very good, and I feel very supported in that way,” Lepore said.

One episode that really developed from a small idea into a fleshed-out concept was the snow day episode of Season 2. It started out with Groot just playing in a snowsuit. Along the way, an antagonist snowman was born, and the plot coalesced.

“By the end, I think it became one of our favorite episodes,” Lepore said. Each new element, as it was layered on, including the music, “felt like it just kept adding another cherry on top. That one, I think, got even better than we ever imagined it was going to be.”

Another important decision that goes hand in hand with the plot is the unique location in each episode. It was important to Lepore to have the spaceship make several appearances in the series to keep the show grounded, while also adding new locations.

Lepore, who comes from a stop-motion animation background, noted that the snow day episode was particularly fun to watch being created via CGI. “We really got to take advantage of that medium in having all these interactions with the snow,” Lepore said. “We tried to make [the locations] a little more diverse and change it up from the first season. So, he’s kind of been all over.”