Toy Story Land Will Shine Bright at Night—Plus More in News Briefs

June 27, 2018November 8, 2018

By Courtney Potter

The newest land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios glimmers and gleams when the sun goes down, and we learn all about The Wasp’s origins… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Toy Story Land Will Light Up the Night at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

We’re mere days away from the opening of Toy Story Land inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort—which means all the final touches are being added and finessed. From the pictures and videos we’ve already seen, the land will be unbelievably colorful during the day… but the visual fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! Check out this new clip, above (courtesy of our pals at Disney Parks), all about the incredible lighting and sound being employed specifically for nighttime enjoyment.

Hear from Walt Disney Imagineering’s Hannah Brennan, Ryan Wineinger, and Dave Minichiello—as well as Pixar Animation Studios’ creative director Roger Gould—about what it was like to see all the evening elements come together in such spectacular fashion. And remember: Toy Story Land officially opens on Saturday, June 30! “To infinity and beyond!”

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
June 29, 2018
Lunch with Disney Legend: Burny Mattinson
June 30, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Robin Hood at Walt Disney World
July 13, 2018
D23 Member Mixer—Seattle
July 21, 2018
D23 Member Mixer—San Diego
August 6, 2018
D23’s Behind-the-Scenes Experience: Pixar Animation Studios
November 16-18, 2018
Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
Parks
June 30, 2018
Toy Story Land opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
August 17, 24, 28, 31
September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park
August 30-November 12, 2018
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 7-October 31, 2018
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort
Summer 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at Disneyland Resort
Fall 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at and Walt Disney World Resort

Studios
July 6, 2018
Marvel Studios’ Ant-Man and the Wasp opens in U.S. theaters opens in U.S. theaters
August 3, 2018
Disney’s Christopher Robin opens in U.S. theaters
November 2, 2018
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms opens in U.S. theaters
December 19, 2018
Mary Poppins Returns opens in U.S. theaters
Television
July 13, 2018
Fancy Nancy premieres on Disney Junior (11–11:55 a.m. EDT)
August 10, 2018
Disney Channel Original Movie Freaky Friday premieres on Disney Channel (8–9:45 p.m. EDT/PDT)

Who is The Wasp? Watch This New Featurette to Find Out!

Marvel Studios’ Ant-Man and The Wasp, the next chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) adventure, is set to thrill moviegoers starting early next month—so if you need a primer on who exactly is The Wasp (the awesome hero alter-ego of Hope van Dyne, portrayed by Evangeline Lilly), look no further than this brand-new featurette, above.

In the clip, producers Kevin Feige and Stephen Broussard, along with stars Lilly and Paul Rudd, look at the legacy of The Wasp from her Super Hero origins in the Marvel comics—as a founding member of the Avengers—to her connections to the next Avengers film and to the MCU, going forward.

Directed by Peyton Reed and also starring Michael Douglas, Hannah John-Kamen, Laurence Fishburne, and Michelle Pfeiffer, Ant-Man and The Wasp swoops into a theater near you on July 6.

Disney Springs Celebrates Summer with Brews & BBQ

We’ve got some brand-new tips—make that tri-tips—from our friends at Disney Springs… and if you’re headed to Walt Disney World Resort for a vacation this summer, you’ll definitely want to know the score.

Beginning this Friday, June 29, Disney Springs celebrates summer with their Brews & BBQ foodie experience! Visitors will discover a whole host of deliciously unique food and beverage pairings as they roam through the many restaurants and shops throughout the area. This experience offers guests mouth-watering, BBQ-inspired dishes at nearly every restaurant at Disney Springs—plus, for guests ages 21 and older, each of these dishes can be paired with a craft-brewed beer.

Look for delectable delights including southern brisket tacos, pulled chicken nachos, BBQ guava ribs, fire-roasted shrimp, and grilled bistro sirloin steak—paired with brews from Bold City Brewery, Islamorada Brewing Company, Orlando Brewing Company, and more. Hungry yet? (We sure are!) The Brews & BBQ experience runs through September 3, so make sure to check it out—reservations are available through the Walt Disney World Resort dining website—if you’re in the proverbial neighborhood…

Music’s Biggest Stars Take Home ARDYs at the 2018 RDMA

If you’ve been following along here on D23.com, you know that the sixth annual Radio Disney Music Awards (RDMA) were held in Hollywood on Friday, June 22—and a host of music’s biggest stars took home a coveted ARDY statuette, including Shawn Mendes, Korean pop sensation BTS, Kelsea Ballerini, Camila Cabello, Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa, Kygo & Selena Gomez, and Bebe Rexha. And the fans in attendance at the Dolby Theatre were treated to thrilling performances by Charlie Puth, American Idol winner Maddie Poppe, Marshmello, Meghan Trainor, and Echosmith.

But that wasn’t all: Music superstars Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, and Janet Jackson were all on hand to receive their very special “Hero,” “Icon,” and “Impact” Awards, respectively.

Plus, in case you missed its initial broadcast, this year’s RDMA featured an extremely cool new music video collaboration between Disney Channel’s DuckTales and mega-huge DJ and electronic music producer Marshmello; read all about it, and take a gander at the clip, here at D23.com.

You Won’t Believe These Luminous Libations from Disney H2O Glow Nights

If you ask us, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is one of the best ways to cool off—while still having a total blast—during a Walt Disney World resort vacation… and this summer, thanks to Disney H20 Glow Nights, you can get the pool party going like never before!

At this separately ticketed nighttime event, hosted by Partysaurus Rex and all his Toy Story pals, guests have a “glowing” good time with character greetings, awesome attractions, and even a DJ dance party on the beach. But perhaps the most, well, illuminating additions to the event are the unique beverage concoctions being served up each evening—including the Black Light Cherry Lemonade, Fred’s Purple Sire, and the Green Glowrita. Take a look at the video, above, to see some of the amazing drinks being mixed. And don’t worry: There are “mocktails” available for the younger partygoers in attendance.

Don’t miss Disney H20 Glow Nights—on select evenings now through August 31 at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. Click here for ticket information.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Added Experiences for 2018

Speaking of special events at Walt Disney World, we’ve got a bit more news to pass along… Yes, we know, summer only officially started back on Thursday, June 21. But we maintain that this doesn’t mean we can’t look forward to the fall—when temps cool off a bit, the pumpkin spice lattes begin to flow, and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kicks into gear at Magic Kingdom Park! And this year, the annual event adds some brand-new experiences to the mix.

Taking place on select evenings from August 17 through October 31, the separately ticketed spooky soiree will welcome revelers to the Mad Tea Party with new lighting and special effects; invite guests to interact with new scoundrels on the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction; offer explorers a brand-new soundtrack and added effects on Space Mountain; and entice the younger set with the new Storybook Circus Disney Junior Jam, a dance party featuring some of your favorite Disney Junior characters—including Doc McStuffins.

And that’s all on top of the Not-So-Scary activities you’ve come to know and love, like the tuneful “Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular” castle show, a magical fireworks extravaganza, and an appearance by the Headless Horseman himself.

Tickets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are now on sale! And stay tuned for more info on all the creepy-cool fun as the event draws closer…

Everything You Need to See, Do, and Enjoy at Pixar Pier

June 27, 2018

By Courtney Potter

Woody and Buzz. Mike and Sulley. Joy and Sadness. Disney•Pixar has created some of the most beloved duos to ever grace the silver screen. But the latest pairing isn’t in a movie theater (or on a streaming device) near you… it’s at the Disneyland Resort! This past Saturday, June 23, Pixar Pier officially opened inside Disney California Adventure (DCA) park—and it’s truly a “pier-fect” match! The fully reimagined area, located in the former Paradise Pier section of the park, will allow guests to experience Pixar stories and characters in incredible new ways, along the now-iconic DCA waterfront.

Divided into four imaginative neighborhoods—with memorable attractions, colorful merchandise, and delightfully fresh food and beverage options—Pixar Pier is the latest, greatest place to celebrate with friends and family. Just before opening day, D23 was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at all the candy-colored fun. Read on for our adventure “to infinity and beyond”!

Incredibles Park
When guests first stroll through the old-fashioned gateway and onto Pixar Pier (past the brand-new Lamplight Lounge restaurant; more on that in a moment!), there’s color everywhere… from the imaginative sign above the new Knick’s Knacks merchandise location—make sure to check out the all-new Disney•Pixar apparel, artwork, and collectibles inside—to the Disney•Pixar-themed billboards lining the promenade. Keep walking a bit further and it’s hard not to be enthralled by the gigantic white and red structure rising in the immediate distance; it’s the reimagined Incredicoaster, and it’s—well, incredible. The neighborhood where the coaster is located, Incredibles Park, welcomes guests with a cool “mid-century modern” aesthetic much like the two Disney•Pixar hits it’s based on, 2004’s The Incredibles and the just-released Incredibles 2.

Ready to get super? An archway and a totally unique queuing area (one that, from the outside, resembles the Parrs’ new house in Incredibles 2) guides guests right to the attraction—a thrilling race alongside the Parr family that includes fantastic new character figures; stunning lighting (make sure to visit the attraction at night for some added bonuses); an exclusive new soundtrack by Incredibles composer Michael Giacchino; and all manner of special effects. You don’t want to miss it! As a reward after adventuring with Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, and their super kids—and an appearance by none other than Edna Mode—treat yourself to a fresh baked treat at Jack-Jack Cookie Num-Nums. We tried all three options—and they were, in fact, “num num”!

Toy Story Boardwalk
Is it just us, or have we suddenly shrunk to the size of a toy? Makes sense, because adjacent to Incredibles Park is Toy Story Boardwalk. Touches of whimsy from the Toy Story trilogy are in every nook and cranny! Fans of Toy Story Midway Mania! (hey, that’s us!) will be delighted to know the attraction is the centerpiece of this Pixar Pier neighborhood—and it’s now surrounded by several brand-new food establishments based on Woody and Buzz’s world… Ready those taste buds for Poultry Palace (inspired by the Pixar short Toy Story Toon: Small Fry) and then satisfy your sweet tooth at Señor Buzz Churros. Both are seriously tasty.

There’s more Toy Story Boardwalk fun to look forward to in 2019, when Jessie the yodeling cowgirl gets the spotlight with Jessie’s Critter Carousel—a new spin on a classic boardwalk carousel, where more than 50 adorable wilderness critters (inspired by the Woody’s Roundup TV show from Toy Story 2) welcome riders for a rootin’, tootin’ good time. Watch this space for info as the attraction’s opening day gets closer.

Pixar Promenade
We have an affinity for old-school boardwalks—like the ones found in Coney Island, New York, or Santa Cruz, California. So when we realized that classic turn-of-the-century-style games would still be a big part of the Pixar Promenade neighborhood at Pixar Pier, we were pleased as punch! The games have been rethemed with all kinds of charming Disney•Pixar characters, including a “candy corn toss” with Heimlich from a bug’s life, the WALL•E Space Race, a “star catcher” game based on the Pixar short La Luna, and the Bullseye Stallion Stampede (featuring the beloved horse from Toy Story). All four are barrels of fun—and you might just get to take home a prize! Right nearby are two brand-new food and snack locations themed to Inside Out: Angry Dogs, where dear ol’ Anger helps heat up yummy (if “somewhat annoyed”) hot dogs, and—opening later this summer—Bing-Bong’s Sweet Stuff, where the lovable character offers up the delicious sweets like rainbow cotton candy.

But the magical focal point of Pixar Promenade is the Pixar Pal-A-Round; the fan-favorite wheel still welcomes all who come to Disney California Adventure park with that iconic Mickey Mouse face—but now, each of the 24 gondolas features different combos of Disney•Pixar pals. Our favorites include Lightning McQueen and Mater from Cars and Miguel and Hector from Coco! And there’s the added bonus of a beautiful bird’s eye view of both the Pier and the park.

Inside Out Headquarters
The fourth neighborhood at Pixar Pier is not quite complete—which just means we have even more to look forward to! Inspired by the Oscar®-winning Disney•Pixar film Inside Out, this lush area will soon include a whimsical new attraction, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, fit for the whole family. We can’t wait to come back when it’s completed!

Lamplight Lounge
As we mentioned earlier, there’s a stylish new eating establishment right at the fore of Pixar Pier. We can safely say that—having had a very special chance to enjoy its fare—the food is delicious… and the décor equally memorable. Lamplight Lounge offers “gastro-pub”-style cuisine that’s great for kids and adults alike; we were particularly fond of the crab & tuna sushi rolls and the delectable ratatouille dish! Plus, the location has a full bar—so those over 21 can indulge in artisan signature cocktails. As the story goes, Lamplight Lounge is housed in a converted warehouse originally called The Brooklyn Building—a location that just happens to have the same name as a building at Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. (Is it a coincidence? We think not… ) Known as the local haunt for a host of Pixar artist “regulars,” the lounge features nifty little mementos they’ve left behind—from concept art and other filmmaking collectibles to amazing sketches (featuring the animators’ signatures) on the drink coasters. And fans of the former venue’s lobster nachos, never fear: They’re still on the menu!

Planning a visit to Disneyland Resort this summer? Don’t miss your chance to experience everything that the new Pixar Pier has to offer… And here’s the best news: Pixar Fest is still entertaining guests, through September 3, with the new Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular at Disneyland park and brand-new floats in the Pixar Play Parade and Paint the Night. It’s a Pixar feast for all the senses, and we can’t wait to go back!

Lobster Nachos from Lamplight Lounge

Enjoy this recipe for the legendary Lobster Nachos at Lamplight Lounge in Disney California Adventure park.

Click here to download a printable recipe page.

Serves 8 to 10

LOBSTER STOCK
Shells from 5 medium lobster tails
1 medium carrot, chopped
1 small celery rib, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 large garlic cloves, quartered
1 teaspoon canola oil
1/2 cup dry white wine
8 cups cold water
1 bay leaf
1/4 bunch parsley (stems only)
1 pinch red pepper flakes

TORTILLA CHIPS
3 cups canola oil (for frying)
48 (4 dozen) 6-inch corn tortillas
Salt in shaker

SEASONED BLACK BEANS 
1 15-ounce can black beans
1 small bunch cilantro chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

PICO DE GALLO
5 Roma tomatoes, diced
1/2 medium red onion, diced
1/2 bunch cilantro tops, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
1 serrano pepper, seeds removed, finely minced

SHREDDED CHEESE
1/2 pound cheddar cheese
1/2 pound Monterey jack cheese

ROASTED GARLIC 
2 large garlic cloves
Canola oil (to cover)

CHIPOTLE CREMA 
1 1/2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce
2 roasted garlic cloves 8 ounces sour cream
3 tablespoons manufacturing cream
1 pinch ground cumin
1 pinch ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

LOBSTER CHEESE SAUCE 
3 poblano chiles, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon canola oil, divided
3 large garlic cloves
1 shallot, roughly chopped
1/4 stick butter
2 1/2 tablespoons flour
2 cups manufacturing cream
1 cup reduced lobster stock
4 ounces Oaxaca cheese, grated
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

COOKED LOBSTER
4 tablespoons butter
5 medium lobster tails (meat only)
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1 pinch black pepper
1 lime, juiced and zested (1 tablespoon juice and pinch of zest)

FOR LOBSTER STOCK:

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Place lobster shells, carrot, celery, onion, and garlic on baking sheet with lip; coat with canola oil.
Bake for 35 minutes until lightly browned.
Carefully remove from oven and deglaze baking sheet with white wine.
Add baking sheet ingredients with liquid to large stockpot.
Add water, bay leaf, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
Bring lobster stock to boil over medium-high heat, then lower to medium low heat.
Let stock cook slowly until stock reduces by half, 60 to 80 minutes.
Carefully strain stock, reserving 1 cup for lobster cheese sauce.
Set aside. (May be made 2 days in advance, cover and refrigerate.)

FOR TORTILLA CHIPS:

Preheat frying oil to 350°F.
While oil is heating, cut tortillas into 6 pie-shaped pieces.
Once oil is hot, add tortillas in small batches for 2 to 4 minutes (frying times will vary).
Remove from fryer once chips are lightly browned, lightly season with salt.
Continue until all tortillas are fried and salted.
Set aside. (May be made 2 days in advance; store in sealed plastic bag.)

FOR SEASONED BLACK BEANS:

Rinse beans in colander until water runs clear.
Place beans in medium mixing bowl, mix in remaining ingredients until just combined.
Set aside. (May be made 2 days in advance; cover and refrigerate.)

FOR PICO DE GALLO:

Mix all ingredients except serrano pepper in medium bowl.
Add 1/2 serrano pepper, mix and taste; add additional serrano pepper until desired spiciness.
Set aside. (May be made 2 days in advance; cover and refrigerate.)

FOR MIXED CHEESE:

Grate cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses in medium bowl and toss together. Set aside. (May be made 2 days in advance; cover and refrigerate.)

FOR ROASTED GARLIC:

Remove tips from garlic cloves.
Add garlic to small pot and cover with canola oil.
Gently poach garlic on medium-low heat until lightly browned and soft.
Remove garlic and set aside for use in chipotle crema. (Save garlic oil in refrigerator for everyday  cooking.)

FOR CHIPOTLE CREMA:

Purée chipotle and roasted garlic in food processor.
Add purée and remaining ingredients to mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.
Pour crema in squeeze bottle or plastic zip bag.
Refrigerate until ready to use. (May be made 2 days in advance; keep refrigerated.)

FOR LOBSTER CHEESE SAUCE:

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly coat poblanos with 1/2 teaspoon canola oil, place on baking sheet; roast for 15 minutes.
Lightly coat shallots and garlic with remaining 1/2 teaspoon canola oil, add to poblanos on baking  sheet; roast for an additional 25 minutes until caramelized.
Purée caramelized garlic, shallots, and poblanos in food processor until smooth.
Melt butter in large pot over medium heat.
Add flour to make a roux, stirring constantly until smooth and light golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add cream and bring to boil, stirring constantly; continue to stir and cook for 10 minutes.
Add reserved lobster stock and poblano purée; bring to simmer, stirring occasionally.
Slowly add Oaxaca and cheddar cheeses.
Stir constantly until all cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Set aside; hold warm.

FOR COOKED LOBSTER:

Ensure lobster meat is cleaned and veins removed.
Chop lobster in large bite-size pieces.
Heat butter in large sauté pan over medium heat.
Add lobster pieces, salt, pepper, lime juice, and zest to pan.
Once fully cooked (145F°), remove lobster pieces with a slotted spoon.
Set aside; hold warm.

TO SERVE:

Preheat broiler to 500°F. Spread chips on one large or 2 medium oven-safe plates. (Use a nice baking sheet if you do not have oven-safe plates.)
Layer with black beans, lobster cheese sauce, and mixed cheddar/jack cheese, ensuring to cover all chips.
Broil until cheese is melted, watching carefully, 2 to 4 minutes.
Carefully remove plate/sheet, add pico de gallo; top with lobster.
Drizzle chipotle crema and garnish with sliced serrano peppers (optional). Serve immediately.

CHEF’S NOTES: To cut down on preparation time, use restaurant-quality chips, pico de gallo and pre- shredded cheeses. But, if you have time, the homemade chips are the best!

Get into the Aloha Sprit with these Tropical Tiki Room Photo Frames and Stickers

June 25, 2018November 26, 2019

By D23 Team

Aloha! We’re celebrating the 55th anniversary of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland. While we all want to celebrate with a Dole Whip and a show starring our favorite parrots, you can also show your love for this charming spot by decorating your most tropical photos—and don’t forget to upload them to share your tiki spirit online!

This campaign has ended. Check out D23.com for more Disney fun!

Disney Musicals in Schools Brings Disney Magic to Public Elementary Schools

June 25, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

It’s opening night at the Ahmanson Theatre, the storied Los Angeles venue that has hosted such Disney musicals as Mary Poppins and Aida. As the performers take the stage for their big, theatrical debuts, you’ve never seen a more enthusiastic audience—or a more adorable cast. The Disney Musicals in Schools Student Share Celebration is the culmination of months of hard work on the part of elementary school students, teachers, and teaching artists—in this case, professional educators from Center Theater Group (CTG)—who have just completed the Disney Musicals in Schools program’s inaugural year in Los Angeles, California.

Disney Musicals in Schools (DMIS) was introduced by Disney Theatrical Group in 2010 with sustainability in mind: The free program is designed to help create theater programs in under-resourced public elementary schools where there previously were none. Through the program, participating schools receive performance rights to a half-hour Disney musical for kids, show kit materials, and, most importantly, a pair of teaching artists—professional musical theater artists and educators—who work with the school over the course of a semester to mount a first musical. This hands-on support is what sets DMIS apart, explains Lisa Mitchell, education director, Disney Theatrical Group. She says, “Over the course of the six-month process, the [school’s] teachers learn how to become music directors, directors, choreographers, producers, stage managers, and designers, so that when we’re not there in the future, they’ve got the training necessary to sustain this kind of work in the school for year after year after year.”

Since 2010, some 30,000 students from nearly 300 schools have performed in their first school musical through the program. With the 2018 launches of the Los Angeles program in partnership with Center Theatre Group and a Chicago-based program with the Goodman Theatre, DMIS is now in 18 cities, including its first international program in London with Eastside Charitable Trust.

Disney Theatrical Group works with partner organizations that excel at both theater-making and arts education, and as DMIS has expanded around the country, Mitchell shares that she’s been thrilled to see each city and theatre company make the program their own. In Las Vegas, many of the teaching artists come from Cirque du Soleil, so their productions feature choreography with some added acrobatic flair; while students in Nashville receive a world-class music education in their public school system, which shines through in their DMIS performances. “One of the things that surprises me most is how you can have two dozen versions of The Lion King take place on school stages around the country, and every single one of them—despite having the same script and the same score and the same plot—is completely unique to that school and that community,” Mitchell says.

Though the cities and schools may put their own spin on the musical productions, they come together for a magical moment that opens every Student Share Celebration, as all of the participating students perform the song, “It Starts with a Dream,” written for DMIS by Disney Legend Alan Menken. “There are so many people in this industry who acknowledge that arts education is what set them on their career path,” says Mitchell. “We were very grateful to him for writing us a beautiful song and giving back in that way.”

Over the course of the program the students learn stage skills, but while they’re preparing to perform titles such as The Jungle Book or Aladdin, they also develop such universal skills as creativity, collaboration, communication, problem-solving, empathy, and more. Menken’s musical tribute to DMIS begins with the inspiring lyrics, “Start with a dream and imagine where you take it,” and for these young performers it’s clear that a truly boundless future lies ahead.

This Marshmello-DuckTales Music Video is Out of this World

June 23, 2018July 16, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

We’re settling in to watch the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards (RDMA), airing tonight (8–10 p.m. EDT/PDT) on Disney Channel, but the fun has already begun. A special DuckTales-inspired music video of Marshmello’s hit single “Fly” just debuted, featuring Scrooge, Donald, Huey, Dewey, Louie, Webby, and an animated alien DJ—not to mention the music producer/DJ himself, who appears in live-action form, as well. Our favorite ducks have left Duckburg and are on a musical outer-space adventure in the video, until their spaceship unexpectedly crashes and they find themselves on a remote “Marshmello” planet.

This won’t be the only Marshmello sighting of the evening. The world-renowned DJ/producer is nominated in four categories for the 2018 RDMA, plus he’s set to perform. Tonight’s broadcast also includes performances by Kelly Clarkson (this year’s “Icon” Award-winner), “Hero” Award-winner Carrie Underwood (performing with Ludacris), American Idol winner Maddie Poppe, Charlie Puth, Meghan Trainor, and Echosmith. We’ve got everything you need to know about this year’s RDMA right here to help you get ready. Music’s biggest event for families is about to begin!

Pretty in Pink on National Pink Day

June 23, 2018June 22, 2018

By Karina Schink

June 23 is National Pink Day, and it’s the perfect opportunity to show your Disney pride in one of the brightest colors around. Here are some of our pink favorites from shopDisney and Disney store; from plush friends to backpacks and clothes, all featuring (or starring) today’s special color. So, today, we’ll have to agree with Flora and, “Make it pink!” (Sorry, Merryweather.)

And, don’t forget! D23 Gold Members receive 10 percent off your purchase of $50 or more, from now through June 30, 2018.

1. Disneyland Spirit Jersey— Millennial Pink
You’ve seen them on Instagram and maybe floating around on Facebook, too, but there’s no doubt about it, Millennial Pink has made head waves over at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Proudly show your Disney (and pink!) pride by donning the official Disneyland or Disney World Spirit Jersey, available for both adults and kids, so you can even match with your little ones! (And don’t forget to pick up some matching Millennial Pink ears the next time you visit a park!)

2. White Rabbit “Late for Everything” Baseball Cap
Oh, my fur and whiskers! Who knew the White Rabbit was such a fan of pink? Proudly represent your favorite fluffy Alice in Wonderland character by wearing the White Rabbit “Late for Everything” Baseball Cap, while also letting everyone know that you may, well, be a bit tardy sometimes. But, they’ll forgive you when they see your excellent taste in clothes!

3. Disney Princesses Backpack
Here’s your chance to take your favorite princesses everywhere with you. The Disney Princess Backpack, featuring Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Tiana, and Mulan, is the perfectly pink combination of convenience and Disney magic, with enough space for all of your daily necessities and your glass slippers, of course!

4. Solo: A Star Wars Story Jacket and T-Shirt
If you’ve seen the newest installment of the Star Wars saga and are longing to never truly leave a galaxy far, far away, you can pick up one (or multiple) of many different Solo: A Star Wars Story-themed items. Clad with that iconic Star Wars font in bright and bold pink coloring, these are definitely for those strong with the force.

5. Graphic Tees
We know that the younger royal set needs to join in on the fun as well, so here’s a collection of some of our favorite pink T-shirts featuring some of your favorite princesses and warriors.

Moana
Rapunzel
Gamora
Captain Phasma
Disney Princess

6. Minnie Mouse Fashionista
Did we mention that Minnie Mouse likes pink? Well, we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than to make sure you’re dressed in clothes one of our favorite girls would approve of.

Scarf
T-Shirt
Lounge Pants

7. Fantasyland Dress for Women by Her Universe
Since today is a celebration, it’s time to say “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo,” and become the bell of the ball in the Fantasyland Dress by Her Universe. You’ll feel just like Aurora in this sweetheart neckline, but we promise, this one will stay pink.

8. Piglet, Angel, and Minnie Mouse Plushes
End your National Pink Day by curling up with your favorite characters in plush form, whether its Piglet, Angel, or even the ever-enduring Minnie Mouse in her many perfectly pink variations.

Minnie Mouse Plush Pink
Minnie Mouse Ufufy
Piglet Ufufy
Winnie the Pooh Ufufy
Angela Ufufy

Breaking News: Inside Out Attraction Debuting at Pixar Pier in 2019

June 22, 2018

By Courtney Potter

The incredible new Pixar Pier officially opens to guests this Saturday, June 23, at Disney California Adventure park—and when it does, guests will go “to infinity and beyond” as they discover its four unique neighborhoods: Incredibles Park (which features the reimagined Incredicoaster); Toy Story Boardwalk (home to fan-fave Toy Story Midway Mania!); Pixar Promenade (full of charming games and the Pixar Pal-A-Round wheel); and Inside Out Headquarters… which happens to be the scene for today’s big announcement from our pals at Disneyland Resort!

Located on the western end of Pixar Pier, the colorful Inside Out Headquarters is the future home of Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind; this whimsical family-friendly attraction—inspired by the Disney•Pixar animated hit Inside Out—is set make its big debut in 2019, and it’ll be (as you might imagine) chockablock with emotions! Take a gander at a nifty sneak peek of the attraction, above.

That’s not the only fun to come at Pixar Pier in 2019: Jessie’s Critter Carousel, a reimagined classic boardwalk-style attraction featuring all manner of adorable wilderness critters (inspired by the Woody’s Roundup TV show in Toy Story 2), will offer guests a rootin’, tootin’ good time beginning next year.

There’s so much to see, do, and enjoy at Pixar Pier—including truly delicious food and drink at the new Lamplight Lounge!—so start planning those Disneyland Resort vacations now… and keep your eyes peeled for more candy-colored info as it becomes available.

Absolutely Everything You Need to Know About the 2018 RDMAs

June 22, 2018

By Karina Schink

Music’s biggest event for families—the Radio Disney Music Awards—is back! This Saturday, join us to watch and cheer along as our favorite artists take the stage to perform and maybe even win some coveted ARDYs. It’s going to be a night you don’t want to miss, so we wanted to make sure you have absolutely everything you need, and want, to know about the 2018 RDMA!

The 2018 RDMA will take place on Friday, June 22, with a special telecast of the sixth annual show airing on Saturday, June 23.

This Friday, June 22, nominees, performers, and fans alike will gather at the Dolby Theatre® at the Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, California. But, if you weren’t able to score a ticket, don’t fret! Catch the show from the comfort of your own home on Saturday, June 23, as the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards premieres at 8 p.m. EDT/PDT on the Disney Channel, Radio Disney, the Radio Disney app, the DisneyNOW app, and Disney.com/RDMA.

New this year is the RDMAs first-ever DisneyNOW Live Play second screen experience which will allow viewers to participate in live polls, trivia and other interactive elements, including never-before-seen boomerangs in the DisneyNOW app, with real time results appearing on-screen on Disney Channel throughout the telecast. Viewers will also have a chance to enter and win the Next Level Sweepstakes using a code that will be revealed during the telecast. Prizes include once-in-a-lifetime experiences: a trip to Australia to see Katy Perry in concert and meet her, a trip to Nashville to hang out with Kelsea Ballerini and attend the CMA Awards, Shawn Mendes concert and backstage meet and greet, and a trip to visit both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and the Disneyland Resort in California.

Special Awards…
While there will be many performances from all of your favorite artists (more on that below!), the RDMA is really all about that one little fella, “ARDY,” the Radio Disney statuette that select musicians will win. And this weekend, a select group of musical mavericks will be honored with special awards. Without further ado, here are those special few.

Carrie Underwood—“Hero” Award
With already seven Grammy® Awards under her belt, Carrie Underwood is no stranger to award ceremonies (or being a champion). However, at the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards, Underwood will be honored for something other than her powerful pipes. A noted humanitarian, Underwood will receive the “Hero” award for her philanthropic work a myriad of charities, including Danita’s Children, an organization working to provide a safe haven for children and families in Haiti, and for her own charity called C.A.T.S. (Checotah Animal, Town, and School) Foundation which supports numerous needs in her hometown of Checotah, Oklahoma.

Carlos Polanco—“Hero for Change” Award
The Radio Disney Music Awards will also honor a youth leader with its “Hero for Change” award. This year the award, which recognizes young trailblazers in the area of community services, will be given to the Boys & Girls Club National Youth of the Year, Carlos Polanco. The Clifton, New Jersey resident is a student at Dartmouth College where he continues his longstanding volunteer career by organizing student programs to aid first-generation Americans and low-income students.

Kelly Clarkson—“Icon” Award
While Kelly Clarkson may be best-known for winning the inaugural season of American Idol, this star has had breakthrough after breakthrough (or should we say “Breakaway”?) since then. Clarkson will be the recipient of the “Icon” award, which is given to a performer who has exemplified what it means to truly transcend popular culture. RDMA “Icon” Award recipients are those whose music has been loved by Radio Disney fans for generations, and since her debut on our TV screens all those years ago, Kelly Clarkson has definitely found her way into the hearts of Disney fans everywhere.

Janet Jackson—“Impact” Award
Janet Jackson will be honored with the inaugural “Impact” Award for her ever-powerful and lasting influence on the world of entertainment, touching the lives of fans and other famous artists alike through generations. Jackson’s many accolades include six Grammy Awards, as well as nominations for two Emmys®, a Golden Globe® Award, and an Academy Awardâ, as well as 11 American Music Award wins with more than 30 nominations, nine MTV Video Music Award wins and 30 nominations, and six Billboard Music Award wins with eight nominations. And, that’s only to name a few, but we’re already out of breath!

Jackson’s incredible career has inspired superstars worldwide, such as Queen Bey herself, Lady Gaga, and Alicia Keys. She truly has inspired “a generation full of courage” over her illustrious career, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for this impactful icon.

The Who’s Who of the 2018 RDMA Awards Show Performers
Get ready to have your eyes glued to the screen this Saturday to watch some of today’s hottest, and your favorite, artists perform. Here is a list of everyone who will be performing at this year’s RDMA.

Several nominees will play the part of performer and take the stage this Saturday including Charlie Puth, Meghan Trainor, Marshmello, and Echosmith.

“Icon” award recipient Kelly Clarkson will bring a medley of her hits to the RDMA stage. Another special award winner, Carrie Underwood, will, for the first time, perform her hit song “The Champion” live with multi-Grammy Award-winning recording artist and actor, Ludacris.

Fresh off of her American Idol win, Maddie Poppe will take to the Dolby stage on Saturday to perform, and based on her incredible run throughout the Idol competition, we can’t wait to hear the melodies she brings to the RDMA.

Name That Presenter
The stars at the 2018 RDMA’s won’t be limited to the ones belting it out on stage, but also include those handing out ARDYs. Here are some of the stars who will be presenting at the 2018 RDMA:

Stars from Disney Channel’s Andi Mack
Olivia Holt and Aubrey Joseph from Freeform’s Marvel’s Cloak and Dagger
Hollywood Records recording artist Sabrina Carpenter
Radio Disney’s “NBT” (Next Big Thing) JAGMAC
ABC’s Boy Band winners and Hollywood Records group In Real Life

Special Marshmello/DuckTales Video
Woo-oo! Be sure to tune in early this Saturday because right before the RDMA premieres on Disney Channel, a special video featuring a few of our favorite ducks will make its debut! From a special collaboration between Marshmello and Disney comes a “DuckTales”-inspired music video of the DJ’s hit single “Fly.” Live-action and animation will come together as Scrooge, Donald, Huey, Dewey, and Louie, along with their friend Webby launch into space, only to crash into an alien island called Marshmello—where they’ll happen on a very familiar extra-terrestrial DJ.

This music video will premiere during Disney·Pixar’s The Incredibles (6–8 p.m. EDT/PDT) and leading into the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards (8–10 p.m. EDT/PDT), on Disney Channel.

The video will also be up on the DisneyNow app, since we know you’re going to want to watch it over and over again!

2018 RDMA Categories and Nominees

“You Know You Love Them—Best Duo/Group (Presented by KRAFT® Macaroni and Cheese Shapes)”
BTS
Clean Bandit
Echosmith
Imagine Dragons
Maroon 5

“The One—Best Artist”
Bruno Mars
Ed Sheeran
Meghan Trainor
Selena Gomez
Shawn Mendes
Taylor Swift

“The Bestest—Song Of The Year”
“Havana”—Camilla Cabello
“Look What You Made Me Do”—Taylor Swift
“The Middle”—Zedd, Marin Morris & Grey
“There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back”—Shawn Mendes
“Wolves”—Selena Gomez & Marshmello

“XOXO—Best Crush Song”
“I Like Me Better”—Lauv
“Ins and Outs”—Sofia Carson
“Perfect”—Ed Sheeran
“Legends”—Kelsea Ballerini
“Why”—Sabrina Carpenter

“#SQUADGOALS—Fiercest Fans”
BTS Army—BTS
Mellogang—Marshmello
Megatronz—Meghan Trainor
Selenators—Selena Gomez
Mendes Army—Shawn Mendes

“The Buzz—Breakout Artist Of The Year”
Camilla Cabello
Charlie Puth
Dua Lipa
Halsey
Julia Michaels
Marshmello

“The Freshest—Best New Artist”
Bebe Rexha
Cheat Codes
Hey Violet
Lauv
Why Don’t We

“So Happy—Best Song That Makes You Smile”
“DNA”—BTS
“I Miss Those Days”—Bleachers
“No Excuses”—Meghan Trainor
“One Foot”—WALK THE MOON
“So Much More Than This”—Grace VanderWaal

“Doubletap—Favorite Social Music Artist”
Alex Aiono
Carson Lueders
Chloe x Halle
HRVY
Max & Harvey
Rudy Mancuso

“Stuck In Our Heads—Best Song To Lip Sync To”
“Look What You Made Me Do”—Taylor Swift
“New Rules”—Dua Lipa
“Sorry Not Sorry”—Demi Lovato
“These Girls”—Why Don’t We
“This Is Me”—Keala Settle

“When The Beat Drops!—Best Dance Track”
“Friends”—Justin Bieber & BloodPopâ
“Let Me Go”—Hailee Steinfeld & Alesso feat. Florida Georgia Line & watt
“MIC Drop (Steve Aoki Remix)”—BTS
“The Middle”—Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey
“Silence”—Marshmello feat. Khalid

“Play It Again!—Radio Disney Country Favorite Song”
“Legends”—Kelsea Ballerini
“Meant to Be”—Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line
“Take Back Home Girl”—Chris Lane feat. Tori Kelly
“Unforgettable”—Thomas Rhett
“You Broke Up with Me”—Walker Hayes

“The Bestest!—Radio Disney Country Favorite Artist”
Florida Georgia Line
Kelsea Ballerini
Luke Bryan
Maren Morris
Thomas Rhett

“The Freshest!—Radio Disney Country Best New Artist”
Carly Pearce
Devin Dawson
Jillian Jacqueline
Jordan Davis
LANCO

“Mashup!—Best Collaboration”
“Meant to Be”—Bebe Rexha feat. Florida Georgia Line
“No Promises”—Cheat Codes feat. Demi Lovato
“Mi Gente”—J Balvin & Willy William
“It Ain’t Me”—Kygo & Selena Gomez
“The Middle”—Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey

To make sure you’ve got all the tunes down, check out Radio Disney’s Spotify playlist of all of the nominated songs. That way, you can rehearse your dance for the night of the show, when we’re sure you’ll be doing more than just tapping your feet along to the beat.

Throughout music’s biggest event for families you can follow the excitement at Disney.com/RDMA. The “ARDY” party gets started this Saturday, June 23, at 8 p.m. EDT/PDT on Disney Channel!

Did You Know? 5 Animated Facts about Who Framed Roger Rabbit

June 21, 2018

By Ross Anderson

Who Framed Roger Rabbit was released under Disney’s Touchstone banner and was a combined production of Disney and Amblin Entertainment, which was founded by Steven Spielberg. The film’s story takes place in 1947, opening with a typical mid-century cartoon short. As the short concludes, we find that the “toons” are just acting out roles in a studio production, and they actually lead their own lives in Toontown—often with more zany convolutions than they display in their scripted shorts. A down-on-his-luck private detective, Eddie Valiant, is drawn into a murder investigation and a citywide conspiracy. The look is film noir, the gags are broad, the acting is sublime, the writing is clever, the animation superb. More than that, the combination of animation and live-action is totally believable and remains astounding to this day. Thirty years later, Who Framed Roger Rabbit remains a fan-favorite, and to celebrate the film’s anniversary, we’ve rounded up some animated facts and anecdotes.

1. Easter Eggs For Quick Eyes
Roger Rabbit pulsates with unforgettable scenes, characters and cinematic legerdemain, and each fan finds their own joys, favorite scenes, favorite quotes, and the fun of searching for the hundreds of Easter eggs embedded in the film. Particularly cool are the references to members of the production crew that have found their way onto graffiti, store signs, and billboard notices in the Toontown segment. Caricatures of production crew members are on billboard notices for Br’er Baer (Dale Baer) and Gregory and his Rubber Band (Gregory Hinde); and Christine (Blum), Cindy (Finn), Jane (Baer), Gisele (Recinos), Randy (Fullmer), and others involved with the film are memorialized on Toontown store signage—kind of like the acknowledgment given to key Disney contributors on the windows of Main Street. There must certainly be others that are less obvious.

There is also an assortment of cartoon comic devices strewn about Toontown: banana peels, falling anvils, and rubber chickens. Of course, rubber chickens show up elsewhere in the film; when Daffy Duck is maniacally playing in the “dueling pianos” segment, he’s wearing boxing gloves initially, but as he continues, his hands come up with a hammer and ice cream cone and then with rubber chickens. Part of the fun of watching the film is to identify the many references to animated shorts and features from the past. Sure, lists of Easter eggs can be found on the Internet, but it’s more fun to discover them for yourself.

2. Out-of-this-Galaxy Effects
Although Tron had been made a few years earlier, digital special effects had not yet found their way into film in a serious way, and all the special effects in Roger Rabbit were done with optical printers, puppetry, stop-motion animation, and clever gadgetry. Astoundingly, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) did more special effects for Roger Rabbit than were done for Star Wars.

3. A Legend Gets His Start
Andreas Deja got encouragement from Eric Larson to pursue a career in animation and was eventually hired at Disney. During the production of The Black Cauldron in Burbank, Deja was put in an office with Tim Burton, partly to coach Burton in classical “Disney” drawing. Of course, it didn’t work out that way, and although Burton didn’t quite fit the Disney mold, the freedom he was given to develop projects on his own has ultimately given us Vincent, Frankenweenie, and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

The experience of The Black Cauldron proved to be difficult for many of the young animators at the studio. The Nine Old Men had retired by that time and there had been a changing of the guard. When given the chance, Deja jumped at the opportunity to be one of the supervising animators on Roger Rabbit at the new studio Disney was establishing in London.

4. The Animation Made ’Round the World
All of the people working on Who Framed Roger Rabbit knew that they were working on something very special. It was a grand adventure for the American and Canadian expatriates, as well as for the British and European artists. It made for a collegial atmosphere and the extra enthusiasm of being part of something historic. The animators would routinely work long hours, grab a pub dinner at the Edinburgh Castle Tavern on Delancey Street in Camden Town, then go back to work in the evening. Also, the production and coordination with the live-action footage was complex and time-consuming. In spite of the long hours, the London crew was as risk of not having the film ready for the scheduled summer 1988 opening. Of course, this was before the advent of computers in the animation process.

A satellite animation unit was set up in Glendale, under the supervision of Dale Baer, and was focused primarily on the Toontown sequence. It functioned independently, and production could be coordinated and artwork shared through “high-tech” means such as FedEx and fax.

5. A Reason to Smile
On March 18, 1988, a wrap party was held at the Barbican Centre in London. The entire London crew was there for the celebration and was treated to a magic act by the producer, Frank Marshall, and a thank-you speech by director Bob Zemeckis. The song, “Smile, Darn Ya, Smile,” was planned for the gathering of Toons during the “iris out” at the end of the film. The song had already been recorded by professional singers, but the producers felt that a more raucous crowd sound was required. Sound equipment was set up at the wrap party and the crew was asked to sing, “Smile, Darn Ya, Smile.” Each member of the crew was paid the amount of one pound (somewhat more than one dollar) for their singing contribution to the film, and everybody had to sign a waiver!

This article originally appeared in a slightly different form in the Fall 2013 issue of Disney twenty-three and was modified for D23.com.

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