Your Ultimate Guide to the Most Instagrammable Disney Walls

May 20, 2018May 20, 2019

By Karina Schink

A day at a Disney park is filled with treats beyond compare, rides that thrill, and, of course, magic! At the end of the day, all we want is to bottle it all up and take it home with us! And what better way to do that than with a perfect picture in front of a wonderful Disney wall for Instagram?

But, what makes a beautiful backdrop? Well, a bit of faith, trust, and pixie dust (and a stunning Disney fan to take center stage), of course! Here are some of our favorite photo-op locations.

Walt Disney World Resort

Magic Kingdom

The Purple Wall—Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor
You could say that this was the wall that started it all. The Purple Wall (#purplewall) is located next to Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor, near the entrance of Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom Park. But, that’s not all! While a solid purple wall may be your backdrop of choice, there is also a fun, geometric design (#galacticpurplewall) you can snap your impeccably purple pictures in front of!

The Candy Stripe Wall—Main Street Confectionery
Main Street, U.S.A.’s Confectionery in Magic Kingdom Park is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth, but don’t forget to snap a photo (with or without your treat!) in front of the Candy Stripe Wall (#candystripewall).

Epcot

Galaxy Wall
You may have to work your way around some pixie dust for this wall, because as Imagineers are hard at work on the new Guardians of the Galaxy themed attraction, a brand-new Galaxy wall has gone up. But, you have to get there quickly, because this wall is temporary!

Bubblegum Wall—Spaceship Earth
Everyone’s day needs a pop of color! Located near the exit doors of Spaceship Earth, the Bubblegum Wall (#bubblegumwall) provides just that!

Blueberry Wall—Spaceship Earth
The Blueberry Wall (#blueberrywall) at Epcot is definitely a fan-favorite “Wall of Disney.” Located near the exit of Spaceship Earth, this wall is the perfect place to remind everyone that there’s no need to be blue when you’re at the most magical place on Earth!

Rose Gold Wall—Mission: Space
It’s the craze heard ‘round the world! Rose gold is here to stay, and we love it! Whether you have your rose gold Minnie Mouse ears or spirit jersey, or not, you can show your affinity for the bright color by grabbing a photo in front of the Rose Gold Wall (#rosegoldwall) in Epcot!

We went on the hunt for the best walls in @waltdisneyworld! Head over to our Instagram story for some of the best spots for your next Disney Parks #ootd.

A post shared by Disney Style (@disneystyle) on Jan 13, 2017 at 4:06pm PST

Mosaic Wall—The Land Pavillion
The Mosaic Wall (#mosaicwall) is located in The Land in Future World in Epcot, and it’s a cool space (in the shade!) to grab a uniquely colorful photo!

Toothpaste Wall—The Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilion
The Toothpaste Wall (#toothpastewall), located at The Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilion, is a swimmingly good place to take a picture or two!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Walls of Harambe
You don’t have to travel far to satisfy all of your wanderlust daydreams, because right inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom are the Walls of Harambe (#wallsofharambe) which transport you to an African safari, with tons of different walls to choose as your backdrop venue.

One of the most popular walls, the You Are Most Beautiful wall (#youaremostbeautifulwall), is an excellent way to give everyone a reminder of just how great you are.

Moss Wall—Pandora: The World of Avatar
For the greenest, most adventurous wall, you just have to fly to Pandora—The World of Avatar. The Moss Wall (#mosswall) is located near Satu’li Canteen, and it’s an out-of-this-world spot to outlive your wildest wilderness dreams.

Disney Hollywood Studios

Checkerboard Wall—Toy Story Land
We’re so excited about the opening of Toy Story Land, and not just for the new rides and eats, but for all the new spots to snap a few photos! One of those is the Checkerboard Wall (#checkerboardwall) located by Toy Story Mania!

OoooOOooOo, the waaalllll ? we’re already loving the photo spots at #ToyStoryLand in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Stay tuned for more from opening weekend.

A post shared by Disney Style (@disneystyle) on Jun 28, 2018 at 3:59pm PDT

Toy Story Block Wall—Toy Story Land
As you continue your day as an honorary toy in Toy Story Land, head over to the Toy Story Land Block Wall (#toystorylandblockwall), where you can prove just how joy-filled and toy-filled Andy’s backyard is!

Popsicle Wall—Toy Story Land
Golly bob howdy! Not only does the new Toy Story Land offer exciting new eats and attractions, but also great new walls to pose in front of! The Popsicle Wall (#popsiclewall) quickly became a fan favorite, and we can see why! Find this wall over at the exit of Toy Story Mania!.

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Incredibly delicious! ?? #HollywoodStudios #WaltDisneyWorld (?: @disneyinsta.disney07)

A post shared by Walt Disney World (@waltdisneyworld) on Mar 14, 2019 at 11:00am PDT

Incredibles Celebration Wall—Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Even though it’s been a few months since Incredibles 2 landed in theaters, we’ll never stop celebrating our favorite family of Supers. Located at the entrance of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this all-new wall (#incredibleswall) transports you to the city of Metroville, the very place the Parrs call home. And, who wouldn’t want to be transported to a world filled with laser-eyed crime-fighting babies?

Jack-Jack Wall Cutout—Disney Hollywood Studios
Right across from the Incredibles Celebration Wall, next to the giant thermos, you can find the baby, the myth, the cookie-eating legend himself, Jack-Jack (#jackjackwall)! As per usual, he’s too fast for us! Fueled by Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums (which you can taste for yourself!) the youngest member of the Parr family has already blasted his way through the wall onwards towards his next adventure. But, you can take a picture alongside the slight damage he made!

Dino Wall—Disney’s Animal Kingdom
In DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you won’t just be walking amongst some of the most ancient creatures to roam Walt Disney World, you’ll be transported back to their time. With the Dino Wall (#dinowall) as your backdrop, you can fool all of your friends into believing you had a brief time-traveling adventure on your latest Disney trip.

Disney Hotels

Neon Mickey Wall – Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Mickey’s legacy burns so bright, we can’t help but snap a couple photos! At The Neon Mickey Wall (#neonmickeywall), located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you can live a moment (and capture it) in technicolor, so your photo can shine just as bright as you!

Flower Power Wall – Pop Century Resort
The Flower Power Wall (#popflowerwall) at Disney’s Pop Century Resort is blooming with color and Instagram photo potential. With bright and bold flowers as your backdrop, we can see why Disney fans are flocking to show their love for flower power.

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park

it’s a small world Wall—Fantasyland
It might be a small world after all, but that does not limit our choices of prime photo points, especially around the attraction itself! Located to the left of the inimitable international ride, right behind Fantasy Faire Gifts, the towering blue and white it’s a small world Wall (#itsasmallworldwall) is a flawless spot for grabbing a photo with friends.

Star Wars Wall—Tomorrowland
In a galaxy far, far away, there is a wall strong with the force for all of you Wookiees, scoundrels, Jedi, and Sith. The Star Wars Wall (#starwarswall) wraps around Star Wars Launch Bay and you can choose spots with or without those famous words. May the force be with you… as you snag a couple photos!

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Celebration Wall—Mickey’s Toontown
Swing on over to Mickey’s Toontown to take a quick picture in front of the brand-new Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Celebration wall! Located where the Minnie Mouse polka dot wall used to be next to Minnie’s house, this wall is inspired by the mouse that started it all, and his leading lady.

Vine Wall—Disneyland
When you’re heading over to it’s a small world for the traditional ride on the classic attraction, be sure to stop at the Vine Wall, right next door. It’s the perfect backdrop to mark the occasion of your worldly adventure on the classic attraction.

Frontierland Wall—Disneyland Resort
While, by the looks of it, you may think this wall was in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure, it’s actually tucked away between Fantasyland and Frontierland. The Frontierland Wall (#frontierlandwall) makes for a natural backdrop to add a spot of uniqueness to your photo gallery.

Downtown Disney

Pop-Up Disney! A Mickey Celebration
Something extra special has made its way to Downtown Disney. The Pop-Up Disney! A Mickey Celebration is filled with unique photo opportunities to celebrate the true original. For a more in-depth look at all of the Instagram-worthy backdrops inside, click here.

Disney California Adventure

The Blue Wall—Hollywood Land
Is there a more classic color than blue? The famous Blue Wall (#bluewall) in Hollywood Land will make you feel like royalty when you stop for a snapshot at this regal wall.

Happily Ever After Wall—Hollywood Land
Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or you cherish those famous three words, this wall is a perfect spot to stop and take quick photo. The Happily Ever After Wall (#happilyeverafterwall) can be found in the tunnel going from the Animation Academy into Off the Page.

Luxo Ball Jr. Ball Wall—Pixar Pier
With the addition of Pixar Pier, there are even more great locations to take a quick picture. One of our favorite stops is right inside the Lamplight Lounge at the Luxo Ball Wall (#luxoballwall). Let Luxo light up your photo as you stop for a quick photo shoot (and, of course, snack on some Lobster Nachos, because how can you not?).

Discover the Characters of Solo: A Star Wars Story

May 17, 2018

By Jim Frye,

Get ready, because Lucasfilm’s Solo: A Star Wars Story blasts into theaters this Memorial Day weekend, telling the early tales of Han Solo, the most iconic space cowboy in cinema history. Directed by Ron Howard, Solo finds Han, an orphaned scam artist who, after being kicked out of the Flight Academy for, as he says, “having a mind of my own,” dreams of being the best pilot in the galaxy. He gets mixed up with a colorful group of gangsters in the galactic underworld, taking him on an adventure that eventually introduces him to some of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars universe.

Han Solo: Alden Ehrenreich
Finding a new Han Solo was no easy task—Harrison Ford, who originally played the character, cast a very large shadow. “Harrison Ford is so unique and has embodied the character for so many years that they were gigantic shoes to fill,” says Producer and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy. “We weren’t looking for someone who looked like Harrison; we didn’t want an impersonation of him nor his Han Solo. We wanted an actor who could find those traits that are so loveable, so roguish about Han Solo.”

Alden Ehrenreich, from films such as Hail, Caesar! and Rules Don’t Apply, was excited to land the role. “It’s really special to be part of a franchise that has so much heart and that means so much to people,” he says, “and to play such a multi-dimensional character in the Star Wars universe.”

Lando Calrissian: Donald Glover
Donald Glover is an award-winning writer, director, musician, stand-up comedian, and actor. Fans might recognize him from Community, Atlanta, and 30 Rock. “Lando was my first action toy,” he says. “The character really spoke to me, and I am honored to dig a little deeper into him. I think he’s a really intriguing character. Sometimes he’s good, sometimes bad, and really only beholden to himself. These are interesting and honest traits.”

Chewbacca: Joonas Suotamo
Starting with Star Wars: A New Hope back in 1977, Chewbacca has been the faithful best friend and co-pilot for Han. Solo explores the beginnings of that relationship, with Chewbacca played by former college basketball player Joonas Suotamo. “Chewbacca is truly the most loyal companion,” says Suotamo. “He’s very attentive, always alert to danger because he’s lived such a long, dangerous life, always on the watch. He is the perfect partner to have watching out for you. It becomes clear to Chewbacca that Han needs someone to take care of him.”

Beckett: Woody Harrelson
Three-time Academy Award® nominee Woody Harrelson plays Beckett, a career criminal who takes young Solo under his wing. “Han joins forces with Beckett and his group,” says Harrelson. “They’re trying to pull off these heists, but there are a lot of complications and, during the course of them, I think Beckett does teach Han a thing or two about how to live—perhaps not the most positive things, like don’t trust anyone, but things that become codes he lives by.”

Val: Thandie Newton
British actress Thandie Newton, known for roles in TV series such as Westworld and Line of Duty in addition to films such as Crash, The Pursuit of Happyness, and The Chronicles of Riddick, plays Val, a tough, no-nonsense gangster with Beckett. “Val’s so calm, nothing fazes her,” says Newton. “Even when she’s in the most threatening situation, she remains calm. She’s incredibly sure of herself.”

Qi’ra: Emilia Clarke
The enigmatic Qi’ra, an early love of Han, is played by Emilia Clarke, perhaps best known as Daenerys Targaryen from HBO’s hugely popular Game of Thrones. “It’s really exciting to be creating a new, strong, female character in the Star Wars universe,” says Clarke, “especially one who is integral to the story of such a beloved character in cinema history.”

L3-37: Phoebe Waller-Bridge
L3-37, Lando’s co-pilot and the first leading female droid in the Star Wars universe, is perfectly played by English actress and writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge, best known for her comedy TV series Fleabag. “She reconstructed herself,” says Waller-Bridge. “She started out as an astromech droid like R2, gave herself a voice and limbs and is able to do lots of things that she wouldn’t otherwise have been able to do. She’s very revolutionary, very determined.”

Dryden Vos: Paul Bettany
Star Wars is legendary for its great villains, from Emperor Palpatine and Kylo Ren to the iconic Darth Vader. In that same fashion, Solo gives us Dryden Vos, played by actor Paul Bettany. “He is a sociopath, unpredictable, anarchic,” says Bettany. “He’s like one of those characters that appeared post-perestroika, after the introduction of the free market economy into a country that culturally had no system of ownership. Some people were trodden on, and some people did the treading. Dryden is like one of those guys who clawed his way up.”

Director Ron Howard says that Solo is a character study—maybe the first for Star Wars films—about everyone’s favorite scoundrel. “This is a rite of passage story, consistent with Star Wars, with many themes that will resonate with audiences,” he says. “It’s about one character’s journey, the way that he is tested by the unique challenges that he faces and by the people he meets to become the character we know so well.”

Solo: A Star Wars Story rockets into theaters May 25.

Must-See Photos of Mystic Point at Hong Kong Disneyland

May 17, 2018May 16, 2019

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Lord Henry Mystic was deep in his adventures when he rescued an adorable monkey from the web of a monstrous spider. Instantly smitten with the peculiar primate, Henry decided to remain in this tropical locale with his new companion, who he named Albert. Thanks to that bond between man and monkey, Mystic Point was born.

This popular location at Hong Kong Disneyland opened five years ago alongside the attraction Mystic Manor, a free-roaming romp through Lord Henry’s home and museum—filled to the brim with artifacts, trinkets, and other tokens of unknown magical quantities.

Beyond featuring this stunning main attraction, Mystic Point is beloved by Disney fans from all over the world for being a part of the larger storyline to the Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.). S.E.A. is an international assembly of men and women who travel the world in search of knowledge, adventure, art, and priceless cultural artifacts—and their adventures often are explored in unique Disney attractions, such as Tokyo DisneySea’s Tower of Terror, and Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Celebrate this unique land at Hong Kong Disneyland with our stunning photo gallery below.

Bring Solo Merchandise from a Galaxy Far, Far Away to Your Very Own Home

May 16, 2018

By Megan Deppe

Everyone’s favorite “stuck-up, half-witted, scruffy-looking nerf herder” is back, and it’s only appropriate that we celebrate his return to the big screen with some Solo: A Star Wars Story gear! Just in time for the movie’s May 25 arrival in theaters, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite new Solo-inspired merchandise for you to add to your galactic collection. And don’t forget, D23 Gold Members enjoy a 10 percent discount off your purchase of $50 or more at shopDisney.com.

1. Chewbacca Plush
Laugh it up with your very own fuzzball! This cuddly co-pilot will have your back on all of your own journeys, and his attached satchel is perfect for smuggling your most important small essentials.

2. Solo: A Star Wars Story Figure Play Set
We hear you’re putting together a crew, so we rounded up some likely candidates! You can send Han Solo and the gang off on a brand-new mission or reenact your favorite scenes from Solo: A Star Wars Story.

3. Millennium Falcon Kessel Run Playset by LEGO
Here’s a ship you won’t have to gamble with Lando Calrissian to get your hands on! This “bucket of bolts” comes with more than 1,000 pieces, spring-loaded shooters, a detachable escape craft, and the best crew this side of the galaxy.

4. Han Solo Costume Bomber Jacket for Boys
Little scoundrels everywhere need a jacket to keep them warm as they travel through hyperspace. Favorite Solo characters adorn the printed lining, Chewbacca can be found on an interior ID label, and the Millennium Falcon zips up the faux suede jacket.

5. Solo: A Star Wars Story Monopoly Set
Classic Monopoly takes a turn on the Kessel Run and allows you to travel at light speed to buy all of the hideouts and facilities from the film Solo: A Star Wars Story.

6. Solo: A Star Wars Story Backpack for Adults
As you travel through hyperspace (or across your college campus), you’ll need a bag capable of holding all your gear. With plenty of pockets for hiding your cargo, you will be ready for any adventure that comes your way.

7. Chewbacca Water Bottle
It’s important to stay hydrated on your intergalactic journeys and you can bring your drink of choice along for the ride in this water bottle, which you can hook onto your Solo backpack for the ultimate convenience.

8. Millennium Falcon T-Shirt for Men
If you’ve ever wanted to know all about the iconic Millennium Falcon, this is the shirt for you. The blueprints for the fastest ship in the galaxy can be found on this tee, which showcases the Falcon when it was still shiny and new.

9. Solo: A Star Wars Story Character Mug
You can’t make the Kessel Run in 12 parsecs without your morning cup of caffeine! Now you can fuel yourself with a Solo character mug that features your favorite faces from Solo: A Star Wars Story before you head off to move your cargo.

10. Chewbacca Blaster by Nerf
You can’t be a grade-A smuggler if you’re not prepared to defend your cargo! Chewbacca’s Nerf Blaster comes equipped with glow-in-the-dark darts and laser blast sound effects, perfect for a trip across the galaxy (or across the backyard)!

All the New ABC Shows Coming This Fall—Plus More in News Briefs

May 16, 2018November 8, 2018

By Courtney Potter

ABC announces its 2018–19 prime-time season, and Frozen on Broadway gets its cast recording and a national tour… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Get Your Remotes Ready: ABC Announces 2018–19 Prime-time Season!

It’s May, which means graduations and weddings and warmer temperatures—and also an end to the current television season… but there’s good news, TV fans: On the flip side, the new TV season is just over the horizon. And our pals over at ABC just made their big 2018–19 primetime announcement; it’s chock full of returning favorites, new stories and characters, a few familiar faces making their TV comebacks, and more comedy and drama than ever before!

From The Rookie (starring Nathan Fillion as a middle-aged newbie in the Los Angeles Police Department) to the new 1970s-set comedy The Kids Are Alright… from the return of faves like Roseanne and black-ish to a brand-new talk show from Alec Baldwin… make sure those DVRs are set to ABC come fall. Read more about ABC’s upcoming prime-time season right here at D23.com.

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
May 19, 2018
Exclusive Meet & Greet with Ashley Eckstein
May 25, 2018
D23’s Return to Marceline
June 9, 2018
D23’s Mickey’s of Glendale Shopping Experience in Florida
June 14, 2018
Enjoy Complimentary Tickets to a Special Screening of Disney•Pixar’s Incredibles 2
June 23, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Robin Hood on the Lot
June 29, 2018
Lunch with Disney Legend: Burny Mattinson
June 30, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Robin Hood at Walt Disney World
November 16-18, 2018
Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
Parks
February 28–May 28, 2018
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
May 25, 2018
Incredible Summer Begins at Walt Disney World Resort
May 27, 2018
Star Wars: Galactic Nights Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
June 23, 2018
Pixar Pier opens at Disney California Adventure
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
2019
Star Wars-Themed Lands Opening at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

Studios
May 25, 2018
Solo: A Star Wars Story opens in U.S. theaters
June 15, 2018
Incredibles 2 opens in U.S. theaters
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
June 9, 2018
Big Hero 6 The Series Premieres on Disney Channel (9 a.m. ET/PT)

Broadway’s Frozen—New Cast Recording and Big Upcoming Tour

There’s a blizzard of news from the world of Disney Theatricals’ Frozen, and it’s got us bundling up and breaking out some celebratory cocoa. The record-breaking Broadway smash just released their official cast recording; find out more, and see a clip featuring Caissie Levy singing Elsa’s signature “Let It Go,” here. Plus, Disney Theatrical has announced a huge national Frozen tour, officially opening in Los Angeles, to kick off in 2019—read all about it here. Anyone else feel like a warm hug right about now?

Freeform Announces Slate for 2018–19 Season

Along with ABC’s big prime-time announcements this week, Freeform got in on the action with some revelations of their own… Joining successful series like Siren, grown-ish, and The Bold Type for the 2018–19 season are brand-new shows including Besties—a half-hour comedy from co-creators Kenya Barris (black-ish, grown-ish) and Ranada Shepard that explores friendship, identity, race, and class as two lifelong best friends use each other to get through some of the toughest challenges that they’ll ever face… as well as Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, a spin-off from PLL creator I. Marlene King that follows a group of three college friends as they struggle with the stress of being overachievers.

As we head towards the end of 2018, look for some fresh holiday-related Freeform programming, including the Hocus Pocus 25th Anniversary Extravaganza (celebrating the fan-favorite Halloween staple starring Bette Midler) and Decorating Disney: Halloween—a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into transforming the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts for their spooky shenanigans. But that’s not all: Tyra Banks will revisit an iconic role from early in her career with Life Size 2, an original holiday film that has the doll-come-to-life helping a young woman learn to live and love again.

Keep your eyes peeled for more information about Freeform’s new series and specials in the coming months!

Woo-oo! All the News from Disney Channel GO! Fan Fest

Disney Channel held its very first GO! Fan Fest on Saturday, May 14, at the Disneyland Resort—and D23 was there! We got the inside scoop from a veritable cavalcade of stars, including David Tennant, Ben Schwartz, and Danny Pudi from DuckTales; Peyton List and Mallory Mahoney from BUNK’D; and Lilan Bowden from Andi Mack. Read all about it right here (and make sure to watch the clip of the awesome DuckTales live table read, featuring most of the cast—all together on stage for the very first time!).

Mandarin Beauty and the Beast Opening June 14

Shanghai Disney Resort will soon get its very own “tale as old as time,” when the brand-new Mandarin production of the hit Broadway musical Beauty and the Beast opens June 14 at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre in Disneytown!

More than 80 actors and crew members were selected, after a six-month search, to bring the show to life—including an ensemble of world-class performers that includes both well-known and undiscovered Chinese talent… as well as a few folks from around the globe. And audiences who caught the resort’s previous hit musical, The Lion King, will see several familiar faces.

This spectacular new production features award-winning music composed by Disney Legend Alan Menken, who met the cast in Shanghai earlier this year. The original Broadway creative team is also in Shanghai working with the local cast and crew to bring this beloved story to the stage. For those readers who may be planning an epic Shanghai sojourn, tickets go on sale to the public on May 24.

New Photography Book Celebrates Mickey Mouse

A cadre of celebrities and cultural icons—including Disney Legend Mark Hamill, Marvel’s Agent Carter star Hayley Atwell, and actress Liv Tyler—have come together to pay tribute to Mickey Mouse’s 90th, with stylish portraits by photographer RANKIN… and it’s all in support of the UK charity Together for Short Lives. Take a gander at some of the pics, and find out how you too can help this important cause, here at D23.com.

Adventures by Disney Announces Incredible 2019 Vacations

Sure, we’re just heading into Summer 2018—but that doesn’t mean you can’t start thinking about vacations for next year. Thankfully, Adventures by Disney (ABD) recently announced their vacation options for 2019, and they’re as exhilarating as you’d expect!

ABD is offering more destinations than ever before, with more than 50 trips to six continents. Plus, their very first Japan vacation (an epic 11-day, 10-night itinerary with experiences in Kyoto, Takayama, Odawara, and Tokyo) is now on sale; it’s a collaboration between ABD and the Japan National Tourism Organization, and it’s sure to be ridiculously special.

For a quick look at what you can expect from ABD in 2019, check out the new video, above. And make sure to visit AdventuresbyDisney.com for more information.

Don’t Miss These 7 New Shows in ABC’s 2018–19 Lineup!

May 16, 2018May 16, 2018

By Courtney Potter

TV fans of America, rejoice! For this week brings with it delightful developments—when our good friends over at the ABC Television Network announce to the world all its brand-new shows for the upcoming prime-time season. In addition to the return of fan favorites like Roseanne, black-ish, Grey’s Anatomy, American Idol, and Speechless, ABC is adding four new shows to its sure-to-entertain fall lineup. (Honestly, we’re ready to set our DVRs right now.) Plus, three more series will join the network as we head into 2019…

Take a gander at the new shows (including their just-released trailers) below—and don’t forget to let us know which ones you can’t wait to watch!

A Million Little Things—Starring James Roday (Psych), David Giuntoli (Grimm), Ron Livingston (Office Space), and Romany Malco (Think Like a Man)—and based on events from series creator DJ Nash’s real life—this drama follows a group of friends from Boston who bonded under unforeseen circumstances. In the decade since, some have achieved success; others are struggling with careers or relationships; but there’s one thing they all have in common: They feel stuck. When one of them dies unexpectedly, it’s the startling wake-up call the others need to finally start living again.

The Rookie—Nathan Fillion, late of ABC’s Castle (and also known for the fan-favorite series Firefly), stars as small-town guy John Nolan who—after a life-altering incident—decides to pursue his dream of being an LAPD officer. As the force’s oldest rookie, John’s met with skepticism from higher-ups who see him as a walking “midlife crisis.” But if he can use his life experience, determination, and sense of humor to give him an edge, he may just become a success in this new chapter of life.

Single Parents—This ensemble comedy follows a group of single parents (including Gossip Girl’s Leighton Meester, Everybody Loves Raymond star Brad Garrett, and former Saturday Night Live player Taran Killam) as they lean on each other to help raise their 7-year-old kids and maintain some kind of personal lives outside of parenthood. When it becomes obvious that the new dad at school has spiraled down a rabbit hole of PTA and princesses, the rest of the gang bands together to make him realize that being a great parent doesn’t mean sacrificing everything about your own identity.

The Kids Are Alright—Set in the 1970s, this comedy is based on series creator Tim Doyle’s real life growing up in a working-class Southern California suburb. The show follows the Clearys, a traditional Irish-Catholic family, as they navigate big and small changes during one of America’s most turbulent decades. Parents Mike and Peggy are raising eight (!) boisterous boys who live out their days with little supervision. But the household is turned upside-down when oldest son Lawrence returns home and announces he’s quitting the seminary to go off and “save the world.” Times are changing—and this family will never be the same.

… And debuting in 2019:

Grand Hotel—A provocative new drama from executive producer Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives), this series—based on a Spanish TV show—takes place at the last family-owned hotel in multicultural Miami Beach. Charismatic Santiago Mendoza (Oscar® nominee Demián Bichir) owns the hotel, while his glamorous second wife, Gigi (Roselyn Sanchez), and their adult children enjoy the spoils of success. Wealthy and beautiful guests bask in luxury—but scandals, escalating debt, and explosive secrets hide beneath the picture-perfect exterior.

Whiskey Cavalier—This high-octane, hour-long action dramedy follows the adventures of tough but tender FBI super-agent Will Chase (Scott Foley, Scandal)—codename: “Whiskey Cavalier.” Following an emotional breakup, Chase is assigned to work with tough CIA operative Francesca “Frankie” Trowbridge (Lauren Cohan, The Walking Dead)—codename: “Fiery Tribune.” Together, they lead an inter-agency team of spies who periodically save the world (and each other) while navigating the rocky roads of friendship, romance, and office politics.

The Fix—Attorney and author Marcia Clark co-writes and executive produces this new legal drama. Maya Travis (Robin Tunney, The Mentalist) is an L.A. district attorney who suffers a devastating defeat when prosecuting an A-list actor for double murder. With her high-profile career derailed, she flees for a quieter life in Washington… but eight years later, when this same celebrity is under suspicion for another murder, Maya is lured back to the DA’s office for another chance at justice.

Every Magical Moment from Disney Channel GO! Fan Fest

May 15, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

“There are no fans like Disney Channel fans,” said Joshua Rush, who plays Cyrus on the network’s fan-favorite live-action series Andi Mack, at the Disneyland Resort on Saturday, May 12. Rush joined a host of Disney Channel stars from series such as DuckTales and Raven’s Home, as well as Disney Channel Original Movies ZOMBIES and Freaky Friday, for the first-ever Disney Channel GO! Fan Fest. From the star-studded cavalcade on Main Street, U.S.A., that kicked off the event to an afternoon of exciting panels inside Stage 17 at Disney’s California Adventure, an unforgettable time was had by both stars and fans alike.

“I love parades so much I’ve already warned everyone I might cry out of happiness,” said Kate Micucci—the voice of DuckTales’ Webby Vanderquack—when D23 caught up with her at the beginning of the fan-centric day. The Leader of the Club led the way: Mickey Mouse and his motorcar were the first to make their way down Main Street, U.S.A., followed by the casts of Raven’s Home, BUNK’D, Bizaardvark, Andi Mack, Stuck in the Middle, ZOMBIES, Freaky Friday, and DuckTales—accompanied by the likes of Pluto, Goofy, Launchpad McQuack, and Scrooge McDuck. As they say in Duckburg, woo-oo! You can re-live the special procession, which was streamed live on the Disney Parks Blog, in the video below:

Throughout Saturday afternoon, fans were able to meet some of their favorite stars outside of Stage 12 in Hollywood Land—while Stage 17 was the place to be for panel discussions that were full of surprising revelations about the beloved Disney Channel series and their casts.

To begin the afternoon, the cast of Bizaardvark found themselves in a spirited debate over who in the cast is truly the funniest. Season three newcomer Maxwell Simkins made a pretty compelling case for himself, but we encourage fans to tune in this summer and decide for themselves.

Peyton List and Mallory Mahoney revealed that when BUNK’D returns, the Ross kids will be fixing up Camp Kikiwaka following the fire that took place at the end of season two. List reassured fans that the camp’s food will continue to be a source of dismay for the campers (and deliciously amusing for the audience).

We spoke with actor David Tennant, the voice of Scrooge McDuck, in advance of the DuckTales live table read. “It’s a white-knuckle ride! It’s a leap into the dark today,” he told us, adding, “We’ve never all been in the same room reading at the same time together.” Realizing that they were about to rewrite history, Bobby Moynihan (Louie Duck) shared, “I’m slowly realizing that this is the most important day of my life!” Of course, the actors had no cause for worry. The staged reading was a duck-blur of fun and frivolity, with actors doubling up on roles in some cases: David Tennant read the role of Flintheart Glomgold in addition to Uncle Scrooge, and Toks Olagundoye voiced the very proper Mrs. Beakley as well as the very improper Ma Beagle. To see the cast as they were literally out there making DuckTales, the entire table read is here for your viewing pleasure:

The Andi Mack panel proved that the cast members are truly a family on screen and off. The series is filmed on location in Utah, and on a typical Saturday night during production, you might just find all of them at the local roller-skating rink, tripping the disco-light fantastic together. Fans can tune in to the new season to see relationships continue to grow and evolve. Lilan Bowden (Bex) teased that we’ll learn more of the characters’ secrets, while Joshua Rush promises new “ship names” and more “baby taters.”

When the Stuck in the Middle cast came to the stage, the bond they have formed was apparent, as well. The actors agreed that they feel like they have two families—at home and on set—and when asked by a fan which role they would like to play (other than their own), it sounds like it’s pretty good to be Beast—a fact confirmed by Malachi Barton, who enjoys the stunts and set pieces the writers dream up for his character.

Raven-Symoné executive produces Raven’s Home, in addition to reprising the role she originated on That’s So Raven, but her involvement with the new series goes deeper than that. Issac Ryan Brown thinks of her as a surrogate aunt and mother figure on set—and Raven-Symoné explained that as a onetime child actor, she appreciates the responsibility she now has toward the young cast. She referred to herself as “strict” on set, banning cell phones and fidget spinners, and wanting the kids to be able to walk on to any other set and conduct themselves professionally—but first and foremost, she wants them to have an amazing experience. Sky Katz confirms that the plan has succeeded: “Without Raven, on-camera and off-camera, the show would be completely different,” she said.

After a look back at the Disney Channel Original Movie ZOMBIES, the Fan Fest ended with a peek at what’s still to come: Freaky Friday, which premieres this summer. Fans in Stage 17 were the first to see a scene from the upcoming movie, and hear from stars Heidi Blickenstaff and Cozi Zuehlsdorff about the production. Zuehlsdorff detailed how she and Blickenstaff would attend “mannerism meetings” that allowed them to study each other’s physical habits and quirks, and learn how to portray each other. “The best part [of the production] was the time we spent together building these two characters,” said Blickenstaff. You can see these two amazing actresses in action right here:

This fan-tastic event ushers in an unbelievable summer of new and original programming on Disney Channel (and the DisneyNOW app) that includes the series premieres of Big Hero 6 The Series, Bug Juice: My Adventures at Camp, the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards, and so much more. You won’t want to miss a minute, but never fear—we won’t either. Stay tuned to Disney Channel—and D23.com—all summer long!

Breaking News: Frozen is Taking the Snow on the Road

May 15, 2018May 15, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

We’ve got some news that we can’t keep in—and heaven knows, we won’t even try! The Broadway smash Frozen will embark upon a North American tour in the fall of 2019 (commencing in Schenectady, New York), with an official opening planned for The Hollywood Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles, California.

Since its March 2018 opening, Frozen has smashed two long-standing house records at Broadway’s St. James Theatre, and the musical has received three Tony® Award nominations, including Best Musical. When Frozen takes the snow on the road next year, it will join the North American tours of The Lion King and Aladdin that are crisscrossing the continent at this very minute.

Frozen’s incredibly talented creative team—including the Academy Award®-winning writing trio of composer/lyricists Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and book writer Jennifer Lee, along with Tony Award-winning director Michael Grandage, Tony-winning choreographer Rob Ashford, Tony-winning scenic and costume designer Christopher Oram, Tony-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz, Tony-nominated sound designer Peter Hylenski, Tony-winning video designer Finn Ross, Drama Desk Award-nominated puppet designer Michael Curry, and Tony-winning music supervisor Stephen Oremus—will again collaborate to bring the tour to vivid life.

Stay tuned for casting announcements and for the tour’s full itinerary, which will be released at a later date. In the meantime, you can register for advance ticket notifications and find additional information at FrozenTheMusical.com/Tour, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

This promises to be a tour worth melting for!

Just Released—The Frozen Original Broadway Cast Recording

May 11, 2018May 10, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

Do you want to hear a snowman?

How about a princess and a queen, as well? Well, you’re in luck—the Frozen Original Broadway Cast Recording has just been released. It’s now available digitally everywhere, with the physical album coming your way on Friday, June 8, wherever music is sold.

But that’s not all the cool news: In celebration of the release of the Original Broadway Cast Recording, Frozen has debuted a brand-new music video of “Let It Go”—marking the first time in forever that fans have heard Caissie Levy (Elsa) perform the song outside of Broadway’s St. James Theatre.

Frozen’s incredible cast was joined in the recording studio by an orchestra of 44 musicians, including a string section 22 strong. For a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how the album was brought to life, take a look at this video featuring album producers Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez, Stephen Oremus, Dave Metzger, and Chris Montan, along with the Frozen company:

In addition to fan-favorite songs from the 2013 animated feature, such as “Love Is an Open Door,” “In Summer,” “Fixer Upper,” and “Reindeer(s) Are Better Than People,” the soundtrack features new music from Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, including:

“Monster”, performed by Levy and the Broadway company:

“What Do You Know About Love?”, a stunning duet between Patti Murin (Anna) and Jelani Alladin (Kristoff):

“True Love,” an Act Two solo performed by Murin:

“Dangerous to Dream,” an interior monologue for Elsa, performed by Levy:

The complete track list for Frozen’s Original Broadway Cast Recording includes:

ACT ONE

“Vuelie” / “Let the Sun Shine On”—Company
“A Little Bit of You”—Young Elsa, Young Anna
“Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”—Young Anna, Anna, Elsa
“For the First Time in Forever”—Anna, Elsa, Townspeople
“Hans of the Southern Isles”—Hans
“Queen Anointed”—Townspeople
“Dangerous to Dream”—Elsa, Townspeople
“Love Is an Open Door”—Anna, Hans
“Reindeer(s) Are Better Than People”—Kristoff
“What Do You Know About Love?”—Anna, Kristoff
“In Summer”—Olaf
“Hans of the Southern Isles” (Reprise)—Hans, Weselton, Townspeople
“Let It Go”—Elsa

ACT TWO

“Hygge“—Oaken, Kristoff, Anna, Olaf, Family & Friends
“For the First Time in Forever” (Reprise)—Elsa, Anna
“Fixer Upper”—Bulda, Pabbie, Olaf, Hidden Folk
“Kristoff Lullaby”—Kristoff
“Monster”—Elsa, Hans, Men
“True Love”—Anna
“Colder by the Minute”—Anna, Kristoff, Elsa, Hans, Townspeople
“Finale” / “Let It Go”—Company

Bonus Track

“When Everything Falls Apart” Outtake—Olaf, Kristoff, Anna

Frozen was recently nominated for three Tony® Awards: Best Original Score (Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez), Best Book of a Musical (Jennifer Lee), and Best Musical. To learn more about the production, or to purchase tickets, visit FrozenTheMusical.com.

Exclusive First Look: The New Fantasia-Inspired Mickey Mouse Short is a Treat for the Eyes and Ears

May 10, 2018May 10, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

Fantasia—it’s a word with several meanings. In music, it refers to a composition that doesn’t have a clearly defined form. Translated to other works of art, such as poetry or drama, a fantasia is a work that is brought to life with unrestricted creativity. And in the wonderful world of Disney, Fantasia is Walt Disney’s 1940 masterpiece, a symphonic concert with Leopold Stokowski and the Philadelphia Orchestra, embellished by Disney animation. “Springtime,” the brand-new Mickey Mouse cartoon short debuting this Saturday, May 12, at 7:55 a.m. ET, is also a fantasia. The short has no dialogue and no sound effects; the soundtrack is comprised only of music, with a classical-inspired score that pays homage to the iconic film.

We sat down with Christopher Willis, the Emmy®-nominated composer for the Mickey Mouse shorts (as well as The Lion Guard and the Emmy-winning HBO series Veep) about putting a classical spin on this contemporary series. Here’s what the musicologist (who has a PhD on 18th-century music) had to say about “Springtime.”

“Springtime” begins with a wonderful nod to Fantasia.
The first sound you’ll hear at the start of “Springtime” is the tapping of a conductor’s baton against a music stand to gain the attention from his or her orchestra. This is a callback to Fantasia’s opening scene, which began with a silhouette of famed conductor Leopold Stokowski, who engages the orchestra to start the film.

Mickey goes on an epic adventure.
Mickey and his nemesis, Pete, face off against each other in what Willis describes as a kind of “ballet.” Pete is the spirit of winter, while Mickey is a harbinger of spring. “Winter doesn’t want to go away without a fight, so they have to battle it out in order for the seasons to progress,” Willis explains.

There is one big difference between the music in “Springtime” and the music in Fantasia.
Willis points out that in Fantasia, “The filmmakers found beloved pieces of classical music and then worked out stories or scenarios that would fit them and would help people to appreciate them even more.” He emphasizes that “Springtime” is written in a classical style that’s a mixture of 18th- and 19th-century influences such as Beethoven, Rossini and Tchaikovsky. Because “Springtime” is less abstract than the vignettes in Fantasia, Willis knew they needed a new piece that sounds classical. “With the expectation and the history that we’ve built up with Mickey Mouse, I think it makes more sense to be a complete story.”

Different instruments represent the iconic characters.
With no dialogue, in “Springtime” it’s the music that tells the story and the instruments help guide you along. The low brass instruments, often used by Mozart to signify a powerful and often demonic force, here represent Pete; while the flute signifies Mickey. A solo violin represents a flower in a temple and the object of Mickey’s affection. You’ll have to tune in to “Springtime” for a grand violin solo—and a grand reveal, as well.

For the first time, Willis didn’t so much as score the animation as the artists animated Willis’ score.
Because the short is completely music-driven, Willis wrote the score much earlier than he usually would in the animation process. Executive producer/supervising director Paul Rudish and his team presented what were essentially sketches to Willis, so that he could advise on the pacing of specific scenes. “It allowed me to come back and say, ‘Well, if you could give me some more time here and a little less time here, a little more time here and a little less time here, then I can make musical phrases that make sense,’” he details.

There are Easter eggs—or should we say Ear-ster eggs?—for classical music aficionados.
When the temple is introduced in the short, Willis reveals that the accompanying music pays homage to Mozart, especially his opera The Magic Flute. And in fact, Mickey actually plays a magic flute throughout the short.

The score for a frenetic sequence when Pete steals Mickey’s magic flute features a fugato, a section often included in the middle of a classical composition to signify chaos. And for when spring begins to bloom at the end of “Springtime,” Willis composed a folk dance, an 18th-century musical “jig” that signifies a celebration. “Things in the cartoon often mean similar things to what they might have meant in classical music,” says Willis. He adds that the more you know about classical music, the more winks and nods you’ll discover—or perhaps, the more you enjoy the short, the more you’ll be inspired to learn.

The classic end-credits tune becomes a classical end-credits tune.
Stay tuned through the credits for a special version of Mickey’s beloved whistling melody, which is performed in “Springtime” by an orchestra in the classical style. Willis explains, “We wanted to give the cartoon a classy sendoff, rather than coming back to the old familiar whistling style.”

“Springtime” premieres Saturday at 7:55 a.m. ET/PT and on the DisneyNOW app. But you can view an exclusive clip from the short right here:

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