Celebrate a Doggone Good Year of the Dog at Disney Parks Around the World

January 18, 2018January 24, 2018

By D23 Team

Shanghai Disney Resort:
From January 22 through March 4, guests will be immersed in the Lunar New Year atmosphere throughout the Shanghai Disney Resort, where they’ll discover new entertainment honoring Chinese traditions with charming Disney surprises. Here are some of the experiences and offerings guests can expect:

On Mickey Avenue, guests can take photos with Mickey Mouse and his pals dressed in their Chinese New Year outfits in front of themed photo backdrops.
In an extra-special themed photo opportunity, Pluto will bring canine commotion to the Year of the Dog celebration while dressed in his “God of Fortune” costume.
Guests can enjoy a daily drum ceremony in the Gardens of Imagination—an authentic Chinese New Year tradition—led by none other than Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto. The ceremony, which welcomes guests as they arrive to Shanghai Disneyland, features classic rhythms to fill each day with wishes for prosperity and happiness.
Inspired by the Lunar New Year and Shanghai’s historic jazz and swing traditions, Mickey and friends will gather in Celebration Square for Shanghai Swing, a jazzy show featuring characters and dancers in beautiful vintage Shanghai costumes.
Guests can write down their new year wishes on special wishing cards in the Garden of the Twelve Friends, which has been transformed into a magical “Wishing Garden” for the holiday.

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort:
From now through March 4, guests can enjoy a Lunar New Year celebration at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, featuring traditional festivities mixed with Disney magic. Activities include:

Special character experiences with “God of Fortune” Goofy and playful Pluto, showering blessings on guests for the Year of the Dog.
Lands all over the park will feature colorful New Year’s decorations! Main Street, U.S.A. will feature charming Lunar New Year’s adornments, while Pluto-themed decorations can also be found.
As night falls, Main Street, U.S.A. and the Plaza will be transformed into a special Night Market for Chinese New Year, inspired by Hong Kong’s unique Lunar New Year fairs. This is a special market filled with mobile stalls that offer sumptuous delicacies and specialties. Indulge in local Hong Kong snacks with a Disney theme, along with special exclusive merch.

Disneyland Resort:
This year’s festival will run from January 26 through February 18 at Disney California Adventure, and features specialty Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisine. Click here to see the full list of food options at the park. For all the wonderful celebration activities guests can enjoy, Parks Blog also details everything that will be returning for this year’s celebration.

Tokyo Disney Resort:
The New Year celebrations have already come to a close at Tokyo Disney Resort, but from January 1–5, guests enjoyed special decorations, new food, and merchandise, and two New Year’s greeting processions featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and, of course, Pluto wishing guests a happy new year.

While Tokyo’s New Year’s festivities are over, their Disney fun has just begun. D23 Expo Japan takes place February 10–12, bringing the ultimate Disney Fan experience once again to all our Disney fans in Tokyo.

Treat Your Shelf at Epcot’s Newest Pop-Up Shop

January 18, 2018January 18, 2018

By D23 Team

We’ve already told you about all the artful eats to enjoy at Epcot’s latest International Festival of the Arts, lasting from January 12 to Febuary 19, but this festival offers even more ways for you to celebrate the world of art. Become a Disney art expert at the Odyssey Festival Showplace—Disney Book Shop, where you can buy books detailing Disney’s wide history of art, and where you’ll even have the chance to meet some of the authors themselves at special events! Here are some of the titles you can enjoy now:

The Art of Disney’s Dragons
What’s giant, scaly, and designed with amazing detail and attention? Why, it’s Disney’s dragons, of course! In The Art of Disney’s Dragons, character designer and former Disney Animator Tom Bancroft takes you on a journey of fascinating character studies of Disney dragons from films and the park. Enjoy bold storyboards of Sleeping Beauty’s Maleficent, color concepts of Figment (who was green before he became purple!), and playful studies of Mulan’s Mushu. Get a peek at the book, here.

Ink & Paint: The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation
Meet the pioneering women who brought hand-rendered animated stories to vibrant, multicolored life at Disney. Extensively researched by film historian Mindy Johnson, this book features a multitude of newly discovered materials and never-before-seen images, redefining the collective history of animation.

Want to celebrate the women of Ink & Paint even more? Mindy Johnson will be holding book signings/workshops on January 12–14.

And if you’d like some hands-on experience as part of the Ink & Paint department, Lynn Rippberger, Disney Animation Ink and Paint Artist, will hold workshops on the history of 2-D cel animation on January 28 and February 11.

The Art of the Disney Golden Books
Did you grow up flipping through the beautifully illustrated pages of Disney Golden Books? Author Charles Solomon celebrates these unique works of literary art through interviews with contemporary animators who grew up with the books, paintings by artists who influenced and inspired the Disney Golden Book illustrations, and a generous complement of Golden Book artwork itself—much of which was thought to have been lost until very recently!

Catch My Breath (Walt Disney Animation Studios Artist Showcase)
In this picture book by Paul Briggs, a boy’s breath becomes personified, and it zooms away through farm, forest, and sea, returning only when the boy least expects it. Paul has worked in animation for 20 years and headed story on Disney’s Frozen and Big Hero 6.

If the book leaves you breathless and in need of more excitement, Paul Briggs will be holding book signings/workshops on February 2–3.

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: The Search for the Lost Disney Cartoons
For anyone interested in Disney origins, fascinated by early cinema, or entertained by a feisty little rabbit, it’s your lucky day! This engaging and accessible volume by entertainment historian David A. Bossert delivers an in-depth look at Walt’s first major animated success and the journey to reclaim the lost Disney films.

David A. Bossert will be holding book signings/workshops on February 10–11 for his three titles:

The Art of Tennessee Loveless: The Mickey Mouse TEN x TEN x TEN Contemporary Pop Art Series
Dali & Disney: Destino—The Story, Artwork, and Friendship Behind the Legendary Film
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: The Search for the Lost Disney Cartoons

The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Disney Classic
Let The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Disney Classic by Jason Surrell, theme park creative designer and former Disney Imagineer, follow you home (along with a hitchhiking ghost, of course. Shiver as you explore early concept sketches, detailed architectural drawings, and stunning still photography that illustrates the Mansion’s evolution as it was designed and built at each Magic Kingdom park around the world—including Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland.

A Kiss Goodnight
Disney Legend Richard Sherman and Disney Legend Floyd Norman bring you a touching story about what inspired legendary songwriter Richard Sherman to write the song “A Kiss Goodnight” and tells how a young Walt Disney was enchanted by fireworks, keeping his promise to send all his guests home with a special kiss goodnight.

My Pride: Mastering Life’s Daily Performance with Broadway’s Record-Breaking Lion King
Get a look into the circle of life of The Lion King on Broadway. Drawing on his own life and career and the rich lore of The Lion King, Alton Fitzgerald White explores how his experiences encourage him to live each day with satisfaction, pride, and a sense of accomplishment.

Want to experience the pride for yourself? Alton Fitzgerald White will be performing in the America Gardens Theatre January 26–29 and February 2–5.

White will also hold book signings on January 29–February 2.

Poster Art of the Disney Parks
If you’re as obsessed with Disney Parks as we are, you’ll love this lush compendium of posters from Disney theme parks around the globe, featuring concept art and lively narratives about the development of the stunning posters! Disney Imagineers Danny Handke and Vanessa Hunt give Disney fans an amazing inside look at the beautiful poster art we’ve come to know and love.

Yesterday’s Tomorrow: Disney’s Magical Mid-Century
Packed with rarely seen Disney art and photography of the mid-20th century, this book by acclaimed film producer and director Don Hahn explores the unique modern style that Walt Disney and his artists contributed to this iconic era.

Want to learn more about this magical era? Don Hahn will be holding book signings/workshops on February 17–18.

You can find more information on the Epcot International Festival of the Arts here.

Find Your Next Hobby in These 11 Favorite Disney Films

January 17, 2018

By Megan Deppe

The start to a new year is always a great opportunity to try something new. Whether you’re in search of an activity to fill your time or you want to expand your horizons, you don’t need to look any further for inspiration than classic Disney films. Many of your favorite characters have amazing hobbies, and you can try them all!

1. Archery (Merida, Brave, and Hawkeye, Marvel’s The Avengers)
While you might want to work up to shooting from horseback, you’re sure to feel tremendous pride from simply hitting the center of the target. Whether facing the bear Mor’du or standing with the Avengers against Thanos, a skilled archer trusts that his or her bow will never let them down!

2. Guitar (Miguel, Coco)
If you find yourself constantly singing the Disney tunes that you hear in your head, it may be time to take it to the next step and learn to play them. You can even start with the guitar-filled catalog of the newest Disney•Pixar film, Coco, and become a musician, just like Miguel!

3. Cooking (Remy, Ratatouille)
As Remy proves when he offers Ego the simple dish of ratatouille, well-made food doesn’t just taste delicious; it has the ability to transport us and awaken our memories. And remember, anyone can cook!

4. Fencing (Will Turner and Jack Sparrow, Pirates of the Caribbean)
True, regular fencing isn’t quite like the sword-fighting that Jack Sparrow favors, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t fun to learn—or that you need to take a page out of Will Turner’s book and practice three hours a day. (Unless ye come seekin’ adventure and salty ol’ pirates, that is.)

5. Sailing (Moana, Moana)
Ever wondered what exists beyond your reef? Whether you live near the ocean or have a lake just behind your house, you can take to the water and become a voyager like Moana. Set your own course and there’s just no telling how far you’ll go!

6. Sketching (Jane, Tarzan)
You could probably do without the horde of baboons chasing after you, but Jane’s ability to sketch great pictures is definitely something you can learn to imitate. You learn a great deal about an object when you study it up close, and the drawings that come from your new pastime will make the perfect decoration for an empty wall or office.

7. Scrapbooking (Ellie, Up)
If you find that you take a lot of pictures and don’t know what to do with them, you can take a page out of Ellie’s book—her scrapbook, that is. Compiling all of your pictures into a book creates a wonderful way to look back over your memories as the years go by. Scrapbooking gives you the chance to express your artistic side, and also serves as a reminder to you to document all of your adventures.

8. Martial Arts (Mulan, Mulan)
You may not face down Hun invaders, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take inspiration from Mulan and learn a martial art. There are many different forms to choose from—karate, judo, tai chi, and so many more—but each one can help you learn the same discipline and mastery over yourself that enabled Mulan to save China.

9. Learn a new language (Milo, Atlantis: The Lost Empire)
There’s a big world out there, so why not learn everything you can about it? To help you get started, you can imitate Milo Thatch and take up a new language. You may not find the lost world of Atlantis, but you could discover a whole new world that’s only a plane ticket away!

10. Hockey (Riley, Inside Out)
If you’re looking to form a new “Island of Personality” in your own mind, take an assist from Riley and learn to play hockey! Not only will you enjoy some pretty good exercise, but you’ll also learn control, coordination, and how to be part of a team.

11. Puzzles, Darts, and Baking (Rapunzel, Tangled)
Paper maché, a bit of ballet, and chess? Pottery, ventriloquy, and candle-making? Rapunzel’s list of daily activities offers a wealth of suggestions, and if you don’t like your first attempt, you can just move on to the next one. When will your new hobby begin? There’s no time like the present!

A Minnie Celebration and A Wrinkle in Time Featurette—Plus More in News Briefs

January 17, 2018November 8, 2018

By Courtney Potter

Minnie Mouse is readying for her 90th anniversary, and we get a peek behind the scenes of Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time … Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Super-Special Celebrations for Minnie Mouse’s 90th Anniversary

She’s the sweetest of the sweet, and can rock the dots like no other! She’s Minnie Mouse, and in 2018 she’ll celebrate her incredible 90th anniversary! D23.com has a great rundown of what’s in store for Minnie as the year continues—including receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—right here…

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
February 2, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Peter Pan on the Lot
February 3, 2018
D23 Member Night at Disney’s Aladdin at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre
February 10, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Peter Pan in Florida
February 20, 2018
D23 Member Night at Disney’s The Lion King in Orlando
March 24, 2018
Celebrate the Opening Weekend of Frozen on Broadway in New York City
Parks
January 12–February 19, 2018
Epcot International Festival of the Arts
January 26–February 18, 2018
Lunar New Year Festival at Disney California Adventure
February 28–May 28, 2018
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
March 2–April 12, 2018
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
April 13, 2018
Pixar Fest begins at the Disneyland Resort
Summer 2018
Pixar Pier opens at Disney California Adventure
2019
Star Wars-Themed Lands Opening at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

Studios
February 16, 2018
Marvel Studios’ Black Panther opens in U.S. theaters
March 9, 2018
Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time opens in U.S. theaters
May 4, 2018
Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Infinity War opens in U.S. theaters
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
March 4, 2018
The Oscars air live on ABC (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)
March 11, 2018
American Idol premieres on ABC (8–10 p.m. ET)

New A Wrinkle in Time Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

On March 9, we’ll finally meet Meg (Storm Reid) and follow her on the journey to find her father, across time and space, in Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time. Join director Ava DuVernay—as well as stars Oprah Winfrey, Mindy Kaling, and Reese Witherspoon—for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film in this brand-new featurette, above.

Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time is an epic adventure based on Madeleine L’Engle’s timeless classic, which takes audiences across dimensions—examining the nature of darkness versus light and, ultimately, the triumph of love. Through Meg’s transformative journey (led by three fantastical celestial guides), we discover that strength comes from embracing one’s individuality… and that the best way to triumph over fear is to travel by one’s own light. Look for it in a theater near you this spring!

New Participants Chosen for Disney’s Dreamers Academy

What if, when you were a teenager, you were lucky enough to participate in an incredible Disney-sponsored program that might actually change the course of your life? That exact scenario just happened for 100 teens across America, who this week found out they’d be taking part in Disney Dreamers Academy—an immersive four-day program at Walt Disney World Resort that turns the vacation destination into a colorful classroom! During the Academy, students discover new careers, learn how best to pursue their dreams, and even interact with motivational speakers and celebrities—including talk show host/comedian/entrepreneur Steve Harvey.

Disney Dreamers Academy, now entering its 11th year, was created to inspire teens to dream big while also making a difference in their lives at a critical time in their development. This year, the program has a new campaign called “Be100,” an inspirational and aspirational invitation to encourage young people to answer the call of their dreams with relentless pursuit.

Five teen hopefuls—from Los Angeles, Houston, Virginia Beach, and Basking Ridge, New Jersey—got to attend a recent taping of ABC’s Good Morning America, where they were surprised with the news that they’d be attending this year’s Academy! Take a look at the big celebration, as well as some behind-the-scenes fun from past Academy events, in the video above.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Adorable Baby Alert!

If you’re anything like us, you enjoy—nay, are obsessed with—baby hippos! How are they so adorable? They almost can’t be real, right? But they sure are… and now, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a baby hippo of their very own.

Just last week, the park’s animal care team announced the birth of a Nile hippopotamus, the first hippo born at the park in 13 years! The calf is staying close to mom Tuma right now, and the care team is giving them plenty of room to nurse and bond—so the calf’s gender and weight may not be known for a while.

Tuma and her mate Henry were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Nile hippopotamus is a vulnerable species with a declining population—so this birth is a super-important contribution to the worldwide conservation and understanding of these delightful creatures. If you’re headed to Disney’s Animal Kingdom soon, you might just see Tuma and her calf on Kilimanjaro Safaris and during the Wild Africa Trek experience… so good luck! For more information, visit DisneyAnimals.com.

Meet the Warriors of Wakanda in New Black Panther Featurette

We’re tracking ever closer to the big debut of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther, in just about a month from now… And to get us in the (early) spirit, here’s a new featurette about the film, above. Hear from Chadwick Boseman (T’Challa/Black Panther), Danai Gurira (Okoye), Lupita Nyong’o (Nakia), and Michael B. Jordan (Erik Killmonger) in “Warriors of Wakanda,” a look at what makes the fighters in the film so supremely special.

Black Panther also stars Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and Andy Serkis. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film opens across the nation on February 16.

Hop a Magic Carpet to Disney’s Aladdin

The North American Tour of Disney Theatrical’s massive Broadway hit Aladdin has hit Los Angeles for the very first time, and D23 recently spoke with two of the show’s stars about this truly in-“genie”-ous show! Read all about it right here… Remember: if you’re in the SoCal area, you too can spend your own “Arabian Night” at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre, now through March 31!

What We Know So Far About Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Our friends at the Disney Parks Blog took a spin through all the stuff we know so far about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the new land coming to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts!

Perhaps most exciting? As of right now, it opens next year! It seemed like it was fairly “far, far away” there for a while, right? (All the best galaxies are.) But now that we’re officially into 2018, that debut is just around the corner. We’re also particularly enthused about the chance to fly the Millennium Falcon, as well as the opportunity to enjoy some blue milk at the land’s cantina…

For a totally thorough rundown of what’s to come, read on… and make sure to keep your eyes peeled on D23.com for further Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge news as it’s fit to print.

5 Disney Parks Experiences that are a Truly Pun Ride

January 17, 2018January 17, 2018

By Nicole Nalty

There’s so much to appreciate when it comes to a Disney Parks attraction––incredible technology, seamless storytelling, favorite characters that come to life before your eyes… but we’d like to take a moment, as self-proclaimed pun masters, to appreciate the whimsical wordsmithing that you’ll find during a visit to a Disney park. Whether through narration, written word, or via Jungle Cruise Skipper, there are puns aplenty—and we’re sharing some of our favorites, below. Let us know on Facebook and Twitter if we missed any of your favorites.

1. Haunted Mansion
This spook-tacular attraction is a bona fide pun playground from the second you drag your bodies into the dead center of the room––even before you board your Doombuggy! In Magic Kingdom’s happy haunt, you’re treated to a library of ghost writers, and over in Disneyland, you pass by tombstones with monikers like I. Trudy Departed, I.L. Beback, and M.T. Tomb.

2. Jungle Cruise
If you’ve journeyed aboard the Jungle Cruise, you might have taken a cruise through de Nile river (unless you’re in denial, of course), but the next time your Jungle Cruise skipper stops to take in the rockwork along the river, don’t take it for granite. And beware of a small, sneezy elephant (or a hippo over in Magic Kingdom’s jungle)––you may think it’s water but… it’snot.

3. Mickey’s Toontown
Puns are out to play all through the land at Disneyland park, but our favorite has to be the official seal of Mickey’s Toontown, pointed out by our friends at the Disney Parks Blog.

4. Country Bear Jamboree
With knee-slapping music and singing bears, you’re already in fur a good time at Magic Kingdom’s Country Bear Jamboree, but these experienced entertainers are known to throw in a pun or two… they’ll sure appreciate you bearing with them!

5. Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
Stop into Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café at Magic Kingdom for some good eats and the sweet sounds of the restaurant’s resident performer, Sonny Eclipse, whose ready to share the “Sonny side” of entertainment from Yew Nork City! With a name like Sonny Eclipse, he was destined to be a pun professional.

New Year, New Details—and New Images!— from Incredibles 2, Mary Poppins Returns, and More!

January 16, 2018January 17, 2018

By D23 Team

We’ve cleared our schedule and marked our calendars so as not to miss out on a single movie opening, but this morning The Walt Disney Studios released a host of new information and images about its 2018 slate. Here, in order of release, are the films we simply can’t wait to see this year:

Marvel Studios’ Black Panther—February 16
Chadwick Boseman stars in Marvel Studios’ upcoming film as T’Challa, who returns home to his nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king following the death of his father. A powerful old enemy reappears to test T’Challa’s mettle as king—and Black Panther—putting the fate of Wakanda, and the entire world, at risk. The brand-new image released today features Boseman as T’Challa, alongside Lupita Nyong’o (left, as Nakia) and Letitia Wright (right, as Shuri). The Black Panther cast also includes Michael B. Jordan, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker and Andy Serkis.

Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time—March 9
Director Ava DuVernay’s adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s classic novel can’t tesser into theaters fast enough for us. A Wrinkle in Time tells the story of middle school student Meg Murry (Storm Reid), who struggles with issues of self-worth and just wants to fit in. Her parents are world-renowned physicists and younger brother Charles Wallace is extremely gifted in very unique ways—as is Meg, though she has yet to discover that for herself. Following the mysterious disappearance of Mr. Murry (Chris Pine), three celestial beings—Mrs. Which (Oprah Winfrey), Mrs. Whatsit (Reese Witherspoon), and Mrs. Who (Mindy Kaling)—journey to Earth and guide Meg, her classmate Calvin, and Charles Wallace in tessering through time and space to confront a powerful evil force. Meg’s transformative journey leads her to discover the strength she has within so that she may face the darkness that is rapidly enveloping the Universe.

Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Infinity War—May 4
Feast your eyes on this Marvel-ous image that showcases just a fraction of the super-sized cast of characters in Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Infinity War. The Avengers are assembling, and some of their new friends from work are joining them for what promises to be the ultimate, deadliest showdown of all time between our heroes and the evil and powerful Thanos.

Solo: A Star Wars Story—May 25
Have you ever wondered just how Han Solo met his copilot (and furry friend) Chewbacca? Are you curious to know just what happened between Han and notorious gambler Lando Calrissian before the events of The Empire Strikes Back? We may get the answers to these questions, and more, in Solo: A Star Wars Story, opening in U.S. theaters on May 25. We can’t wait to return to a galaxy far, far away for this new stand-alone story.

Incredibles 2—June 15
They’re back—on screens this June, and in this spectacular new image, just revealed today! And, if you’ve seen the first trailer for Incredibles 2, you already know that our favorite family of superheroes faces a new challenge in the film and it’s not just a formidable new villain: It’s the emergence of baby Jack-Jack’s own super powers. With director Brad Bird returning to helm the sequel, Incredibles 2 opens in theaters on June 15.

Marvel Studios’ Ant-Man and the Wasp—July 6
We’ve just caught our first glimpse of Paul Rudd and Evangeline Lilly in Marvel Studios’ Ant-Man and the Wasp, the follow-up to Marvel Studios’ 2015 film Ant-Man. The new chapter is set in the aftermath of Captain America: Civil War, as Scott Lang grapples with the consequences of his choices as a Super Hero and a father. As he struggles to find a balance between those two roles, he’s presented with a new mission by Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym. Scott must once again don the Ant-Man suit and learn to fight alongside the Wasp to uncover secrets from the past.

Disney’s Christopher Robin—August 3
Oh, bother. We have to wait nearly eight months for this heartwarming live-action adventure about the young boy who relished his adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with his band of stuffed-with-fluff animal friends. In Disney’s Christopher Robin, the title character is now an adult who has lost his way. Can his old friends help him remember the loving and playful boy within? We’ll find out on August 3.

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms—November 2
Mackenzie Foy (above right) stars as Clara, whose quest for a one-of-a-kind key leads her to a strange world that is parallel to the one that she knows. There she encounters a soldier named Phillip, a gang of mice, and the regents who preside over three Realms: Land of Snowflakes, Land of Flowers, and Land of Sweets. With Phillip, Clara must brave the Fourth Realm—home to the tyrant Mother Ginger (Helen Mirren)—to retrieve the key and (hopefully) restore harmony to the unstable world. The film also stars Keira Knightley (pictured above) as the Sugar Plum Fairy, and also features a special performance by the incomparable Misty Copeland. We can think of no better way to kick off the holidays later this year than with the debut of this film inspired by E.T.A. Hoffman’s classic tale. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms opens in theaters on November 2.

Ralph Breaks the Internet—Wreck-It Ralph 2—November 21
There are no Error 404 messages where Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 is concerned: The film opens in theaters on November 21. In Ralph’s new adventure, our bad-guy hero (voice of John C. Reilly) ventures to the World Wide Web in search of a replacement part that will save Sugar Rush, video game home to fellow misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman). When they find themselves over their heads, they rely on citizens of the Internet—netizens, of course—to help them navigate their way. Joining the voice cast is Taraji P. Henson as website entrepreneur Yesss, head algorithm and the heart and soul of trend-making site “BuzzzTube.” The film doesn’t open in theaters until November 21, but the just-released image, above, provides a first look in the meantime.

Mary Poppins Returns—December 25
Even an average Tuesday can feel like a jolly holiday with the release of a new image from Disney’s upcoming film Mary Poppins Returns. The practically perfect nanny is back, played in the eagerly anticipated sequel by Emily Blunt, and she’s turning humdrum tasks into exciting new adventures with some assistance from her friend Jack, an optimistic street lamplighter who helps bring light—and life—to the streets of London. Jack is played, of course, by the über-talented multi-hyphenate Lin-Manuel Miranda, whose credits range from Broadway’s Hamilton to Disney XD’s DuckTales. The film also stars Ben Whishaw as Michael Banks, Emily Mortimer as Jane Banks, Julie Walters as the Banks’ housekeeper Ellen; with Colin Firth as Fidelity Fiduciary Bank’s William Weatherall Wilkins, and Meryl Streep as Mary’s cousin, Topsy. We can also look forward to a whole new generation of Banks children, played by Pixie Davies, Nathanael Saleh, and newcomer Joel Dawson; as well as some familiar faces… Angela Lansbury appears as the Balloon Lady, while Dick Van Dyke plays Mr. Dawes Jr., the retired chairman of the bank now run by Firth’s character. Mary Poppins Returns opens on December 25, 2018, which promises to be an especially supercalifragilistic day!

Watch These Disney Junior Nursery Rhymes with the Youngest Fans in Your Life

January 12, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

“Mary Had a Little Lamb”… “Rock-a-Bye Baby”… “Rain, Rain Go Away…” These are among some of the first songs you ever learned and, if you’re a parent, they’re likely among the first that you shared with your children. Disney Junior has now brought its special blend of magic to these iconic nursery rhymes, as a well as a brand-new collection that was released today and will continue to roll out throughout the weekend on Disney Junior’s YouTube and the DisneyNOW App.

The Disney Junior Music Nursery Rhymes pair classic nursery rhymes with delightful animation featuring characters from across Disney Junior’s series, from Mickey and the Roadster Racers to the upcoming Muppet Babies. The digital shorts were introduced with the launch of the DisneyNOW app back in September, and in a little more than three months, they’ve amassed more than 80 million views on YouTube, racking up more than 90 million minutes watched.

There are organic connections between the nursery rhymes and the series and characters included in each short, such as “Star Light, Star Bright” featuring the cast of Miles from Tomorrowland and “Happy Birthday,” which premiered on November 18 (an important date for Disney’s brightest star!) and follows Minnie Mouse as she tries to surprise Mickey on his special day. The latest short, “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” is a treat for fans of all of Disney Junior’s titles: you can look for a host of characters, including a glimpse at the network’s newest star, Baby Kermit, from the upcoming animated series Muppet Babies. Check out “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” below, and visit Disney Junior on YouTube or DisneyNOW to see the rest.

Minnie Rocks the Dots Fashion Line Roundup

January 12, 2018

By Megan Deppe

It’s time to celebrate fashion icon Minnie Mouse! January marks the start of Rock the Dots, a month-long celebration of all things Minnie that leads up to National Polka Dot Day on January 22. To celebrate, shopDisney has an exciting collection of Rock-the-Dots-themed merchandise. And remember, D23 members get 15% off all purchases of $60 or more!

1. Minnie Mouse Glow Ear Headband
If you’re going to the parks during January, celebrate your Minnie Mouse love by brightening the night with her glowing, glamorous ear headband.

2. Minnie Mouse Dress Knee Socks
Get ready to knock everyone else’s socks off with yours. These Rock-the-Dots socks for women with glitter accents and satin bows are the perfect fashion accessory to pay homage to our fashion icon.

3. Minnie Mouse Mug and Spoon Set
Head to work with the perfect Minnie accessory that will make everyone see spots. The mug, with a cradle for the spoon, is red with pink polka dots on the outside with a white interior with red polka dots.

4. Minnie Mouse Sequined Velveteen Ear Hat for Kids
No celebration of Minnie would be complete without a special set of ears to mark the occasion. Decorated in fanciful fabrics, textiles and trims, this elegant ear hat is great way for kids to have dress in the glamor of Minnie Mouse.

5. Minnie Mouse Large Plush
This big, huggable Minnie Mouse plush is the perfect choice for snuggling.

6. Minnie Mouse Sleep Set for Women
You can count polka dots instead of sheep when you settle in for the night in this comfy Minnie Mouse Sleep Set.

7. Minnie Mouse Comforter – Twin
Speaking of a good night’s sleep, tuck yourself in with the spotted Minnie Mouse comforter. Not only is it perfect for Rock the Dots, but it also shows off Minnie in a chic gold outfit—the perfect example of her impeccable fashion sense.

Remembering Doreen Tracey

January 11, 2018January 11, 2018

By Lorraine Santoli

Doreen Tracey, one of the Mickey Mouse Club’s original Mouseketeers, died from pneumonia on Wednesday, January 10, 2018, at age 74, at Los Robles Hospital in Thousand Oaks, California, a result of complications from a two-year battle with cancer. Tracey, known for her a vivacious personality and all-around performance skills, appeared on Disney’s classic children’s television series throughout its four-year run (1955–59) on the ABC television network. The original Mickey Mouse Club lived on in syndication for decades thereafter, entertaining generations of children around the world.

Tracey was born in London, England, on April 3, 1943, to a theatrical family. Her parents, Bessie Hay and Sid Tracey, had a vaudeville dance act known as Tracey and Hay. When Doreen was four, her family returned to the United States where her father opened a dance studio in Hollywood. It was there that Tracey learned to sing and dance, and, at age 12, she auditioned for the Mickey Mouse Club. During her tenure as a Mouseketeer, Tracey was also cast in Walt Disney Productions’ 1956 feature film Westward Ho the Wagons!, starring Fess Parker. Additionally, she went on to appear on the Mickey Mouse Club’s “Annette” serial, and toured Australia with the Mouseketeers.

Following the Mickey Mouse Club years, in the 1960s Tracey continued her show business career, guest starring on several episodic television programs as well as touring American military bases in South Vietnam and Thailand with her own act. After returning to the U.S., she shifted gears to work behind the scenes and held positions that included publicist to musician and composer Frank Zappa, as well as a multi-decade career in administration at Warner Bros. And while Tracey’s career took many different paths, she always remained close to her Disney roots, maintaining longtime friendships with her fellow Mouseketeers. In the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s, she co-starred with them in several Mickey Mouse Club reunion shows at Disneyland and at Disney conventions, last celebrating the show’s 60th Anniversary in 2015. “Our Dodo, as we lovingly nicknamed her, always had a smile on her face,” said fellow Mouseketeer Tommy Cole. “She never failed to make us all feel good, and we will miss her.”

Tracey is survived by her son, Bradley, and two grandchildren, Gavin, age 9, and Autumn, 12. Bradley said of his mother, “She was very brave, very independent, and very loved by her family.”

Minnie Mouse Receives the Ultimate Gift for her 90th Anniversary

January 11, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

She’s a movie legend, a fashion icon, and America’s sweetheart—and she’s celebrating her 90th anniversary in 2018. A milestone that magical demands a pretty spectacular celebration, and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is presenting Minnie Mouse with its greatest honor: a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star will be unveiled in a special ceremony on Monday, January 22, at 11:30 a.m. PT. Joining Minnie for her big day will be Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger and global pop icon (and new American Idol judge) Katy Perry.

“Minnie Mouse is a woman of the ages, and her iconic status makes her a great addition to our Walk of Fame!” stated Ana Martinez, producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies. “Generations of fans of all ages have been looking forward to her seeing her bright new star.”

The star, which is in the Motion Pictures category, will be dedicated in front of Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre. Among the names of the Hollywood luminaries Minnie is joining on the walk of fame are Donald Duck, Tinker Bell, Winnie the Pooh, Snow White, Kermit the Frog, and Mickey Mouse, who received his star in celebration of his 50th anniversary in 1978.

Minnie Mouse captured fans’ hearts in her first on-screen appearance in Steamboat Willie, and we’ve only grown to love her more through her continued appearances on screens big and small, her ability to inspire fashion designers and drive trends that have us rocking the dots all year long, and for her support for causes that affect so many communities in positive ways. The recent #ShareYourEars campaign (which resulted in $4 million in donations benefitting Make-A-Wish) featured countless tributes to Minnie, from the über-popular Rose Gold Minnie Mouse Ears sported by guests at Disney parks to DIY Minnie updos.

If you’re unable to be in Hollywood for the fabulous festivities, fear not. Fans around the world are invited to watch the event live on WalkOfFame.com. Minnie has always been a shining star in our eyes, and we couldn’t be happier that she’s receiving one of her own.

Super-Special Celebrations for Minnie Mouse’s 90th Anniversary

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

New A Wrinkle in Time Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

New Participants Chosen for Disney’s Dreamers Academy

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Adorable Baby Alert!

Meet the Warriors of Wakanda in New Black Panther Featurette

Hop a Magic Carpet to Disney’s Aladdin

What We Know So Far About Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

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