Frozen Comes to Epcot—And More in News Briefs

Ride Into the World of Frozen at Epcot in 2016

Wanna spend some quality time in the kingdom of Arendelle with Elsa, Anna, Kristof, and Olaf the snowman?

Epcot’s new attraction, Frozen Ever After, will be an adventure fit for the entire family, where guests will feel like they’ve stepped right into the magical world of the film! Replacing the Norway Pavilion’s Maelstrom, Frozen Ever After will transport riders to the “Winter in Summer Celebration,” where Queen Elsa embraces her magical powers and creates a wintery summer’s day for the entire kingdom. Guests will also visit Elsa’s Ice Palace, as well the icy North Mountain, and they’ll meet all their favorite characters along the way.

The Pavilion’s exterior will be also expanded with many unique Norwegian architectural features, and the interior design of the “Royal Sommerhus” will reflect the cultural arts and crafts of Norway—providing a unique new setting for guests to meet and greet Elsa and Anna, live and in person! What more could a Frozen fan want?!

Look for Frozen Ever After to debut at Epcot in 2016.

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Save the Date!

Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
June 20
D23 Day at The Walt Disney Studios and Archives
July 18
D23 Celebrates Disneyland, U.S.A.
August 14-16
D23 Expo 2015 returns to Anaheim, California
Fall 2015
D23 Member VIP Nights at The Lion King
Studios
June 19
Inside Out opens in theaters (along with the short Lava).
July 17
The Good Dinosaur opens in theaters.
November 25
Ant Man opens in theaters.
December 18
Star Wars: The Force Awakens opens in theaters.

Parks
May 15–June 14
Star Wars Weekends Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
September 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27; October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31; and November 1Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park
November 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29; and December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park
Television
June 9
73-hour-long Phineas and Ferb marathon kicks off at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Disney XD
June 12
Phineas and Ferb, “Last Day of Summer” premieres at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Disney XD

**New Ant-Man Trailer: Heroes Don’t Get Any Bigger!**

We’ve marked our calendars and are anxiously awaiting the newest member of the Marvel family, Ant-Man’s arrival on the big screen! July 17 seems so far away, right? Thankfully, Marvel is whetting our collective appetite once more with a brand-new trailer…

Ant-Man stars Paul Rudd (This is 40, Anchorman) as Scott Lang—a master thief who’s forced to embrace his inner hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of world-changing threats.

Climb Disneyland’s Reimagined Matterhorn with this Behind-the-Scenes Look

Brrr! Feel that chill in the air? It’s coming off of the updated (and very awesome) Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland Park—an attraction that reopened just in time for the kick-off of Disneyland’s Diamond Celebration. Check out this video from Walt Disney Imagineering for a look at how the scary, hairy new Abominable Snowman was created… and find out how the designers tipped their hard hats to the attraction’s past.

**See the Light with Tangled Animated Series**

Rapunzel and Flynn and Maximus, oh my! Disney Channel recently revealed plans for a Tangled animated series to debut in 2017… and D23 has the whole thing covered! We’re particularly excited that the film’s stars, Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi, will be back—as well as composers Alan Menken and Glenn Slater.

The new series takes place between the events of the Walt Disney Animation Studios feature film and the beginning of the 2012 short, Tangled Ever After, as Rapunzel acquaints herself with her parents, her kingdom, and the people of Corona.

**Join Riley for a Slice of Pizza in New Inside Out Clip**

Oh man—the anticipation is building like whoa for Inside Out’s theatrical premiere on June 19. We seriously cannot wait to meet Riley and all her emotions: Joy, Anger, Disgust, Fear, and Sadness… especially after seeing everyone in action in this brand-new clip. Seems that Riley’s dad is called away from family fun to go into work, so it’s up to Joy to remedy the situation. Will a slice of pizza do the trick?

Disney Cruise Lines Set Sail Through the Land of Frozen

The first-ever Disney Cruise through the beautiful Norwegian fjords just set sail from Copenhagen; it’s a magical journey through the land that inspired Frozen—and of course Arendelle’s most famous siblings, Anna and Elsa, will be on hand for all the fun! Several more Norwegian jaunts are planned for the Disney Magic through June and into next year.

If you’re more of a land-lubber, fret not: You can fjord along with the Disney Magic as the ship’s cruise director, Brent Davies, offers up some fantastic, up-to-the-minute first-person accounts at the Disney Parks Blog.

**Cross the Bridge of Spies with Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg**

“In the shadow of war, one man showed the world what we stand for.” Bridge of Spies, the latest film from famed director Steven Spielberg, stars Oscar^® winner Tom Hanks as James Donovan—a real-life Brooklyn lawyer thrust onto the international stage when he’s asked to negotiate the release of a captured American pilot during the height of the Cold War. This DreamWorks drama is being released by Disney’s Touchstone Pictures, and also stars Mark Rylance, Amy Ryan, and Alan Alda.

Check out the chilling new trailer for Bridge of Spies, above… and mark your calendars for its October release.

Relive Your Favorite Disney Animation Short Films… on Blu-ray!

Walt Disney Animation Studios has been making hilarious, heart-warming, and award-winning animated shorts for years; we seriously still laugh out loud imagining Goofy’s antics in How to Hook Up Your Home Theater. For the first time ever, WDAS is releasing an amazing new collection of beloved short films (including the never-before-released Frozen Fever, and the Oscar^®-nominated Lorenzo) on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD this August—and we seriously couldn’t be more excited!

The Short Films Collection also includes the 2012 groundbreaking Mickey Mouse cartoon, Get A Horse!, as well as Oscar winners Paperman and Feast. The collection also features all-new extras, including introductions and interviews with the Disney Animation filmmakers themselves. Get a sneak peek at the fun with this new trailer!

**Get Small with Ant-Man Sneak Peek at Disney California Adventure**

Great news, Marvel fans! This summer, the Bug’s Life Theater at Disney California Adventure will host a special sneak peek of the new action-adventure Ant-Man, starring Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, and Michael Douglas! For a limited time starting June 19, this special preview will give audiences an advance look at scenes from the film, presented in 3-D (cool!) with special in-theater effects that can only be experienced at Disney Parks. And don’t miss the opportunity to check out an Ant-Man suit from the actual film, also on display at Bug’s Life Theater.

**Experience the Star Wars Saga Like Never Before!**

If you’re anything like us, you’re shivering with anticipation over the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens this December. Disney-Lucasfilm Press knows we need something to keep us occupied ’til then, so they’ve decided to revise the saga for a whole new generation… of readers! In a new book series, fans can experience the original trilogy in an entirely different way, with Star Wars: A New Hope—The Princess, The Scoundrel, and The Farm Boy by Alexandra Bracken; Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back—So You Want to Be a Jedi by Adam Gidwitz; and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi—Beware the Power of the Dark Side! by Tom Angleberger.

These are more than just retellings of the three original Star Wars movies—they’re true to the films while also offering a fresh take and a chance to get inside the characters’ heads. Look for the Star Wars book trilogy on shelves September 22.

Meet Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney Junior Stars at D23 EXPO 2015

The talented stars and creators from tweens, teens, and families’ favorite Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney Junior series will be at D23 EXPO 2015, August 14–16, at the Anaheim Convention Center!

The hot-off-the-presses schedule features “inside-the-magic” experiences that include star-studded musical performances by Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Holt, Bea Miller, Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson, and a Teen Beach 2 Dance Party; a sneak peek at Disney Junior’s upcoming The Lion Guard; meet and greets with beloved characters from top-rated series like Sofia the First and Doc McStuffins; the premiere of an all-new Mickey Mouse cartoon short; and more.

Here’s the weekend’s line-up:

On Friday, August 14, fans can attend a performance by Disney Channel star Olivia Holt.

On Saturday, August 15, Sofia the First’s Ariel Winter will be a special reader during Disney Junior story time. Plus, fans can catch performances by Girl Meets World star Sabrina Carpenter, Disney’s Descendants stars Dove Cameron and Sofia Carson, and Radio Disney’s NBT Bea Miller. Also, popular radio personalities from Radio Disney will be on site for a Radio Disney dance party. Then, fans can join creators of hit Disney XD animation series for the New Disney Storytellers panel, which will offer a glimpse into the vision and inspiration that go into a Disney XD animated series.

On Sunday, August 16, younger kids and their families can start off with Disney Junior story time featuring special guest reader Loretta Devine from Doc McStuffins, and then get up and groove with Radio Disney Junior at a special dance party. Later in the day, tweens, teens, and families can catch the debut of an all-new Mickey Mouse cartoon short entitled “Wishing Well,” then boogie at a Teen Beach 2 dance party, featuring stars from the movie and its choreographer, Chris Scott.

*Schedule is subject to change.

Throughout the three-day event, Radio Disney on-air personalities will be hosting electrifying Center Stage performances and events, while casts from fans’ favorite Disney Channel and Disney XD series and movies will be making special appearances and signing autographs in the Disney | ABC TV Pavilion. They include fans’ favorite stars from Disney Channel’s Descendants, Teen Beach 2, Liv and Maddie, Jessie, Dog With A Blog, I Didn’t Do It, Girl Meets World, K.C. Undercover, Austin & Ally, BUNK’D, and Best Friends Whenever as well as Disney XD’s Lab Rats: Bionic Island, Mighty Med, Kirby Buckets, and Gamer’s Guide to Pretty Much Everything.

Tickets for D23 EXPO 2015 are available at a discounted price for a limited time. Now through June 30, 2015, tickets are $67 for one-day adult admission and $48 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $58 for one-day adult admission and $42 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available. D23 Members can save as much as $188 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for D23 Members and general admission, visit D23EXPO.com.

Love Is a Song—Disney Wedding Playlists

When it comes to planning a wedding, there are so many ways that Disney fans like to marry—sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves—their love for Disney with the way they choose to celebrate their love as a couple. In the summer issue of Disney twenty-three, we take a look at some pretty spectacular weddings that have taken place at Disney parks and resorts. But no matter where you live or choose to get married, Disney music can set a magical tone that turns a wedding into a fairy tale or a flight of fancy that’s as unique as the couple getting hitched.

The possibilities are endless for incorporating Disney songs, scores, and soundtracks into a wedding ceremony and reception. Most of the brides and grooms we spoke with had a hard time narrowing down their choices for their wedding, and they were all happy to offer up suggestions that can take a happy couple from their walk down the aisle to a truly spectacular send-off.

May we present a few Disney alternatives to “Here Comes the Bride…”

Down the Aisle…:

“Once Upon a Dream” from Sleeping Beauty

“Married Life” from Up

“Define Dancing” from WALL•E

“Jolly Holiday” and “Feed the Birds” from Mary Poppins

“Smiles” from the Main Street, U.S.A. music loop

…And Up the Aisle:

“The Incredits” from The Incredibles

“Fantasmic! Exit Music” from Fantasmic!

“Transformation” and “Finale” from Beauty and the Beast

“Rhapsody in Blue” from Fantasia/2000

“Soarin'” theme from Soarin’ Over California

“The Main Street Electrical Parade” from A Musical History of Disneyland

“That’s How You Know” from Enchanted

“Another Part of Me” from Captain EO

First Dance:

“I See the Light” from Tangled

“Bright Little Star” as performed by Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café at Walt Disney World® Resort

“Are We Dancing?” from The Happiest Millionaire

“So Close” from Enchanted

“Never Knew I Needed” from The Princess and the Frog

Be Our Guest—Dining Music

“Le Festin” from Ratatouille

“Ma Bell Evangeline” from The Princess and the Frog

“A Bug’s Life Suite” from a bug’s life

“Steamboat Willie” – Mickey’s Toontown Area Music from The Official Album of Disneyland

“Legacy” – EPCOT® Entrance Area Music from Four Parks, One World—Walt Disney World Official Album

“Spaceship Earth” from Four Parks, One World—Walt Disney World Official Album

“Grim Grinning Ghosts” from Une Journee a Disneyland Paris

“Tapestry Of Nations” from Walt Disney World Millennium Celebration

“Sooner or Later” – Critter Country Area Music from The Official Album of Disneyland

“Kingdom Celebration” from Tangled

These are our suggestions for just some of the traditional wedding moments where music comes into play. But there are so many other opportunities to put a Disney song in your heart—or your guests’ hearts—at a wedding. From the mother/son dance—”You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan is a favorite—to a touching moment when a bride and her father dance to a song like “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppets—to a couple making their “grand entrance” to the tune of “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, Disney songs can be a part of any couple’s wedding “soundtrack.”

Disney fans know that all of their favorite movies and attractions tell stories, and they see their wedding as a story of their very own. They also know that telling the perfect story is all about the details. When Ashley Richards was deciding how she wanted her fairy-tale wedding to end, she looked to a favorite Epcot spectacular, IllumiNations, and selected the exit music—a subtle but meaningful choice. And Steven and Melody Vagnini turned their shared love for Mary Poppins into a magical moment that involved their families. They chose “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” for their send-off song—and with the help of hand-made, hand-held kites that guests could wave (made by über-crafty members of Steven’s family)—they enjoyed a colorful, spirited, and joyful start to their life as a married couple.

Now that’s a happy ending, Disney-style!

See How These Fans Added a Little Pixie Dust to their Weddings

You often hear weddings described with words like “fairy tale,” “magic,” and “dream come true,” and it’s no coincidence that these words are used to describe Disney, too! See how some of these creative fans made their love of Disney part of their big day.

Andrea’s processional was to “I See the Light”, and she used this adorable Tangled cake topper.

Devon made candles for her tables using the sheet music from Sleeping Beauty.

The silhouette of Cinderella dancing with her prince inspired Gertie’s invitations.

James and his husband wore pins celebrating one of their favorite Disney couples: Wall•E and EVE.

Jessica and her maid of honor hand-made these not-so-hidden Mickey centerpieces.

Each of Kimberly’s reception tables was themed after a different attraction at Disneyland.

Kristen showed her love of Disney history and heritage by having her wedding reception at the Walt Disney Family Museum.

Megan’s wedding was Alice in Wonderland-themed, completed with Mad Tea Party centerpieces!

Meredith wore these comfy and stylish Mickey shoes to dance in at her wedding reception.

We love Mindy’s idea: Why not pose for wedding photos in your mouse ears?

Favorite Disney Weddings

Summer is upon us—and so is love!

It’s that special time of year when folks all over the globe are getting married—so we thought it apropos to reminisce about some of our most favorite Disney nuptials. Cue the processional…

The Little Mermaid

It took some doing—or should we say, UNdoing—for Ariel to finally have her happy ending with Prince Eric. And not only does she marry the love of her life, but now she also gets to collect all the dinglehoppers and whatsits-galore she could ever want. Win-win!

Cinderella (2015)

We’re going with the recent live-action retelling of Cinderella for several reasons—chief among them, Ella’s amazingly beautiful wedding dress! We didn’t think anything could top her iconic sparkly-blue frock, but we’d kill to walk down the aisle in this gown. Bonus: It’s available for brides in real life.

Enchanted

Ok, so Giselle and Prince Edward never ACTUALLY got married, but their fairy tale wedding makes our list if only because of Giselle’s incredibly voluminous wedding dress! Honorable mention goes to Robert’s ex-girlfriend Nancy, whose wedding to Prince Edward marks the start of a whole new (animated) chapter in her life.

The Princess and the Frog

Tiana and Naveen’s wedding in the middle of a Louisiana swamp (as presided over by Mama Odie) was one of the more magical nuptials on Disney record. Surrounded by a gaggle of bayou creatures, the pair’s love turned them back into humans just in the nick of time. As they say in New Orleans, “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”

Robin Hood

Robin may have stolen from the rich to give to the poor, but he also stole Maid Marian’s heart! Thank goodness King Richard returned from the Crusades and put his evil brother, Prince John, in jail… otherwise, this particular wedding might’ve never happened.

Tangled Ever After

Rapunzel and Flynn (excuse us, Eugene) sure have a rocky start to their wedding ceremony. Leave it to Maximus the horse and Pascal the chameleon to lose the ring—and cause a complete ruckus trying to recover it! With so many shenanigans afoot, it’s a miracle our two lovebirds make it out unscathed.

Snow and Charming’s Wedding on Once Upon a Time

These two have faced countless hurdles, and yet, they still managed to get married despite the Evil Queen and they found each other in Storybrooke. On top of it all, the actors who play Snow and Charming (Ginnifer Goodwin and Josh Dallas) are now married in real life! Talk about “happily ever after”!

Sleeping Beauty

One of the more iconic weddings in the Disney pantheon, the grand finale of the 1959 animated film found an awakened Aurora finding happiness with Prince Phillip—all while wearing a fabulous color-changing dress, thanks to good fairies Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather.

Up

We seriously needed our hankies for this one. Carl and Ellie’s wedding in 2009’s Up was as charming and quirky as its bride and groom, and it signaled the start of decades of love. No wonder so many real-life couples are now having Up-themed weddings.

One Hundred and One Dalmatians

If it weren’t for Pongo the Dalmatian, lonely songwriter Roger would’ve never met the love of his life, Anita, in that London park. And not only did he find his human a mate, Pongo found one for himself—the beautiful Perdita. Weddings aren’t just for people, y’know…

Playmation Takes Play to a Whole New Level

This week, Disney Consumer Products (DCP) introduced the world to Playmation—the next step in the evolution of play, where digital gets physical and imagination becomes real. The groundbreaking system of toys and wearables uses smart technology to inspire kids to run around and use their imaginations, as they become the hero or heroine of stories from across The Walt Disney Company.

The big announcement was made in Hollywood, with D23 Members on hand to be the first to hear the news and watch live demos of Playmation in action.

First up is Playmation Marvel’s Avengers, which hits shelves this October. At launch, the Playmation Marvel’s Avengers Starter Pack will include five connected toys: one piece of Avenger Gear (Repulsor), two Power Activators and two Smart Figures—a Super Hero (Captain America) and a Super Villain (Iron Skull). Getting started is easy, strap the high-tech Repulsor Gear onto your arm (it fits adults, too!) and listen closely to JARVIS as he takes you through the tutorial on how to control your new Gear, inspired by Iron Man technology. Other Playmation Marvel’s Avengers connected toys that work with the Starter Pack will also be available separately for purchase at launch, with more on the way.

Also available at launch, is the AvengersNet app where you can register your Avenger Gear to see progress, explore additional locations and characters, and get access to new missions. New recruits to the Avengers can fight Marvel Super Villains including Ultron, Iron Skull, and Loki, or join fellow Avengers Super Heroes like Black Widow, Falcon, and more as they battle to save the Earth by running, jumping, ducking, and dodging—whatever each challenge requires.

“With Playmation Marvel’s Avengers, the very best of Marvel storytelling is infused into every aspect of the system to further spark imaginative, active play,” said Joe Quesada, chief creative officer, Marvel. “Playmation offers kids a dynamic way to interact with their favorite Super Heroes—I wish it was around when I was a kid!”

Playmation Marvel’s Avengers uses familiar technologies including smart toys, wearables, wireless technology, motion sensors, and more, but applies them in ways that are completely new to create an experience that’s never been possible before. Playmation is purposely not tethered to an Internet connection so players can run around and explore each adventure from anywhere they want—a bedroom, living room, or yard. With multiplayer modes, recruits can sync their Avenger Gear to tackle missions and combat arenas together, or face off in competitive play.

The Playmation Marvel’s Avengers Starter Pack will have a suggested retail price of $119.99 and will launch in October 2015 in the United States and Canada at mass and specialty retailers, select Disney Store locations and DisneyStore.com, and will be available for pre-order starting July 7.

Star Wars and Disney Frozen systems are currently in development for 2016 and 2017, respectively.

For more information, visit www.playmation.com.

See Broadway’s Best in Concert at D23 EXPO 2015

Think of the thrill that comes from experiencing a Disney song performed live in one of Disney Theatrical’s award-winning musicals. Fans at D23 EXPO 2015 can expect a truly special experience on Saturday, August 15, when Disney Theatrical brings Broadway to Anaheim with the just-announced Disney on Broadway’s “THE ORIGINALS.” In anticipation of high fan-demand, two performances of the concert will be presented, at 11 a.m. and at 2 p.m. in Stage 23.

From left to right: Ashley Brown, Josh Strickland, and James Monroe Iglehart.

Disney on Broadway’s “THE ORIGINALS” stars Broadway’s original “Mary Poppins” (Ashley Brown), “Tarzan” (Josh Strickland), and “Genie” (James Monroe Iglehart) from Aladdin. The “originals” will entertain and delight D23 EXPO attendees by performing favorite musical highlights from the Disney on Broadway catalogue. Tony Award^® winner James Monroe Iglehart will also serve as host for this 70-minute, live performance that features a five-piece band of Broadway’s best musicians with special behind-the-scenes videos and interviews that promise to enthrall Disney on Broadway fans of all ages.

Tickets for D23 EXPO 2015 are available at a discounted price for a limited time. Through June 30, 2015, tickets are $67 for a one-day adult admission and $48 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $58 for a one-day adult admission and $42 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available. D23 Members can save as much as $188 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for D23 Members and general admission, visit D23EXPO.com.

Halloween Brings Hocus Pocus to Magic Kingdom Park—And More in News Briefs

Sanderson Sisters Put a Spell on Magic Kingdom Park This Halloween

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is returning to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World on select nights from September 15 until November 1—and this year, the exclusive event will be “witchier” than ever before! That’s because the infamous Sanderson Sisters, stars of the Disney cult favorite Hocus Pocus, will take part in an all-new show on the Castle Forecourt Stage. In “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular,” the mischievous sisters return to the mortal world for one night during the Halloween season. With only a few hours to “run amuck,” the trio decides to use their magic to throw the best, most evil Halloween party this side of the graveyard! With help from all manner of Disney villains, Winifred, Mary, and Sarah gather together sinister shadows, nefarious nightmares, and the power of their frightful friends to conjure the ultimate “Hocus Pocus Party Potion” and cast a spell on everyone in the Magic Kingdom Park.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event, and it’s appropriate for all ages. See ya there, ghouls and goblins!

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
June 6
Mickey’s of Glendale Orlando Shopping Event
June 6
Let’s Get Together with The Parent Trap in Florida
June 20
D23 Day at The Walt Disney Studios and Archives
August 14-16
D23 Expo 2015 returns to Anaheim, California
Fall 2015
D23 Member VIP Nights at The Lion King
Studios
June 19
Inside Out opens in theaters (along with the short Lava).
July 17
Ant Man opens in theaters.
November 25
The Good Dinosaur opens in theaters.
December 18
Star Wars: The Force Awakens opens in theaters.

The Good Dinosaur Teaser Trailer Asks… What If?

Sure, we all know that a gigantic meteor smacked into Earth a couple billion years ago, sending dinosaurs large and small into extinction. But what if that meteor missed the planet entirely? It’s a totally intriguing question, and it’s the idea behind the upcoming Disney•Pixar film The Good Dinosaur, set to roar into theaters on Thanksgiving. This brand-new teaser trailer introduces us (albeit briefly) to Arlo, a cute green Apatosaurus who makes an unlikely human friend before setting out on a series of life-changing adventures. Color us intrigued!

**Calling Tech-Savvy Girls: Win a Trip to the Ant-Man Red Carpet Premiere!**

Are you a young lady between the ages of 14 and 18? And are you passionate about science and technology? Then Disney and Marvel Studios have an awesomely cool contest for you! The “Marvel’s Ant-Man Micro-Tech Challenge” invites girls to design and build a DIY project using at least one readily available micro-technology component. The projects can be practical, artistic, or just plain fun! Applicants are then asked to send in a short video demonstrating the project and explaining how it’ll inspire other girls to pursue their interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education. Five winners will be flown to Hollywood for the star-studded red-carpet premiere of Ant-Man—plus, they’ll get to attend an amazing “Evolution of Technology” workshop at the Disneyland Resort, and get a special tour of The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank!

Entries are being accepted NOW through June 11, 2015. For more info, check out www.Ant-ManChallenge.com.

“Disneyland Day” Declared at California’s State Capitol

Just one week after the launch of Disneyland Resort’s 60th anniversary Diamond Celebration, Mickey Mouse himself arrived in Sacramento to help the California State Senate and Assembly proclaim Monday, June 1, 2015, as “Disneyland Day”! To mark the joyous occasion, the “Happiest Balloon on Earth” floated gracefully above the State Capitol lawn.

Disneyland Resort’s visit to Sacramento went beyond the Capitol and into the community with a visit to UC Davis Medical Center—where Mickey and Disney Ambassador Allie Kawamoto spent time with some young patients. But the adventures didn’t end there; more than 500 volunteers from Disney, KaBOOM!, and the city of West Sacramento spent the day building Disney’s largest KaBOOM! playground ever. And following the build, Disneyland Resort made surprise donations totaling $10,000 to the area’s Club West Teen Center and Yolo County Children’s Alliance. Kudos to all involved!

**Join the (Book) Force with Star Wars Reads Day in October**

There’s nothing quite like a book to take you to a galaxy far, far away. On October 10, 2015, bookstores, libraries, and retailers all over the globe will honor the written word with the fourth annual installment of Star Wars Reads Day—a celebration filled with signings, parties, and so much more! This year’s event is expected to break all kinds of records, as fans gear up for the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in December. Participants are set to include publishers like Disney-Lucasfilm Press, Marvel, Chronicle, Scholastic, Studio Fun, Phoenix International Publishing, and many others. Keep a sharp droid-like eye on StarWars.com for more info on Star Wars Reads Day as it becomes available.

**Emotion-Filled Fun with New Disney Infinity 3.0 Edition Play Set**

Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, Sadness—we all feel them from time to time. But what if you could play with them instead? Luckily, Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out Play Set, a whimsical puzzle-solving action game available this fall for Disney Infinity 3.0 Edition, gives you the chance!

Based on Disney•Pixar’s anticipated film Inside Out (coming to theaters June 19), the Play Set takes place in Riley’s mind after she inadvertently catches a glimpse of a scary movie as she is falling asleep. Her adventurous Emotions rally together to calm the turmoil that has overtaken Imagination Land as a result. The single-player or two-player co-op game (with three unique game modes) asks players to help Riley’s Emotions journey through Imagination Land and return them to the “Long Term” before Riley awakens. Look for the Play Set in stores soon!

“Eat to the Beat” at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Delicious food, delectable wine, delightful tunes . . . all available amongst amazing rides, shows, and attractions. The 20th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is only a few months away (kicking off September 25); it’s a veritable bacchanal of exclusive eats and treats from around the world, and it’s one of Walt Disney World’s most popular events each year. A festival highlight is the “Eat to the Beat” Concert Series, where the hottest acts from all kinds of musical genres take the stage every weekend. This year, the festival is stoked to feature new acts like ’80s divas Tiffany and Chaka Khan, as well as ’90s rockers Everclear. They’ll be joining returning performers like Rick Springfield, Sugar Ray, Christopher Cross, Jo Dee Messina, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. Prepare your palates and get those dancin’ shoes ready, y’all!

Soar Into Summer with New Episodes of Disney Junior Favorites

Great news for little ones, and their sure-to-be-grateful parents: New episodes of several Disney Junior favorites will premiere every weekday for seven consecutive weeks starting on Monday, June 29! It’s all part of Disney Channel and Disney Junior’s “Soaring Over Summer” event—and it’ll feature the Season Three premieres of Sofia the First and the Peabody Award-winning series Doc McStuffins, as well as new episodes of Miles from Tomorrowland and Henry Hugglemonster. And that’s not all: Jake and the Never Land Pirates joins the fun with the premiere of a special 44-minute episode called “The Great Never Sea Contest,” which kicks off big Season Four shenanigans for Jake and the crew. Keep an eye (and ear) out for huge guest stars including Broadway’s Audra McDonald, legendary actor Malcolm McDowell, and Doctor Who alum David Tennant.

Another Look Inside Out

The countdown is on ’til Disney•Pixar’s latest, Inside Out, hits theaters. This new clip, featuring a look into Riley’s memories, makes us even more excited (one of our favorite Emotions, by the by) for the movie’s release in just a few weeks!

The film, directed by Oscar^© winner Pete Docter (Up), follows Riley as she’s uprooted from her Midwestern life when her father starts a new job in San Francisco. Guided by her Emotions—Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), and Sadness (Phyllis Smith)—Riley struggles to adjust to her new city, new house, and new school.

Tangled to Make its Series Debut on Disney Channel in 2017

“Once upon a time…” So many of our favorite Disney animated stories begin that way. That’s why it makes us so happy when we encounter a “twice upon a time.” This morning, Disney Channel announced that one of our favorite feature films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Tangled, has inspired an animated TV series, set to premiere on Disney Channel in 2017.

Produced by Disney Television Animation, Tangled has begun production with Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi reprising their roles as Rapunzel and Eugene (aka Flynn Rider). The series will also reunite Disney Legend and Academy Award^®-winning composer Alan Menken and lyricist Glenn Slater.

The series was developed by animation veterans Chris Sonnenburg (Disney’s Enchanted) and Shane Prigmore (The Lego Movie). Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, says, “The genius of the original movie was its seamless blending of cinematic adventure, character-driven comedy, and touching emotion. And we are fortunate to have several of the creative talent from that movie on board with this new production. With the addition of Chris and Shane as executive producers, we have the perfect team in place to create a series worthy of the original film.”

The new series takes place between the events of the feature film and the beginning of the 2012 short, Tangled Ever After, as Rapunzel acquaints herself with her parents, her kingdom, and the people of Corona. Her irrepressible spirit and natural curiosity about the world drives her to the realization that there is so much more she needs to learn before she can truly accept her royal destiny. She boldly puts her crown and impending marriage on hold to seek out epic adventures, much to the dismay of the King, who, after missing out on Rapunzel’s youth, must accept that his daughter is now an independent young woman.

All of our favorite characters from the big screen will be coming to the series, including Eugene, Maximus the horse, the Snuggly Duckling Pub Thugs, a newcomer, Cassandra—a “tough as nails handmaiden”—and fan favorite Pascal, the chameleon.

Sonnenberg serves as executive producer and supervising director, and Prigmore is co-executive producer/creative director. Rounding out the creative team are Jase Ricci (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) as story editor, and Emmy^® winner Kevin Kliesch (Tangled Ever After) is score composer. Celebrated artist Claire Keane (Frozen, Tangled), daughter of Disney Legend Glen Keane, who was animation supervisor on the feature film, consulted on the series’ development.

Disney Brides and Grooms “Take the Cake” to a Whole New Level

Most couples ensure a sweet “happily-ever-after” with an elaborate wedding cake, but Disney fans like to add a little Disney magic to their send-off—or, in the case of the new cakes Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings introduced last year, with innovative projection-mapping technology, a lot of Disney magic. We take a look at what’s gone into creating some spectacular Disney fan weddings in the summer issue of Disney twenty three, and here we invite you to take a look at some amazing Disney-themed wedding cakes that are almost too beautiful to cut!

These unbelievable cakes let couples who love any of Disney’s wonderful worlds to customize their cake however they wish with the use of projection-mapping technology and animation. Their vision moves from sketch, to color rendering, to a breathtaking cake—one their guests will remember for a lifetime.

Other couples choose to celebrate their shared love for Disney with something that’s a little less high-tech—but just as creative. When Steven and Melody Vagnini were married, they opted for a groom’s cake that the cake team had never before been asked to make: a cake that celebrates the Electrical Water Pageant that traverses the Seven Seas Lagoon, which the Vagninis loved individually as children and together when they were first becoming a couple.

Other couples have opted for cakes that cast them as a real-life prince and princess in their own fairy tale, like this creation topped with a Cinderella-inspired coach:

Castle cake toppers also lend a majestic detail to a wedding of two Disney fans:

A cake bedecked with snowflakes, for the couple who believes that “love is an open door”:

For the couple who knows super-couples come in any form, even canine (or a couple inspired by the film we’re celebrating in our upcoming D23 Fanniversary Home Edition), feast your eyes on this cake, featuring Lady and Tramp:

Disney fans can find inspiration throughout their favorite movie and parks attractions. But sometimes they need look no further for inspiration than the most iconic Disney couple of all: