Smile of The Day: Snow White and a famous character quote

Some of the greatest character ever can be seen during the Main Street Electrical Parade at the Magic Kingdom in Disney World.

And on is the optimist - Snow White.

Here's a famous character quote: "Want to know a secret?  Promise not to tell? We are standing by a wishing well.  Make a wish into the well, that's all you have to do. And if you hear it echoing. Your wish will soon come true."

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The Muppets are back -- again

Jason Segel breathed new life into the Muppet franchise in 2011, and Disney isn't about to lose the momentum.

The Muppets in a Disney publicity photo.

This week Disney christened the sequel, "The Muppets ... Again!"

Due March 21, 2014, the new film will have to make due without Segel and co-star Amy Adams, but it will have plenty of star power, including Tina Fey, Ricky Gervais and Ty Burrell.

Here's how the Hollywood reporter describes the plot: "Mayhem follows the Muppets overseas, as they find themselves unwittingly entangled in an international crime caper headed by Constantine -- the World’s Number One Criminal and a dead ringer for Kermit -- and his dastardly sidekick Dominic, aka Number Two, portrayed by Ricky Gervais. The film stars Tina Fey as Nadya, a feisty prison guard, and Ty Burrell as Interpol agent Jean Pierre Napoleon."

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‘Big Thunder’ and ‘Tomorrowland’ in development by Disney

“Pirates of the Caribbean” – mega hit.

“The Haunted Mansion” – bomb.

                                                                                             © Steven Liebman
Disney has ordered a pilot for a drama series based on the Big Thunder
Mountain Railrioad attraction. 

“The Country Bears” -- complete stinker.

Sure, Disney doesn’t have the greatest track record when it comes to turning its attractions into on-screen entertainment. But it's certainly not going to stop trying.

Last week it was reported that Brad Bird’s new project has been retitled “Tomorrowland.” Bird, the director of “The Incredibles” and “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol,” is directing the live-action movie starring George Clooney, written by Damon Lindelof (“Lost”). The plot of the movie, which was originally titled “1952,” is still under wraps, but the movie is due in theaters Dec. 19, 2014.

If you’re looking for hints, Disneyland – and the original Tomorrowland – opened in 1955.

But that’s not all.

Now, Variety is reporting that Disney has ordered a pilot for “Big Thunder,” a potential drama series based on the beloved Big Thunder Mountain roller coaster.

Here’s how Variety describes the story: “Plotline involves a 19th century New York doctor and his family who are given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to relocate to a frontier mining town run by a powerful but mysterious tycoon. Soon, they quickly realize that not everything in Big Thunder is as it seems.”

Of course, a pilot is just that – a single episode we may never get to see.

Also in development – at least as of last year – is a movie version of Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. That’s an interesting choice, given that the ride of the same name at Disney World closed in 1998. It remains a staple at Disneyland, where it was one of the park’s original rides.

But perhaps the ultimate theme park-inspired movie is Jon Favreau’s in-development “Magic Kingdom,” which is unambiguously tied to Disneyland’s Magic Kingdom theme park.

Here’s how Favreau (“Iron Man”) described the plot to Crave Online: “It’s going to be a family in the park. It’s an alternate reality version of the park that they get launched into. So much of it is just how it weaves together as a tapestry and what the visuals look like in creating this rich world. It’s informed by everything that I remember and know about the park from going there since I was a small child.”

That one doesn’t have a release date, but Crave reported last summer that “there’s no rush.”

What do you think of the prospects for these projects? Which ones do you think will see the light of day? Which will be the next “Pirates” and the next “Country Bears”?

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The latest on the stalled Pleasure Island redevelopment at Disney World

When is Disney going to do something with the old Pleasure Island? Disney fans have been clamoring for an answer since the company’s plan to develop “Hyperion Wharf” stalled almost two years ago.

Pleasure Island has been shuttered since 2008. Its replacement – a dining and entertainment area built around a “dockside” theme – was originally supposed to be complete by early this year.

Disney concept art of the Hyperion Wharf area.

Instead, the company hit the brakes in 2011, saying on the company blog, "During the course of this site work, we identified opportunities to further refine our master plan and are pausing to evaluate them. What does this mean for you? While we're moving quickly, it will admittedly cause a delay in construction. But we're willing to bet that any delay will be worth the wait once we're able to share details about the exciting work we've been doing."

And that, Disney fans, was the last we heard, about 18 months ago.

Since then, Pleasure Island remains little more than a hill to climb between Downtown Disney and the Marketplace (with all due respect to Paradiso 37, which is a lovely stop along the way).

Is Disney finally inching toward making a new announcement? Maybe.

After reporter Richard Bilbao speculated in the Orlando Business Journal that the project was dead or mothballed, the company broke its silence in its usual enigmatic way.

“Work continues on bringing our vision for Downtown Disney to life,” the company told the reporter. “As with any project of this size and scope, our plans have continued to grow and evolve over time, and we are looking holistically at the entire Downtown Disney experience. We look forward to sharing additional details soon.”

That doesn’t tell us much, except that it seems we can forget the Hyperion Wharf name.

I do like the idea that Disney is looking at the area holistically – and hopefully not just Downtown Disney, but the whole sprawl, from Cirque du Soleil theater all the way (huff, puff) to the Art of Disney store.

What do you think Disney should do with the old Pleasure Island?

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Smile of the Day: A smiling Captain Hook

Some may say that Captain Hook is even meaner than The Grinch. Here's the Captain on a parade at The Magic Kingdom in Disney World. Here's the captain's philosophy as to why parents read stories to children.

"No, child, Your mother wants to read to you every night in order to stupefy to sleep, so that she and daddy could sit down for three measly minutes without you. And you mindless, inexhaustible, unstoppable, repetitive, and nagging demands: He took my toy! She hit my bear! I want a potty! I want a cookie! I want to stay up! I want, I want, I want, me, me, me, me, mine, mine, mine, mine, now, now, now, now!  Can't you understand, child? They tell you stories to shut you up."

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Lucasfilm postpones turning Star Wars episodes to 3D

Lucasfilm has announced that is postponing the this fall's scheduled 3D releases of Star Wars Episodes II and III.

The company announced on its website that "given the recent development that we are moving forward with a new Star Wars trilogy, we will now focus 100 percent of our efforts on Star Wars: Episode VII in order to ensure the best possible experience for our fans. We will post further information about our 3D release plans at a later date."

The latest Star Wars movie, Episode VII will be directed by J.J. Abrams and written by Michael Arndt

Also consulting on the project are Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg. Kasdan has a long history with Lucasfilm, as screenwriter on "The Empire Strikes Back," "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Return of the Jedi." Kinberg was writer on "Sherlock Holmes" and "Mr. and Mrs. Smith."

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Smile of The Day: A waving Ariel

For today's Smile of The Day, give a wave back to Ariel.

This is part of the Voyage of the Little Mermaid entrance at Hollywood Studios in Disney World.

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True Love Week is coming to Disney World and Disneyland as part of Limited Time Magic

Disney World and Disneyland will be full of true love Feb. 11-17 as each resort celebrates Limited Time Magic with True Love Week.

The week-long event celebrates the love of friends and family, and invites couples to rekindle the flame, according to Disney news releases.

Each resort will feature limited- time Valentine’s merchandise and special entertainment, to romantic dinners for two and new themed photo location.

What's planned at Disney World

Romantic Setting: Banners proclaiming True Love, heart-shaped signage and sweetheart-themed décor will adorn the Magic Kingdom.

                                                                                                   © Steven Liebman
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, the two love birds at Disney World.

Blushing Castle: At dusk, hues of pink, red, lavender and blue bathe Cinderella Castle with themed lighting synced to a musical melodies adding to the ambiance.

Dinners for Two: Candlelit dinners for two with prix fixe menus at select restaurants during the most romantic week of the year. Specially-created menus at Artist Point (Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort); The Wave…of American Flavors (Disney’s Contemporary Resort); Hollywood Brown Derby (Disney’s Hollywood Studios); Yachtsman Steakhouse (Disney’s Yacht Club Resort) make an ideal setting for a romantic evening. To book visit Disneyworld.com or call 407/WDW-DINE.

Valentine’s-themed Takeaways: Limited-edition pins, plushes, newly-designed apparel and Vinylmations available at select merchandise locations.

Royal Gathering: The rare opportunity to get a photo with Disney Princes as they escort their Princesses to enchanting character greeting locations. In Town Square Theater you may find Mickey and Minnie, Aurora with Phillip or Rapunzel and Flynn. Mary Poppins joins Bert in Fantasyland, while Prince Naveen and Princess Tiana meet guests in the Enchanted Glade in Liberty Square.

Romantic Photo Locations in Magic Kingdom: New Fantasyland will have Cinderella’s Glass Coach situated by the new Castle wall. Hearts and flower will be placed around Cinderella’s Wishing Well. The Rose Garden in Central Plaza is all decked out with enchanting decor.

What's planned at Disneyland 

Romantic Setting: Heart-shaped signage and sweetheart-themed décor will adorn Disneyland Park.

                                                                                        © Disney
Donald Duck and Daisy Duck in this publicity photo
in Disneyland.

Blushing Castle: At dusk, hues of red and pink will bathe Sleeping Beauty Castle, with projections of flowers and hearts.

Floral Heart: A giant floral heart makes a sweet setting for a Valentine photo, in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland.

Valentine Wishes: Flowers, garlands and decorative doves will be planed around Snow White Wishing Well near Sleeping Beauty Castle. At night, magical lighting adds a romantic touch to the wishing well and Snow White Grotto.

Disneyland Sweethearts: Also near Town Square, guests will find a photo location with resident Disneyland sweethearts – Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck.

Dinners for Two: Romantic dinners for two with prix fixe menus will be offered at select restaurants during the most romantic week of the year. Specially-created menus at Blue Bayou and Café Orleans in Disneyland, Carthay Circle Restaurant in Disney California Adventure Park, Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel or Napa Rose in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel make ideal choices for a romantic evening. To book call 714-781-DINE (714-781-3463).

Cupcake Lovers: Chefs have prepared a specially themed Valentine’s dessert: a chocolate cupcake with raspberry mousse filling and dark chocolate mousse frosting. It will be available at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café in Disneyland, Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café and Pacific Wharf Café in Disney California Adventure, and Disneyland Hotel Coffee House.

Valentine’s-themed Takeaways: Limited-edition pins, plush, newly-designed apparel and Vinylmations will be available at select merchandise locations.

Ears for your Sweetheart: The classic Disneyland ear hat gets a total glitz makeover just in time for the most romantic time of the year. It will dazzle your Valentine and become the most sophisticated pair of ears in your collection.

Royal Romance: Guests will enjoy a rare opportunity to get photos of Disney Princes as they escort their Princesses along The Royal Walk in Fantasyland. In New Orleans Square, guests will find another pair of sweethearts, Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen.

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Smile of The Day: Phineas and Ferb topiary

"I know what we're going to do today."

We're going to look at the Phineas and Ferb topiaries that were located in Downtown Disney in Disney World for a little while. And, we hear, you can expect to see them again during the Epcot International Flower and Garden Show this spring.

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Hong Kong Disneyland has special celebration for the Chinese New Year

Hong Kong Disneyland is celebrating the Chinese New Year from Feb. 1 to Feb. 24 with special decor and shows.

The park is welcoming the Year of the Snake with a ‘Golden Walk of Fortune’ along Main Street, U.S.A. where guests can capture the happy moments at the Golden Mickey photo location, according to The Travel Daily News.

As a tradition during Chinese New Year, golden Mickey Lai See filled with chocolate coins will be distributed throughout the park from the first to seventh day of Chinese New Year (Feb. 10-16).

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LEGO Star Wars coming to DVD in March

LEGO Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out, the 22-minute special that was seen on the Cartoon Network, will be coming out on DVD March 26, according to Lucasfilm.

In this special, the original Death Star has just been destroyed, but a new Imperial threat has arisen. While "Luke has become a household name as 'Death-Star-Blower-Upper,' he finds that not even the Force can protect him from a new menace: crazed fans. Things aren't looking so good for Darth Vader, either, who finds himself locked in a hilarious "Sith-ling" rivalry with Darth Maul."

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Disney asking for your opinion on a 2014 design

Disney is seeking feedback to decide which original design will be sold in parks in 2014.

There are three original 2014 designs that everyone can vote and the winning designs will be sold Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

You can cast your vote here.

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Top 100 Greatest Movies for Kids list released, Disney has 29 on the list

Scholastic Parent & Child magazine has unveiled its list of "100 Greatest Movies for Kids" and there are a slew of Disney movies making the list, with four of them in the top 10, but none topping the list.

The No. 1 spot goes to "The Wizard of Oz," starring Judy Garland, but Disney does have 29 movies on the overall list with "Mary Poppins," "Toy Story 2," "Beauty and The Beast" and "Pinocchio" in the top 10.

"We are thrilled to offer an all-inclusive and interactive look at family films that have resonated with our readers, young and old, for generations," Nick Friedman , editor-in-chief, Scholastic Parent & Child. said in a news release..

To create the list, which you can find here, Scholastic enlisted a team of movie industry insiders including: Betsy Bozdech , movie editor from Common Sense Media; Nell Minow, "The Movie Mom" on Belief Net; Ben Mankiewicz , weekend host of Turner Classic Movies; Bill Hader of Saturday Night Live & Essentials, Jr. on Turner Classic Movies and Eric Beckerman of the New York International Children's Film Festival.

The group started off with nearly 400 movies.

Here are the Disney movies included and where they rank. What do you think?

3. "Mary Poppins"
4. "Toy Story 2"
6. "Beauty and the Beast"
9. "Pinocchio"
11. "The Lion King"
13. "The Nightmare Before Christmas"
16. "Wall-E"
18. "Monster's Inc."
20. "Spirited Away"
22. "Finding Nemo"
23. "The Many Advenutres of Winnie the Pooh"
25. "The Incredibles"
31. "Frankenweenie"
39. "The Muppet Movie"
40. "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl"
54. "The Parent Trap," the original 1961 version
57. "Tangled"
63. "Homeward Bound"
65. "Enchanted"
66. "Newsies"
74. "Cinderella"
75. "The Emperor’s New Groove"
81. "Bambi"
82. "101 Dalmatians"
84. "The Mighty Ducks"
96. "Darby O’Gill and the Little People"
98. "Bedknobs and Broomsticks"
99. "Eight Below"
100. "The Princess Diaries"

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2013 Disney bridal gown collection now available and bridal showcase event announced

The latest bridal collection, 2013 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings by Alfred Angelo, is now available.

Alfred Angelo Sleeping Beauty dress.

The collection includes nine Disney Maidens dresses and eight Disney Blossoms gowns. Each of the different dresses, according to the Disney Weddings Blog, illustrate a "notion of romance."

The collection is available from sizes 0 to 26W.

In addition, Disney is hosting is Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings Bridal Showcase at the Contemporary Resort Convention Center on Feb. 9 from 10 a.m to 3 p.m.

The $35 event brings you celebrity wedding planner David Tutera speaking on the latest trends in wedding planning and design as well as having the opportunity to schedule a one-on-one appointment with a Disney Wedding Specialist to learn more about our Wishes Wedding and Couture Wedding Collections, sample wedding cake and sample food and beverage prepared by the culinary team.

Alfred Angelo Snow White dress.

Alfred Angelo Belle dress.

More information is available at @DisneyWeddings and Facebook.com/DisneyWeddings

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Disney announces list of HGTV stars at 20th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

This is the third year the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is being presented by HGTV. This means that you will be seeing a lot of HGTV stars during the festival from March 6 to May 19.

We previously gave you the run down on the new topiaries and music, and some of the special food, now Disney has announced which HGTV and DIY superstars will be showing up to Disney World.

                                                                      ©Steven Liebman
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

Some of the names, mentioned on the Disney Parks Blog includes, "David Bromstad (HGTV Design Star, ColorSplash, Design Star All-Stars); Egypt Sherrod, new host of HGTV’s Property Virgins; Sara Peterson, editor-in-chief of HGTV Magazine; Design on a Dime’s Casey Noble; Chris Lambton from Going Yard; and Chris Grundy from DIY Network’s Cool Tools."

Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Festival Center the the stars will be giving talks at noon and 3 p.m.

The lineup includes:

March 8-10: Chris Lambton, Going Yard

March 15-17: Chris Grundy, DIY Network’s Cool Tools
March 22-24: Egypt Sherrod, host of Property Virgins
March 29-31: Brandon Johnson, My Yard Goes Disney
April 5-7: Meg Caswell, Meg’s Great Rooms
April 12-14:  Jason Cameron, DIY Network’s Desperate Landscapes and Man Caves
April 19-21: Sara Peterson, Editor-in-Chief, HGTV Magazine
April 26-28: Carter Oosterhouse, Million Dollar Rooms
May 3-5: Casey Noble, Design on a Dime
May 10-12: Dan Faires, HGTV.com, DanMade
May 17-19: David Bromstad, HGTV Design Star, ColorSplash, Design Star All-Stars

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Aladdin, a new musical, will debut on Broadway in 2014

"Aladdin" is coming to Broadway.

The Disney animated film is being turned into a Broadway show and will debut in early 2014 at the New Amsterdam Theatre, after pre-Broadway tune-up in Toronto from Nov. 13 to Jan. 12, 2014, Disney announced in a press release.

Casting, Broadway dates and ticket information will be announced later.

Casey Nicholaw who co-directed and choreographed "The Book of Mormon" and worked on "Elf: The Musical", "The Drowsy Chaperone" and "Monty Python's Spamalot" will direct and choreograph the musical.

The show will feature music by Alan Menken; lyrics by the late Howard Ashman, Tim Rice and Chad Beguelin with a book by Beguelin, who is a two-time Tony nominee for his work on the Broadway musical "The Wedding Singer" and wrote the lyrics for l "Elf."

This will be two-act show. Nicholaw and the writers had previously collaborated on a pilot production of the musical at Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre in summer 2011 for a limited run with the goal of trying out new material and structure. Broadway will be an entirely new production featuring a new script, tunestack and a wholly original design scaled to the Broadway stage, according to Disney

"Aladdin" is adapted from the Arabian folktales including "One Thousand and One Nights," and will feature a full Broadway score including the five songs from the film - "Arabian Nights," "One Jump Ahead," "Friend Like Me," "Prince Al" and "A Whole New World." The animated film was released 1992 and and won the Oscar for Best Original Score.

For anyone who has seen the production at the California Adventure - "Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular" - you've probably wondered before why that wasn't just taken to Broadway. It is a great, fun show which has kept the audience laughing and singing along.

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First look at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival special menu

Can't decide between visiting Epcot during spring's Flower & Garden Festival or the fall Food & Wine Festival?

Perhaps this will sway you: Dole Whip with Spiced Rum.

Yep, that's part of the new menu for the Flower & Garden Festival at Disney World, according to the Orlando Sentinel, which detailed some of the food booths set to debut at the festival this spring.

We had already reported that "festival-themed food" would be part of this year's garden event with a focus on backyard barbecue and "garden-inspired global tastes." The Sentinel details some of the food booths that will be scattered around the World Showcase, a la the Food and Wine Festival, including:

• Smokehouse Barbecue and Brew at American Adventure 
• Primavera Kitchen in the Italy pavilion 
• Hanami at Japan 
• Florida Fresh at the World Showcase Promenade

Among the menu items:

• Shrimp with grits 
• Zellwood corn 
• Angel food cake with macerated Florida berries 
• Watermelon salad with pickled red onions, baby arugula, feta cheese and balsamic reduction 
• Sweet "frushi" made with fresh fruits and coconut rice

But we had you at "Dole Whip with Spiced Rum," didn't we?

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Report: JJ Abrams to direct 'Star Wars VII'

It sounds like a fanboy's (and fangirl's) dream come true: JJ Abrams will direct the next installment of the "Star Wars" movie franchise, according to TheWrap.com.

That's right -- Star Wars, not Star Trek.

So much for Abrams' public declarations, made as recently as November, that he wasn't interested in the job.

The report is as yet unconfirmed, but the New York Times says an official announcement is expected soon. Entertainment Weekly says it has confirmed the report.

The movie's script will be written by "Little Miss Sunshine" screenwriter Michael Arndt. It is slated for release in 2015.

Assuming the report turns out to be true, those of us who were mocked for making the suggestion months ago ("He's doing Star Trek. No way he'll do Star Wars.") will get to say a gleeful "I told you so."

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Take the pirate oath with Captain Jack Sparrow at Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney has found a clever way to turn what could have been nothing more than an overblown ad for a movie franchise into a fun walk-through experience -- if you go in with tempered expectations.

                                                                                                © Steven Liebman
Inside the Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow at Hollywood Studios.

In the 8-minute "Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow," guests enter a room resembling a cove, populated by skeletons (one killed by a cannonball through the heart) and festooned with treasure. In the course of the show, you help Captain Jack fend off some of the more memorable villains from the movie series. In the end, you take the pirate oath and become part of Captain Jack's crew.

The effects envelop you, making you feel like you're part of the action. But the most breathtaking effect is Captain Jack himself. At first it almost seems like Johnny Depp is standing right in front of you.

Be prepared to play along -- give Captain Jack a mighty "ARGH" and cover your ears against the singing of the mermaids. If you're not game, you may find yourself wishing you could have those 8 minutes of your life back again.

The most disappointing thing is that you're hustled in and out in a hurry, not giving you any time to soak in the details of the set -- let alone take any pictures.

                                                                    © Steven Liebman
The detail inside the Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow
attraction in Disney World.

If you're a cynic, you could say this is a really cool pre-show -- without the show. (See the video below on the pre-preshow.)

In some ways this show represents a natural evolution: For years this space was devoted to "Journey into Narnia: Creating the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" (2005-2008), a walk-through in which guests essentially stood to watch a video recap of the movie, then walked past a few costumes on their way out. Then, it morphed into "Journey into Narnia: Prince Caspian" (2008-2011), which included clips from the movie but added some interactive elements, like a trivia game and a set where you could have your photo taken with Prince Caspian.

The one benefit of the Caspian incarnation: You had time to appreciate the movie memorabilia and take pictures. Now you're in and out in a jiffy. Captain Jack himself even makes a joke about the turnaround time.

In most ways this experience is a big improvement over its predecessors. And it makes you wonder: What will come next in the evolution?

RELATED STORY
Disney to introduce new pirate role-playing game to Disney World in Spring

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Smile of The Day: Mickey Mouse hand and foot prints in cement

Did you know you can always see Mickey Mouse's hand and foot prints at Disney World?

Just head on over to the Great Movie Ride at Hollywood Studios and look at the cement in front of the entrance. There you will find many things, including Mickey Mouse's block.

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Disney to introduce new pirate role-playing game to Disney World in Spring

Disney is expanding its interactive role-playing games at DisneyWorld.

A rendition of the new interactive game at
Disney World from the Disney Parks Blog.

In addition to becoming a secret agent at Agent P' World Showcase adventure in Epcot to defeat Dr. Doofenshmirtz and be an apprentice sorcerer to defeat Disney Villains around The Magic Kingdom, you can now become a pirate and go on pirate raids throughout Adventureland in The Magic Kingdom.

"A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas," which is to debut this spring, will have guests using a pirate map and magic talisman to complete five different pirate raids throughout Adventureland, according to the The Disney Parks Blog.

"The goal is to help locate different Treasures of the Seven Seas and fight off pirate enemies like the Royal Navy and Captain Barbossa, among others. If guests help Captain Jack succeed in all the missions," the website says.

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Smile of The Day: Pluto in Animal Kingdom

The Animal Kingdom parade is probably one of the most understated in all of the Disney parks. But the  combination of floats and people on stilts dressed as animals make it very colorful. Especially when you see the familiar characters on the parade route - like Pluto.

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The gang from Monsters, Inc. comes to your iPhone

The gang from Monsters, Inc., has been everywhere lately in the runup to this summer's prequel "Monsters University."

And now you can take them with you everywhere you go with a new mobile game, "Monsters, Inc. Run" (99 cents for iPhone and iPad). As the name implies, this is a classic running game, with Mike Wazowski collecting coins for upgrades as he and Sully race through Monstropolis to rescue Boo.

In a review, IGN notes that the game is slick and pretty but much too pushy when it comes to in-app purchases -- especially because it's a kids' game. Another review from slide to Play is more positive.

Here's a trailer for the new game:

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Finally some Lost Girls in a new Disney Fairies book series

Why should the Lost Boys have all the fun?

Disney is doing all it can to fuel the Fairy trend with a new book series, "The Never Girls," early chapter books for kids ages 6-10.

The stars of the books are four little girls who seem carefully constructed to appeal to common stereotypes: the athletic leader; the smart, pretty girlie-girl; the quiet but thoughtful wallflower; and the little sister who dreams of being a Fairy.

In the first book, the girls are whisked away by a friendly Fairy -- and voila, finally there are some Lost Girls kickin' it in Never Land.

Of course, Tinkerbell plays a starring role, showing all her trademark attitude, and she's surrounded by the other Disney Fairies.

Kirkus found the series "a lightweight offspring of other watered down Peter Pan stories." But judge for yourself: Download sample chapters here or peek inside the first book on Amazon.com.

What do you think: Are the Lost Boys still having all the fun, or will the girls finally give them a run for the money?

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Smile of The Day: Brother Claude

It's always fun to take a stroll past the cemetery at The Haunted Mansion in The Magic Kingdom in Disney World and read off the tombstones. You never know what happened to the mansion's extended family.

                                                                                                       © Steven Liebman

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More details on the upcoming Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

If you're suffering through an arctic blast like much of the country is this week, it might lift your spirits to think of spring. For Disney, that means the 20th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, scheduled to start March 6 and continue through May 19.

© Mary Liebman

The festival always includes an army of topiaries, a concert series and seminars with HGTV personalities. And this year, there are some new attractions, including festival-themed food and beverage locations, a la the Food & Wine festival. 

This week Disney announced more details of the 75-day festival:

HGTV seminars: Every Friday through Sunday, HGTV designers will host seminars in the Festival Center. The opening weekend schedule features Chris Lambton of “Going Yard”; other designers on the schedule include Brandon Johnson of “My Yard Goes Disney” and Meg Caswell of “Meg’s Great Rooms.”

Mini food festival:  What does "festival-themed food" mean? Backyard barbecue and "garden-inspired and global tastes," according to Disney. Booths will be scattered around the World Showcase promenade.

Land of Oz Play Area: "Oz: The Great and Powerful"is set to open in movie theaters March 8, the day before the Flower & Garden Festival opens. Disney working the movie into the Epcot festival with a new children's play area featuring "play systems adorned with giant flowers and designed to stretch kids’ imaginations and muscles," according to the company. This means "midway-style games, red-and-white circus-themed tents and the 'Oz Movie Garden' of intriguing plants."Also to be found: the "great and powerful Oz's" crashed hot-air balloon.

“Radiator Springs” interactive play zone: If Oz isn't your thing, there's also a Cars-themed play area built around topiary stars Lightning McQueen and Mater the tow truck.

Illuminated Gardens: Those of us who still miss the Lights of Winter archway that used to brighten up Epcot during the holidays might be comforted to find twinkling lights in many of the Flower & Garden Festival's topiaries and gardens.

Tinker Bell’s Butterfly House: Tinkerbell and her friends muscle out Bambi and his crew, taking over the Butterfly House this year.

Flower Power concert series: There are a lot of familiar names in the lineup this year, but there also are some new faces: 1970s disco band The Village People (April 19-21) and 1960s singer-songwriter Tommy Roe (May 3-5). The complete lineup:

• March 15-17: Chubby Checker & The Wildcats
• March 22-24: The Guess Who
• March 29-31: Nelson
• April 5-7: The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie
• April 12-14: Paul Revere & the Raiders
• April 19-21: The Village People (new)
• April 26-28: The Orchestra, Featuring Former Members of ELO and ELO II
• May 3-5: Tommy Roe (new)
• May 10-12: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
• May 17-19: Starship starring Mickey Thomas.

For more information about the 20th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or visit www.EpcotinSpring.com.

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Smile of The Day: Alice and The Mad Hatter

It's always fun to watch a parade at Disney World. And here, Alice and The Mad Hatter give off some great facial expressions during the afternoon parade at The Magic Kingdom.

                                                                                                                                                      © Steven Liebman

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California woman wins the Tinker Bell Half Marathon

A California woman returning from ankle surgery came back to win the Tinker Bell Half Marathon at Disneyland.

Angela Escay, from Carmichael, Calif., crosses the finish
line in this Disney publicity photo.

Angela Escay, from Carmichael, Calif.,  set a course record at 1:24:10 in the second annual women-focused event at Disneyland. Last year, Kellie Nickerson won the inaugural event with a 1:27:52.

“The course was a lot of fun, run through the park. It was my first run back in three years," Escay said in a Disney news release.

More than 21,000 runners participated in the weekend’s events, which were geared toward health, fitness and active lifestyles for women. The Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend is the second women-focused event weekend in the runDisney series. Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend takes place at Walt Disney World Feb. 22-24.  

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Disneyland photographing guests to cut back on rented out tickets

Disneyland and the California Adventure are trying to crack down on people renting discounted tickets by taking their photo.

The parks are focusing on visitors using multi-day passes and putting them in their computers. That way, Disney employers can make sure people don't violate company policy, according to the Orange County Register.

Both children and adults are photographed. The photos are erased when the tickets expire.

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How to film a movie in a Disney theme park without permission

How can someone make a movie at Disney theme parks without Disney's permission?

It takes an extremely small camera and some very game actors and crew, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Randy Moore did just that, making “Escape from Tomorrow,” a story of a man on a surreal journey on the last day of his vacation at the park after finding out he was laid off from work. He day derails bordering on a complete mental break down. It was filmed in black and white and shown at the Sundance Film Festival.

Included in the film is the Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, Space Mountain and even a Main Street parade.

Both The Los Angeles Times story and New York Times article  examine how the movie was made and talks about the hours and days spent filming "guerrilla-style." Though, the articles say that the movie does not seem it was filmed clandestinely. 

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New Balance now official running shoe at Disney World

New Balance Mickey shoe

New Balance is teaming up with Walt Disney World to become the park's official athletic shoe. It also becomes the official running shoe for runDisney race weekends and the official baseball shoe of amateur baseball events at the Sports Complex, according to a news release.

Future initiatives of the alliance include the creation of maps for the running trails at Walt Disney World Resort and fitness programs for Disney resort guests interested in pursuing healthy options.

New Balance Minnie shoe

New Balance also created a men’s and women’s limited edition runDisney 860v3 running shoe which will be available at future runDisney Health & Fitness Expos, special events created jointly by New Balance and Walt Disney Parks & Resorts as well as branded pop-up shops located at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

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New Facebook game called Disney City Girl debuts

Ever dream of giving it all up and moving to the Big City (New York City, that is.). Well, now you can.

Disney City Girl

Disney has introduced Disney City Girl, a new Facebook simulation game allowing players to move to New York City, develop a career, try to move up from tiny apartment to a penthouse and dress your avatar in hundreds of different clothing items and accessories while competing against friends in daily fashion face-offs. 

Think "Sex in in the City" without any sex.

For all you fashionistas, you'll be able to not only designs your own outfits, but also decorate your home with the latest home accessories, according to a post on D23. 

It's not all fun and games. After choosing a career path, from a fashion designer to chef, players complete daily tasks and missions to work their way up the corporate ladder.

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Habit Heroes re-opens in Epcot at Disney World

The original Habit Heroes opened last February at Innoventions in Epcot with a slate of super heroes to help fight unhealthy eating habits.

That lasted less than a month. Disney closed the exhibit after National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance spurred a nationwide .

"It appears that Disney now believes that using the tool of shame, favored so much by today's healthcare corporations, is the best way to communicate with children," the NAAFA wrote last year. "Disney, in partnering with Blue Cross/Blue Shield, has taken the side of the bullies."

Now re-tooled, the new exhibit opened on Friday, according to Orlando Sentinel. The only thing that remained the same, according to the article,  is the name.

Below is an Orlando Sentinel report on the new attraction and below is an Orlando Attractions video of the original version.

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Smile of The Day: Aladdin and Jasmine on a ride

You never know what you'll find when walking around Walt Disney World.

During a morning at The Magic Kingdom we found Aladdin and Jasmine taking a ride on the Magic Carpets of Aladdin. They even ducked the spitting camels like everyone else.

                                                                                                                                                  © Steven Liebman

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See lesser known Disney characters at Long Lost Friends week at Disney World

Clarabelle Cow, Robin Hood and The Three Little Pigs are some of the many Disney characters, but are hardly ever seen at Disney World.

The Three Little Pigs in a Disney publicity photo

But from Jan. 21 to 27, those characters and others will be showing up for meet and greets at Town Square in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World as part of the next Limited Time Magic at Disney World.

Dubbed Long Lost Friends Week, the lesser-known Disney characters get to step into the spotlight, according to a Disney news release. During the week, Disney guests will even be able to vote online for which character they want to see during future Long Lost Friends Week.

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Lunar New Year is next Limited Time Magic at Disneyland

The next Limited Time Magic at Disneyland is the Lunar New Year celebration.

Mishu in a Disney publicity photo.

From Feb 8 to 11 the Happy Lunar New Year will take place at California Adventure, according to the Disney Parks Blog.

During the four-day celebration in the Pacific Wharf area there will be cultural experiences, food offerings, merchandise, and performances from dancers, musicians, and martial artists from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition, characters such as Mulan, Mushu, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are expected to show up.

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Smile of The Day: Boo - from 'Monster's Inc.'

Boo!

Did we scare you?

Here's a smiling Boo from Monster's Inc. walking down the streets of Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World.

                                                                                                          © Steven Liebman

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Disney working with HSN for fashion and jewelry based on new 'Oz The Great and Powerful' movie

The new fashion statement this spring could be coming from Disney's upcoming movie "Oz The Great and Powerful."

Designers such as Naeem Khan, Badgley Mischka and Adrienne Landau, as well as Raven Kauffman, Urban Decay and Be&D are creating exclusive jewelry, fashion, beauty products and home accessories to tie in to the movie. (Can't wait to see those ruby red shoes.)

Disney is partnering with HSN (Home Shopping Network) on this project. The products will all be available for sale during a special live 48-hour event on on March 1 and 2.

HSN designers created a curated assortment of exclusive products reflecting the spirit of the film, according to a new release from HSN. "The apparel, accessories, jewelry and beauty pieces reflect the essence of the movie's three, witches Theodora, Evanora and Glinda, drawing inspiration from their sense of style, personality and unique color palettes. The home and culinary items mirror the discovery the viewer feels while traveling through the world of Oz," the release states.

The movie, directed by Sam Ramie, stars James Franco as the Wizard, Mila Kunis (Theodora), Rachel Weisz (Evanora) and Michelle Williams (Glinda). The screen story is by Mitchell Kapner and the screenplay is by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire. The film opens in theaters nationwide March 8 and is rated PG.

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American Idol Experience at Disney World adds songs

Have you ever tried out for the American Idol Experience at Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World?

                                                                    © Disney

Never wanting to inflict pain on others, I never have tried, but I've always wondered how many songs you can choose from to sing? The number - 158. And that is with the recent addition of 14 new songs, according to the Disney Parks Blog.

Many of the new songs are some of the most requested titles by guests auditioning and many are hits by former American Idol contestants.

The new songs are:

“American Honey” by Lady Antebellum
“Animal” by Neon Trees
“Cowboy Casanova” by Carrie Underwood
“Dark Side” by Kelly Clarkson
“Give Your Heart a Break” by Demi Lovato
“Home” by Phillip Phillips
“One Thing” by One Direction
“Part of Me” by Katy Perry
“Please Remember Me” by Tim McGraw, covered by Scotty McCreery
“Set Fire to the Rain” by Adele
“Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson
“The One That Got Away” by Katy Perry
“Turn on the Radio” by Reba McEntire
“Undo It” by Carrie Underwood

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Smile of The Day: Wanted - Mr. Potato Head

There's nothing like standing in line at a ride in  Walt Disney World, turning the corner and seeing something that just makes you smile.

Here's one from the Toy Story Mania ride at Hollywood Studios.

                                                                                                          © Steven Liebman

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Walt Disney Family Museum showcases Walt's Oscar collection

Now that Oscar season is in full swing, it's time for the reminder that Walt Disney still holds the record for most individual Academy Awards won. The number is 32. This includes the technical awards. If you'd like to see them you can - they are located at the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco.

The museum compiled some Walt Disney Oscars facts as well. Here they are:

Photo is property of The Academy of Motion
Pictures and Sciences

• In addition to holding the most individually won Oscars, Walt also holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations with 59.
• The first Oscar was for Animated Short Subjects, his Silly Symphony “Flowers and Trees” in 1932.
• Walt received an Honorary Oscar in 1932 for the creation of Mickey Mouse.
• In 1939, Walt received a custom-made Oscar statuette for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The Honorary Award consisted of one standard Oscar statuette, standing above seven other miniature ones—representing each of the Dwarfs, placed on a stepped, 20-inch long base.
• The first ever nature documentary Academy Award was awarded to Walt in 1948 for Seal Island. 
• In the 1960s, Walt purchased 20 miniature Oscar charms, each engraved with the name of the work for which it was awarded. He created a  charm necklace and gave it to his wife Lilian, who then converted it into a charm bracelet, which is on view at The Walt Disney Family Museum. 

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Disney announces new interactive gaming platform called Disney Infinity

There will be a new way to play with Disney characters in June with a new gaming platform.

Disney Infinity integrates collectible character figures from Disney and Pixar films that play together in a virtual "Toy Box." This all-new game universe will launch in June across all consoles and will have a phased roll out across mobile and online devices throughout 2013, according to a news release.

“Disney Infinity introduces a new way to interact with the best of Disney on one game platform, both now and in the future," said John Pleasants, co-president, Disney Interactive.

Throughout each story-driven experience, called a “Play Set,” players will solve puzzles, battle enemies and explore iconic locations from famous Disney properties, while collecting unique characters, vehicles, and gadgets from each world and saving.

About 40 collectible interactive pieces will be introduced that allow players to expand and customize their play experiences. Seventeen character figures will allow players to experience a variety of their favorite characters in true to property experiences and in “Toy Box” mode.

When figures are placed on the Disney Infinity Base, they will unlock the world and play experiences of Disney Infinity. In addition, interactive discs will be able to be placed Infinity Base to power up characters and “Toy Box” with unique powers, customizations and gadgets.

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Become a Wilderness Explorer at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Four years after it hit theaters, Disney has found a way to work "Up" into its Florida theme parks as more than just Pixar Pals.

The answer? The Wilderness Explorers are coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom.

This spring, AK visitors will be able to earn badges, just like Russell did in the movie.

The Disney Parks blog isn't giving away many details except to say, "Soon, guests can become Wilderness Explorers and experience the entire park using their field guides, completing challenges and earning badges as they go. With more than 30 badges available, Wilderness Explorers is fun for the whole family and helps guests experience Disney’s Animal Kingdom and its themes in a new and exciting way."

It sounds a lot like the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail at Disney's California Adventure, where kids can explore forested paths, try rock climbing and swing on rope bridges.

The California Adventure trail resembles the The Boneyard, the play area dressed to look like a dig site near the Dinosaur ride at Animal Kingdom -- which leads us to believe it will either be worked in to the Wilderness Explorers experience, or the Wilderness Explorers will range throughout the park, sort of an outdoorsy version of Agent P's World Showcase Adventure at Epcot.

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Smile of The Day: A Figment Eye Exam

Capturing your imagination is always important and the only way to do that is to find that figment on of your imagination.  And finding Figment is easy to do at Disney World.

Here's a clip of the Imagination ride at Epcot in Walt Disney World where Figment gives you an eye exam. Following the bouncing Figment.

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Disney announces 2014-2015 slate of movies

Muppets, superheroes, pirates and the retelling of a classic Disney movie are some of the films to be released in 2014 and 2015, according to the Disney Post blog.

The Walt Disney Studios has released the list of movies with run dates. Here's the list:

The Muppets sequel: To be released March 21, 2014, director James Bobin returns and brings a new cast including Ricky Gervais and Ty Burrell.

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier": Scheduled for April 4, 2014, this movie follows Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) from the end of "The Avengers" movie and shows how he struggles to embrace his role in the modern world.

Guardians of the Galaxy concept art.

"Guardians of the Galaxy:" To be released August 1, 2014, features a different cast of characters who need to team up to defeat a cosmic force. For a primer on the characters, check out Marvel's own wiki. 

"Maleficent:" Due out now on July 7, 2014, this is the untold story of Disney’s most beloved/hated villain from "Sleeping Beauty." The movie is produced by Joe Roth and directed by Robert Stromberg, and stars Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, Sharlto Copley and Elle Fanning.

"1952:" George Clooney stars in this movie out Dec. 19, 2014 about, well no one is really sure other than it's science fiction. Damon Lindelof produces and Brad Bird directs a script by Lindelof about, well no one really knows. Is it about aliens? Is it about an earth invasion? Is it about a mysterious creature hunting people on an island somewhere (oops, been there, done that)? 

Pirates of the Caribbean movie Johnny Depp returned as Captain Jack Sparrow for the film due out on July 10, 2015. It’ll be produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, and the screenplay is by Jeff Nathanson.

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