Looking Back: Chicken Little

When Chicken Little was released, I was familiar with the phrase associated with this character "the sky is falling" but had no interest in seeing the film and quite honestly knew nothing about it. The Walt Disney Classics Collection released a sculpture from this film in October, 2005.

Fast forward to July, 2013 and finally saw the film for the 1st time while on vacation! The movie is cute little gem with some very endearing characters, a cute father/son storyline and great music. Within days of returning home, purchased the blu ray plus the WDCC sculpture. 

A great job was done in bringing this character from 2D to 3D, from the detail of his feathers to the pose. It's too bad this character didn't catch on and do well for the line, would have loved to seen Abby Mallard and Fish added.

Notice the painting effect in his comb. Upon unpacking the piece and checking it over, didn't notice the paint effect until I took photos and were uploading them. My first thought, thought it was the dreaded crazing! I looked over the official photos supplied at the time of its release and auctions on eBay of photos of the actual piece and noticed it was apparent in them as well. The more I looked at it, it reminded me of the design of the alien tile that appears in Chicken Little's room. Upon viewing of the blu ray when it arrived, the paint effect is in the film as well.  If the alien design, a very cool touch!

"Second Chance Champ" sculpted by Valerie Edwards was an Open Edition release, retired in December, 2009. Chicken Little was also offered as a special promotion through Disney’s Visa® Card from Chase.  If you ordered using your  Disney’s Visa® Card, you earned Triple Disney Dream Reward Dollars. 

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D23 Expo The Phineas and Ferb Waffle-inator Challenge

FANS CAN BEHOLD AND THEN PLAY DR. DOOFENSHMIRTZ'S MOST

GRANDIOSE INVENTION YET, A 40-FOOT TALL WAFFLE-INATOR

DEBUTS AT DISNEY'S D23 EXPO

"The Phineas and Ferb Waffle-inator Challenge" Celebrates

Disney Channel's "Phineas and Ferb: Mission Marvel" TV Special

Marvel Universe Stars Adrian Pasdar, Drake Bell, Fred Tatasciore, Roger Craig Smith, Bumper Robinson and Laura Bailey to Meet Fans at D23 Expo Friday, August 9

  

BURBANK, Calif. (July 26, 2013) – Dr. Doofenshmirtz is primed to take over Disney's D23 Expo…and the Tri-State Area with his most wacky "-inator" yet -- "The Waffle-inator" -- a spectacular 40-foot high interactive game, combining physical and digital worlds -- and simulated waffles -- in an epic showdown to free Agent P from the clutches of Dr. Doofenshmirtz.  Kids, tweens and families can hop aboard and wield the life-size invention to play "The Phineas and Ferb Waffle-inator Challenge," over three days at Disney's D23 Expo, the ultimate event for Disney fans, at the Anaheim Convention Center FRIDAY, AUGUST 9–SUNDAY, AUGUST 11.

The Waffle-inator is depicted in "Phineas and Ferb: Mission Marvel," the highly anticipated event episode of the #1 animated series for kids and tweens, premiering FRIDAY, AUGUST 16 (8:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel and SUNDAY, AUGUST 25 (10:00 a.m. ET/PT) on Disney XD.  In the storyline, Phineas and Ferb, team up with the Marvel Super Heroes to help them regain their powers and defeat Marvel Super Villains and Dr. Doofenshmirtz, in an epic battle of good versus evil, where the dastardly delicious device "The Waffle-inator" comes into play.   

Stars from Marvel Universe – Adrian Pasdar, Drake Bell, Fred Tatasciore, Roger Craig Smith, Bumper Robinson and Laura Bailey – will join the line-up of stars across Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior who will meet fans at Disney's D23 Expo, including "Teen Beach Movie," "Phineas and Ferb," "Shake It Up," "Jessie," "Gravity Falls," "Good Luck Charlie," "Liv and Maddie," "Kickin' It," "Dog With A Blog," "Lab Rats," "Crash & Bernstein," "Wander Over Yonder" and "Sofia the First."  Fans can also catch live performances from Hollywood Records' recording artists Bridgit Mendler and R5 featuring Ross Lynch, and meet favorite characters Princess Sofia ("Sofia the First"), Doc McStuffins, Jake ("Jake and the Never Land Pirates"), Spider-Man and Iron Man.

Popular radio personalities Ernie D, Morgan & Maddy, Jake and Candice from Radio Disney will join in the fun with prizes and activities to entertain Disney fans of all ages.

To play the "The Phineas and Ferb Waffle-inator Challenge," fans are invited to man one of four colorful, full-scale "Waffe-inators" to unleash flying foam waffles and to move Phineas and Ferb up a towering screen, while outmaneuvering Dr. Doof's evil creations, to free a trapped Agent P before time runs out.  "The Phineas and Ferb Waffle-inator Challenge" will be located in the Grand Plaza near the D23 Expo entrance for fans to enjoy Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Tickets to the D23 Expo are available at http://www.D23Expo.com.  Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo, including the Disney Legends Ceremony, and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Admission is $47 for a one-day adult ticket and $37 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $136 for adults and $106 for children. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will receive a discount for up to four admissions, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests.

ABC brings the magic of "Once Upon A Time" to the D23 Expo!

THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK PRESENTS EXCLUSIVE SCREENINGS AND Q&As
WITH THE CREATIVE FORCES BEHIND TV’S EXCITING NEW FALL SHOWS

AT D23 EXPO 2013

Creators panel with Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz who will talk about their hit ABC series Once Upon A Time as well as their new series, Once Upon A Time In Wonderland, on August 10

Guests Can Board Captain Hook’s Jolly Roger on the D23 Expo Show Floor

BURBANK, Calif. – July 24, 2013 – Be among the first to watch ABC’s most anticipated new fall series and animated specials and have a chance to learn the secrets behind how they were made. Fans will have those opportunities at the D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, where all the worlds of Disney come together, August 9 – 11, at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Executive Producers Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz will be featured at a panel titled “ABC’s Once Upon A Time: Behind The Fairytale” on Saturday, August 10 at 1:00 p.m. at Stage 23. Eddy and Adam will talk about exciting developments for season three of their hit series Once Upon A Time as well as their new fall series, Once Upon A Time In Wonderland, which takes place in the Victorian England of Alice and the strange new land that exists on the other side of the rabbit hole. The Q&A with the executive producers will be moderated by D23’s Jeffrey Epstein.

Guests on the D23 Expo show floor are invited to come aboard the Jolly Roger for a swashbuckling good time with some of your favorite fairytale characters from ABC’s hit series Once Upon A Time. Explore the famous pirate ship and feast your eyes on original props from the set. You will also find Snow White, Prince Charming, the Evil Queen, Captain Hook, and Emma Swan (and Emma’s red leather jacket). Every pirate who boards the ship gets to visit the Evil Queen’s vault. And a surprise awaits when you unlock a box from Regina’s wall of hearts. No pirate will leave empty handed!  Don’t let this exciting adventure sail by without you!

In addition, as previously announced, guests will be able to get an up-close-and-personal look at some of the elaborate costumes from Once Upon A Time inside the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit located on the second floor of the Convention Center. 

D23's Fall Issue Breaks Ice with "Frozen'

DISNEY TWENTY-THREE’S FALL ISSUE BREAKS THE ICE
WITH DISNEY’S COOLEST ANIMATED FILM EVER—FROZEN

DELIVERED EXCLUSIVELY TO D23 GOLD MEMBERS, AUGUST 2013

Rarely Seen Photos from Walt Disney’s Personal Camera and a Look Inside Marty Sklar’s Home

BURBANK, Calif. – July 19, 2013 – Disney twenty-three—the flagship magazine of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club—ushers in winter early, celebrating Disney’s new animated film Frozen. The cover story features exclusive interviews with the film’s cool voice actors Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel, as well as a visit with the filmmakers as they bring Frozen’s wintery wonderland to life in Disney’s 53rd animated feature, coming to theaters this November.

Walt Disney lives on in “Every Picture Tells a Story,” an article showcasing newly discovered photos Walt shot with his personal camera. The photos provide a unique opportunity for fans to see Disney’s world through Walt’s eyes. D23 Members will also get a special treat as former International Ambassador for Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Legend Marty Sklar welcomes readers inside his home to discuss the fascinating new book about his career shaping timeless Disney icons: Dream It! Do It!: My Half-Century Creating Disney’s Magic Kingdoms.

Disney twenty-three’s Fall issue also offers a look at Disney parks around the world. Readers journey across the Pacific Ocean to Tokyo Disneyland to celebrate its joyful 30th anniversary in “Happiness in the Park,” and heads to Hong Kong Disneyland’s Mystic Manor to explore one of Walt Disney Imagineering’s most multifaceted and exhilarating attractions yet.

Also included in the Fall issue of Disney twenty-three:

• America’s Mouseketeer sweetheart Annette Funicello is remembered in “Forever Annette”
• A glimpse at Mickey’s latest cartoon escapades
• On its 25th anniversary, we take look at how the instant Disney classic, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, spectacularly combined animation and realism
• PHOTOfiles: See the picture often referred to as the “best photo ever taken” of Walt
• “D Society”: Tailgate at the Monsters University world premiere; see Jerry Bruckheimer accept his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; and head to Burbank to tour the Disney Studio Lot with D23 Members

The Disney magic continues at www.D23.com, which will feature unique and member-exclusive stories that amplify the contents of D23’s glossy magazine. D23 Web Extras, online August 9, will complement the Fall issue of Disney twenty-three:

• Interviews with Dane Cook and Teri Hatcher, the voices of Dusty Crophopper and Dottie in the upcoming animated feature Disney’s Planes
• An expanded photo gallery of the gorgeous artwork from Frozen
• A video interview with Disney Legend Marty Sklar, taken when D23 visited his home

 Also in the Fall issue, members will receive one of two exclusive magnets designed by artist Kevin Kidney. These high-spirited, retro-style magnets pay homage to the Haunted Mansion’s Hatbox Ghost and Tinker Bell, during this trick-or-treat time of year.

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold Members as a benefit of their membership.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 90-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 9–11, 2013.

Fans can join D23 at Gold, Silver and Free Membership levels at D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us @DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube.

D23 Presents Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives in Chicago!

D23 PRESENTS TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES, OPENING OCTOBER 16, 2013, AT THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, CHICAGO

90 Years of Disney Imagination, Innovation and Entertainment Come to Chicago, Including Iconic Props, Costumes, Artwork and Artifacts from The Walt Disney Archives

CHICAGO – July 18, 2013 – D23 Presents Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, an exhibition which encompasses nearly 300 artifacts from nine decades of Disney history, opens at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) on October 16, 2013 (the actual 90th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company) and continues through February 17, 2014.

Presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives showcases the creative accomplishments and innovations of one of Chicago’s native sons, Walt Disney, and the ongoing legacy of the company that bears his name. From Mickey Mouse to Mary Poppins to Captain Jack Sparrow, the exhibition features many artifacts that have not been widely seen by the public—including drawings; props; costumes; artwork from classic Disney animation, theme park attractions, TV shows and live action films; plus items from contemporary Disney milestones.

“The Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives showcases the creativity and innovation that has defined Disney for 90 years,” said Robert A. Iger, chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “We’re proud of this heritage, and we are very pleased to share this rare glimpse into our rich history with Chicago’s world-renowned Museum of Science and Industry.”

In addition to myriad fascinating artifacts that are sure to stir childhood memories and be familiar icons to many, the exhibition will feature hands-on, interactive stations that will bring Disney technological breakthroughs in animation and motion pictures to life. Guests can try their luck in recording sound effects for a film, explore the wonders of Disney’s revolutionary MultiPlane film camera and even learn to draw some of their favorite Disney characters in the Animation Academy.

“Through this exhibit we’re pleased to showcase Walt Disney as both a master storyteller and an impressive innovator whose creative legacy continues to inspire people of all ages,” said David Mosena, president and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. “Guests will be immersed in Walt Disney’s ‘can do’ spirit, optimistic outlook and never ending curiosity that propelled him through his impressive career. This spirit continues to be the creative inspiration behind many of the incredible experiences created by Disney today.”

Among the extraordinary items to be featured:

• Clips from several of Walt Disney’s earliest animated works, before there was a Mickey.
• The original script, written by Walt Disney, for the 1928 cartoon short Steamboat Willie, which introduced movie theater audiences to Mickey Mouse for the very first time.
• A partial recreation of Walt Disney’s formal office from the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, Calif., including original furnishings and many of his personal items.
• Hand-drawn artwork, hand-sculpted models and props used in the production of some of Disney’s most iconic and renowned animated features, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Dumbo and Sleeping Beauty.
• A recreation of a working animator’s office from the Disney Studios featuring authentic animator’s furniture, and models.
• Animation models and artwork from contemporary Disney animation film hits, including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King and Aladdin.
• Props from classic Disney live-action films, including Mary Poppins, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, The Rocketeer, The Princess Diaries, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and Enchanted.
• A special area of the exhibition that is dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the release of Mary Poppins, with film clips, interviews with the movie’s creators and rare behind-the-scenes photos.
• A salute to Disneyland^® Park in California and Magic Kingdom^® Park in Florida, showcasing artwork, Audio-Animatronics^® characters, and memorabilia from such popular attractions as  it’s a small world, Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln, The Hall of Presidents, as well as early plans and correspondence for Walt Disney’s vision of Epcot.

This exhibit is not included in Museum Entry and will require an additional timed-entry ticket, which is $9 for adults, $9 for seniors and $7 for children 3-11. Tickets will go on sale at msichicago.org on September 4, 2013.  D23 Gold and Silver Members will receive a special discount on exhibit entry.

D23 announces "Disneyland Off the Map Sweepstakes"!

D23 MEMBERS CAN GO “OFF THE MAP” AT DISNEYLAND

New Sweepstakes Offers D23 Members the Chance to Unlock the Magic of The Happiest Place on Earth With a Once-In-a-Lifetime Tour

BURBANK, Calif., July 17, 2013 – In celebration of Disneyland’s 58th anniversary today, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has launched the “Off the Map Sweepstakes.” Twenty-five lucky D23 Members and their guests will be invited to Disneyland Park to visit four of the park’s little-seen but widely heard of locations: Walt Disney’s private apartment, the Lilly Belle VIP parlor car on the Disneyland Railroad, Circle D Ranch, and the Disneyland Dream Suite.

“Our friends at Disneyland will give the winning D23 Members a special glimpse at some of the park’s most amazing hidden gems, special places that most guests never get to see,” said Steven Clark, Head of D23. “Our first ‘Off the Map’ member event in 2012 was such a huge hit that we wanted to reprise it with this special sweepstakes so even more of our members have a chance to visit these truly magical and historical Disneyland locations.”

Winners will be able to explore:

• Walt Disney’s private apartment: Built during the initial construction of Disneyland, Walt Disney’s private apartment is a quaint studio dwelling, filled with Victorian decor, family photos, and antiques selected by the Disney family.
• Lilly Belle VIP parlor car: Disneyland guests have long taken grand circle tours on the Disneyland Railroad, but few ever enjoy the ride from the elegant Lilly Belle VIP car parlor. Named after Walt’s wife, Lillian, the Lilly Belle is truly a piece of history, built in 1955, and refurbished to its modern state of luxury for America’s bicentennial celebration in 1976.
• Circle D Ranch:  From the friendly goats at Big Thunder Ranch to the horses who carry guests down Main Street, U.S.A., Circle D Ranch is home to Disneyland’s beloved “four-legged cast members.”
• Disneyland Dream Suite: This private space above Pirates of the Caribbean was originally planned to be another apartment for Walt Disney, but he passed away before its completion. In 2008, Imagineers used some of Walt’s original ideas and some truly magical surprises of their own to transform it into a fantasy villa like no other. 

D23 Members may enter the sweepstakes beginning today through August 23 at D23.com. The tour will take place on Wednesday, October 2. Winners will be able to attend with one (1) guest. For complete rules, details, and eligibility please visit D23.com. No purchase required; guests may join D23 for free at D23.com.

runDisney D2.3 Fun Run to Kick Off D23 Expo!

runDISNEY D2.3 FUN RUN TO KICK OFF

DISNEY’S D23 EXPO

Limited number of D23 Members to experience the magic of runDisney on run through Disney California Adventure

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla – July 16, 2013 – runDisney is excited to be at the start line of Disney’s D23 Expo and lead the way with the runDisney D2.3 Fun Run on Friday, August 9. 

A limited number of D23 Members will get the opportunity to experience the magic of a runDisney event and take part in a 2.3-mile fun run. The experience will include signature runDisney elements like Disney characters and the opportunity to run through a theme park, Disney California Adventure. In addition, runners will receive a shirt for participating and enjoy a little extra pixie dust along the way.

“runDisney is committed to helping people live a healthy and active lifestyle by providing races of various distances so the entire family can participate,” said Faron Kelley, director of Marketing for Disney Sports. “It’s exciting to be part of the D23 Expo and to provide a memorable runDisney experience for some of the most passionate Disney fans in the world.”

This experience will only be available to D23 Members and a Membership number will be required at the time of registration. Fans can join D23 at www.D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. Details on how to register to be selected for the runDisney D2.3 Fun Run will be available the week of July 22 on the Disney Parks Blog, Facebook (runDisney), @runDisney, and @DisneyD23.

Live Well Network Personalities to Entertain Crowds at D23 Expo!

LIVE WELL NETWORK PERSONALITIES TO ENTERTAIN CROWDS AT THE D23 EXPO 2013

Joey Fatone, Ali Vincent, and Ryan Scott set to appear on Center Stage August 9–11, then meet and greet fans at the Expo’s Talent Round-Up.

Glendale, Calif. – July 16, 2013 — The Disney/ABC-Owned Live Well Network is excited to announce that three of its premiere personalities will be taking center stage at the D23 Expo 2013.

Friday, August 9 at 3:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 10 at 9:30 a.m., Ali Vincent, host of Live Big with Ali Vincent on the Live Well Network shares her fun ways to stay fit and pass the time while waiting in line at Disney theme parks. Ali, the first female to win The Biggest Loser, will demonstrate quick and simple ways to squeeze in exercise while spending the day at a Disney park, and get participants excited about the Disneyland Tinker Bell Half-Marathon, Walt Disney World Princess Half-Marathon, and many other runDisney events.

Saturday, August 10 at 1:00 p.m., Joey Fatone, host of My Family Recipe Rocks on the Live Well Network, teams up with Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park executive chef, Christine Weissman, to cook up a fun and interactive Disney family dish. Join them to learn a Disney favorite that everyone in your home is sure to enjoy!

Sunday, August 11 at 1:00 p.m., Ryan Scott, host of Food Rush on the Live Well Network, serves up simple and delicious home versions of Disneyland Park inspired foods. Disney executive chef, Christine Weissman will also join the former Top Chef contestant on stage as a Disney culinary expert. Together, they’ll show you how to whip up some fun Disneyland classics right in your own kitchen, keeping the Disney magic alive long after your vacation. You won’t believe the creative twists Ryan can put into these classic “fun foods!”

After taking the center stage, each Live Well Network host will head over to the Expo’s Talent Round-Up area to meet and greet their fans.

For more information on these Live Well Network personalities and shows, please visit: http://livewellnetwork.com.

Tickets and pricing information for D23 Expo 2013 are available at D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will receive a discount on admission, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests. More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events, and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting D23Expo.com or by following "DisneyD23" on Twitter and Facebook.

D23 Open with Disney CEO Bob Iger & Animation Presentation by John Lasseter!

D23 EXPO 2013 TO OPEN AUGUST 9 WITH WELCOME FROM

DISNEY CEO BOB IGER FOLLOWED BY ANIMATION PRESENTATION HOSTED BY JOHN LASSETER

THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS RETURNS AUGUST 10 WITH LIVE ACTION PRESENTATION HOSTED BY STUDIO CHAIRMAN ALAN HORN

Disney Studios Is Proud To Host Two Arena Presentations At

D23 Expo 2013, Featuring Celebrity Appearances And Exclusive

Sneak Peeks From Upcoming Films

Burbank, Calif. – July 16, 2013 – D23 Expo 2013 will celebrate its grand opening with a welcome from Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger followed by the first of two arena presentations hosted by The Walt Disney Studios at the Anaheim Convention Center. On Friday, August 9, The Walt Disney Studios will surprise and delight fans with sneak peeks of the incredible slate of upcoming animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, and Disneytoon Studios, hosted by Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter. 

Then, on Saturday, August 10, Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn will host The Walt Disney Studios live action arena presentation which will pull back the curtain on upcoming releases from Disney Live Action and Marvel Studios. Both presentations will feature exclusive clips and behind-the-scenes footage, filmmaker discussions, and surprise celebrity appearances.

The 4,000-seat arena, the largest venue at The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, will for the first time feature a 2,000-seat overflow theater where guests will be able to watch these once-in-a-lifetime happenings though a live feed.  

Art and Imagination: Animation at The Walt Disney Studios (Friday, August 9, 10:00 a.m.): Disney and Pixar Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter, filmmakers and star talent will take guests on a journey through The Walt Disney Studios’ slate of upcoming animated features, including Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen and Pixar Animation Studios’ The Good Dinosaur. Plus, catch the U.S. debut of the new Mickey Mouse short Get A Horse!, major movie announcements, and a not-to-be-missed live musical performance.

Let the Adventures Begin: Live Action at The Walt Disney Studios (Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.): The Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn will showcase the Studios’ exciting live-action release slate, including Disney’s Saving Mr. Banks and Tomorrowland, Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World, and much more.

Tickets for the D23 Expo are $57 for a one-day adult admission and $47 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $50 for a one-day adult admission and $42 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public, and D23 Members can save as much as $84 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 members and general admission, visit D23Expo.com.

Disney Interactive Invites Fans to Play at Disney's D23 Expo!

DISNEY INTERACTIVE INVITES FANS TO PLAY, DISCOVER, AND EXPLORE THE FUTURE OF INTERACTIVE STORYTELLING AT DISNEY’S D23 EXPO, AUGUST 9–11, 2013

Division to offer sneak peek at un-announced projects, including Arena presentation with exclusive performances, reveals and D23 Disney Infinity giveaway

BURBANK, Calif. – July 12, 2013 – Disney Interactive is inviting fans to experience the latest digital offerings from Disney at the D23 Expo, August 9–11, giving fans hands-on experiences, first-look presentations, and exclusive D23 Expo giveaways. With an unprecedented lineup of upcoming games and products, including Disney Infinity, Fantasia: Music Evolved and more, Disney Interactive is turning up the excitement with its largest D23 Expo presence ever including a show floor pavilion, daily presentations, and the D23 Expo Arena.

Arena Presentation:  On Sunday, August 11, fans won’t want to miss “To Infinity and Beyond: Disney Interactive Takes the Stage,” Disney Interactive’s first ever D23 Expo Arena Presentation. Kicking off at noon, Disney Interactive Co-Presidents, Jimmy Pitaro and John Pleasants, host an inside look at the division’s upcoming slate of games, apps, and online shows including:

• The world premiere of Blank: A Vinylmation Love Story, the highly anticipated upcoming web series based on the Vinylmation franchise.
• An Expo-exclusive demo of the just-announced video game Fantasia: Music Evolved, complete with a live performance from the Disney Chamber Ensemble. 
• Disney Infinity will pull out all the stops with several surprises fans won’t want to miss, including un-announced character reveals, brand new game features and an exclusive giveaway of a never-before-seen Disney Infinity figure for every fan in the audience! 

Pavilion Experience: Located in Hall B, the Disney Interactive pavilion lets Guests step into the world of interactive storytelling through hands-on experiences with the latest games and products from Disney Interactive.  Gamers, fans and families will have the opportunity to discover Disney Interactive’s upcoming digital innovations bringing them closer to the characters and stories they love on the platforms and devices they use every day.

• Just days before Disney Infinity arrives in stores, attendees will be among the first to experience the new gaming platform that lets fans play in the worlds of their favorite Disney and DisneyŸPixar films. 
• Fans can assume the role of the Sorcerer's Apprentice in the upcoming game Fantasia: Music Evolved and transform classic and contemporary music through motion-controlled movement like never before. 
• Guests can join the “D23 Expo Story Scavenger Hunt” by using Disney’s new personal storytelling app, Story, to share their favorite memories and moments from this year’s expo to win great prizes throughout the weekend.
• Attendees will have the chance to demo an un-announced premium tablet experience which gives Guests unprecedented access to Disney’s rich heritage. 
• Catch exclusive trailers and sneak peeks from the latest online shows like Blank: A Vinylmation Love Story, apps, and games at the Disney Interactive Main Stage.

With exclusive collectible giveaways, still-to-be-announced panels and presentations, and first looks at the Fall’s hottest digital products, Guests won’t want to miss the surprises Disney Interactive has up its sleeve. Visit www.D23Expo.com and DisneyInteractive.tumblr.com for more updates leading up to the D23 Expo 2013.

2013 Disney Legends Award Honorees to be Celebrated during D23 Expo in Anaheim!

2013 DISNEY LEGENDS AWARD HONOREES

TO BE CELEBRATED DURING D23 EXPO IN ANAHEIM

Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Steve Jobs, Dick Clark and Other Talented Contributors To Disney History To Be Honored At A Ceremony On Saturday, August 10

BURBANK, Calif. – July 10, 2013 – Monsters Inc. and Monsters University stars Billy Crystal and John Goodman, technology visionary Steve Jobs, television icon Dick Clark and other beloved contributors to the Disney legacy will be named and honored as official Disney Legends during the D23 Expo 2013 at      2 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, in the D23 Expo Arena at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The Disney Legends Awards program is a 26-year tradition of The Walt Disney Company. The three-day D23 Expo provides a rare opportunity for the public to be a part of the always touching and memorable presentation, hosted by noted television personality Tom Bergeron (host of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and America’s Funniest Home Videos).

“The Disney Legend Award is our highest and most coveted honor,” said Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger. “It’s reserved for the extraordinary visionaries and artists behind the Disney magic, the men and women who push the limits of innovation and creativity to ensure Disney remains truly special. The eight Legends we honor this year helped create some of our most beloved characters along with exciting new worlds and thrilling attractions.  They also entertained millions of people and expanded our definition of what’s possible. They are all indelible parts of our legacy, and we are proud to recognize them as true Disney Legends.”

The 2013 Disney Legends Award honorees (listed alphabetically) are:

TONY BAXTER has developed beloved Disney attractions including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Journey Into Imagination, Splash Mountain, and countless more over the course of his 43-year career with Walt Disney Imagineering.  Revered by Disney fans, he is best known for his commitment to storytelling, attention to detail, and ability to develop new ideas and attractions by combining time-tested design practices with modern technology.

COLLIN CAMPBELL touched almost every part of the Walt Disney Company, from animated classics to legendary theme park attractions, with stints in live action film and television. Collin’s work with Walt Disney Imagineering includes the development of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as concept illustrations of Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot Center.

DICK CLARK brought rock and roll to 40 million homes across the country with the national debut of American Bandstand on ABC in 1958. He went on to produce game shows, award shows including the Golden Globes® and the Academy of Country Music Awards, comedy specials movies, and other popular television specials. Dick might best be remembered, however, as the host of ABC’s annual Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve from 1973 until 2011.

BILLY CRYSTAL is an acclaimed actor who lends his voice to Mike Wazowski, the frenetic, green cyclopean monster from Monsters Inc. and Monsters University. Best known for his memorable roles in When Harry Met Sally…, The Princess Bride, and City Slickers, Billy, who has won six Emmy Awards and one Tony Award, has also been a fixture on ABC television, where he hosted the Academy Awards® broadcast nine times and found his breakthrough role as Jodie Dallas on Soap from 1977-81.

JOHN GOODMAN is a celebrated actor of stage and screen, and the voice behind James P. Sullivan, better known as “Sully,” from Monsters Inc. and Monsters University. Among John’s notable film appearances are The Big Lebowski, The Flintstones, and most recently Argo and Flight. John’s appearances in Disney-produced films include the Hollywood Pictures films Arachnophobia and Born Yesterday, as well as Touchstone Pictures’ Stella, Coyote Ugly, O Brother, Where Art Thou, and Confessions of a Shopaholic. 

STEVE JOBS changed the world of consumer electronics as the founder of Apple, and was known throughout the world for his visionary attitude and penchant for innovation. He was an early investor and chief executive of Pixar, and became the Walt Disney Company’s largest shareholder overnight when it acquired Pixar Animation Studios in 2006. That same year, he joined the Disney board of directors, and remained a valuable sounding board and advisor to the company until his passing in 2011.

GLEN KEANE has brought to life many of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ most popular characters. Since becoming a Disney animator in 1974, he has animated classic Disney characters such as Penny in The Rescuers, Elliott in Pete’s Dragon, Ratigan in The Great Mouse Detective, the Beast in Beauty and the Beast, and the titular characters in The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pocahontas, and Tarzan. In 2010, Glen served as Executive Producer and Animation Supervisor for Tangled, a story he developed for more than ten years.

ED WYNN, a comedian whose career began on Broadway in the early 1900s, appeared in numerous Disney classics of the 1960s, including Mary Poppins, Babes in Toyland, That Darn Cat, The Absent-Minded Professor, and Son of Flubber. Fans of Disney animation know him as the manic and distinctive voice of the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland.

Each honoree receives a two-foot-tall bronze Disney Legends sculpture that signifies the imagination, creativity and magic they have brought to the Company. Disney Legends Award recipients also participate in a handprint ceremony, and their bronzed prints will be displayed in the Disney Legends Plaza at the Company’s Burbank headquarters.

Admission to the ceremony will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is included in the price of a ticket to the D23 Expo. In addition to the 4,000-seat D23 Expo Arena, the ceremony will be simulcast into a 2,000-seat overflow theater inside the Convention Center.

The first Disney Legend, actor Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire), was named in 1987.  Including this year’s honorees, a total of 237 Disney Legends have been named.  Past Disney Legends include Tim Allen, Robin Williams, Julie Andrews, Howard Ashman, Regis Philbin, Annette Funicello, Peter Jennings, Angela Lansbury, Steve Martin, Alan Menken, Hayley Mills, Fess Parker, Sir Tim Rice, Dick Van Dyke and Barbara Walters.  At the inaugural D23 Expo in 2009, the Legends Awards ceremony, which honored Robin Williams, Beatrice Arthur, Estelle Getty, Rue McLanahan, Betty White, Tony Anselmo, Bill Farmer, Harry Archinal, Don Iwerks and Leota Toombs Thomas, was presented to thousands of Disney fans for the first time. 

Tickets and pricing information for D23 Expo 2013 are available at D23Expo.com Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on admission, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests. More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events, and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting D23Expo.com or by following "DisneyD23" on Twitter and Facebook.

Exclusive Disney's Planes Videos Land Weekly on Disney.com for "Takeoff Tuesdays" Series!

Starting today, Disney.com is celebrating “Takeoff Tuesdays” featuring exclusive digital shorts inspired by Disney’s upcoming animated film, Planes.  Before Disney’s Planes soars into theaters in 3D on August 9, head to Disney.com for weekly racer profiles featuring the stars of the film including Dusty, El Chupacabra and more.  

In the first video, get to know the charming caped Casanova himself, El Chupacabra. As a racing legend in Mexico, El Chu is known for his passion for racing and his dramatic flair. Visit Disney.com every Tuesday for more video profiles featuring all-new characters.

“Disney’s Planes” is an action-packed 3D animated comedy adventure featuring Dusty (voice of Dane Cook), a plane with dreams of competing as a high-flying air racer. But Dusty’s not exactly built for racing—and he happens to be afraid of heights. So he turns to a seasoned naval aviator who helps Dusty qualify to take on the defending champ of the race circuit. Dusty’s courage is put to the ultimate test as he aims to reach heights he never dreamed possible, giving a spellbound world the inspiration to soar. 

“Disney’s Planes” takes off in theaters on Aug. 9, 2013. For more information, check out Disney.com/Planes, like us on Facebook: facebook.com/DisneyPlanes and follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/DisneyPictures.

Disney Consumer Products announces line up for D23 Expo!

Disney’s Ultimate Fans to Enjoy Access to Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Content and Merchandise

Glendale, Calif. – July 9, 2013 — Disney Consumer Products (DCP) will give Disney’s most loyal fans an up close look at an extensive collection of interactive experiences and merchandise that celebrate Disney, Marvel and Star Wars timeless characters during the bi-annual D23 Expo, the ultimate Disney fan event. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center from Aug. 9-11, 2013, Disney fans will have the chance to follow their favorite products from “sketch to shelf” and learn how Disney Consumer Products extends storytelling from character and content extension to product development through featured discussions, art and sculptures and final product displays.

While at the D23 Expo fans will also be able to immerse themselves in exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, special signing opportunities and exclusive product offerings at the Disney Consumer Products Pavilion.

Disney Consumer Products’ exciting lineup of events and attractions includes:

Celebrating Disney, Marvel and Star Wars

• Disney Junior Fun Spot – Get a sneak peek of brand-new toys before they hit store shelves this fall and enjoy special giveaways while supplies last. 

• Disney Princess Ariel-Themed Sephora Pop-up Shop – Sephora Pro artists and manicurists will give attendees the royal treatment with products from the Disney Ariel Collection by Sephora. The collection will be available for purchase along with an exclusive-to-D23 Expo-only Swarovski crystal-encrusted Ariel compact mirror. Attendees will receive starfish hair clips with every complimentary beauty service each day, while supplies last. 

• The Mystical World of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen – See feature animation art concepts, storyboards, unreleased film clips, and products from the mystical world of Frozen, the daring comedy-adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios releasing in November 2013. 

• Steamboat Willie Redux – Celebrate the history and timelessness of the most cherished Disney character through this graphically re-interpreted mash-up of the pioneering 1928 cartoon short, Steamboat Willie. 

·         Spider-Man’s Ultimate Innovation – Come check out products on the cutting edge of product innovation and design featuring one of the most popular Super Heroes in the world, Spider-Man, in Marvel’s first-ever appearance in the DCP showcase at the D23 Expo.

• Star Wars at D23 Expo! – For the first time at the D23 Expo Star Wars fans can have access to experiences created for them by Lucasfilm and Disney. Darth Vader: The Evolution of a Villain, located in the DCP pavilion, showcases the development of the iconic villain from early concepts to striking realization. Crash Course in the Force: Star Wars Saga 101, presented by Lucasfilm’s resident authority Pablo Hidalgo in Stage 23, will give Star Wars newbies and experts alike a thorough grounding in all matters of the Force and the Star Wars legacy. 

Fans will have the opportunity to participate in other immersive experiences, including: Find Your Voice with The Little Mermaid, a karaoke experience celebrating the music from the film; Journey through the Art of Tink, a gallery where Disney artists, designers, illustrators, and animators from around the world have re-imagined our magical, sassy and feisty fairy, Tinker Bell; What Makes a Puppet a Muppet?, which will help fans learn what it takes to create a Muppets “plush” and then create your own; Take a Ride with Disney•Pixar’s World of Cars and Disney’s Planes, which explains how the highly collectible diecast vehicles are made; Assembling The Avengers Franchise, an exclusive tour through the history of The Avengers and the chance to see the latest The Avengers products;  and I heart Mickey & Minnie, a rarely seen collection of beloved Mickey Mouse toys, apparel, and accessories from past decades, along with a showcase of Minnie Mouse-inspired fashions from around the globe.

Disney Store

D23 Members attending the Expo are invited to attend the Disney Store signature store opening ceremony to “Unlock Imagination”, each morning at 9 a.m. at the Convention Center, when the D23 Expo floor opens for members. The 1,800-square-foot Disney Store retail space will be packed with the latest D23 Expo merchandise created by Disney Store and will feature guest artist signings. In addition, guests will find an array of products not yet available to the public, including a Disney∙Pixar capsule collection, which will bring together multiple characters from Disney∙Pixar’s cherished portfolio of films for the first time ever.

Presentations from Disney Store on the Disney Consumer Products Workshop Stage include:

• Disney Fairytale Designer Collection – Guest artist signing with Gerald Mendez and Jessica Fuchs (Friday, Aug. 9 – 10:15-11:15 a.m.) 

• The Art of Ariel – Special guest artist signing with Gerald Mendez, Enrique Pita, Quincy Sutton, and Steve Thompson (Saturday, Aug. 10 – 10:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m.) 

• Artist Series Two  – On Sunday, Disney Store will launch Artist Series Two, a collection of merchandise with artwork created by Disney Store artists and will host a guest artist signing on stage with Robert Farrell, John T. Quinn III, Jeff Shelly, and Becky Wong (Saturday, Aug. 10 – 2 p.m.-3 p.m.) 

Disney Publishing
Disney Publishing will take fans into the world of books, apps and everything in between by showcasing how artists, storytelling and innovative content combined creates stories full of magic and adventure. Guests can participate in live readings with Fairy Godmother on Friday, watch artists behind popular Disney stories sketch live on Saturday and get their hair styled like a Disney Princess by Sephora on Sunday with the help of the Disney Princess Royal Salon app. New books and never-before-seen lithographs featuring Peter Pan, Mickey Mouse and Sleeping Beauty will be available for sale inside the booth.

Disney Publishing’s Stage 28 presentations and signings include:

• Ridley Pearson and The Kingdom Keepers Insider App Quest – New York Times best-selling author Ridley Pearson embarks on a journey to write the seventh and final book in the Kingdom Keepers series—only this time, his readers are helping him write it! Join the author as he reveals how deception and betrayal rock the Kingdom Keepers’ world as the merciless group of Overtakers (Disney villains) stage an unexpected comeback (Presentation: Friday, Aug. 9 – 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Signing: 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m., Talent Round Up). 

• Dave Bossert Remembers Roy E. Disney with special guest Roy P. Disney – Dave Bossert and Roy P. Disney will share stories, drawings and candid photos found in Bossert’s new book Remembering Roy E. Disney: Memories and Photos of a Storied Life (Presentation: Friday, Aug. 9 – 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Signing: 2:45 – 3:45, The Dream Store). 

• Disney Imagineering Legend Marty Sklar Presents…Dream It! Do It!: My Half-Century Creating Disney’s Magic Kingdoms – Disney Legend Marty Sklar will take guests through a presentation based on his new memoir—one that recounts his epic Disney adventure, including working as Walt's literary right-hand man for the Disney Parks, writing a film expressing Walt's philosophy for the Walt Disney World project and Epcot and opening nine of the 11 Disney parks around the world  (Presentation: Friday, Aug. 9 – 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Signing: 4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Talent Round Up).
  

Tickets and pricing information for D23 Expo 2013 are available at D23Expo.com Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on admission, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests. More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events, and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting D23Expo.com or by following "DisneyD23" on Twitter and Facebook.