D23 Expo: Stagepass

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Each expo, D23 adds a number of new options. This year, D23 will be introducing "Stagepass." By having a Stagepass, it guarantees you a spot in Stage 23 or 28, where presentations are held. This will not be offered for the D23 Arena, the main presentation holder. Stagepass requires no extra fee, but is very limited. For more information, visit www.d23.com/d23-expo-stage-pass-fast-pass

 

As more information is announced for the D23 Expo, we will keep updating you.

D23 Expo: 60 Years at WDI

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Because of the 60th year of Walt Disney Imagineering, the D23 Expo will hold a number of presentations, along with a pavilion. D23 is calling it an "open house," as it covers all three days. A pavilion will be set up, where guests can get up close and personal with inventions. Plus, they get to meet designers and builders. Besides the pavilion, the presentations will allow guests to learn more about the WDI history and what it involves.

D23 has already released a number of presentations: Please note this was copied directly from D23.

"The Art and Artistry of Aulani – Imagineers Joe Rohde and Jeanette Lomboy will share the authentic tapestry of art and stories found at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa.

Mayhem, Mischief, and Monkeys: The Magic of Mystic Manor – Join Imagineers Joe Lanzisero and others for the strange stories behind Hong Kong Disneyland’s Mystic Manor, the newest and one of the most sophisticated attractions ever built.

Undiscovered Disneyland – Legendary Imagineer Tony Baxter shares rare and never-before-seen footage of the early days of Disneyland, from design and construction through opening day.

Broadcasts from Buena Vista Street – Enjoy the latest ‘soundtrack’ from Disney California Adventure’s Buena Vista Street, featuring a live performance of Scary Symphony from radio station KBVS and a panel discussion led by Imagineers.

Disney Ambassadors – Join current Disney Parks Ambassadors from around the world as they discuss this renowned program and share insights about its rich heritage, current outreach efforts, and the importance of sharing Disney goodwill.

Voices of the Disney Parks – Back by popular demand, this panel of famous Disney voices will gather for an encore panel discussion, including recreations of some unforgettable Disney Parks sayings.

Charles Phoenix Presents – Noted humorist and self-proclaimed “retro daddy” Charles Phoenix shares some of his favorite images from around Disney, featuring classic kitsch, clashing colors schemes, and hairdos that truly defy gravity."

 

As more is announced about the expo, we will keep updating you!

Halloween Horror Nights: "The Cabin in the Woods"

By D.Z, "Theme Park Specialist"

Every year, Halloween Horror Nights is filled with different themed shows and mazes. The event takes place at both Universal Studios Hollywood and Florida. One of the mazes was just announced. Based on the film, "The Cabin in the Woods" will be a maze, only for Universal Orlando. Construction for the maze will be starting in the next few weeks, debuting in September. More mazes and information will be announced in the coming weeks. Last year featured Alice Cooper Goes to Hell, Silent Hill and Walking Dead.

Skywire LIVE

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

In a little less than an hour at 5:00pt, Nik Wallenda will be walking via rope across the Grand Canyon. He will be walking 1,500 feet in the air without a harness. Below him is the Little Colorado River Gorge. Nik will be walking across 1,400 feet of rope. We can watch Nik Wallenda LIVE at http://skywire.discovery.com/live.html.

The Lone Ranger Premiere at DCA

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Yesterday was the world premiere for "The Lone Ranger." While the event was going on, we broadcasted live on ustream, talking about what was going on. We were not at the event, but through a number of sources, we had up to the minute information. Our broadcast included the sharing of tweets, polls and special guests.
 

Altogether, we recorded 7 clips. To see the rest, visit our YouTube page.

 

 

In the show, we showed a bunch of twitter tweets and pictures. We gave credit to all of them:

 

Credits: All the graphics and tweets were directly from these sources. We want to thank them for their posting.
(NO SPECIFIC ORDER)
Graphics:
• Disney Movie Studios ( Found on the American Indian Collage Fund site)/ Jerry Bruckheimer Films
• Mouse Wait
• DCA Today

Tweets (includes tweeted photos POSSIBLE RETWEET):
• Touring Plans
• DCA Today
• Chad Elliott
• The Lone Ranger
• DLNT
• Walt Disney Pictures
• CIA Spy Girl
• Nick & Disney Daily
• Stitch Kingdom
• Laughing Place.com
• Twiggystar
• Lana Parrilla Fans

 

 

 

 

Just like us, Disney also held a broadcast, put on by Time Warner Cable.
 

"Transformers: The Ride" Opens at Universal Orlando

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Yesterday was the official opening date for "Transformers: The Ride 3D" at Universal Orlando. A ceremony was held in honor of the ride. The event included a group of great minds from the film industry. This includes directors like Steven Spielberg and voice actors like Peter Cullen. We turned to Inside the Magic to bring you the opening ceremony!
 

D23 Expo Schedule!

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

The D23 Expo has just released this years schedule!

As the event gets closer, D23 will be releasing more events and presentations!

Please note this schedule was copied directly from https://d23.com/d23-expo/schedule/, with the descriptions and venues taken out.

Friday

TIME	EVENT/PRESENTATION
10:00 a.m.	Cast of Phineas and Ferb
11:30 a.m.	Cast of Marvel Universe
1:00 p.m.	Cast of Crash & Bernstein
2:30 p.m.	Cast of Gravity Falls
3:30 p.m.	Cast of Lab Rats
4:30 p.m.	Cast of A.N.T. Farm
6:00 p.m.	Cast of Shake It Up
6:30 p.m	Broadway and Beyond Saturday TIME EVENT/PRESENTATION   TBD Richard M. Sherman and Alan Menken: The Disney Songbook   10:00 a.m. Cast of Dog With A Blog   12:30 p.m. Cast of Kickin’ It   1:30 p.m. Cast of Jessie   2:30 p.m. Cast of Good Luck Charlie   4:30 p.m. R5 Performance   5:00 p.m. Cast of Teen Beach Movie   Sunday TIME EVENT/PRESENTATION   10:00 a.m. Character Meet and Greet   12:00 p.m. Cast of Sofia the First   1:00 p.m. New Mickey Mouse Shorts Screening   2:30 p.m. Cast of Wander Over Yonder

San Diego County Fair 2013: Trip Report

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

On Sunday, June 16, I was able to visit the San Diego County Fair. This annual event takes place at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Last year was my first time visiting. This years theme was "Game On!"

When I first walked in, I saw Rock-It Robot! He was meeting and greeting with guests.

 

Most of the attractions and vendors are in the same spot each year. Last year, my main priority was to go on the rides, while this year was to enjoy the booths and food.
 

A lot of people visit the fair to eat. I was able to eat some of a 3 pound turkey leg, wrapped with 1 pound of bacon. It was delicious, except my tummy wasn't too happy after!

 

I was also able to check out some of the booths and exhibits. Lots of businesses were at the event, promoting themselves. Some of the inside sellers even put on presentations. I also had the opportunity to visit a large exhibit hall. In the hall was hundreds of student drawings, photos, videos and inventions. It was so cool to see what kids create, take and paint.

 

I had a great time at the fair. Be sure to check out our YouTube channel for videos of the event.

The Lone Ranger Movie Premiere LIVE Broadcast

On Saturday, June 22, The Lone Ranger movie will be premiering at Disney's California Adventures. Because of this, we will be broadcasting LIVE on Ustream, as the event is going on. We will be updating viewers on what is happening, bring in... special guests, share the stars tweets and much more. The show will start sometime in the evening. Stay with us for more information as we get closer to the broadcast! http://www.ustream.tv/channel/c-films

 

"World of Chima" Ride Christening

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Yesterday, LEGOLAND Florida held a small ceremony, as they christened it's new watercraft vehicle for the new attraction "Quest for CHI." This is a water attraction, the main feature of "World of Chima," an all new land opening July 3rd. To christen the ride, they had the help of LEGOLAND's child ambassadors. These six children were picked in the Buddy's Brick Bunch contest. The kids will serve as kid reporters and ambassadors throughout year. Along with the christening, the kids were given a construction tour of the all new land. They even helped painting and spraying concrete, with the help of construction employees and contractors. "World of Chima" opens July 3rd at LEGOLAND Florida. 

 

Join the Party!!

By Beemerboyz803

      In November 2009, a legacy of dance games was born, when Ubisoft released a sturdy, bare minimum Just Dance, where animated avatars led dancers to follow their movements while trying to score points. Four years later, the series evolved into a new generation, with the release of Just Dance 2014 on October 8, 2013. The game will feature songs such as "Gentlemen" by PSY, "Starships" by Nicki Minaj, and the Ghostbusters theme song. 

      Even though old things from previous Just Dances will be kept, new things have been unleashed. Worldwide, join the party of 45 million players worldwide, just by grabbing a controller and Just Dancing when it comes out October 8!

New Additions:
- Six player songs

- Dance DJ Mode, Puppet Master Mode, Party Mode, Karaoke Mode, Stage Mode and World Dance Stage Mode 

- Medleys will be brought back!

Bonjour From The Smurfs!

By "Beemerboyz803"

      The Smurfs are back! "The Smurfs", a family comedy film released in 2011, is releasing its sequel, "Smurfs 2", will be released on July 31, 2013. 

      In the movie, Gargamel and his cat, Azrael, creates two Smurf-like creatures (titled Naughties) named Hackus  and Vexy. Gargamel creates Hackus and Vexy to capture the Smurf magical essence. Then, Gargamel realizes only a real Smurf can give him what he wants. He then finds out that Smurfette, the only female Smurf, is the only one that can transform his Naughties into actual Smurfs. As a result, Gargamel and Azrael kidnap Smurfette and take her to Paris, France, where the Naughties teach her to become one of them. In Paris, with the help of the magical Smurf essence, Gargamel plans to use the Eiffel Tower as a power-creating antennae to finally return home. Meanwhile, Papa Smurf, Brainy, Gutsy, Clumsy, Grouchy, and Vanity Smurf visit Patrick and Grace Winslow, their old friends, to try and help them find Smurfette. 

"Smurfs 2" is dedicated to Jonathan Winters, the actor who portrays Papa Smurf. He died of natural causes before the movie's release on April 11, 2013. 

Falcon's Fury Announced for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

By "Beemerboyz803"
     Would you like to  fly like a falcon? Well, Busch Gardens Tampa recently announced their new attraction for 2014, entitled "Falcon's Fury", which is said to be the world's best drop tower. Riders will be lifted 335 feet into the air, and after several seconds of spinning, the rider's seats lean downwards and face the ground at 90 degrees. Then, the  vehicle plummets at 60mph.
      The attraction, formerly known as "Desert Dive", will replace the park's Sandstorm attraction. It is planned to open in Spring and will be located in the Timbuktu area in the park. It is sure going to be a hit in Tampa! Get ready to fly like a falcon in Spring 2014!!!

Resources: Theme Park Review, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Photo Courtesy: Bush Gardens Tampa Bay

Knott's Berry Farm Review

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Looking for a thrill? Knott's Berry Farm is jam packed with fast and thrilling roller coasters. Knott's is America's 1st theme park. Just minutes away from the Disneyland Resort, the park has some of the highest and fastest coasters. For kids, you can visit Camp Snoopy, a themed land with many child-friendly activities. Knott's Berry Farm opened in 1940, and has introduced many top of the line attractions. Besides roller coasters, the park has many different shows. Knott's Berry Farm is a great place to visit, and will always be.

"Full Throttle" Opening at Six Flags Magic Mountain

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

The tallest roller coaster is about to open. On June 22, Six Flags Magic Mountain will be opening up "Full Throttle," an all new attraction putting guests through the "top hat." This roller coaster is one of a kind, and only at Six Flags.

Fun Facts:
-The attraction has a world record 160 foot loop.
-"Full Throttle" has a dual launch.
-The ride at top speed is 70 miles-per-hour.

"Phineas and Ferb: Mision Marvel" at D23 Expo

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

 Marvel is on its way to the D23 Expo. Marvel will be incorporated with the Disney Channel Pavilion. This includes meet and greets with both Iron and Spider Man, along with Disney Channel fan favorites, all at the same time. This is all for promoting the "Phineas and Ferb" special, where Marvel meets Disney Channel.

"Broadway and Beyond" at the D23 Expo

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

A few days ago, D23 announced a special presentation for the expo. "Broadway and Beyond," an all-new presentation, set to be held on August 9th at 6:30 PM. It will be inside Stage 23. This performance will include a group of Broadway professionals, singing well known songs.

Sources: D23

LEGO Star Wars Starfighter Arrives at Legoland

 

Photo by LEGOLAND California.

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Starting today, guests at Legoland California can check out a replica of the Star Wars X-wing starfighter. This whole piece is made out of 5 million LEGO bricks. It's the largest LEGO model in the world.

Fun Facts:

"Contains 5,335,200 LEGO bricks

Weighs 45,980 pounds

Height: 11 feet / 3.35 meters

Length: 43 feet / 13.1 meters

Wingspan: 44 feet / 13.44 meters

32 builders spent 17,336 hours to construct – about 4 months

Built in the LEGO Model Shop in Kladno, Czech Republic

Is a one-to-one replica of LEGO Star Wars set #9493; The model is 42 times the size of the retail building set"

This is all apart of Star Wars Weekends, running June 15 and 16.

Resources: Legoland California Press

Super Silly Fun Land is Coming to Universal Studios Hollywood

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Announced yesterday via facebook, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem will open up along with Super Silly Fun Land. Super Silly Fun Land is a zone allowing kids to get wet, go on slides, and much more. If you haven't seen the movie lately, Super Silly Fun Land might not be familiar to you.

In the movie, Super Silly Fun Land is a themed pier. (Reminds me of Santa Monica Pier.) Below is a small clip from the movie!

 

 

Super Silly Fun Land and Minion Mayhem opens Spring 2014!

Shows at Knott's Berry Farm

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

While I was at Knott's Berry Farm, I was able to experience two great shows.
 

 

The Wild West Stunt Show: The stunt show located just steps from the park entrance. The show consists, special effects, well constructed sets, amazing actors and of course, stunts. The show runs about 15 minutes, and does not have much of a storyline. That's ok because you are laughing so hard. The show contains a lot of comedy between the performers. The stunts are very fun to watch, as you are always at the edge of your seat. This is a must see show.

 

Mystery Lodge: Do you like wonder and imagination? If so, Mystery Lodge is a must see for you. This show is located "Wild Water Wilderness" section of the park. The show begins in a small pre-show room. After the pre-show, you transferred into a large theater. The show is a mixture of special effects and storytelling.

 

 

Boardwalk Expansion at Knott's Berry Farm: Trip Report & Review

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Last Sunday, I was able to visit Knott's Berry Farm. A few days before, the park opened up three new attractions. These rides are designed for the whole family to enjoy. The attractions are located in the back of the park, close to Calico Square.

 

The first attraction is Pacific Scrambler. This ride twists and turns guests around for a few minutes. In the beginning, it feels very smooth. As the ride warms up, you start getting thrown around in all sorts of directions.

Another fun ride is Surfslide Gliders. This attraction allows guests to control their own vehicle.

 

The major attraction of this expansion is Coast Rider. Covering a large amount of space, this ride takes guests on a 52 foot drop. Coast Rider is good for kids who have not yet experienced a "real" coaster. If you are not a child, it is still a lot of fun.

 

 

The boardwalk is surrounded by water. The landscape and format of the boardwalk has been done really well. The new area fits perfect to it's surroundings. I had a great time experiencing the new boardwalk, and hope you can too this summer.

Aquatica San Diego is NOW OPEN!

By D.Z. "Theme Park Specialist"

Last week was the official opening day for Aquatica San Diego. Aquatica is a water park ownered and operated by Sea World. Before Aquatica San Diego, there was Knott's Soak City. Then Sea World purchased the property in order to build California's first Aquatica.