Cast Members can get 50% off of their merchandise purchases on shopDisney through February 26 and in the parks through March 7. Cast Members typically get 40% off during the holiday season.
Cast Members must present a company ID at the time of purchase. The discount can also be used through Mobile Checkout, where available.
If you are a Cast Member, what do you think about this discount?
Former Disney Cast Member Suing Over Disability Accommodations
A former Disney Cast Member is suing the company over disability accommodations. Morgan Schoepfer says she lost her dream job at World of Disney in Disney Springs because the Disney company failed to accommodate her disabilities.
According to the lawsuit, “Working at Disney was a dream for Plaintiff until she found herself in the most hostile work environment she had ever experienced.” Schoepfer alleges Disney did not accommodate her disabilities and then retaliated against her when she complained last year. First, her hours were cut and then she was fired on November 30.
Schoepfer had been diagnosed with multiple health issues including cerebral palsy, Crohn’s disease, Gastroparesis and Colonic Dysmotility. The latter caused her to use the bathroom frequently.
Problems arose when Schoepfer requested special accommodations to sit in a chair and rest every 30 minutes, access to the bathrooms, not lifting anything above 10 pounds, and not handling open food or cleaning the bathroom. The lawsuit says Disney failed to accommodate Schoepfer as required under federal law.
Schoepfer ended up working on the sales floor with no access to a chair and was required to carry boxes in the stock room. In September she got dizzy from standing too long, collapsed and then had a seizure that landed her in the hospital.
“We intend to prove that Disney subjected Ms. Schoepfer to an abusive environment because of her disabilities,” her attorney, Brett Kaplan, said in a statement. “We commend Ms. Schoepfer — a disability advocate in her own right — for coming forward and sharing her experience. We look forward to presenting our client’s claims in court, and ultimately, holding the Defendant accountable.”
Interactive Pandora Drums Refurbished in Pandora World of Avatar. Sometimes we notice big things being fixed or refurbished around Walt Disney World, other times it is the small things that escape us. Such is the case with the new drum pads in Pandora.
A few weeks ago Disney Cast Members began a small refurbishment to the Drum Circle in the Avatar land in Diney’s Animal Kingdom. Now it looks like they have finished the job and replaced all the skins on the drums and they are brand new looking. Over time they had faded to a grey color, and now they are fresh and orange again.
If only they worked every day. Actually, never mind, the drum sounds are a bit annoying when just pounded on relentlessly with no rhythm. That is unless it is a small kid banging on them, then it is cute.
Walkabout through the Valley of Mo’ara and get ready to discover a world like no other!
There’s more to Pandora than expeditions like Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey… much more! All around its enormous floating mountains, you’ll quickly uncover the valley’s one-of-a-kind dining and shopping experiences—along with sights, sounds, and experiences that include:
Exotic plants that come to life with beautiful bioluminescence each night
A Na’vi-built drum circle, containing instruments playable by all
Na’vi totems and other cultural items found throughout the land
You may even come across tour guides from Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE), scientists from the Pandora Conservation Initiative (PCI), or even an eclectic ex-pat or two!
Win an Adventures by Disney Vacation from ShopDisney
ShopDisney is giving away an Adventures by Disney vacation! In celebration of Disney100, shopDisney is bringing you even more magic than ever before. Enter The Wonder of Encanto shopDisney Sweepstakes for a chance to win an exciting family vacation with Adventures by Disney® along with shopDisney must-haves from the world of Encanto.
Adventures by Disney, a leader in guided group family travel, brings Disney storytelling into the real world and allows guests to experience the most important story of all – their own! Guests will create cherished family memories and meet new friends on authentic, hassle-free adventures made possible by Disney.
Prize:
One (1) Adventures by Disney trip for up to four (4) persons*
Round trip air transportation for up to four (4) persons*
One (1) Encanto Deluxe Figure Play Set
One (1) Magical Casa Madrigal Play Set – Encanto
One (1) Mirabel’s Musical Accordion – Encanto
One (1) Isabela Hair Play Doll – Encanto
Enter the sweepstakes between now and March 16, 2023. You can enter the sweepstakes here.
If you are interested in booking an Adventures by Disney vacation, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Falls a Little Short
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania promised audiences an action-packed superhero film with a mix of humor, heart, and visual spectacle. Directed by Peyton Reed, this is the third film in the Ant-Man trilogy and picks up following the events of Avengers Endgame. The film takes us on another wild ride with Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) as he teams up with Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly), Janet van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer), Hank Pym, (Michael Douglas) and newcomer Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton.)
While this is the third installment of the Ant-Man franchise, it feels less like an Ant-Man film and more like a generic superhero entry into the MCU. Quantumania kicks off Phase 5 of the MCU, introducing us to the big bad of the next phase, Kang the Conqueror played by Jonathan Majors.
None of the charm of the previous films was to be found in the latest installment, but more important the cast of Ant-Man have become so wholly unimportant in the latest film. Fan favorites that defined “Ant-Man” like Luis were not present in the latest installment, and many of the gags that have come to define these “heist films” gave way to the organic hemisphere of the Quantum Realm.
We abandon San Franciso for the Quantum Realm in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
The writers room at Disney/Marvel must be hurting for original ideas, because this film had the look and feel of Disney’s Strange World from November. I’m honestly shocked that Disney would knowingly release this film only months after the concept was done by Walt Disney Animation. I found the films so alike, that Quantumania’s exotic locale didn’t impress but felt stale, given that I saw it only months ago when the Clade family traversed it. We even get a character that is almost identical to “spot” from Strange World.
The film excels in its introduction of Kang played by the impressive Jonathan Majors. This is the second variant of Kang, the first one introduced in Disney+ Loki Series as “He Who Remains.” Majors was easily the most interesting and dynamic part of the film. Majors and Rudd play off each other brilliantly, with Rudd’s care free attitude and natural wit perfectly foiling Majors sobering quest for order.
Michael Douglas returns as Hank Pym, the inventor of the Ant-Man suit, and Michelle Pfeiffer delivers a strong performance as the secretive Janet van Dyne. Douglas steals his scenes with perfect comedic timing, but took a back seat this time around.
Kathryn Newton is clearly being set up to be the future of the franchise, and we can only hope that she is given more interesting things to do than she was offered in this film. Cassie has grown up considerably from the girl who was held hostage by the Wasp, but audience members may fail to care about her this time around because Rudd is still the star of the Ant-Man films. Newton’s talents were wasted mugging for the camera and running around the Quantum realm with few stakes.
The film’s action sequences are somewhat rote, repetitively using the characters’ unique abilities and powers. The shrinking and growing effects are executed ad nauseam, making us feel like we’ve seen this all before. The surprise villain in the film, MODOK is sure to upset diehard fans and purists, since the writers and directors took great liberty with the design and execution of the fan-favorite character. There is a redemptive moment so stupid in its resolution that audience members can barely take any of it seriously anymore.
One of the standout aspects of the film is its sense of humor, with witty one-liners and comedic set pieces peppered throughout the story. The film doesn’t take itself too seriously, so it’s hard for the audience to take this latest entry seriously, especially given the weight ascribed to it as the flagship film of Phase 5.
Overall, “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” is a middle of the pack superhero film that delivers familiar Marvel Action. It’s yet one more addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and mediocre follow-up to the original Ant-Man films. If you’re looking for a film that combines humor, heart, and action in equal measure, we suggest you skip Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and check out Strange World on Disney+. (3 out of 5 Stars)
According to CBS in Los Angeles, a woman died after falling from a Disneyland parking garage yesterday evening. This is the 2nd death at the Disneyland Parking Garages in the past couple of months…
Anaheim Police Department, officers were called to the scene at around 6:50 p.m. after receiving reports of a person falling from the Mickey and Friends Parking Structure.
Upon arrival the Anaheim Police found a woman lying on the ground. She received treatment on the scene before being rushed to a nearby hospital where she was later pronounced dead.
No information was shared on the woman at this time and the circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation.
Warning: This article contains spoilers from The Masked Singer season 9 premiere.
The Masked Singer returned to FOX for its 9th season on Wednesday and showcased what FOX is calling “the most legendary, decorated and beloved unmasking in history.” The Masked Singer is a popular reality TV show where celebrities perform on stage while wearing elaborate costumes and masks to conceal their identities.
Each week, the contestants sing and dance, and a panel of judges, along with the audience, try to guess who the performers are. At the end of the episode, the lowest-scoring contestant is unmasked and revealed to the audience. The show has gained widespread popularity due to its unique format, celebrity appeal, and the excitement of guessing who is behind the mask. The Masked Singer has now been adapted in multiple countries and has become a cultural phenomenon around the world.
After performing Billy Holiday’s “When You’re Smiling,” the masked character “Gnome” was the first character from season 9 to get the axe. After the unmasking, we learned that Gnome was, in fact, Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke. This revelation sent the judges panel of Robin Thicke, Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy, and Nicole Scherzinger into a fit. Scherzinger began to sob when it was revealed that Van Dyke had been eliminated.
The 97-year-old Oscar winner was the most decorated participant in the history of The Masked Singer. Van Dyke is the Disney Legend from Mary Poppins and the Dick Van Dyke Show. Scherzinger “tried to play it cool” but was emotionally overwhelmed by being in the presence of the Disney icon. Van Dyke sat with Entertainment Weekly to discuss his time on the hit reality show.
You can read the full interview here, but our favorite question came when EW asked about Van Dyke being an Oscar away from EGOT status. EW: As pointed out on the show, you are a Grammy, Tony, and Emmy winner. That’s one shy of EGOT status. How are we going to get you that Oscar? Van Dyke: Oh, I don’t know. [Laughs] When Julie Andrews got the Oscar, the Mary Poppins crew made me an award made out of nuts and bolts, and it’s one of a kind, and I’m very proud of it.
Here’s to hoping the Academy can bestow an honorary Oscar on the Hollywood legend in the near future. What did you think of Disney Legend Van Dyke’s performance on The Masked Singer? Let us know your thoughts in a comment.
Disney News Round-Up: Wheelchair Mannequin added to World of Disney, Topiaries in EPCOT, Mickey Baseball Jersey, The Marvels Pushed Back again. All your Disney news in one spot from February 18th, 2023.
Belle Returns to Enchanted Tales in the Magic Kingdom and we got a Sneak Preview. Not only did we get into the Cast Member preview, but we also got to be part of the story. Playing Mrs. Potts, and Chip seemed appropriate for us, to be quite honest. We got to hop around, pour some tea, and then finally interact and meet Belle herself.
Beauty and the Beast is one of the essential movies to the resurgence of Disney in the 80s. Many princesses and princes alike remember the animated movie fondly, and now with kids and grandkids of their own, reliving the classic only seems fitting. We want to share our love of the characters, and mostly the story. At Enchanted Tales with Belle, that is exactly what you can do, share your love of the classic tale.
You enter Maurice’s cabin in Disney’s Magic Kingdom and are transported to Beasts Castle. Where you see the story come to life. You can choose to be a part of the story yourself and play one of the characters. (Pro-Tip – if you want some close-up, one on one time, where Belle will actually greet you by name, when the attendant is looking for characters, ask to be one, and join in on the fun)
The story of Beauty and the Beast comes alive at this not-your-average Meet and Greet. Let’s take an image tour through the experience that returns today February 19th, 2023.
We want to thank the Cast Members for making this a remarkable experience, and also for inviting us. This was an extra for Cast members and their families who were part of the Tron Lightcycle/ Run Preview yesterday between 11 am-3 pm.
A Tale as Old as Time
Step into Belle and Maurice’s quaint country cottage and marvel at the charming decor. Next, tour Maurice’s workshop, where you’ll see his inventive gadgets—and a special enchanted mirror the Beast gave to Belle. Say the magic words and the mirror comes to life!
Watch the story of how Belle and the Beast met, and then behold the walls disappear before your eyes as you are magically transported to the Beast’s castle.
Meet the Enchanted Wardrobe, who will help selected participants prepare for their role. Which of you will play the Beast? Guests of all ages may volunteer!
Meet the Beautiful Belle
Take your places inside the Beast’s splendid library, where Lumière the talking candlestick directs the action. When Belle appears, you’ll get a chance to play your part in her fairytale story—or just cheer along as you observe the fun!
Exciting Star Wars Movie Details Coming to Star Wars Celebration. Star Wars Celebration is the ultimate fan experience focused on the galaxy far, far away… This year it will be held at ExCeL London, Friday through Monday, April 7-10, 2023. ExCeL London is located at Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL, United Kingdom. Fans are getting excited and word is spreading that we may finally hear big news this year.
The Hollywood Reporter recently reported on Marvel and Star Wars’ future and gave us this tidbit of information “After being absent from the big screen since 2019 and having had false starts with Patty Jenkins’ Rogue Squadron, which may never materialize, Disney has ramped up its efforts to return the franchise to theaters. Damon Lindelof led a writers’ room in July to hash out a story for a feature, and Taika Waititi is still developing his own take on the franchise. Disney is expected to unveil film plans at Star Wars Celebration, set for April in London.
Our newest Star Wars, by the time Star Wars Celebration happens, will be the recent release of The Mandolorian season on Disney +, which premiers March 1st, 2023.
On top of season three of Mandalorian, shows expected to hit the streaming service this year include Ahsoka, starring Rosario Dawson, and the Jon Watts-produced Skeleton Crew. “Lucasfilm may ramp up, but it will have to abide by the same fiscal discipline as the rest of the company,” says the insider.
Gameloft, a leader in the creation and publishing of games, announced the release of Disney Dreamlight Valley’s next free major content update, “A Festival of Friendship.” In honor of the 100 year anniversary of Disney, the Wonder of Encanto, and the magical memories and friendships Disney has provided fans throughout the years. The update also features a few special additions to thank and celebrate fans during this momentous moment, including the launch of the brand-new Disney Centennial Star Path and the arrival of another Village newcomer, Mirabel from Disney’s Encanto. Players are also invited to solve the frigid mysteries of the Frosted Heights and befriend Village newcomer, Olaf.
“A Festival of Friendship” sheds light on the mysteries of the Frosted Heights, a Dreamlight Valley Biome that’s constantly engulfed by a puzzling and terrible blizzard. Only one magical friend can help make sense of this snowy secret—Olaf! Everyone’s favorite lover of warm hugs is at the center of the mystery, and by helping him, players will discover more not only about the Frosted Heights, but also about the Forgetting itself!
But Olaf isn’t the only new friend to meet and lend a hand to in the latest update. In collaboration with Disney100’s Wonder of Encanto, players can now welcome Mirabel and her iconic Mini-Casita to the Valley. Mirabel and her Mini-Casita are missing, magically whisked away from Dreamlight Valley to protect them from the Forgetting. Only by discovering the power of friendship can Mirabel and the Mini-Casita be restored and brought back to the Village.
For 100 years, Disney has tapped into the spirit of creativity and imagination to delight audiences of all ages around the world. It’s time to celebrate that legacy with the all-new Centennial Star Path! Spend time with your Disney friends in the game, take selfies, and mine gems to unlock all-new clothing and furniture items. The new Star Path also features new Dream Styles for both Mickey and Minnie.
This newest update also marks the launch of the Premium Shop, where players can exchange their Moonstones for cosmetic items. Go shopping for premium clothing or furniture, or even change the appearance of your House so it looks like a cottage or a palace.
“The introduction of fan favorites Mirabel and Olaf in ‘A Festival of Friendship’ will give players the chance to not only make friends with these very iconic Disney characters, but also dive deeper into how friendship and identity are at the core of their unique story arcs,” says Nicholas Mainville, Game Director. “The launch of the all-new Disney Centennial Star Path also brings a ton of unique and exclusive cosmetics into the game that will let fans celebrate this momentous occasion throughout 2023 and beyond.”
Disney Dreamlight Valley is available in Early Access with the purchase of a Founder’s Pack for Nintendo SwitchTM, PlayStation®5 (PS5TM), PlayStation®4 (PS4TM), Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One consoles, and for PC on Steam, Epic Games Store, and the Microsoft Store, and for Mac on the Mac App StoreSM.
