The Main Street Confectionery in the Magic Kingdom will be closing starting on March 29th for a long refurbishment.
According to the Disney World Website the Main Street Confectionery refurbishment will start and extend till tales May 22nd. Well that is as far out as the calendar would go.
No details have been shared by Disney as of yet but we are expecting the refurbishment to extend past May. We believe that this refurbishment is part of the Magic Kingdom getting ready for the 50th Anniversary in October like many of the other projects around Walt Disney World.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek Speaks Out on Kathleen Kennedy’s Future with Lucasfilm. Kathleen Kennedy has been under fire from Star Wars fans for years, with many calling for her firing for “ruining” the Star Wars franchise and Lucasfilm Ltd. since its acquisition by The Walt Disney Company for $4 Billion in 2012. This year, Kathleen’s contract with Lucasfilm is up, which led many fans to believe she may be leaving since a renewal had not been announced.
During the 2021 shareholder meeting, Disney CEO Bob Chapek spoke out on the calls for Kennedy’s firing, stating: “We look forward to having Kathy direct the activities of the entire Lucasfilm organization for many years to come.“
Lucasfilm has several major projects in the works, including films by directors such as Taika Waititi and Rian Johnson, as well as original series that will premiere exclusively on Disney+. Some upcoming titles include: Ahsoka, The Rangers of the New Republic, Andor, Rogue Squadron, The Mandalorian: Season 3, Obi-Wan Kenobi, The Book of Boba Fett, The Bad Batch, and more.
How do you feel about Bob Chapek’s comment? Do you think the studio is headed in the right direction? What shows and movies are you excited to see? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for all things Disney and Lucasfilm!
On the map your locations should automatically show up, if not type in your city or zip code. You can also search for other locations in the US and Canada.
Since the 2 Disney Stores close to me in NC weren’t closing I remembered that Disney Store in Pittsburgh was so I typed in Pittsburgh and sure enough, it shows that the Disney Store in South Hills Village would be closing.
It even tells you the date when the store is expected to close.
While only about 40 Disney Stores have been announced when the news broke last week Disney said they would be closing 60 stores total so we expect more announcements to be coming soon.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those Disney Cast Members who are being laid off.
Recently Chip and Co took a peek at construction area for a Tron Lightcycle Run construction update as the highly anticipated coaster in the Magic Kingdom is getting closer to completion! We can see the coaster itself really taking shape!
You can clearly see the track emerging, including all the dips and turns, particularly as it passes under the “curved wave” known as the Upload Conduit, shown in the image!
However, we are now seeing an American flag planted on the highest point of the attraction!
For those unfamiliar with TRON or the ride; the first TRON attraction debuted at Shanghai Disneyland when the park opened in 2016. The ride named “TRON Lightcycle Power Run” is a roller coaster adventure through a semi-enclosed structure in Tomorrowland, Shanghai Disneyland. However, it’s official name for the Magic Kingdom is Tron Lightcycle Run!
Featuring the iconic lightcycle vehicles shown in both of the TRON movies. This ride will take you on an exhilarating adventure, featuring highspeed turns and dips. The perfect attraction to commemorate Walt Disney World Resort’s 50th anniversary next year in 2021! Many fans are eager to see the new TRON ride and so are we! Stay tuned for more of the Tron Lightcycle Run Construction update at Chip and Co!
Disney+ Plans to Release 100+ New Titles Every Year. During the 2021 shareholders meeting, Disney CEO Bob Chapek shared that the popular streaming service, Disney+, plans to release 100+ new titles every year!
One struggle for many new streaming services is keeping subscribers after prolonged periods of streaming. This is combated by releasing exclusive and new content for said streaming service. Despite having years of content ready to go at the launch of Disney+, Disney wasted no time in releasing original content such as The Mandalorian, Encore!, The World According to Jeff Goldblum, and more to draw in new subs, but now the entertainment conglomerate will make sure there is always a reason to maintain a subscription.
Bob Chapek also shared that these new titles will come from their varying platforms such as Pixar, Lucasfilm, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, and National Geographic.
Several upcoming titles that have fans buzzing includes: Monsters at Work, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Big Shot, The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers, and more. In an impressive move, Disney+ has managed to surpass their 5-year goal of gaining 100+ Million paid subscribers less than 18-months after the launch of the streaming service, and it seems they have no plans to slow down their push for subs.
What new shows and movies are you excited to see on Disney+? Will you be keeping your Disney+ subscription long term? What are your favorite titles to stream? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things Disney+!
Most of us love accessorizing our electronics with Disney magic! Now with these new Cinderella Castle Headphone Cases, we can accessorize our AirPods and wireless earbuds too!
These cases come in two different size options, to accommodate different wireless headphones. The castle rises above a yellow horizon while fireworks also burst overhead.
Each case retails for $19.99, and can be found throughout retail locations in Walt Disney World! World of Disney is a great place to check in Disney Springs!
What do you think of these cute Cinderella Castle Headphone Cases? Do you hope they make more styles?
‘Powerpuff Girls‘ Series to Star Chloe Bennet, Dove Cameron, and Yana Perrault. The CW is developing a live-action series based on the Cartoon Network animated series, The Powerpuff Girls. Variety shared that the new series “[will follow] the titular superheroes [who] are now disillusioned twenty-somethings [that] resent having lost their childhood to crime fighting. Will they agree to reunite now that the world needs them more than ever?”
This week, The CW has announced actresses Chloe Bennet (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Dove Cameron (Liv and Maddie, Descendants), and Yana Perrault (Broadway/Musician) had been cast as the leading ladies for the series.
Chloe Bennet will portray Blossom Utonium, Dove Cameron has been cast as Bubbles Utonium, and Yana Perrault is making her TV debut as Buttercup Utonium. The series descriptions of the ex-superheroes reads:
“Though she was a spunky, conscientious, Little-Miss-Perfect child who holds several advanced degrees, Blossom’s repressed kiddie-superhero trauma has left her feeling anxious and reclusive, and she aims to become a leader again — this time on her own terms.”
“Bubbles’ sweet-girl disposition won America’s hearts as a child. She still sparkles as an adult, but her charming exterior belies an unexpected toughness and wit. She’s initially more interested in recapturing her fame than saving the world, but she just might surprise us and herself.”
“Buttercup was the rebellious badass of the Powerpuff Girls in its heyday. More sensitive than her tough exterior suggests, Buttercup has spent her adulthood trying to shed her Powerpuff Girl identity and live an anonymous life.”
Photo Credit: Warner Brothers. Courtesy Everett Collection.
The original animated series ran from 1998-2005 on Cartoon Network and revolved around the adventures of three kindergarten aged girls, Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup, whom were created by Professor Utonium using Chemical X. The girls feature an array of various superpowers. Together, the sisters fought crime for the city of Townsville, often at the beck and call of The Mayor of Townsville. The series was rebooted on Cartoon Network in 2016 and has run for 3 seasons.
Heather Regnier and Diablo Cody will act as writers and executive producers for the series. With Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, and David Madden as executive producers through Berlanti Productions. Warner Bros. Television will produce the series for CW. Currently, no casting decisions have been shared by The CW.
Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things entertainment!
It’s a tale as old as time. A bride wanting to feel like a princess on her wedding day, planning every last detail to honor the love between her and her prince. Walt Disney World is a popular place to get married, and there are a surprising number of venues to choose from on property. In the past couple of years, we’ve gained a venue that’s sure to please even the most provincial Belles among us. The Enchanted Rose at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is open for wedding events!
Funnily enough, Beauty and the Beast and Disney’s Fairytale Weddings & Honeymoons share an anniversary year. 30 years ago, in 1991, both Belle and Disney brides became a reality. So wouldn’t it be fitting for a Disney bride to choose this venue in this particular year?
The lounge consists of four separate spaces, each with its own “Beauty and the Beast” theme. The main bar’s chandelier is inspired by Belle’s golden ball gown, the library is inspired by classical baroque designs (not to mention that the library is Belle’s favorite!), the garden room is influenced by the enchanted forest surrounding the castle, and an outdoor patio emulates Beast’s garden terrace.
There are many ways these spaces could be utilized at your wedding. Big cocktail parties with all your guests, an intimate brunch with the wedding party, or even an elegant reception would be appropriate in this beautiful space. The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing a Disney wedding.
Are you having a Disney wedding soon? Would you use this venue? Tell us all about it in the comments! For more information about getting married at the Enchanted Rose Lounge, check here.
Recently we shared the news of how Disney was going to be shifting from brick and mortar stores to more online sales, which meant many Disney Stores in the US & Canada would be closing starting on March 23rd, 2021.
“While consumer behavior has shifted toward online shopping, the global pandemic has changed what consumers expect from a retailer,” said Stephanie Young, president, Consumer Products Games and Publishing.
“Over the past few years, we’ve been focused on meeting consumers where they are already spending their time, such as the expansion of Disney store shop-in-shops around the world. We now plan to create a more flexible, interconnected e-commerce experience that gives consumers easy access to unique, high-quality products across all our franchises.”
Disney will remain flexible in its approach and continue to evolve its retail strategy to best meet the needs of consumers when and where they want. Guests will continue to have access to Disney shopping experiences in 600+ Disney Parks stores, shop-in-shops, lifestyle and outlet locations, as well as third-party retailers around the world.
We were able to track down a partial list of Disney Store closures here in the US & Canada. While not quite at the magic number of 60 we expect more to be added to the list soon.
Arcadia – California Montclair – California Roseville – California San Diego – California (Fashion Valley Mall) Mission Viejo – California Montebello – California Salinas – California San Jose – California Santa Monica – California
Broomfield – Colorado
Miami – Florida (Aventura) Tampa – Florida
Chicago – Illinois (State Street) Rosemont – Illinois
Indianapolis, Indiana Merrillville, Indiana
Overland Park – Kansas
Baltimore – Maryland Hanover – Maryland St. Louis – Missouri
Freehold – New Jersey Riverhead – New York Staten Island – New York
North Olmsted – Ohio
Portland – Oregon
Pittsburgh – Pennsylvania Springfield – Pennsylvania
Knoxville – Tennessee
El Paso – Texas Houston – Texas (Memorial City) Houston – Texas (Willowbrook Mall) Laredo – Texas San Antonio – Texas (Ingram Park Mall) San Antonio – Texas (North Star Mall) San Antonio – Texas (Rivercenter Mall)
In Canada, the following Disney Store locations will be closing:
Mississauga – Square One Alberta – Rocky View
If there are any missing from our list in your area please let us know and we will add them.
As you can see a majority of closing are in California and Texas. I lucked out here in North Carolina as both the Disney Stores in Charlotte and Raleigh will remain open for now.
Please remember you can still find your favorite Disney Items on Shop Disney, however, we will miss having a piece of the Disney Magic close to home.
At today’s Walt Disney Company 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger confirmed he will be leaving Disney on December 31st, 2021.
Bob Chapek took over the role as CEO back in February of 2020, allowing Bob Iger to fill the role of Executive Chairman until the economy bottomed out due to COVID-19. Iger stepped back in to assist Bob Chapek to run the company while Disney Theme Parks were closed.
It was confirmed that Bob Iger will once again be leaving Disney at the end of this year not that Disney was recovering from the economic setback due to the Coronavirus.
There is no word on where he will go after he leaves Disney but today was Bob Iger’s last shareholder meeting.
Also, Shareholders of The Walt Disney Company re-elected all ten members of the Board of Directors at the virtual 2021 Annual Meeting held today.
Based on preliminary results, all Disney Directors standing for election were elected to the Board: Susan E. Arnold, Mary T. Barra, Safra A. Catz, Robert A. Chapek, Francis A. Desouza, Michael B. G. Froman, Robert A. Iger, Maria Elena Lagomasino, Mark G. Parker, and Derica W. Rice.
Shareholders ratified the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s independent accountants for the fiscal year ending October 2, 2021. They also approved the advisory resolution on executive compensation.
Shareholders agreed with the Board in rejecting two shareholder proposals, one on lobbying disclosure and the other requesting non-management employees be included on director nominee candidate lists.
Final voting tallies from this year’s annual meeting are subject to certification by the Company’s inspector of elections and will be included in the Company’s report to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within a week.
Disney Cruise Line has not set sail since early last year and most cruises have been canceled through May 2021. During Disney’s shareholder meeting today, Disney CEO Bob Chapek shared that they expect Disney Cruise Line to resume sailing by this fall.
All Disney cruises have been canceled through May, and all sailings on the Disney Magic have been canceled through August. The Disney Wonder Alaskan sailings remain in limbo while Alaska tries to get legislation passed to allow ships to sail without stopping in Canada.
When sailings do finally resume, masks will most likely be required and adjustments may be made to dining and entertainment experiences. There has also been talk of requiring COVID testing at ports just prior to guests embarking. No official announcements have been made at this time.
We recently shared that the state of California updated its theme park reopening guidelines and Disneyland could open as early as April 1, 2021. Now it looks like the resort could reopen by late April. Disney CEO Bob Chapek shared the following at the annual shareholder meeting.
“Here in California, we’re encouraged by the positive trends we’re seeing and we’re hopeful they’ll continue to improve and we’ll be able to reopen our Parks to guests with limited capacity by late April — we look forward to publicizing an opening date in the coming weeks. While last week’s announcement stated that theme parks may open starting on April 1, the fact is it will take some time to get them ready for our guests — this includes recalling more than 10,000 furloughed Cast and retraining them to be able to operate according to the State of California’s new requirements. I am pleased to say the response has been great thus far, our Cast Members are excited to get back to work. And this is also good news for the Anaheim community, which depends on Disneyland for jobs and business generated by visitors.”
California previously announced that theme parks can reopen at 15% capacity in the red/substantial tier 2 COVID risk status and only to California residents. This is great news for the furloughed Cast Members that will be recalled to work!
Disneyland remains in the purple/most restrictive tier right now, so hopefully COVID cases will subside over the next month and the parks can reopen. We will continue to update as Disney releases more information!
