Sir Elton John Performing on The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60th Special

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January 14, 2016

“The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60” television special is coming to ABC on February 21st. One of my all time favorites, Sir Elton John will be one of the performers selected to be a part of the celebration, the special will highlight. Sir Elton John will be performing a new song from his upcoming album, Wonderful Crazy Night (available February 5th) as well as “The Circle of Life” from The Lion King, on the stage in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.

Fans can join the festivities from home using the Disney Applause app from their smart phones. As well as enjoying the performance via virtual reality using the Jaunt VR app. Jaunt VR will allow fans to feel like they have been transports from their spot in front of the television to Main Street for a dance performance and to Sleeping Beauty’s castle to sing along.

Shoes Fit for a Disney Princess

By

Danielle

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January 14, 2016

Shoes have been a princess favorite since Cinderella left her famous glass slipper behind at midnight. No princess shoe has been as famous, but what if we could slip into shoes inspired by our favorite princesses from the Disney animated classics? FairytaleMidnight makes that dream a reality on Etsy, with gorgeous shoes from flats to stilettos fashioned into iconic princess motifs.

I first found her gorgeous works of art for the feet when looking for Disneybound items and curating the “Our Favorite Disney Things – Princess Collections“. Ever since I found that first sparkling shoe I have been in love! These would be great for a themed wedding shoe, Disneybounding, or even the parks! Check out even more of her beautiful works below:

Ariel Flats
Ariel Heels
Aurora Heels
Aurora Flats
Maleficent Heels
Rapunzel Flats
Rapunzel Heels
Belle Heels
Tinkerbell Heels
Jasmine Heels (They have her hair as the heel like the ornament from the parks!)
Jasmine Flats
Cinderella Heels
Snow White Heels
Snow White Flats
Evil Queen Heels
Alice in Wonderland Flats
Elsa Flats
Merida Heels
Tiana Heels

There is SO many more too! These are lovingly handmade with character inspired embellishments, painted accents and of course glitter! Which pair is your favorite?

2016 Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend Merchandise at the Disneyland Resort

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 14, 2016

The Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend at the Disneyland Resort is coming up and we’ve got a sneak peek at this year’s merchandise!

This year’s collection has a vintage-style design that includes subtle nods to X-wing fighters and classic Star Wars characters. In some cases, the patterns seem to play a trick on your eyes, creating what could be a certain villainous character. Also, the throwback color palette is sure to hit home with Star Wars fans everywhere, as well as the occasional use of Aurebesh.

There is a variety of formats and styles with this art: short- and long-sleeve T-shirts, a ladies tank, hoodies, hat, magnets and performance jackets. And what do you think is emblazoned on the back of the jackets? “The Force is Strong With Me”, of course!

Will you be taking on the Star Wars Rebel Challenge? Whether or not you’re loyal to the light side, there is definitely a Rebel Alliance touch to this line of long and short sleeve T-shirts, pants magnet and hat, with art inspired by several notable figures, as well as a clever use of X-wing fighter pilot helmet.

Be sure to look for the entire collection that’s dedicated to the whole weekend event. There are “I Did It” 5K and 10K T-shirts, an event logo T-shirt, performance T-shirt and jacket, tumbler, water bottle and mug, stem glass and backpack.

Don’t forget about the special event pins! Debuting at the Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend will be an event logo pin, and a Star Wars Rebel Challenge pin that has a special spinner that features the Rebel Alliance logo on one side and R2-D2 on the other.

Also, keep an eye out for specially created runDisney apparel, souvenirs and drinkware, Vinylmation, plush, Coast to Coast Race Challenge offerings and more.

Last, but not least, Dooney & Bourke! There is a satchel, pouchette and letter carrier with this year’s design on them. Which one are you running for?

The Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend is taking place at the Disneyland Resort this weekend, January 14-17. Good luck to all of the runners and may the force be with you!

Will you be running in any of the events this weekend? What merchandise do you want to purchase?

For updates and details on events happening at the Disneyland Resort, or for assistance with booking your next magical vacation, email me at [email protected] or follow me on Facebook.

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Alan Rickman British Stage and Screen actor dies at 69

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 14, 2016

Sadly we have to share with the world of the passing of British stage and screen actor Alan Rickman from cancer at age 69.

He had a wide verity of credits to his name, in the Disney community he was known for his voices as the Absolem the blue Caterpillar in the two Alice in Wonderland live-action movies and was the voice of Marvin the depressed robot in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

He was also well-known to the world as Professor Snape from the Harry Potter films. J.K. Rowling took to Twitter;

There are no words to express how shocked and devastated I am to hear of Alan Rickman's death. He was a magnificent actor & a wonderful man.

— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 14, 2016

The British actor began his career with the Royal Shakespeare Company in theater and went on to star in many films such as Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Die Hard. He played many villains in movies but in real life was loved and cherished by many of his fellow actors.

He was also politically active with the left-wing Labour Party. He had secretly married his partner for over 50 years, Rima Horton, last year.

He will be sorely missed, our condolences go out to his family and many fan.

Photo credit Disney

New Attractions Inspired Figurines Coming to Disney Parks

By

Danielle

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January 14, 2016

New Stylized figurines inspired by the characters and icons from attractions found at Disneyland or Walt Disney World resorts will be coming in 2016. The first 3 we got a look at in the Disney Parks Unboxed video at the bottom which was released last month.

These stylized new figures will be added this year and include Tick Tock Croc from Peter Pan’s Flight, Big Al from Country Bear Jamboree, and Figment from Journey into Imagination at Epcot. Other delightful figurines making an appearance through out there year will include Monstro the whale who you can find at the Storybook Land Canal Boats in Disneyland, and a hippopotamus from the infamous “It’s a Small World” attraction.

Lastly, but certainly not least is the miniature version of the Moonliner from Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park. The original Moonliner stood outside one of Disneyland’s attractions called “Rocket to the Moon”, it only stood for 11 years. Now however a tribute to the Moonliner stands outside Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port.

You can look for these items in select merchandise locations at Disney Parks this year. Once they have been released you will also find them in the awesome Shop Disney Parks mobile app.

Check out the unboxing video of many great Disney Parks merchandise coming out this year.

photocredit: Disney Parks Blog

Former Disney Channel Star Michael Galeota found dead in LA Apartment

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 14, 2016

Michael Galeota who stared in Disney Channel “The Jersey” died in his home January 10th, at the age of 31. Galeota also made appearances in Ally McBeal and ER while in his teenage years.

Sources say he was in the hospital last week with stomach pains he left on Wednesday against doctors wishes, it was also said he wasn’t following Dr’s orders for medical care. There is a history of hypertension and high cholesterol. He also suffers from diverticulitis. The death is being treated as a “death from natural causes”.

In a statement his family said:

“He was a precious gift – loving, giving, compassionate, joyful and intelligent, A great inspiration for anyone that heard his genuine, humble, witty and joyful voice, or experienced his smile, laughter and love for just a moment. To know him was to love him. His humble nature hid a great compassionate and loving human being, with a huge heart. He cared profoundly for his family and friends. Mike was a great giver, always ready and able to care for others.”

Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family and fans!

Photo courtesy of Michael Galeota go fund me

Monorail Will Be Running on Modified Schedule Through March

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 14, 2016

As announced in the Refurbishment Schedule, the Monorail at Walt Disney World will be running on a modified schedule beginning yesterday and going through March 20, 2016. If you plan on using the monorail during your stay in this timeframe, please take note of the changes below:

Express Monorail – runs between Magic Kingdom and Transportation and Ticket Center

Wednesdays and Thursdays will be closed from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm
Mondays and Tuesdays will have delayed start times at 9:30 am

Epcot Monorail – runs from Epcot to the Transportation and Ticket Center

Monday and Tuesdays will have delayed start times at 9:00 am

Resort Monorail – runs between Magic Kingdom, Contemporary Resort, Transportation and Ticket Center, Polynesian Village Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Mondays and Tuesdays wills have delayed start times at 8:30 am

Make sure to plan accordingly if you are visiting the parks or resorts in the next few months. Disney offers plenty of great transportation options, including walking paths, trams, ferries and buses, for you to use as a backup if needed.

Does the cold winter have you wanting to plan a trip to warm and sunny Walt Disney World? Contact me at [email protected] or on facebook for details on pricing options and the current Spring promotions.

Search for Young Han Solo Is On!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 13, 2016

han solo miles teller ansel elgort dave franco

Walt Disney Pictures and Lucasfilm are working hard to find the perfect young Han Solo for the 2018 Untitled Star Wars spinoff.

Variety reported that after seeing thousands of actors, the list has been brought down to about a dozen actors aged 20 to 29, with several favorites in the running. Among the contenders are Miles Teller, Ansel Elgort, Dave Franco, Jack Reynor, Scott Eastwood, Logan Lerman, Emory Cohen and Blake Jenner.

Playing the young Han Solo is not a role that will be easily cast and producer Kathleen Kennedy along with directors, Phil Lord and Chril Miller will have a hard job reaching a decision in the next few weeks. Many fans are asking why the rush to cast someone for a film that will not begin shooting until next year (January), but rumor has it the reason for an early cast is the possibility of a cameo in another upcoming Star Wars film – Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Rogue One has a story line set between Episode III and Episode IV making a young Han Solo the perfect age for a cameo.

Click here to see the Star Wars Movie Slate for the next few years!

Coming to theaters, May 25, 2018, we have a very long wait to see Han Solo in action but the anticipation of this film is already building. Follow along with your favorite entertainment writer on www.chipandcom.com to see who landed the coveted role. Any favorites on your list?

(Photo courtesy of Rex Shutterstock)

Star Wars Day at Sea Kicks Off Aboard the Disney Fantasy

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 13, 2016

Today is a historical day for the Disney Cruise Line! It is the first ever Star Wars Day at Sea on the Disney Fantasy. Guests can immerse themselves in a day themed around their favorite Star Wars adventures and characters during this brand-new celebration. Star Wars Day at Sea can be found on eight sailings through April aboard the Disney Fantasy’s Western Caribbean itinerary.

Today’s sailing includes the first official appearance of the Star Wars finest aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship (with the exception of those on the Disney Dream). The day is packed with fun and will combine the power of the Force, some Disney magic and an exciting cruise adventure for Guests of all ages.

These special days take place on the second sea day during each of the 7-night Disney Fantasy sailings. Throughout the day, Guests can take part in a full-day celebration, to include a special deck party, meet-and-greets, themed family and youth activities, special food and beverage offerings and my favorite- special merchandise! If that wasn’t enough, Guests will have the chance to watch all SEVEN Star Wars films and episodes of Disney XD’s animated Star Wars Rebels.

Highlights of the entertainment your Younglings, Padawans and Jedi Masters can enjoy include:

Darth Vader, Captain Phasma, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2, Boba Fett, Darth Maul, Stormtroopers and other characters from across the Star Wars galaxy are on the ship for meet-and-greets, photos and may be seen patrolling the decks.
“Star Wars Saga: Tales from a Galaxy Far, Far Away” is an interactive show featuring guests retelling their favorite Star Wars stories, with the help of props and special effects.
Kids and families enjoy some intergalactic, friendly competition during Star Wars trivia games, putting their knowledge of the film and television sagas to the test.
Guests are encouraged to bring their costumes and cosplay and participate in the costume celebration held in the ship’s atrium. Be sure to check out Disney Cruise Line’s restrictions before you get to the port.
At noon, guests on deck will be treated to a very special episode – to mark the midday, the Disney Fantasy ship’s horn will resound the opening notes of the “Imperial March.” Check out this video! It’s awesome!

At night, The Tube nightclub transports adult guests to a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars-themed specialty cocktails, lively cantina music and a super fan trivia challenge.
In “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” Force-sensitive children to learn the ways of the Jedi and put their skills to the test in a final battle with the Sith Lord, Darth Vader. This is similar to the experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
In “Padawan Mind Challenge,” Younglings participate in a fun, brain-bending battle of wits and trivia to become mind challenge masters.
Star Wars-themed arts and crafts, games and activities are offered throughout the day in Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab youth clubs.

Merchandise exclusive to Star Wars Day at Sea is available on each sailing and features collectible items, customizable name tags and eight special trading pins, exclusive to these cruises. At dinner, you will find Star Wars inspired cuisine, like Sand People salad, Banta steak empanadas, Opee Sea Killer shrimp cocktail and Qui-Gon’s crisp chicken. Finish off your meal with Calrissian velvet cake, Cloud City macarons or a frozen carbonite sundae. Collectible cups are also available featuring BB-8 and Chewbacca, while popcorn can be found served in Darth Vader’s helmet or a tie fighter. Adults can enjoy the special Galaxy in a Glass- made with rum, coconut, mango and strawberry and all Guests can enjoy a non-alcoholic Planetoid Punch.

Your day at sea will be jam-packed with Star Wars fun! To conclude the day, the “Summon the Force” deck party features music, dancing and games. The party comes to an end as Star Wars characters come together for a celebration of the saga in an out of this world show featuring special effects and Guest interaction. No Disney cruise would be complete without fireworks, and this special display of pyrotechnics, lighting, and sounds is the perfect end to a fantastic day!

Star Wars Day at Sea cruises will depart from Port Canaveral on select Saturdays in 2016. The 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay. There is still time to book one of the following Star Wars cruises departing on:

January 9, 23
February 6, 20
March 5, 19
April 2, 16

To take your family to a land far, far away, email me at [email protected] to plan your galactic adventure at sea.

Photo credit StarWars.com

Is Disney’s 24 Hour Party coming June 2016?

By

Anonymouse

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January 13, 2016

Good evening Disney Gossip Addicts! I see my catchy title and photo has brought you here to read my latest Disney Gossip.

Chip and I have been getting tons of emails asking us when the Disney 24 hour event is this year. With the state of the parks is Disney even going to have one this year? I know Disneyland is going to be gutted for Star Wars Land and don’t even get me started on Hollywood Studios.

Typically news for the 24 hour events can be released anytime between Jan through April.

In 2015 the Coolest Summer Ever Party was announced in March
In 2014 the Rock your Disney Side Event was announced in February
In 2013 the Monstrous Summer Event was announced in April
Back in 2012 for Leap Day Disney mixed it up and announced the 24 hour event on Jan 1st. Do you remember One More Disney Day?

While I was doing some research I stumbled across something interesting on the Disney World App. Just for fun I put in the date February 29th and looked up Dining Reservations in the Magic Kingdom. The photos above show a 24 hour event in the Magic Kingdom. Does it seem we have stumbled across some secret information? Doubtful and let me tell you why.

I also tried several other days and it seems Disney has left the 24 hour event on the app every day. Insert “Wah Wah” sound effect. It is hard to say if this is leftover code from last year or if it is fresh for 2015.

2016 Crowd Calendar PDF

Last night Chip released his crowd calendar for 2016 and while late as always I did notice he added red for the time around Leap Year. (Don’t get me started on the other dates he messed up on, I am kidding Mamma loves you) Does Chip know something I don’t? Doubtful.

Just for fun I checked over park hours for Disney World.

February 2016
(Last updated 12/21/15)
May 2016
(Last updated 12/21/15)
June 2016
(Last updated 12/21/15)

The February or May calendar shows nothing for Leap Day or Memorial Day. Notice the dates of when they were last updated? Could it be that Disney is waiting to add those dates till later? Or could it be there is a 3rd option??? Insert Judi Dench voice over from Spaceship Earth.

With everyone so focused on those 2 dates I think I might have stumbled across a 3rd option. Last night Disney shared with us the opening of the all new Shanghai Disney Resort, June 16th 2016. That would make for an excellent date to celebrate a 24 hour event. 6-16-16. All the kids are out of school, it is after the current Disney World Promotion, and it coincides with a park grand opening.

We already missed the window on January 1st for a Leap Day Party but there is still plenty of time to announce a June Event.

I also submit to you since Disney has done a Movie themed party back in 2013 there is also another movie that could tie into the event in June and that is the June 17th release of Finding Dory!

So if I were to bet on when the Disney 24 Hour event is this year I would put my money on June 2016. Keep in mind I have no basis of fact and this is just conjecture for now, so take it with a grain of salt.

Let me know when you think the 24 hour event will be this year in the comment box below.

That is all the Disney gossip I have for now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors please email me at anonymouse@chipandco.com or on my Facebook page.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens merchandise revealed by Disney!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 13, 2016

Fans have been waiting the reveal of the new Star Wars; The Force Awakens products which Disney has been keeping very quiet about! The new toys, collectibles and much more are about to come out in Disney Stores and mass retailers throughout the nation! The record breaking film has made icons out of new Star Wars’ characters Rey, Finn and Kylo Ren.

Paul Southern, Senior Vice President of Star Wars licensing Disney consumers products said:

“We’re excited to share an incredible range of products that celebrates these fantastic new heroes and villains, allowing fans to take some movie magic home,”

For the first time ever, Star Wars was featured in the National Retail Federation’s top ten toys lists for both boys and girls, and the new line puts heroine Rey front and center.

Elissa Margolis, Senior Vice President, Disney Store comments,

“Rey is a true break out hero in the movie and is proving a huge hit with our guests. Demand for Rey merchandise was strong even before the movie released, with products selling as quickly as we could restock shelves, and it’s only growing with the success of the film.”

New items focus on key plot points from the movie like the identity of Kylo Ren and the reveal of Rey’s weapon as a lightsaber. Highlights from the Disney Store line include a Rey Lightsaber toy, updated Elite Series Die Cast Action Figures, a Kylo Ren Unmasked action figure, as well as a Deluxe Figure Play Set that includes 10 highly detailed figures such as General Leia, Han Solo, Rey, Kylo Ren and more.

Highlights at mass retail include new items from Hasbro, such as: 12-inch action figures featuring the characters Rey and Finn as FN-2187 (his stormtrooper moniker), 3.75-inch figures featuring new characters and scenes like Rey in her Resistance Outfit with her Lightsaber, Star Wars NERF Rey and Han Solo blasters and a Star Wars Bladebuilders Rey Electronic Lightsaber. From LEGO®, new Star Wars: The Force Awakens construction sets include a Resistance Troop Transporter (featuring a General Leia minifigure) as well as LEGO® brand Star Wars™buildable figures featuring heroes and villains from the film, such as Rey, Finn, Kylo Ren, Captain Phasma and more.

Beyond figures and play sets, fans can find products featuring their favorite characters including Rey, Finn, Kylo Ren and Captain Phasma, across a range of categories including: Hot Wheels® diecast vehicles and ships from Mattel, plush from Build-a-Bear, skateboards and outdoor play items, role play from Rubies, home décor (bedding, throws, posters), seasonal and party supplies, puzzles and much more. Apparel for the whole family is also available at Target, Kohl’s, JCPenney, Hot Topic and more.

The first wave of product around Star Wars: The Force Awakens was officially launched on “Force Friday,” a global fan event on September 4, 2015, which saw more 130,000 fans turn up to one of 3,000 retail locations in the US that opened their doors at midnight. Highlights of the new line were revealed via a global unboxing event that unfolded over 18 hours, 15 cities and 12 countries. Kicking off in Sydney and rolling around the world New Year’s Eve style, the event saw popular Maker talent unveil new toys in different cities across four continents with the whole event streamed live on YouTube.

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Are you excited about these new products?

Olaf to Make His Disney Junior Debut in Sofia The First

By

Danielle

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January 13, 2016

For the first time ever, Disney’s “Frozen” will be presented on Disney Channel, on February 14, 2016 at 7:00pm (EST). The following day Olaf will make his Disney Junior debut on the popular television series Sofia the First.

Fan favorite Olaf will make a special appearance on the hit series for kids age 2-7, Monday February 15, 2016 at 11:30 am EST on Disney Channel and 7:00 pm EST on Disney Junior. If you can’t wait till then the episode will be available on WatchDisneyJunior.com and the Watch Disney Junior App beginning February 8.

Josh Gad is the voice of Olaf in the story titled “The Secret Library: Olaf and the Tale of Miss Nettle,” the second episode of a four-part story arc. Megan Mullally returns as the voice of Miss Nettle, a role for which she received an Emmy Award nomination earlier this year.

On February 2, Disney Publishing Worldwide will release an illustrated storybook and e-book based on the episode.

With the debut of the new Lion Guard animated TV series and now Olaf coming, it looks like there’s lots of big things headed our way for Disney Junior this year!