Disney’s ‘World of Color’-ful Facts, Figures and History

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June 9, 2010

“World of Color” bursts with the imagination and technology of the 21st century, while it draws on the decades-old Disney tradition of creative storytelling. The show is infused with Walt Disney’s special gift for conjuring tales full of magic, excitement and heart, and the ingenuity of today’s Imagineers.

History

Initial planning for “World of Color” began in July 2005. Even before the ambitious expansion plan was announced for Disney California Adventure park, the Disneyland Resort leadership wanted to add a one-of-a-kind, new attraction to the Disney California Adventure experience.
It was a five-year process, from planning to launch. A variety of concepts – rides as well as shows – were considered for the Paradise Bay lagoon during the initial brainstorming.
“World of Color” was conceived as a kind of “living ‘Fantasia,’” using music, animation, color, light and water to involve the audience in an exciting, whimsical and moving journey of storytelling.
The “World of Color” creative team, led by Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Entertainment, believed it was important to execute the show on a massive scale. After looking at existing fountain/water shows – many of them very spectacular – the cast members concluded that, in the words of Walt Disney, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”
Team members were told they couldn’t have fountains with multiple heads or moving heads. They created them.
Team members were told they couldn’t create color and light in fountains. They found ways.
Team members were told they couldn’t project images on water if it was not a water screen. They went beyond creating a “movie screen” on water – developing a show in which water, light and color become the characters, on a screen so versatile that it might be 100 feet, 200 feet or 380 feet wide at any given time.

Some “World of Color” Facts and Figures

The man-made Paradise Bay lagoon is 3.5 acres with more than 16 million gallons of water.
When preparations for “World of Color” began, the Disneyland Resort collaborated with the Orange County Water District to conserve the water in Paradise Bay. Instead of draining the lagoon to the ocean, the water was sent through the Water District’s state-of-the-art Groundwater Replenishment System. After being purified, the water was stored in the county’s underground water basin, which added to the overall water reserves. When the time was right, the purified water was used to refill Paradise Bay. For these efforts, along with other Resort-wide environmental practices, Disneyland Resort was recognized with California’s highest and most prestigious environmental honor: the 2009 Governor’s Environmental & Economic Leadership Award.
The “stage” for “World of Color” is a platform composed of nearly 1 full acre of engineered superstructure, longer than a football field and capable of settling on three levels – one for the performance, one under the water surface and one for maintenance.
The show features nearly 1,200 powerful and programmable fountains, and a vast underwater grid with more than 18,000 points of control. Each fountain has multiple points of control for lighting, color intensity, water angle, height and more.
The fountains in “World of Color” can send water to heights ranging from 30 feet to 200 feet (by way of comparison, Mickey’s Fun Wheel reaches a height of 150 feet, some of it below the edge of the lagoon).
“World of Color” employs 28 high-definition projectors (14 of them, submersible).

Inspired by “Your Host, Walt Disney”

The Emmy Award-winning “Wonderful World of Color” (1961-1969) was Walt Disney’s first color television series, an extension of his previous “Disneyland” and “Walt Disney Presents” anthology series. Like those earlier shows, it entertained audiences with both classic storytelling and innovative artistry.
The television show premiered with an all-new theme song composed by Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman. (The Sherman Brothers recently received the highest Disneyland honor – their names on a Main Street, U.S.A. window – on March 11, 2010.)
The music and kaleidoscopic images of Walt Disney’s pioneering TV show inspired the colorful, ever-changing experience that immerses guests in the new “World of Color” spectacular in Disney California Adventure park.

For information on “World of Color,” other Disneyland Resort attractions, or to plan a celebration or vacation at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. To explore the expansion plans for Disney California Adventure, visit www.DisneyCaliforniaAdventure.com.

Photo credit dlrptoday.com

The Colorful World of Vinylmation’s Oh Mickey! Series

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Chip

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June 9, 2010

This exciting news comes to us from Disney Parks Blog:

This past Spring we introduced the first of our open window box Vinylmation series called “Oh Mickey!” Featuring several colorful designs, this series was first to incorporate the concept of choice with a splash of mystery. In other words, you can choose your favorite 3” figure and then be surprised by the hidden 1.5” figure that is packaged with it. Like that little extra surprise, you may be surprised to learn the “Oh Mickey!” series is part of a much larger program. I recently spoke with Eric Caszatt and Patty Landing, senior graphic designers with Disney Design Group, about the evolution of this art style.

“I started work in Spring 2009 on the ‘Oh Mickey’ style guide,” explained Eric. “It was part of a much larger Walt Disney Company initiative to reinterpret Mickey Mouse for a whole new generation while keeping nods to Mickey’s past. I developed the style guide for this program that would be used for the entire Disney Parks division.”

“Oh Mickey” is part of a “global program,” and the style guide Eric created would be reference material for multiple categories such as softlines (things you wear) and hardlines (all the other items you use, play with, display, trade, read or watch). You have probably seen these “global programs” before while visiting merchandise locations at Disney Parks and Resorts. They are designed to make statements (merchandise with a common theme) that tell a visual story within merchandise shops.

Click here for more.

Toy Story & Sara Lee Turns Mealtime into Funtime!

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Chip

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June 9, 2010

Toy Story & Sara Lee Turns Mealtime into Funtime!

Toy Story 3 & Sara Lee have come together to Turn Mealtime into Funtime. Check out all the things you can do on their new site.

321 Lunch Time Sweepstakes
Out of this world Games!
Get Free Toy Story Mealtime Collectibles
and much much more!

Click on the picture above to check it out!…Or click here

Larger-Than-Life Carnivale-Style Puppets Kick Off the Party at ‘World of Color’ Pre-Show

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

This article comes to us from Disney Parks Blog:

As guests gather each night, waiting for our dazzling new spectacular, “World of Color” to begin, they can join in the larger-than-life party atmosphere of a pre-show—a high-energy celebration that kicks off the night. This brand new nightly pre-show encourages families and friends to cheer for their favorite hues with the official “color mascots” for “World of Color.” Each mascot is a giant, imaginative Carnivale-style puppet that brings to life some of Disney’s most “colorful” characters. And when these illuminated Sky Puppets arrive, music, energy, and color really take over! Lumiere (“Beauty and the Beast”) lights up for yellow¸ Sebastian (“The Little Mermaid”) gets folks “out of their shells” for red, and Mike Wazowksi (“Monsters, Inc.”) has his “eye” out for anyone who is hip with green. Of course, there’s no doubt about what hue Aladdin’s true blue Genie favors. What more could you wish for on a thrilling summer night?

This exciting pre-show comes alive every evening during Summer Nightastic!, just prior to the first performance of “World of Color.” Are you ready to show your true colors?

Disney’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Newest Trailer

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Chip

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June 9, 2010

Coming to theaters July 14th. Become a fan on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SorcerersAppr…

Dave (Jay Baruchel) is just an average college student, or so it appears, until the sorcerer Balthazar Blake (Nicolas Cage) recruits him as his reluctant protégé and gives him a crash course in the art and science of magic. As he prepares for a battle against the forces of darkness in modern-day Manhattan, Dave finds it is going to take all of the courage he can muster to survive his training, save the city and get the girl as he becomes THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE.

Fanciful Fountains Take Center Stage in Spectacular ‘World of Color’ Show at Disney California Adventure Park

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

Fanciful Fountains Take Center Stage in Spectacular ‘World of Color’ Show at Disney California Adventure Park

Five years in the making, the nighttime water show “World of Color” will surpass all Disney water productions with stunning special effects in the picturesque Paradise Bay at Disney California Adventure park. While the larger-than-life animated projections, lasers, fog, fire and music will create a strong supporting cast for the dazzling production, the real “stars” of the show are the nearly 1,200 programmable fountains that can be found waiting in the wings just beneath the surface of the bay.

Eight different types of computerized and synchronized fountains create a giant underwater lattice of these geyser-inducing gushers, bringing Disney animation to life like never before.

The breakthrough “stars” of “World of Color” are:

Grid Fountains: Living up to their mechanical moniker, Grid Fountains cover the entire underwater platform for “World of Color” in a network that creates a vast “ensemble cast” of aquatic actors. Positioned eight feet apart, these vertical fountains are capable of firing water up to 40 feet in the air. Their on-stage specialty is creating massive, three-dimensional designs, such as a whale moving through the lagoon.

Chaser Fountains: Always “chasing” applause from fountain fans, more than 400 Chaser Fountains create lightning-fast effects that follow – or “chase” – each other in rapid-fire succession. Engineered with a unique stop-action valve, these up-and-down fountains allow booming beads of water to be projected up to 80 feet high, creating artistic patterns above the water’s surface.

Single Water Whip Fountains: While their name doesn’t imply “grace,” the Single Water Whip Fountains are some of the most graceful and elegant featured in “World of Color.” With independently moving heads that can sway in any direction and project water more than 100 feet in a vertical pattern, more than 75 Single Water Whip Fountains join together to perform a mesmerizing ballet.

Dual Water Whip Fountains: A close sibling to the Single Water Whip Fountains, Dual Water Whip Fountains create not only vertical patterns, they also can transform water into wider, fan-like designs. Combined, these water wizards create a 380-foot projection surface which rises 50 feet in the air at the rear of the underwater platform. In theatre parlance, the 65 Dual Water Whip Fountains create an ultimate cyclorama on Paradise Bay – a water screen that measures more than 19,000 square feet.

Flower Spout Fountains: One dozen Flower Spout Fountains pepper the platform beneath the surface of Paradise Bay. Among the most versatile actors in the show’s aqueous cast of players, these fountains have nozzles that can shoot high-velocity streams of big, frothy water and then easily transition the shape of those streams into a “blooming” 60-foot-wide flower petal.

Dancer Fountains: Six Dancer Fountains perform in “World of Color,” with swirling dual nozzles that create intertwining streams of water. Much like dancers performing in a Broadway theater company, their graceful, choreographed movements create a sprightly scene to complement the cast.

Butterfly Fountains: A delicate quartet of Butterfly Fountains creates a smooth and serene effect, fluttering just above the water’s surface throughout “World of Color.” With butterfly-like wings, they deliver smooth, yet stunning patterns.

Geyser Fountains: The most “vocal” member of the “World of Color” fountain cast, Geyser Fountains launch 40 gallons of water at once, creating a distinct “pop” sound that echoes throughout the bay. Along with being the loudest of the performers, the 10 Geyser Fountains also live up to their name by being the most powerful; each Geyser Fountain can shoot huge bursts of water that reach 200 feet into the sky.

These eight versatile performers make their debut June 11. While they are apt to respond to applause with grateful encores, no autographs, please.

Photo by Mastery of Maps via Flickr

World of Color Meal Plans – A World of Choices

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

“World of Color” is all about color, music, water, fun and the pleasures of Disney storytelling. To make the experience even more wonderful at Disney California Adventure park, it can be paired with delicious food and beverage selections. Before arriving at the park, guests also will be able to pre-purchase a meal that comes with reserved viewing for “World of Color.”

Guests may choose from several different meals that include reserved viewing in Paradise Park. These provide a magical dining experience along with a choice vantage point from which to enjoy the new “World of Color” after-dark spectacular. Other fun treats include “World of Color” novelty drinks, snacks and accessories.

Meals with reserved viewing are limited in availability, at these locations:

“World of Color” Picnic Meals at Golden Vine Winery*

Beginning June 11 (date subject to change), guests can go online and order a special boxed picnic meal that includes “World of Color” Reserved Viewing. Picnic meals may be ordered online – www.disneyland.com – or by walk-up purchase, subject to availability, at the Sonoma Terrace, Golden Vine Winery. They are not available for order via the 714/781-DINE line.
Picnic meals ordered online include reserved viewing to the evening’s first show. For those making walk-up purchases, reserved viewing will be included for that evening’s second show, subject to availability.
Picnic meals may be picked up at Sonoma Terrace from 2 p.m. up to 8 p.m. Reserved viewing tickets will indicate return time, location and show time.
Picnic meal options include four selections for adults: The All American (cold honey-stung fried chicken), The Taste of Asia (chilled miso-glazed salmon), The European Antipasto (cured meats, regional cheeses, artichoke heart, sun-dried tomato) and The Mediterranean Vegetarian (marinated grilled vegetables in a whole wheat wrap with roasted garlic hummus). Kids’ options include The Junior All American (chicken), The Lunchbox Classic (peanut butter and jelly) and The Little Squirt’s Box (apple wedges, string cheese).
Beer and wine for adults are available at an additional cost.
As a special bonus for pre-purchasing a meal, the entire party’s online order will be packaged in a souvenir “World of Color” reusable tote.
All picnic meals with “World of Color” Reserved Viewing are priced at $14.99 and must be redeemed for the designated reserved show date and time. No refunds, exchanges or other discounts.

The following dinner options must be reserved by calling 714/781-DINE and include tickets for Preferred Viewing for “World of Color” in Paradise Park Restaurant seatings are at specified times and space is limited.

Wine Country Trattoria Prix Fixe “World of Color” Meals*

Guests can enjoy a three-course, prix fixe dinner in the newly expanded and remodeled Wine Country Trattoria (current prices: $39.99 for adults; $18.99 for children ages 3-9). The Italian meal includes choice of starter, entrée and dessert. . A wide selection of wines are available at an additional cost.

Ariel’s Grotto Prix Fixe ‘World of Color’ Meals*

A prix fixe meal with reserved viewing will be available in the elegant surroundings of Ariel’s Grotto (current prices: $36.99 for adults; $20.99 for children ages 3-9), on the edge of Paradise Bay.

Guests who prefer a treat or snack, perhaps with a souvenir “World of Color” takeaway, may choose from a number of bright and colorful options available at food locations inside Disney California Adventure:

“Spectrum Splash”: Beverages in light-up souvenir glasses with a colorful choice of flavors – strawberry red, blueberry blue, or sour Granny Smith apple green.
“Light-Up Cotton Candy”: White cotton candy with a colorful swirl, on an illuminated wand that lights the cotton candy from inside.
Multi-Colored & Flavored Popcorn: A delicious treat that comes in three flavors – red cherry, blueberry and purple grape – and mixed in with regular kettle corn, all served in a Disney California Adventure see-through “World of Color” souvenir popcorn bucket.
Tropical Mist Cocktail (for adults): It’s a passion fruit and mango liqueur with coconut rum – and a light-up swizzle stick. Available at the Cove Bar and Ariel’s Grotto restaurant.
Even more fun: “Light-Up Balloons – transparent balloons with light-up “World of Color” art inside; Light-Up Bangle Bracelets; and souvenir “World of Color” travel mugs and sipper cups.

Times for the prix fixe dinners and dessert party are subject to change and cancellation without notice. For information on “World of Color,” other Disneyland Resort attractions or to plan a celebration or vacation at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. To explore the expansion plans for Disney California Adventure, visit www.DisneyCaliforniaAdventure.com.

Disney Helps Ocean Conservation Efforts With “Oceans” On Blu-Ray And DVD

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

Disney as always remains focused it’s impact on the environment. I am glad to see the portion of the procedes of the sale of this Bluray/DVD going to the Nature Conservancy.

Here is the article:

With the focus on the world’s oceans more than ever following the disastrous BP oil spill, World Oceans Day has more of an impact this year than ever. Disney is showing their efforts with the release of “Oceans” on Blu-ray and DVD, by contributing a portion of sales to The Nature Conservancy.

“Oceans” is set to release on October 19th, 2010 in a Disney Blu-ray Combo Pack, which also includes a DVD, and a 1-Disc DVD standard set.

Disneynature, the studio which brought audiences “Earth” last year, has committed to carry on the “See Oceans, Save Oceans” initiative which started with the film’s theatrical release. A portion of sales will be donated to the Nature Conservancy which works to protect marine habitats and establish new ones in Oceans near the Bahamas. Moviegoers who went to see the film in theaters already helped conserve more than 35,000 acres of coral reef.

Directed by Jacques Perrin, who won the Academy Award for Best Documentary for Winged Migration, and narrated by actor Pierce Brosnan, who himself is a major contributor to the International Fund for Animal Welfare’s “Save the Whales Again!” campaign, “Oceans” takes viewers swimming alongside whales, dolphins, and more as high-definition cameras travel deep into the ocean to uncover the mysteries of the big blue world. The movie grossed $75 million worldwide upon its release last April.

Donations to the Nature Conservancy, one of the world’s largest conservation organizations, will be made with purchase of the Blu-ray Combo Pack or DVD of “Oceans” during the week of October 19th and 25th.

Click here to keep reading.

Disney Store Father’s Day Shop is now open

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

The Father’s Day Shop is now open at the Disney’s Store website. They have tons of great gift ideas for all those Disney Dads out there.

From Disney Shirts, Golf, Ties, Watches, and even create your own products for dear ol dad.

Check it out and get something special for that wonderful man in your life.

Happy fathers day!

Epcot Food & Wine Festival special event: 3-D Disney’s Dessert Discovery

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

This article comes to us from Debra Peterson at the Examiner. She fills us in on a special event happening at the Epcot Food & Wine Festival:

Walt Disney World Resort celebrates the 15th anniversary of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Oct. 1 – Nov 14. 2010 with the theme of “Delicious Discoveries.” The 3-D Disney’s Desert Discovery is expected to be one of the festival’s most popular events, particularly for Disney foodies with a sweet tooth.

The 3-D Disney’s Dessert Discovery is a dessert reception held throughout the six weeks of the festival in the World Showcase. The receptions will feature “action and prepared stations of sweet enticements,” providing a variety of desserts paired with wine, cordials and coffee. The parties are capped off with exclusive viewing for Epcot’s Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.

The event is not unlike the Wishes Dessert Party, which is held in the Magic Kingdom and offers its attendees VIP viewing for the Wishes fireworks spectacular.

In 2010, the 3-D Disney’s Dessert Discovery takes place every Friday – not on Thursday, as it was announced at the D23 Flowers & Fireworks event – during Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Click here to keep reading.

Disney Food Confession – Chocolate Moose

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

Where is it? Le Cellier Steakhouse – Epcot’s Canadian Pavilion, Disneyworld

What is it? Chocolate Mousse rolled in Toasted Chocolate Crumbs with Maple Leaf Antlers

Why you want it? Almost don’t want to eat it, it is that darn cute.

Photo Credit: by bbqben via flickr

If you have a Disney Food Confession email [email protected] or let us know on the Disney Food Confessions Facebook page.. He is accepting Food ideas or Photos if you have them!

Celebrate The Release Of Toy Story 3 With Disney Family.com

By

Chip

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June 9, 2010

To celebrate the release of Toy Story 3, in theaters next Friday, June 18, Disney Family.com is offering dozens of ideas for Toy Story-themed crafts, recipes, parties and more! I have just spent the last 15 minutes printing out a bunch of crafts we are going to attempt to make at home..

You’ve got a friend in Family.com – from how to make alien cupcakes and Jessie cowgirl hat cookies, to instructions for building a Buzz Lightyear rocket globe and a Woody marionette, the site is a one-stop source for feting the return of Andy and crew. Can’t wait to catch the movie on the big screen? Build your excitement by watching the teaser trailer.

Click any one of the links above or click the picture to check it out.

Have fun!

To Infinity & Beyond!

>>Chip