Hey Disney! Voice Assistant Now Available in All Disney World Hotel Rooms

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February 14, 2024

Hey Disney! Voice Assistant Now Available in All Disney World Hotel Rooms

Great news for Disney Addicts! The Hey Disney! service from Amazon has officially landed in all Walt Disney World Resort hotel rooms, bringing the magic of Disney characters right to your fingertips.

This exciting service, initially unveiled at Destination D23 in 2021, started its installation journey in late 2022. Now, it’s ready to enhance the guest experience in every hotel room across the Walt Disney World Resort.

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Powered by Amazon’s Alexa technology on Echo devices, Hey Disney! is a complimentary voice assistant featuring over 25 beloved Disney characters. From the iconic Mickey Mouse to Minnie Mouse, Tiana, Tow Mater, Groot, Fozzie Bear, BB-8, Genie, and Dory, guests can interact with their favorite characters in new and engaging ways.

The possibilities with Hey Disney! are as enchanting as a Disney fairy tale. Guests can use the voice assistant to start their day with Mickey waking them up, order room service, check the weather forecast, listen to captivating stories, engage in trivia, and much more, all through the magic of voice commands.

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Even beyond the resort, Hey Disney! extends its charm to Echo devices in guests’ homes, ensuring that the enchantment of Disney characters is just a voice command away, creating a seamless connection between the resort experience and the comforts of home.

So, whether you’re at the Walt Disney World Resort or in the cozy confines of your own space, the Hey Disney! service is here to sprinkle a bit of Disney magic into every moment, making your stay even more memorable and delightful. Get ready to say “Hey Disney!” and let the magic begin!

Jodi Benson Teases a Possible Return as Ariel in a New Surprise Project

By

Marc Valentine

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February 14, 2024

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Jodi Benson Teases a Possible Return as Ariel in a New Surprise Project

Disney Legend Jodi Benson, the celebrated singer and actress, impacted generations with her unforgettable performance as Princess Ariel in Disney’s cherished classic, The Little Mermaid (1989). Her captivating voice breathed life into the beloved mermaid princess, leaving an enduring impression on the realm of animation.

Today, followers of voice actress Jodi Benson are thrilled to uncover her hints about an upcoming “surprise project” on her social media platform. Amidst rampant speculation, many infer from the clip art she shared that this enigmatic endeavor might signal a joyful reunion with the role that catapulted her to fame – Princess Ariel.

Jodi Benson just posted that she is “working on a new surprise project” recording for Ariel. 👀 pic.twitter.com/DL7b2NMehq
— Drew (@DrewDisneyDude) February 8, 2024

The speculation comes courtesy of @drewdisneydude via X. Beyond her memorable role as Ariel, Jodi Benson has lent her distinctive voice to numerous other animated characters in film and television. Her versatile talent has garnered her praise and accolades throughout her career, including a Disney Legend Award in 2011 for her significant contributions to the company. Off-screen, Benson is known for her warmth, humility, and dedication to her craft, endearing her to fans of all ages around the globe.

We sat down with Jodi Benson to talk about her incredible book “Part of My World”, you can hear the full interview HERE.

What do you think this cryptic project means for Jodi and Little Mermaid fans? Give us your prediction and stay tuned for exciting updates surrounding this story.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood Invites Guests to Wine, Dine, Shop and More in February

By

Sara

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February 14, 2024

Universal CityWalk Hollywood Invites Guests to Wine, Dine, Shop and More in February

Guests visiting Universal CityWalk Hollywood can wine, dine, shop, and more this month! Check out the latest available at the shopping and dining district.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen: An extra sweet treat is in store at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen with The Sweetheart Milkshake, a limited time specialty milkshake that is available now through February 21, 2024. The Sweetheart, which is ideal for sharing and is deliciously crafted with vanilla ice cream, strawberry sauce, buttercream frosting, festive sprinkles, whipped topping, chocolate-covered strawberry and topped with sweetheart candies.

Universal Cinema: Date night awaits… Enjoy dinner at any one of Universal CityWalk’s top-tier restaurants and catch the latest blockbuster at the Universal Cinema featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres. Now through summer, guests can receive 10% off their dinner at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen with the purchase of a same-day Universal Cinema movie ticket.

Voodoo Doughnuts: Now through February 14, guests can purchase a variety of delectable treats in honor of Valentine’s Day at Voodoo Doughnuts, including the Conversation Hearts, Valentine’s Sprinkle Cake, Box of Love and Chocolate Sweetheart doughnuts. From March 14 – 17, Voodoo will celebrate the luck of the Irish with a specialty St. Patrick’s Day doughnut.

Universal Monsters Tribute Store: Opening later this month, the Universal Monsters Tribute Store at Production Central is the place to shop for everyone celebrating horror all year long. Each section of the store features an iconic classic Universal Monster, including The Mummy, Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula and Wolf Man, with unique apparel, accessories, glassware and collectibles.

NBC Sports Grill & Brew: Let’s get happy with Happy Hour at NBC Sports Grill weekdays from 2 – 5pm. From a night out with friends and family to date night, the eclectic menu includes select draft beer, wine, cocktails and hearty burgers such as the NBC Classic, BBQ Burger and Jalapeno Burger. The Happy Hour menu offers a variety of sharable snacks, including Fried Pickles, Chips and Queso, Loaded Fries or Tots, Pretzel Bites and Chicken Tenders.

Ready to celebrate February at Universal CityWalk Hollywood? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a wonderful vacation!

D23 is Celebrating 15 Years of Princess and the Frog in New Orleans

By

Sara

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February 14, 2024

D23 is Celebrating 15 Years of Princess and the Frog in New Orleans

Disney fans can join D23 in New Orleans next month to celebrate 15 years of The Princess and the Frog! Almost 15 years ago, audiences were first introduced to the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ classic The Princess and the Frog—all set in the magical city of New Orleans. To celebrate this marvelous modern classic, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club invites you to dig a little deeper and step into the story of The Princess and the Frog with D23 Down in New Orleans!

D23 is leaping into the swampland magic of the Big Easy, with a jazzy party you’ll never forget, and a big-screen presentation of the film that started it all, all set against the backdrop of the storied city and cultures which inspired it. This Crescent City confab is a can’t-miss moment for any fan looking to take a delectable taste of what Tiana’s wondrous hometown has cooking!

What’s on the Menu:

D23 “Dreams Do Come True” Grand Finale at the New Orleans Jazz Museum: “Grab somebody, come on down! Bring your paintbrush, we’re painting the town!” Guests will journey on down to the New Orleans Jazz Museum for a taste of the food and the music of the Big Easy! The New Orleans Jazz Museum is a treasure-trove of history and culture, recounting the conception of jazz in New Orleans and its impact on the world over. In addition to a special reception featuring Creole food and libations, and access to the Museum, guests can enjoy a few dreams coming true throughout the night—with live New Orleans jazz performances, other musical entertainment, and a few sensational surprises sprinkled throughout. You never know who might stop in!
The Princess and the Frog – D23 15th Anniversary Screening Experience: To kick off a fabulous adventure in that “South Land city, way down on the river,” guests can enjoy an exclusive theatrical screening of the animated classic during its anniversary year! This exciting screening experience will feature a specially curated pre-show celebration of the film! A limited number of screening-only tickets will be available.

Delicious Details:
Much like the culinary creations at Tiana’s Palace, guests can place their orders two different ways to enjoy this scrumptious event, just how they like it!

The “Big Easy” Ticket
- Access to The Princess and the Frog – D23 15th Anniversary Screening Experience at either 11 a.m. or 12 p.m. CST, located at AMC Elmwood Palace 20 (1200 Elmwood Park Blvd, Harahan, LA 70123). This includes:
  - Admission to an exclusive big-screen presentation of The Princess and the Frog
  - Special pre-screening presentation on The Princess and the Frog
  - One (1) Popcorn
  - One (1) Beverage at AMC
  - One (1) D23-Exclusive The Princess and the Frog gift
- Access to D23 “Dreams Do Come True” Grand Finale at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at 7 p.m. CST, located at 400 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116. This includes:
  - One (1) special event credential
  - Special entry to a private reception at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, including access to the exhibits and performance hall
  - Themed photo opportunities
  - Live jazz performances from local New Orleans bands
  - Cocktail reception featuring passed hors d’oeuvres, light grazing station, and an open bar (must be 21 or older to consume alcohol. Guests must bring a valid government-issued photo ID)
  - Grand Finale-exclusive gift

Screening-Only Ticket
- Access to The Princess and the Frog – D23 15th Anniversary Screening Experience at 12 p.m. CST, located at AMC Elmwood Palace 20 (1200 Elmwood Park Blvd, Harahan, LA 70123). This includes:
  - Admission to an exclusive big-screen presentation of The Princess and the Frog
  - Special pre-screening presentation on The Princess and the Frog
  - One (1) Popcorn
  - One (1) Beverage at AMC
  - One (1) D23-Exclusive The Princess and the Frog gift

The event is taking place on March 23, 2024, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

GOLD MEMBER PRICES

$199 (+$7 Processing Fee) – The “Big Easy” Ticket (Screening + Finale)
$12 (+$3 Processing Fee) – Screening-Only Ticket

GENERAL MEMBER PRICES

$249 (+$7 Processing Fee) – The “Big Easy” Ticket (Screening + Finale)
$18 (+$3 Processing Fee) – Screening-Only Ticket

Want help planning your visit to New Orleans to celebrate The Princess and the Frog? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace Returning to Theaters for 25th Anniversary

By

Marc Valentine

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February 13, 2024

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Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace Returning to Theaters for 25th Anniversary

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace is set to make a theatrical comeback for a limited run, hitting screens on May 3, 2024, just in time for this year’s May the Fourth weekend festivities. Accompanying this news is the debut of an exclusive poster for the movie’s return to cinemas, crafted by Matt Ferguson.

The poster offers a glimpse of Padmé (played by Natalie Portman), Qui-Gon Jinn (portrayed by Liam Neeson), and Obi-Wan Kenobi (played by Ewan McGregor), while Darth Maul (Ray Park) looms in the background. Take a look at the poster below.

As part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations for the Star Wars prequel trilogy, an exciting announcement is set to feature in the upcoming issue of Empire magazine, hitting newsstands on February 15.

The issue will delve deep into the trilogy, commencing with The Phantom Menace, offering fresh insights through exclusive interviews with cast members such as Hayden Christensen, Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Ian McDiarmid, Samuel L. Jackson, and more. Additionally, it will explore pivotal scenes from the prequel trilogy with key crew members who contributed to their creation, including producer Rick McCallum, stunt coordinator Nick Gillard, and concept designer Iain McCaig.

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Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace made its theatrical debut on May 19, 1999. Penned and directed by George Lucas, the film serves as the inaugural installment of the Star Wars saga but is chronologically the fourth film, following the original trilogy.

The prequels revisit the time when Anakin Skywalker, the future Darth Vader, was a young aspirant Jedi (portrayed by Jake Lloyd) with grand ambitions. Concurrently, Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi, embark on a mission to safeguard Queen Padmé Amidala of Naboo amidst a tumultuous trade dispute, all while contending with the resurgence of the Sith.

Will you be attending this limited theatrical engagement? Share your thoughts on the “prequels” and stay tuned for more Star Wars related updates here at Chip and Company.

All-New Universal Studios Experience Comes to Minecraft!

By

Chris B

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February 13, 2024

Attention all Minecraft fans: the gates to an all-new adventure are swinging open! The Universal Studios Experience DLC is here, bringing the magic of Universal Destinations & Experiences right to your fingertips in blocky form.

Minecraft has captured the hearts of millions around the globe, becoming one of the best-selling video games in history. With up to 140 million monthly active players across a staggering 20 platforms, its popularity knows no bounds. At its core, Minecraft is all about creativity, adventure, and endless possibilities – and now, with the Universal Studios Experience DLC, those possibilities have expanded even further.

What can you expect from this thrilling new DLC? Players will start their journey at the iconic gates of Universal Studios, where the mischievous Woody Woodpecker awaits, ready to enlist their help in restoring the letters on the Universal globe. From there, players will be dazzled as they encounter legendary rides, souvenir shops brimming with treasures, entertaining mini-games, and a host of beloved characters including Shrek and E.T.

Whether you’re gaming on Windows, Mac, Linux, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Fire OS/TV, Android, iOS, Windows Mobile, or Samsung Gear VR, there’s a place for you in this virtual world of excitement and exploration. So grab your pickaxe, sharpen your wits, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you step into Universal Studios like never before – all from the comfort of your Minecraft realm.

The Universal Studios Experience DLC is the perfect fusion of two beloved worlds, offering endless entertainment for players of all ages. Dive in today and unlock a world of fun and adventure, unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. The blocky gates are open – are you ready to step through?

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction Walls Redecorated in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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February 13, 2024

Work is continuing full steam ahead as Disney preps to open the all-new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure later this year. In addition to obvious progress on the exterior of the ride, as well as recently shared images of the Tiana animatronic that will be featured inside the ride, the images on the construction walls have also been updated!

A large mural has been added to the construction walls that have been in place outside of the former Splash Mountain since construction began. Photos of the new walls were shared on Disney’s WDW Ambassador Instagram page, which noted cast members gathered on the morning of Feb 13th (which was fittingly Mard Gras!) to celebrate the news that the attraction will open in Summer 2023.

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The new mural provides the perfect backdrop for a photo op, so be sure to swing by on your next visit to the Magic Kingdom to grab a selfie!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Basin Now Open in Disney Springs After Refurbishment

By

Chris B

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February 13, 2024

Basin, the popular bath products store in Disney Springs, has re-opened after being closed for a renovation!

The store’s interior has been updated with a modern look and aesthetic. The floorings, fixtures, and sinks in the store have all been refreshed.

Guests will once again be able to find a full line of bath products, from soaps to shampoo and conditioner bars to sugar scrubs, on hand.

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A line of staple products are on hand, as well as a rotating array of limited-time items themed after the season such as these Saint Patrick’s Day and Valentine’s Day items.

Guests can visit the newly refreshed Basin Store near World of Disney in Disney Springs.

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Union Representation Coming for 1,700 Disneyland Characters and Parades Cast Members in Disneyland

By

Sara

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February 13, 2024

Union Representation Coming for 1,700 Disneyland Characters and Parades Cast Members in Disneyland

Union representation for 1,700 Disneyland characters and parades Cast Members is coming soon! Calling themselves “Magic United,” Cast Members who work in the Disneyland resort’s Characters and Parades departments announced today that they are unionizing with Actors’ Equity Association.

Equity, as it is more commonly called, is the national union that represents 51,000 professional actors and stage managers on Broadway and in live theatre across the United States, including the performers at Walt Disney World in Florida.

Magic United is currently collecting union authorization cards from 1,700 Cast Members for voluntary recognition from Disney Resort Entertainment. If the majority signs, the union will seek recognition; otherwise, Equity will submit the cards to the National Labor Relations Board. Upon receiving the petition, the NLRB will schedule a union recognition election for Cast Members in the Character and Parades Departments. Following a vote in favor, the company will be legally obligated to negotiate a contract with Equity’s representatives.

The bargaining unit comprises Cast Members from the Characters department responsible for bringing Disney magic to life, including parade performers and supporting roles like Hosts, Trainers, and Leads.

Magic United Cast Members at Disneyland Resort perform diverse functions, often juggling multiple roles across different departments. Despite these differences, they share a common passion to initiate constructive dialogues with their employers. Their goals include addressing issues such as ensuring safe and sanitary workplace conditions, fair wages, and greater transparency in scheduling and rehiring practices.

The leaders of Magic United echoed released the following statement today:

“As the Entertainment Cast Members at the Disneyland Resort, it is time for us to come together as a union, to use our collective power to ensure that the park is a safer, more sustainable place to build careers and share magic with Guests from all over the world.

“We chose Actors’ Equity Association as our union because we’ve seen how well they work with Disney in Florida, on Broadway and on tour. Our Walt Disney World colleagues exemplify how you can be pro-Disney and pro-union at the same time. Furthermore, the vast majority of our park colleagues here in Anaheim already have union representation. It’s a win/win: when we can speak with a collective voice, we can have a clearer, more productive conversation with our employer. Ultimately this will result in a better experience for all – Cast Members, managers and more importantly, our Guests.

“We find inspiration in Disney every day, in the stories that we get to tell. Whether we are meeting Guests up close or dazzling them with a parade, we know we are making lifelong memories. And now, we’re laying the groundwork for the future of entertainment employment at the Disneyland Resort. With Magic United, we can work together with each other and with Disney leadership to ensure our talents remain central to the Disneyland experience for generations to come. We are the Magic! We are the union!”

Cinderella Castle Night Light To Make Your Room Extra Magical!

By

Ana Leal

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February 13, 2024

Cinderella Castle Night Light To Make Your Room Extra Magical!

Bring magic into your home with this Cinderella Castle Night Light created by SimplyCelestialShop on Etsy for $23.99. You can order yours here!

This 3D printed night light is shaped like Cinderella castle and features an automatic light sensor that will turn on when it starts to get dark and off when it becomes light. Definitely a must have in your home!

Credit: Etsy

New Stitch Attacks Snacks Popcorn Plush Available Now At shopDisney!

By

Ana Leal

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February 13, 2024

New Stitch Attacks Snacks Popcorn Plush Available Now At shopDisney!

New month, new plush! The Stitch Attacks Snacks Popcorn Plush just landed online at shopDisney for $29.99. This month, our favorite space invader is enjoying one of Walt’s favorite snacks: popcorn!

This is the second release in a series of 12 Stitch attacks snacks plush, it features an aloha shirt with an all over popcorn print and is holding some fuzzy popcorn kernels. His foot also features a “Stitch Attacks Snacks” patch.

Super cute! Are you making these plush part of your Ohana? We want them all!

Credit: shopDisney

Custom Figment Shoes To Spark Your Style!

By

Ana Leal

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February 13, 2024

Custom Figment Shoes To Spark Your Style!

Custom Figment Shoes created by MickeyMadnessDesigns on Etsy for $61.50. You can order yours here! But hurry up because they are flying away fast!

The shoe are available in orange, purple, white, or yellow and are customized with Figment, “One Little Spark” text and other icons from the Imagination pavilion at Epcot! So cute!

Credit: Etsy