As a long-time Disney enthusiast who has visited their parks countless times, I must say, this latest round of announcements from Bob Chapek and Josh D’Amaro is nothing short of magical! It seems that the House of Mouse is truly embracing innovation and expansion, taking us on extraordinary journeys through beloved franchises like Avatar, Cars, Coco, The Lion King, and even a glimpse into Walt Disney’s life.
Disney transformed Saturday’s D23 exhibition into an impressive showcase of star power, inviting top-tier artists to perform beloved tunes from Disney movies while unveiling a barrage of upcoming attractions and lands inspired by their intellectual properties.
The lineup featured artists like Meghan Trainor, Shaboozey, Rita Ora, Plain White T’s, Pentatonix, Chromeo, Abi Carter, Tank and the Bangas, and All-4-One. Additionally, special appearances and performances were made by Billy Crystal, John Stamos, Darren Chris, Skylar Astin, and Ke Huy Quan.
The presentation was orchestrated by Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, who showcased all the upcoming novelties.
“These devoted Disney enthusiasts hold a special bond with us. They’ve created cherished memories here, and their enthusiasm for our tales and our team is unwavering,” D’Amaro explains to The Hollywood Reporter about the audience at the D23 event. “We strive to express our global vision in an innovative, narrative fashion. We understand that our fans will spread this exciting message far and wide. It’s a privileged space where we discuss the future of Disney.”
As a long-time resident of Southern California, I have attended my fair share of events at various venues across the region. However, this year’s showcase at the Honda Center in Anaheim stood out from all the others. In past years, the event was held at the Anaheim Convention Center, but this year’s venue change made a significant impact on my experience.
Disney places great emphasis on its theme parks and experiences sector, allocating a substantial $60 billion investment for growth. This expansion will take place at Disneyland in California, Walt Disney World in Florida, as well as international parks in France, China, Japan, and other locations worldwide through the Disney Cruise Line.
Read on for all the new announcements from the Disney Parks and Experiences Showcase at D23.
A Disney Villains Land Will Come to Magic Kingdom
As a passionate gamer (and Disney fan), I’m thrilled to share some exciting news! It looks like our beloved Magic Kingdom in Orlando is going to see a significant expansion – a land dedicated to none other than our favorite Disney villains! While the specifics are yet to be fully revealed, we can expect shopping, dining experiences, and not one, but two major new attractions. Can’t wait to see the mischief unfold in this magical corner of the kingdom!
“D’Amaro declared that this place would shelter familiar villains you dislike, as well as new ones,” he stated following the performance of Descendants villain Rita Ora.
“Brace yourselves, fellow enthusiasts, for I’m about to unveil an audacious new perspective on the Disney magic we all cherish!”
A ‘Monsters, Inc.’ Land Is Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The 2001 Pixar movie “Monsters, Inc.” will serve as the foundation for an entire themed area at Hollywood Studios in Orlando. Billy Crystal, who portrayed Mike Wazowski in the film, was among those who unveiled this new area (“When I saw the character with its one large eye and long legs, I thought it was CBS walking!” Crystal humorously commented on stage).
Visitors will be transported into the world of Monstropolis by stepping onto a unique attraction, where they’ll join characters Mike and Sully as they enter the door vault together.
“The first time I watched ‘Monsters, Inc’, I couldn’t help but wish I could ride on one of those doors like Mike and Sulley,” D’Amaro shared with the audience. “What we’ve created is a unique experience where you’ll feel like you’re entering the factory itself – the first suspended coaster ever in a Disney park! Just as the movie depicts, our attraction will lift you up into the air using claws similar to those in the film, and you’ll be part of the thrilling ride.”
Avengers Campus in Disneyland Will Double in Size With Two New Attractions (And Robert Downey Jr.)
The area dedicated to Avengers at Disneyland is set to expand with the addition of not one but two fresh attractions: Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. Plus, the iconic actor, Robert Downey Jr., is expected to join in on the fun!
At the presentation, D’Amaro unveiled a picture showing Downey seated next to Disney’s CEO Bob Iger inside a ride vehicle, while also revealing that Downey will once again play Iron Man in the Stark Flight Lab.
Visitors to Infinity Defense get to journey through various realms of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, such as Wakanda, Asgard, and even New York City, with the ultimate challenge being a fight against Thanos.
Stark Flight Lab will see visitors testing out new Stark-made pods.
New ‘Encanto’ and ‘Indiana Jones’ Attractions Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
D’Amaro and head creative director Bruce Vaughn from Disney Imagineering revealed information about Tropical Americas, the upcoming land set to take over where DinoLand currently stands in Animal Kingdom, Orlando.
The two attractions are inspired by the “Indiana Jones” series and the 2021 movie “Encanto,” and they are scheduled to debut in 2027, coinciding with Tropical Americas.
The “Indiana Jones” ride is set inside a newly found ancient Mayan temple, as D’Amaro mentioned, with caution about an “ancient legendary beast” potentially causing complications. He was accompanied by Ke Huy Quan, a cast member from “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”.
Venturing into the magical world of Encanto as a gamer, I’d embark on an immersive journey through the movie’s Casita on the day when Antonio receives his extraordinary gift. This captivating adventure concludes in his transformed room, now a vibrant rainforest teeming with life. Throughout my journey, I’ll interact with all the characters from the Madrigal family, even the one that rarely gets mentioned (shh… don’t tell anyone).
Details on the New ‘Avatar’ Land Coming to Disney’s California Adventure
D’Amaro, along with Disney Imagineer Ali Rubinstein, officially revealed that the “Avatar” area is set to debut at Disney’s California Adventure in the future.
Rubinstein mentioned that the fresh land, distinct from the one at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando, has been placed in a novel location on Pandora. This new setting is influenced by the upcoming movies “Avatar: The Way of Water” and “Fire and Ash,” along with future installments of the “Avatar” series.
Additionally, a brand-new “Avatar” attraction is planned, taking visitors on an enchanting voyage by boat to discover the awe-inspiring landscapes unique to Pandora, as shared by Rubinstein.
Two ‘Cars’-Themed Rides Will Come to Frontierland in Magic Kingdom
In an exciting development for Walt Disney World, D’Amaro announced plans to revamp part of Frontierland in Magic Kingdom, transforming it into two new attractions inspired by the beloved Pixar Cars franchise.
As an enthusiast, I’d describe my experience: One adventure takes me off-road, while another is tailored especially for families like mine with little ones, ensuring a fun and safe journey for everyone.
“D’Amaro stated that the spirit of the American West has consistently been about looking ahead, having faith in yourself, forging your unique journey, and working towards achievement. This applies to miners up in the mountains, animals from rural areas, a princess from the swamps, or a racecar from the metropolis.”
A ‘Coco’ Ride Is Coming to Disney’s California Adventure
D’Amaro announced that Disney’s California Adventure will soon feature a brand-new attraction, based on the movie “Coco,” with construction slated to start in 2026. The specifics are yet to be disclosed, but D’Amaro hinted that it would borrow elements from both the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean experiences. This upcoming ride is expected to transport guests on a trip to the Land of the Dead, as depicted in the film.
A ‘Lion King’ Ride Is Coming to Disneyland Paris
The second Disney park in France, soon to be known as Disney Adventure World, is not only set to unveil a new Frozen world (expected opening in 2026), but will also introduce an attraction inspired by the timeless 1994 animated film, The Lion King.
You can expect immersive dining, shopping experiences, and character interactions, all themed around the classic film. Additionally, there will be a ride where you’ll venture into simulated caves, following Simba’s journey from cub to king. As D’Amaro put it, “It will seem like you’ve been transported directly into the movie itself.”
Disneyland Will Get an Audio-Animatronic Walt Disney
For the very first time, a life-like robotic figure of Walt Disney will be introduced at a Disney park starting from 2025, as part of the new show titled “Walt Disney – A Magical Life”.
The opening performance of the show will take place at the Main Street Opera House, followed by a rotation schedule where it will be played alongside “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln”.
For many years, or possibly even decades, the concept of crafting an animatronic figure of Walt Disney has been subtly discussed within the sacred corridors of Imagineering. However, we’ve now reached a point where we feel prepared to bring this idea to life. – D’Amaro
Roy P. Disney was among the spectators, and it was mentioned that the Disney clan has given their approval for the upcoming program.
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2024-08-11 08:55