'Frozen' Live Musical Debuts at Disney California Adventure!

Time to throw myself back into the blogging life. And why not start with one of the biggest pieces of recent Disney news?

Earlier this year, to many fans' protests, the Aladdin live musical at Disneyland had its last show, after a 13-year run at the Hyperion Theater in Disney California Adventure.

What was to replace it?

Frozen.

Which only added to fans' bitterness over the change.

All this hype and hesitation came to a climax when the Frozen live Broadway-esque show premiered just two days ago.

Reaction: mixed feelings.
Source

And despite two technical difficulties, the show proved to be a surprising success, due to its incredible effects, puppetry and color-blind casting.

Let's address each on its own.

Broadway-style Effects

This show, this story, needs lots of technical effects. For one, Elsa has ice powers. To make this work onstage, special effects are needed. And of course, it's typical for Disney to pull a few tricks out of their sleeves to keep the audience interested.

And man, do the effects absolutely blow one away!

Let's start with the set. It's designed to easily transition into each scene, with a giant door at the back. Either the door is also a screen or high-tech projections are used. But it's truly amazing to watch in action (which you can find at the end of this post).

The set is made up of technical details as well as standard pieces. The floor rotates, and various doors either drop down or roll onstage. Elsa's ice bridge is a similar piece to Pride Rock in The Lion King on Broadway (a show that also influences the puppetry in Frozen).

Now onto some icy magic -- or rather, magical effects. I'm talking about Elsa's signature song, "Let it Go." Instagram user @bruinrogue captured the first bit of her song, giving us an idea of how Disney brought Elsa's magic to life (hint, hint: door.)

I'm not the best videographer but here's the first part of #LetItGo before my view gets blocked by the staircase. 😂 #frozen #frozenmusical #frozenliveatthehyperion #dca #disneycaliforniaadventure #disneyscaliforniaadventure #hyperiontheater #disney #disneyland #disneylandresort #disneyparks #disneyside #disneyig #disneygram #instadisney #elsa #nikon #d7200 #nikond7200 @donnajeanie

A video posted by Regan Wong (@bruinrogue) on May 27, 2016 at 3:35pm PDT

But the part that really takes your breath away is when Elsa discards her royal robes for her iconic blue dress.

BURST!!! ❄️✨👌🏻 #frozenliveatthehyperion amazing costume design by @clintramos

A video posted by mary (@mousekears) on May 27, 2016 at 1:53pm PDT

Actual queen, this woman blew me away today. Broadway may have Betsy, but this Elsa made my heart love frozen again. I'll be doing a BIG photo spam soon of frozen photos so stay tuned but for now enjoy this video clip. Spoilers for #frozen #frozenliveatthehyperion #elsa #letItGo #disneyland #disneycaliforniaadventure #DCA @donnajeanie

A video posted by Nicole wiseman (@nicwise) on May 27, 2016 at 11:44pm PDT

It's all in the style of Cinderella on Broadway, an effect that always amazes me, despite (now) knowing how it works.

Part 2 after the staircase comes back into view. 😂 #LetitGo #frozen #frozenmusical #frozenliveatthehyperion #dca #disneycaliforniaadventure #disneyscaliforniaadventure #disneyland #hyperiontheater #disney #disneylandresort #disneyparks #disneyside #disneyig #disneygram #instadisney #nikon #nikond7200 #d7200 #elsa @donnajeanie

A video posted by Regan Wong (@bruinrogue) on May 27, 2016 at 3:50pm PDT

This should serve as enough to convince you that the show effects are spectacular, just what you'd expect from a Broadway-style show. There's plenty more, trust me. But we'll close with the moment Anna completely freezes -- an effect even I don't fully understand yet.

She's completely frozen 🌬❄️ #frozenliveatthehyperion

A video posted by mary (@mousekears) on May 27, 2016 at 7:18pm PDT

Humorous Puppetry

Almost all the characters in Frozen are human. Key word: almost.

To bring reindeer Sven and snowman Olaf to life, Disney opted for puppets, instead of the typical costume characters seen in other Frozen shows. Quite a refreshing change, honestly, because Olaf being the same size as Anna was a little overwhelming.

Again, Frozen looks to The Lion King for inspiration, by bringing Julie Taymor-styled puppets to the stage. Sven is performed by a partially-visible performer, whereas Olaf is completely visible. Just like Pumbaa and Timon, respectively.

Bruce! #iagonowolaf #Iago #Olaf #frozen #frozenmusical #frozenliveatthehyperion #dca #disneycaliforniaadventure #disneyscaliforniaadventure #hyperiontheater #disney #disneylandresort #disneyparks #disneyside #disneyig #disneygram #instadisney #disneylandhd #nikon #nikond7200 #d7200 #aladdinamusicalspectacular #aams #aamssquad #aamssquadforever

A photo posted by Regan Wong (@bruinrogue) on May 27, 2016 at 9:02pm PDT

The ❤️ between a man and his reindeer! #kristoff #sven #frozen #frozenmusical #frozenliveatthehyperion #dca #disneycaliforniaadventure #disneyscaliforniaadventure #hyperiontheater #disney #disneylandresort #disneyparks #disneyside #disneyig #disneygram #instadisney #disneyland #nikon #d7200 #nikond7200 #mezzanine #liveatdisneyland 5.28.2016 @garrettpmarshall

A video posted by Regan Wong (@bruinrogue) on May 28, 2016 at 2:06pm PDT

This gives the puppets a whole new level. Not only are the performers portraying a character, but they're adding their own personalities as well. And the puppets are extremely animated.

Race Doesn't Matter

Perhaps the most acclaimed aspect of the Frozen musical is its color blind casting. One of Anna's friends is Cuban. One of Kristoff's is African-American. Fans wanted this in the animated film itself, so many are satisfied it happened in the live musical.

#frozenliveatthehyperion #frozenshow #sven #kristoff #hyperiontheater

A photo posted by Kate C (@katecphotography) on May 29, 2016 at 6:58pm PDT

Apparently, Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular also did color blind casting, so the fact that Disney is honoring the previous show is a nice touch!

But color blind casting aside, the entire cast (and it rotates) is incredible. Bravo to the casting team and performers!

All Together

With all these factors combined, my final opinion on Frozen at the Hyperion is this: take me to Disneyland so I can see my guilty pleasure in person!

And finally. Here is the entire show, courtesy of SoCal Theme Parks 360.



What do you think of the show? Comment below!

See y'all real soon!

***UPDATE***

But even Disney isn't perfect. Live shows are always at risk of malfunctions, forgotten lines and technical mistakes.

Twitter user Jesse Rhian shared this video of Elsa's dress malfunction not quite happening as planned. It does eventually work, but spoilers on how the effect is created are shown. Even so, the effect is altogether amazing.

her dress malfunctioned, but she held it together and her vocals were AMAZING. pic.twitter.com/TKnXtUnp4r

— Jesse Rhian (@fantasmia_) May 29, 2016

BREAKING: Selfie Sticks Entirely Banned at Walt Disney World; Hong Kong and Paris to Follow

Previously, Disney banned selfie sticks on rides, to the surprise of some Guests. However, it makes total sense: there's a reason that before each ride, you're warned about keeping your hands, arms, feet and legs inside the vehicle.

It's just plain dangerous.

People on Big Thunder extending selfie stick beyond reach envelopes. This HAS to stop!!! #BanSelfieSticks #Dangerous pic.twitter.com/7MOnymAEWN

— Theme Park Review (@ThemeParkReview) January 10, 2015

Many of us hoped that Disney should take it a step further and completely ban the sticks from the Parks entirely. (Here's 5 reasons why.)

Finally, they've done it.

Even the Big Cheese and his girlfriend can't do this!
Image via a Google search.

Effective June 30, all selfie sticks will not be permitted inside Walt Disney World, for any reason. Hong Kong Disneyland and Disneyland Paris are to follow suit soon, WDWNT reports. According to the same report, though not officially confirmed by Disney:

By July 2015, guests will not be permitted to even bring these items into any of the Walt Disney World theme parks due to safety concerns imposed by the items being brought onto rides (and the rather careless ways some guests use them when not on attractions). Guest relations cast members will be assigned to the security screening areas in front of all of the parks to assist the security cast in dealing with guests trying to bring their “selfie sticks” in. If found, guests can opt to take the stick with them and leave, or they can check it with the guest relations cast member who will have the item stored, give the guest a ticket, and request that they retrieve the item upon leaving the park later that day.

Personally, I am quite glad they finally banned them...as tempted as I was to buy a selfie stick for use as a monopod... What are your thoughts?

ttfn!

***UPDATE***

After all, usually one's not in Walt Disney World alone...why not just have a friend take a picture? Or if you want a friend in the photo, ask someone to take your photo for you!

A Better Kind of Selfie Stick: "Friend"
A Better Kind of Selfie Stick: "Friend" - Finally, take selfies so good they're just called "pictures".
Posted by CollegeHumor on Wednesday, June 24, 2015 

***UPDATE***

Apparently, the reason this policy is going into effect is as a response to the California Screamin' roller coaster incident on Wednesday. The Disneyland ride was stopped after a guest pulled out a selfie stick on the coaster.

What's the lesson learned? Obey the rules. They're there for a reason. Because at Disney, safety is the most important of the Four Keys.

'Inside Out' Opens, Characters Appear in Parade Float at DCA

Pixar's Inside Out opens today, and at the Disney Freak's Blog, we couldn't be more excited! Very soon, I'll see the movie and post my review!

Get to know the little voices inside your head - TODAY at a theater near you! #insideout #Pixar #disneyside #disneysidecast #Disney #joy #anger #sadness #disgust #fear #emotions #majoremotionpicture #mollythedisneyfreak #mollytdf #silly #goofy #WeAreFunny

A photo posted by Molly the Disney Freak (@mollythedisneyfreak) on Jun 19, 2015 at 8:57am PDT

In conjunction with the film's release, the emotional stars of the movie are now appearing in a pre-parade float in Pixar Play Parade at Disney California Adventure.

I can't get over how cute Sadness is.
Also, I imagine that Fear and Disgust are on the other side.
Both images via Disney Parks Blog.

Love using Riley's memories as props.

The meet and greet characters debuted at the Hollywood premiere and previously appeared at a special Inside Out meet-up at Downtown Disney earlier this month.

As soon as a video of the float is uploaded, I will update this post to include it!

Love Inside Out? Check out this sale on merchandise inspired by the major emotion picture.

ttfn!

***UPDATE***

SoCal Attractions 360 has provided this short and sweet video of the pre-parade float. The emotions are created through animatronic figures versus costumed characters, which I didn't realize till I watched the video. Also, look very closely to find Fear!



I have to say, I'm a little disappointed in the float. While the animatronics are extremely well-done, with plenty of smooth movement, there's definitely a lack of energy. Perhaps using more music and less dialogue would help, and giving the dancers something to do that's more interactive with the crowd would definitely improve the overall feel. Of course, once more people have seen the movie, I'm sure there will be more reaction from the crowd.

However, points to Disney for Anger's head actually lighting on fire -- that's really cool!

‘Frozen’ added to Paint the Night Parade

Hong Kong Disneyland’s new nighttime parade Paint the Night is coming to Disneyland for its 60th anniversary, with a few new additions, among them being a brand-new Frozen float.

Image via magicalfanaticism.tumblr.com

Disney released this video of the behind the scenes progress on the float, which is largely based off Elsa’s ice castle.



To get an idea of the parade as a whole, here’s a video of the entire parade.The LED lights are simply incredible – I’m sure the recording doesn’t do them justice!



ttfn!

New Abominable Snowman Effects, Animatronic on Disneyland's Matterhorn Bobsleds

For Disneyland's Diamond Anniversary (just three days away!), several rides have been getting updated. Even the Matterhorn Bobsleds.

Mainly, a few new Abominable Snowman effects and a whole new animatronic.

Image via seeyoulatertrashcans.tumblr.com

This is a vast improvement from the original animatronic (nicknamed "Harold"), which was mainly stationary and extremely robotic in motion.

Image via randar.com

Now, if only the Yeti at Expedition Everest could get a reboot....

ttfn!

***UPDATE***

Inside the Magic has provided great videos of both sides of the full ride with the new effects and animatronic. I'm not an expert on the Matterhorn, but I do believe this is a good improvement!





Some Matterhorn enthusiasts have complained about the lack of Harold's signature yells -- which you can hear quite clearly in the above interview video. However, if you play very close attention to any of the videos featuring the new animatronic, you can faintly hear his signature scream. Honestly, it should be amplified, to make it much more frightening than the current halfhearted growl.

Disneyland’s Diamond Anniversary Offer!

With Disneyland’s Diamond Anniversary right around the corner, Destinations in Florida has a great offer for those wanting to visit Walt’s Magic Kingdom during the festivities!

Book a 2-Night/3-Day Disneyland Resort Vacation Package at a conveniently located Good Neighbor Hotel starting at $99 per person per day for a family of 4. This package includes 3-Day, 1 Park per Day Disneyland Resort tickets and is valid for arrivals most nights Aug. 30-Oct. 1, 2015 and Nov. 1-23, 2015. Book by Nov. 20, 2015.

Click to book!

I wish I could be at Disneyland for the celebration, so please go in my place!

See ya all real soon!

Disney Releases Photo, Video of Hatbox Ghost

Disney released a backstage look at how Imagineers brought the Hatbox Ghost back to life after a nearly 50 year absence from Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion.

Image via Disney Parks Blog.

You can kind of get an idea of how what improved technology resurrected this happy haunt, and while I personally think it’s slightly lazy, it’s still very impressive.



The Hatbox Ghost (or “Hatty,” as he’s called by his cult following) was added to the Haunted Mansion just in time for Disneyland’s Diamond Celebration. No official word yet on whether or not he’ll be added to Walt Disney’s version of the ride as well.

See ya all real soon!

Today: Hatbox Ghost and his Triumphant Return!

After almost 50 years, the wait is over.

Concept art via the Disney Parks Blog.

Perhaps you’ve heard about the Hatbox Ghost? He appeared in the Disneyland Haunted Mansion when it first opened in 1969, but due to the guests being able to figure out the effect, he was removed almost immediately.

But he’s back! Just in time for Disneyland’s Diamond Anniversary.

And we’ve got the video to prove it. Take a look.





Originally, the effect was that the Hatbox Ghost had two heads—one in his box, the other attached to his body. Different lights would go on and off. But guests were close enough to decipher how the effect worked, so he was removed and never brought back.

Despite this, he’s remained a huge fan favorite, so it was no surprise that Imagineers perfected how to raise him from the dead…well, not literally: he’s still a ghost, ya know.

If you’re not sure how they’re doing the trick now, I think I know, but I’ll only tell you if you ask.

Otherwise, enjoy the magical resurrection of the Hatbox Ghost!

First official spotting of #HatboxGhost #welcomeback to the #HauntedMansion 👻

A photo posted by Bridget McCarty 💖🐭 (@bridgetmccartyart) on May 9, 2015 at 9:32am PDT

ttfn!

Disney Increases Ticket Prices Today

Disney has increased ticket prices for Walt Disney World parks, and the increase is effective today (Feb. 22, 2015). Significant is the fact that Disney is breaking the $100 ticket price barrier, which can mean a lot to some people.

From my agent, Jennifer Hardy:

Effective Sunday, February 22 it will now cost $105 plus tax for a 1-day, 1-park ticket to the Magic Kingdom. That's a $6 jump.  Disney's other three major parks: Epcot, Hollywood Studios & Animal Kingdom rise a more-modest $3 from $94 to $97. Full Price breakdown below

Here is a list of the new prices:

1-Day, 1-Park Magic Kingdom: $105 

1-Day, 1-Park Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, & Disney's Animal Kingdom: $97  

Florida Resident Premium Annual Pass: $649

Florida Resident Annual Pass: $529 

Florida Resident Seasonal Pass: $329 before tax, respectively, up from $485 and $319. 

Magic Your Way Passes: 

2-Day $192

3-Day $275

4-Day $305

5-Day $315

6-Day $325

7-Day $335

Note: the  No-Expiration option is no longer offered.

Water Park Hoppers

Mid-May - Sept $58

Other Times of year: $53 (unchanged)

All prices are pre-taxes.

What do you think of the Disney ticket increase?

Photo from my June 2014 trip to Walt Disney World.

ttfn!

‘Frozen’ Fun Commercial Features Animatronics Singing 'For the First Time in Forever'

Walt Disney World’s “Frozen Summer Fun” has (sort of) moved to Disneyland, with some similarities and some differences.

To promote this latest addition to the Frozen craze, Disney created this TV and online spot, which features classic animatronic characters and others singing “For the First Time in Forever.”



“Frozen Fun,” ends May 15, as revealed in the end of the ad. However, this ending date could (is likely to) change, if the program becomes popular. (If it’s like the Walt Disney World event, Disneyland’s will be incredibly popular.)

Scan the QR code or click to book!

My favorite was the Grizzly Peak bear mountain, followed closely by the bellhop. How about you?

The best part about the commercial is that Disneyland actually reprogrammed the featured animatronics, just for this ad. Below, get a backstage glimpse at the filming of the Tiki Room segment.



ttfn!

First Look: ‘Frozen’ Arendelle in Disneyland's Storybook Land Canal Boats

Disney Parks Blog just released photos of the new Arendelle from Frozen additions to the Storybook Land Canal Boats ride at Disneyland.

All images from Disney Parks Blog.

While I’m not a fan of Frozen taking over everything (but still love the movie), the craftsmanship put into this miniature set is astounding, just like with the rest of the ride.

Storybook Land Canal Boats reopens this weekend, and I’m sure there will be a video to highlight the new Frozen additions. Tune in later for an update to this post.

What are your thoughts? Sound off in the comments section!

See you all real soon.

***UPDATE***

As promised/foretold, below is a video (provided by Inside the Magic) of the ride's Arendelle additions.

Get Free Mickey Mouse Ears or Autograph Book!

Still searching for Christmas present ideas?

Well, how about a free pair of Mickey Mouse ears or autograph book for your child? Or for each of your children?

When you book your next Disney trip with Destinations in Florida travel agent Jennifer Hardy, each child gets a free gift—either Mickey Mouse ears or an autograph book—and each adult gets a free gift card!

Click HERE to book!

Following are the latest Disney deals from Destinations in Florida:

Disney Discounts 

Walt Disney World® Resort

• Stay Play & Dine:  Save up to 30% off your hotel accommodations for a 2015 Disney World vacation.  Select dates from January 5-March 28, 2015.

• Save Up to 30% Off Hotels:  Book your family vacation from January 5-March 28 and save up to 30% off Disney Resort Hotels.
• Free Dining Bounce Back Specials:  During your Disney vacation, you can book your next Disney vacation at huge savings!  The current bounce back special includes the Disney Dining Plan for free.  Book your Disney package before you check out and then contact your favorite Destinations in Florida/Destinations to Explore agent for details on transferring your reservation.  
• Active/Retired Military Rates:  For US active and retired military, save money on tickets and resort accommodations through October 2015.
• Florida Resident & Annual Passholder Rates:  Florida Residents and Annual Passholders can take advantage of great rates on rooms at select Disney Resort Hotels up to 35% off.
• RunDisney Group Rates:  Are you a runner?  Do you want to run a race with Mickey Mouse?  Join our VIP runners at Destinations in Florida for some of the favorite races including Disney Marathon and Disney Princess Run.  These exclusive rates are only with our agency.

Disneyland® Resort

• Save up to 25% Off Spring 2015 Vacations:  Save up to 25% on Disneyland® Resort Hotel stays January 4-February 12, 2015 and save up to 20% on stays February 13-March 26, 2015.
• Active/Retired Military Rates:  For US active and retired military, save money on tickets and resort accommodations through October 2015.
• 3rd, 4th or 5th Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels:  Visit Anaheim during select nights through December 2014.  Stay at a select Disney Good Neighbor Hotels and enjoy a 3rd night, 4th night or 5th night free.  Contact your favorite Destinations in Florida/Destinations to Explore agent for details.

Disney Cruise Line®

• Disney Cruises at Big Savings:  Take a 3-Night or 4-Night Cruise out of Port Canaveral (just 45 minutes from Orlando) and save big!  Prices start from just $188 per person per night plus tax/port fees.  For a family of 2, that is just $1,128 plus $69 per person for taxes/port fees.  These discount cruises include December 7 and select early 2015 sailings.
• Canadian Residents Save up to 20% Off:  From November 2014-January 2015, Canadian Residents can save up to 20% off Disney Cruise prices on select cruises.
• Special Rates for Florida Residents and US Military:  Take advantage of special deals for Florida Residents and active/retired United States Military.

See you all real soon!

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit's USA Debut!

He made his Disney Parks debut back in April at Tokyo DisneySea, and I ended my post with the request for him to arrive at the States.

Now, the Disney Park’s Blog has announced that Oswald the Lucky Rabbit will be making his USA debut at Disneyland California Adventure starting September 14!

He is so pumped!
Image from Disney Digital Files.

Oswald’s appearance has long been desired by Disney fans, especially in Disneyland, as he has his own "gas station" there already!

Image from WDWMagic forums.

The video below shows the energetic and excited Oswald meeting guests in Tokyo.



Who’s excited to start meeting him in September?

ttfn!

***UPDATE***

Inside the Magic has reported that Oswald has already made his debut: however, it was at a special event only for Disneyland's annual passholders.

The event, called "Fall Back to Fun," required registration in advance to attend (and again, only for annual passholders). The event featured rare characters mingling with guests.

And Oswald appeared!

Image and video from Inside the Magic.

He'll be appearing for regular meet-and-greets starting September 14.

Disneyland’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’ Dark Ride Updated with Digital Projections

(Whew, long title.)

Yesterday, Disneyland reopened the Alice in Wonderland dark ride, which had been updated with digital projections.  The update also took care of some safety issues, after a cast member slipped in 2010.

Image from Wikipedia.

Inside the Magic took a POV video of the new ride:

Both videos from YouTube.

To understand the changes, here is Inside the Magic’s explanation followed by a video of the previous version of the dark ride.

Besides the safety enhancements, WDI took the rehab time to install several new Alice figures and many new digitally projected effects. New effects can be seen immediately as one rides down the rabbit hole into the attraction. A fully animated scene from the movie is projected onto a set piece showing Alice chasing after the White Rabbit. There are several more projected animated bits in the flower section and in the Queen of Hearts section.

None of the figures feature video-projected heads, like those seen in the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train attraction in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, despite the rumors on other Disney fan sites.

The newly rebuilt down ramp still features the twists and turns regular Disneyland visitors remember, albeit on a wider track. The new rails on the exit (left) side of the vehicles reflect the vine architecture of the exterior. There is also a digitally projected animated tea party seen when entering the final scene at the bottom of the down ramp.

Check out Inside the Magic’s article for more, including a former Imagineer’s opinion of the changes.

ttfn!

***UPDATE***

Here's a video my friend Sara shared on her blog, The Disney Den.  It provides a side-by-side comparison of the old and the new.  Enjoy!

‘Frozen’ Pre-Parade Float at Disneyland!

In WDW's Festival of Fantasy parade, Anna, Elsa and Olaf appear at the end of the princess float, the first in the parade.  The trio was added last minute due to Frozen’s unexpected popularity.

At Disneyland, the trio was just given their own pre-parade float in front of Mickey’s Soundsational Parade.

Here are three videos of the float’s debut.

Videos from YouTube.

Image from dlandlive.com

My thoughts?  Since I love these three to death (no surprise there), I’m excited for them to get their own float and everything, but it’s kind of disappointing.  Of course, it’s merely a pre-parade float, but I was kind of hoping for some singing, not just instrumental. The design is beautiful, but Olaf wasn't quite as animated as I expected.  No mouth movement at all?

However, I am hoping that this pre-parade signals their expansion in the Festival of Fantasy parade.

Your thoughts?

ttfn!

Disney Parks is on Snapchat!

The Most Magical Place on Earth and the Happiest Place on Earth are now both on Snapchat!

Disneyland and Disney World will be “snapping” pictures from the all-nighter event this weekend, taking place on both sides of the coast.  This is the third year Disneyland and Disney World have held simultaneous all-nighter events.

The theme this year is Rock Your Disney Side, with guests being encouraged to dress up as their favorite villain or hero character.

On their respective Facebook pages, Disneyland and Disney World both shared these step-by-step graphics to help fans connect with them on Snapchat.  Here are the images from Disney World's Facebook page.

To add Disneyland on Snapchat, just search "disneyland" instead.

For more details about the Rock Your Disney Side event, check out these posts on the Disney Parks Blog.