BREAKING: Limited-Time ‘Encanto’ Sing-Along Coming to EPCOT This Summer

When CommuniCore Plaza finally opens at EPCOT, a new “Encanto” show will debut on the plaza stage.

New ‘Encanto’ Show

Encanto celebration concept art

Everyone will be talking about Bruno from June 10-Sept. 6 because a new summer sing-along featuring the beloved songs and story of “Encanto” is in development. This new limited-time show, “¡Celebración Encanto!” runs several times throughout the day and will not only invite you and your family to sing along with some of your favorite songs, but you’ll also spot Mirabel and Bruno on the newly opened CommuniCore Plaza stage. 

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BREAKING: CommuniCore Hall & Plaza Opening Date at EPCOT Announced

The years-long reimagining of EPCOT will finally be complete this summer, when CommuniCore Hall and Plaza will open.

CommuniCore Hall & Plaza Opening

The final EPCOT construction walls will come down and guests will be able to visit CommuniCore Hall and Plaza beginning on June 10.

While CommuniCore Hall will be home to the iconic EPCOT festivals and other celebrations, it’ll also be a perfect cool indoor space year-round for you and your family to recharge. And speaking of cool, CommuniCore Hall will be surrounded by serene views and exciting experiences. The coolest mouse around will be ready to give you a hug once new character greeting location Mickey & Friends debuts! With its beautiful mural of all things EPCOT past and present, a geometric exterior design inspired by Spaceship Earth, and of course, Mickey Mouse and his pals, you’re sure to have a smile on your face.

If you love what we’ve already revealed of the World Celebration Gardens, you’ll be delighted by even more luscious greenery and relaxing spaces to enjoy out in CommuniCore Plaza and Inspiration Gardens.

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Bob Chapek Talks ESPN in First Interview Since Being Fired From Disney

In his first public interview since being fired from Disney, former CEO Bob Chapek talked to CNBC‘s Alex Sherman about the future of ESPN.

Bob Chapek Talks About ESPN

Former CEO Bob Chapek on CNBC

The interview is part of the documentary “ESPN’s Fight for Dominance.” In response to Sherman’s broad question regarding ESPN’s future in streaming, Chapek said, “I believe that ESPN could be every bit the juggernaut it is in the streaming world as it has been in the cable world.”

The brand is so central. It is so powerful. It is so beloved by so many sports fans. At the same time though, I do believe we have to recognize that the transition from a cable universe over to a streaming world is going to be one that’s gonna probably be fraught with challenges.

Former Disney CEO Bob Chapek

Sherman asked Chapek why he didn’t sell ESPN when he was CEO. Chapek pointed out Disney was in debt from acquiring Fox and the COVID-19 pandemic had just hit. ESPN was bringing in cash they needed so selling it wasn’t feasible.

After Chapek was fired in November 2022, Iger simplified the structure of Disney, splitting ESPN into its own segment. Chapek believes Disney is planning on selling all or part of ESPN and splitting it from other entertainment was the first step.

Current Disney CEO Bob Iger has previously expressed interest in bringing on more minority partners for ESPN in addition to Hearst. Chapek said he doesn’t see a strategic benefit to this.

Chapek thinks that, as the market leader in sports, ESPN should become a central hub for many sporting events.

I always look at the business through a consumer-first lens. And as the number of outlets that broadcast sporting events has grown and as the complexity and the schedule of those broadcasts gets more and more spread out, I sometimes think that we have a very suboptimal experience for consumers.

Former CEO Bob Chapek

Chapek compared this potential portal version of ESPN to Apple TV, which allows users to search for a movie or show and then directs them to the streaming service where it’s available.

Watch the full interview below.

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‘The Lion King’ 30th Anniversary Celebration Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will celebrate the 30th anniversary of “The Lion King” with a celebration this summer.

“The Lion King” 30th Anniversary Celebration

wdw dak the lion king 30th merchandise 1

The celebration will run from June 10 through September 6. A new merchandise collection inspired by “The Lion King” will include apparel and accessories.

Pumbaa popcorn bucket

The Pumbaa popcorn bucket released last summer will return. There will also be limited-time special menu items.

wdw dak timon rafiki

Timon and Rafiki will meet guests at Rafiki’s Planet Watch again. Meet and greet times will be available in the My Disney Experience app.

Guests can learn to draw “The Lion King” characters at the Animation Experience at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

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