Fantasy Springs Soft Opens!!!

Fantasy Springs is the new over $2 billion expansion themed to Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan at Tokyo DisneySea. And it is now OPEN to all guests as part of unpaid previews or technical rehearsals several weeks prior to its official opening in June! This covers everything you need to know: how to access the […]

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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Ticket Pricing Per Date Released & More: Daily Recap (5/15/24)

Tickets go on sale for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney shares a look at the new Disney Springs drone show, and Magic Key holders can now see their no-show dates on the Disneyland app and website — all this and more in today’s daily recap for Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

Daily Recap for 5/14/24

Walt Disney World

Magic Kingdom

Ghost performers dance in Boo-To-You Parade in front of Cinderella Castle at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24

EPCOT

Topiary displays of a guitar-playing figure with a hat and an animal-like creature stand amidst vibrant flowers in a garden, with a geodesic dome in the background under a cloudy sky. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24
  • The projector for the projection-mapped topiary of Dante from “Coco” — a first for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival — has been removed.
  • The lights of CommuniCore Hall were illuminated in the evening this week, as testing continues ahead of the area’s opening this summer.

Disney Springs

Two people watch a nighttime drone display with red and blue lights forming the shape of Baymax in the sky. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24

Other Walt Disney World News

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom viewed over moat. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24

Disneyland Resort

Rectangular purple, pink, and white Magic Key magnet held in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24

Entertainment and Media

Left: Natasha Lyonne, an actress with wavy red hair waving a black sleeveless top and necklace. Right: The glowing blue logo of the Fantastic Four and Marvel Studios logo. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24
Source: Gilbert Flores / Variety, Getty

Disney+

A group of six people, including four adults and two children, are smiling and sitting around a table set for a meal in a cozy kitchen with a cake and colored cups. WDWNT Daily Recap 5-14-24

WDW News Today

Virtual Queue and Previews for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Labor Dispute at Gideon’s Bakehouse

REVIEW: Tom (and his Parents) have Dinner at the NEW 1900 Park Fare

We Journey Deep Into the Mind with Pixar’s Inside Out!

That’s it for today; we hope you enjoyed this Daily Recap. Thanks for stopping by, and we’ll see you tomorrow!

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Natasha Lyonne Joins Marvel’s ‘The Fantastic Four’ Cast

Marvel has cast Natasha Lyonne in an unknown role in “The Fantastic Four,” Deadline reports.

Natasha Lyonne in ‘The Fantastic Four’

Left: Natasha Lyonne, an actress with wavy red hair waving a black sleeveless top and necklace. Right: The glowing blue logo of the Fantastic Four and Marvel Studios logo.
Source: Gilbert Flores / Variety, Getty

Lyonne joins Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards, a.k.a. Mr. Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm, a.k.a. the Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm, a.k.a. the Human Torch), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm, a.k.a. the Thing), Julia Garner (Silver Surfer), Paul Walter-Hauser, Ralph Ineson, and John Malkovich. Like Lyonne, the latter three’s roles have not been revealed.

Lyonne, repped by CAA and Schreck Rose Dapello, is known for recently starring in Rian Johnson’s “Poker Face,” which she produces through Animal Pictures, and “Russian Doll,” which she created.

“The Fantastic Four” marks the superhero team’s official entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (an alternate version of Mr. Fantastic portrayed by John Krasinski was in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”). The film is directed by Matt Shakman (“WandaVision”) from a screenplay by Ric Pearson, Josh Friedman, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer. Production will begin this summer.

“The Fantastic Four” will hit theaters on July 25, 2025.

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‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ Sequel Series Title and Cast Revealed

Selena Gomez announced the title of the “Wizards of Waverly Place” sequel series at Disney Upfront this week and revealed images from the set.

‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place’

Promotional image for "Disney Wizards Beyond Waverly Place," featuring a stylized text logo on a gradient background.

The title is “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.” Gomez and David Henrie, who both starred in the original, serve as executive producers. They reprise their roles as Alex and Justin Russo respectively, with Gomez appearing as a guest star and Henrie as a series regular.

The series description, released in March, reads:

The series follows an adult Justin Russo, who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family, Giada, Roman and Milo. When Justin’s sister Alex brings Billie to his home seeking help, Justin realizes he must dust off his magical skills to mentor the wizard-in-training while also juggling his everyday responsibilities — and safeguarding the future of the Wizard World.

A group of six people, including four adults and two children, are smiling and sitting around a table set for a meal in a cozy kitchen with a cake and colored cups.
Image Source: Disney/Eric McCandless

The main cast also includes Janice LeAnn Brown as Billie, Mimi Gianopulos as Giada Russo, Alkaio Thiele as Roman Russo, and Max Matenko as Milo Russo. Rounding out the cast is newcomer Taylor Cora as Winter, Billie’s bubbly, quirky, and oversharing best friend.

Two people, a woman and a man, stand side by side in a room with magical-themed decor, holding wands and smiling at the camera.
Image Source: Disney/Eric McCandless

Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas are writers and executive producers alongside Gary Marsh, Gomez, and Henrie. Andy Fickman directed and executive-produced the pilot and will direct multiple episodes.

The Disney Branded Television series is set to premiere on Disney Channel and Disney+ later this year.

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Brand New “Disney Dreams That Soar” Drone Show Arriving at Disney Springs

Walt Disney World is set to elevate its nighttime entertainment with the introduction of a new drone show, “Disney Dreams That Soar,” at Disney Springs. This innovative spectacle promises to blend cutting-edge technology with the timeless magic of Disney storytelling, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Running nightly from May 24 through September 2, 2024, this show will be a highlight of the summer season, offering a unique and free entertainment option for guests at Disney Springs. In this article, we will delve into the details of this exciting new show, its historical context, and what visitors can expect.

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The Concept of “Disney Dreams That Soar”

“Disney Dreams That Soar” is designed to celebrate the joy of flight through Disney stories. The show will feature state-of-the-art drones choreographed to create intricate designs in the sky, accompanied by a soaring musical score and memorable movie quotes. This combination of technology and storytelling aims to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience for viewers.

The drones will take to the skies above Lake Buena Vista, the lake that borders the shopping and dining district of Disney Springs. The best views are expected to be from the West Side of Disney Springs, where the drones will perform their aerial ballet. This location not only provides a scenic backdrop but also ensures that the drones can operate safely away from pedestrian areas.

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Historical Context and Previous Drone Shows

Disney’s exploration of drone technology for entertainment purposes dates back several years. The company first experimented with drones during the 2016 holiday season with the “Starbright Holidays” show at Disney Springs. This limited-time show featured 300 drones, intricately choreographed in 3D space over the lake and synchronized to holiday music. The success of this show demonstrated the potential of drones to create magical nighttime spectacles.

Disneyland Paris has also been at the forefront of incorporating drones into their nighttime entertainment. The “Disney Electrical Sky Parade,” which debuted during the park’s 30th anniversary celebrations, featured 500 drones recreating iconic moments from the classic Disney Main Street Electrical Parade. This show set a high standard for what drone technology can achieve in a Disney park setting.

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The Technology Behind the Show

The drones used in “Disney Dreams That Soar” are state-of-the-art, capable of creating complex and dynamic designs in the sky. These drones are equipped with LED lights that can change color and intensity, allowing for a wide range of visual effects. The choreography of the drones is meticulously planned and programmed to ensure precise movements and synchronization with the musical score.

Disney has been developing drone technology for use in their parks for several years. The company filed various patents related to their Flixel system in 2014, which utilized drones to carry projection surfaces. This innovative approach allows for the creation of large-scale visual displays that can be seen from great distances.

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What to Expect from “Disney Dreams That Soar”

Visitors to Disney Springs can expect a truly magical experience with “Disney Dreams That Soar.” The show will run nightly from May 24 through September 2, 2024, providing ample opportunities for guests to catch a performance. The drones will take to the skies after dark, creating a mesmerizing display of lights and shapes that tell beloved Disney stories.

The musical score for the show will feature a mix of iconic Disney songs and memorable movie quotes, adding an emotional layer to the visual spectacle. The combination of music, lights, and storytelling is designed to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia, making it a perfect way to end a day at Disney Springs.

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Viewing Tips and Best Spots

To get the best view of “Disney Dreams That Soar,” visitors should head to the West Side of Disney Springs. This area offers unobstructed views of the sky above Lake Buena Vista, where the drones will perform. Some of the best spots to watch the show include:

  • Summer House on the Lake: A new restaurant at Disney Springs that offers outdoor seating with a great view of the lake.
  • Jaleo by Chef José Andrés: This restaurant also offers excellent views of the sky and is known for its delicious Spanish cuisine.
  • House of Blues Orlando: Located on the West Side, this venue provides a lively atmosphere and a good vantage point for the show.

For those who prefer a more relaxed viewing experience, consider bringing a picnic blanket and setting up near the lake. The Basket by Wine Bar George offers a variety of bites and sweets that can be packed to go, making it easy to enjoy a picnic while watching the show.

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The Future of Drone Shows at Disney Parks

The introduction of “Disney Dreams That Soar” at Disney Springs is seen by many as a test for the broader implementation of drone technology at Walt Disney World. There is speculation that if the show is successful, similar drone-driven nighttime spectaculars could be introduced at other parks within the resort. Animal Kingdom, in particular, is a strong candidate for a drone show, as the park currently lacks a nighttime spectacular and has the necessary open spaces for drone operations.

Disney’s commitment to innovation and storytelling suggests that drones will play an increasingly important role in their entertainment offerings. The success of drone shows at Disneyland Paris and the positive reception of previous drone shows at Disney Springs indicate that guests are eager for more of these high-tech spectacles.

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Conclusion

“Disney Dreams That Soar” Disney Springs is set to be a highlight of the summer season at Walt Disney World, offering a unique and free entertainment option for visitors to Disney Springs. This state-of-the-art drone show combines cutting-edge technology with the timeless magic of Disney storytelling, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. Running nightly from May 24 through September 2, 2024, this show is a must-see for anyone visiting Disney Springs this summer.

As Disney continues to explore the potential of drone technology, Disney Springs “Disney Dreams That Soar” may be just the beginning of a new era of nighttime entertainment at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re a long-time Disney fan or a first-time visitor, this show promises to add a magical touch to your evening at Disney Springs. So, gather your friends and family, and prepare to look up and let your imagination soar with “Disney Dreams That Soar.”

By incorporating the latest information and focusing on the key aspects of the new drone show, this article provides a comprehensive overview of what visitors can expect from “Disney Dreams That Soar” at Disney Springs. The use of active voice and topic keywords throughout the article ensures that it is engaging and informative for readers.



ABC Reveals Moderators of Second Presidential Debate

With the upcoming 2024 election and newly announced Presidential debates, two of ABC News’ own have been revealed as moderators of September’s debate. What’s Happening: Deadline reports that two ABC newscasters will be moderating the second Presidential debate on September 10th. David Muir and Linsey Davis will be moderating their first general election debate. Muir is […]

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PHOTOS: Jungle Cruise Dock Boards Completely Replaced at Magic Kingdom

The refurbishment of the Jungle Cruise dock at Magic Kingdom is now complete, with the old boards replaced with boards made of composite materials.

Jungle Cruise Dock Refurbishment

An empty, roped-off queue area at an outdoor attraction with a wooden floor and canopy, with two people in the background near a forested backdrop.

The refurbishment began in January, with different sections of the queue closing for work. Construction walls and scrim are all gone now. Most recently, they blocked off a small section in this area of the queue.

Close-up of wet wooden decking with visible raindrops and some surface water. The planks have a grooved texture and are aligned parallel to each other.

The new floorboards have a ridged texture.

A wooden deck area features various barrels, crates, and metal containers, with greenery and a sign reading "Mama Willow" in the background.

These boards can be seen throughout the queue and loading area.

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Caitlin Clark Debut Brings NBWA its Most Viewed Game in Over 20 Years

Caitlin Clark made her WNBA debut yesterday in the WNBA Tip-Off Presented Carmax helping the league score its most watched game in over 20 years. What’s Happening: According to ESPN Pressroom, the WNBA secured its most watched game in over 20 years yesterday. The Indiana Fever at Connecticut Sun game, a part of the WNBA […]

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Disney Dreams That Soar Drone Show: Dates, Times, Viewing Info & First Look

Walt Disney World has shared a sneak peek at the ‘Dreams That Soar’ drone show that’ll fly above Disney Springs this summer, along with viewing info and more. This post covers everything you need to know before you go, along with photos & video of the new nighttime presentation. At Disney Springs, drones take to […]

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PHOTOS: Most CommuniCore Hall Lights Illuminated at Night in EPCOT

The lights of CommuniCore Hall were illuminated during the evening of Monday, May 13 at EPCOT. Disney has been testing lights on and off for the past few months, including dancing lights that will sync with Spaceship Earth shows, but this is the most fully lit we’ve seen the building.

CommuniCore Hall Lights

Nighttime view of a park with illuminated artistic structures and vibrant lights, seen from behind a railing with two bright vertical light columns in the foreground.

The lights weren’t dancing or changing, indicating this may be the standard lighting package. Each wall of Spaceship Earth-inspired triangular paneling featured a main color. At the edges and corners, a gradient of color transitioned to the next wall.

Illuminated modern building at night with a geometric facade, displaying the word "Communications" in neon lights.

This corner moved from blue to yellow. The CommuniCore Hall signs were also lit up in a bright white.

wdw epcot communicore hall lights 05.13.2024 6736

This wall moved to mainly green lights on the right side. There were touches of pink and orange.

wdw epcot communicore hall lights 05.13.2024 6739

The solid walls without triangular paneling were also illuminated with blue and green lighting.

Illuminated building facade with triangular patterns in blue and red lights at night, surrounded by palm trees.

The panels on this wall were lit white and red.

Colorfully illuminated building at night with a geometric patterned facade, surrounded by dark silhouettes of trees and people.

Some panels on this corner of the building were not lit. This is where guests will enter the Mickey & Friends meet and greet. The meet and greet sign was also dark.

Nighttime view of a park with colorful illuminated columns and visitors walking around.

The CommuniCore lights seemed to match the lights in the nearby World Celebration Gardens. Watch our nighttime tour of these gardens for a better look at these lights:

CommuniCore Hall and Plaza will open on June 10, 2024.

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