We were recently invited to a media preview of the new VIP “Page to Stage Signature Experience” of Cirque du Soleil’s “Drawn to Life” at Disney Springs.

Cirque du Soleil “Drawn to Life: Page to Stage Signature Experience”

The experience includes a backstage tour, meet-and-greet, premium show seating, and collectible souvenirs.

We’re thrilled to invite guests backstage for an exclusive look at the intricate workings of Cirque du Soleil’s captivating production, ‘Drawn to Life.’ By showcasing the work of our talented artists and skilled technical team, attendees will gain a special insight into the magic that brings this collaboration between Cirque du Soleil and Disney Animation to life.

Kevin Hargrove, Company Manager of “Drawn to Life“

We met Jeff Lovari, VIP Guest Experiences and Special Events producer, and Justin Sullivan, Artistic Director. Lovari said that all Cirque du Soleil shows have some kind of VIP experience. It was important for them to bring the experience to “Drawn to Life” and include a behind-the-scenes look that not all the VIP experiences have.

The experience will be available at the second shows on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It begins with a personalized greeting and check-in with a “Page to Stage” host. Guests then get to select concessions and a souvenir popcorn bucket. The popcorn bucket is exclusive to this location. There will also be special plastic cups.

Guests then get to enjoy “Drawn to Life” from premium, reserved seating. Read our review of the original version of “Drawn to Life.” It received an updated finale last year.

After the performance, VIP guests meet back up with their host. There’s a photo op with a “Drawn to Life” mural and swing.

Guests get to meet some of the show’s talent for photos and a Q&A. Different performers will rotate with each tour, appearing in full costume and makeup.

This wall features signatures by all of the cast and crew who have worked on “Drawn to Life” since its 2021 premiere. The gold autographs are the original cast and crew. Silver autographs are by those who joined later.

There are also headshots of the full staff.

Guests then explore the stage, including backstage and under the stage. Because of the time that the media preview took place, we got to see some training, but this won’t take place during regular tours.

The set includes a giant lamp and a proscenium made of sketches.

The stage resembles a giant artist’s desk. Life-size artist desks are used during the show.

The backstage tour includes a visit to the wardrobe department. All costumes are created by Cirque du Soleil with white fabric. They’re printed on and painted with color at headquarters.

More costumes were stored in the training studio.

We noticed a giant white glove on a table.

And some large wastebaskets.

The show utilizes two lifts and two trapdoors, which guests can see during the backstage tour.

There are two artist’s desks in the show. One is inspired by legendary Disney animator Mary Blair.

There are various works of art, some original, pinned to the walls of the desk.

Most of the artwork on the Mary Blair desk is from “Alice in Wonderland.”

On the other side of the desk are pieces from “Sleeping Beauty.”

All the paint on the desk is from Disney Archives.

The other desk is the father’s desk. “Drawn to Life” is about a young woman who dives into her artist father’s world of animation.

The show is a love letter to Walt Disney Animation Studios. Some Disney figures are on the father’s desk.

This book is about Disney Animation.

This image of “Steamboat Willie” is one of two references to Mickey.

Here’s a giant version of that Mickey prop.

We also got a peek at a crew member’s station.

This prop desk has a silhouette drawing of Donald Duck.

This train is a reference to the previous show in the Cirque du Soleil theater, “La Nouba.”

Even the unicycles have their own storage area.

This area is likely the Stage Manager’s station.

This prop includes a large sepia-toned photo of members of the cast.

As a memento, guests receive a “Drawn to Life” gift bag and a discount off purchase at the Cirque du Soleil theater’s store.

We received a pin featuring a colorful unicycle and the “Drawn to Life” logo.

“Page to Stage Signature Experience” will launch on May 24. Tickets are available now at $285 for adults and $225 for children, including taxes and fees.

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Tokyo Disney Resort has released the first look inside Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival, a ride based on “Tangled” coming to Fantasy Springs.

Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival

For the first time ever, be transported to where the glowing lanterns gleam on Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival over in Rapunzel’s Forest. This romantic gondola journey retells the tale of Disney Animation’s “Tangled,” from Rapunzel’s tower to the moment we’ve all been waiting for, watching the sky envelope with countless lanterns to the tune of “I See the Light.”

Fantasy Springs opens next month at Tokyo DisneySea.

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Since its haunting debut at Disneyland Park in 1969, the Haunted Mansion has cast a spellbinding charm over Disney Parks guests, inspiring an enduring legacy. This iconic attraction has spawned three additional incarnations, multiple film adaptations, merchandise collections galore, and now, the highly-anticipated Haunted Mansion Parlor bar aboard the Disney Treasure cruise ship.

Honoring over five decades of fandom, this new nautical-themed experience will unveil the next haunting chapter in the Haunted Mansion saga. Disney Cruise Line and Disney Imagineers have harnessed their design prowess to evoke the nostalgia of the original attraction while weaving a fresh, seafaring storyline. The Haunted Mansion Parlor will resemble the well-appointed parlor of a jovial sea captain and his enigmatic fiancée, whose sudden disappearances shroud the venue in mystery. Discerning guests may unravel the truth by deciphering clues cleverly hidden throughout the bar’s atmospheric design, immersing themselves in this latest haunting tale.

Something Seems Fishy About This Aquarium

When the original Haunted Mansion was being conceptualized at Disneyland, visionary Imagineer Rolly Crump proposed an intriguing “Museum of the Weird” exhibit. While many of Crump’s ideas manifested throughout the iconic attraction, a few remained unexplored – until now. One such concept was a haunting aquarium teeming with ghostly fish. Over five decades later, this long-shelved sketch has inspired a new generation of Disney Imagineers to create a modern “Aquarium with Ghost Fish” for the Haunted Mansion Parlor.

Seamlessly blending nostalgia with fresh lore, the eerie aquarium will intertwine with the enigmatic backstory of the parlor’s former seafaring owner. Tales passed down by The Captain’s loyal crew recount his final moments, heading to his parlor for a meal prepared by his betrothed. All that remained after their sudden disappearance was The Captain’s hat, found floating ominously in the aquarium’s depths. This chilling detail adds a haunting twist to the phrase “fish food.”

An Eerie Art Collection

The Haunted Mansion Parlor will showcase an unsettling portrait gallery depicting the wandering spirits that have taken up residence aboard the Disney Treasure. This collection pays homage to the iconic artworks adorning the original Haunted Mansion, replicating the distinctive styles employed by Disney’s Imagineers in 1969. However, the gallery will also incorporate cutting-edge technology, allowing these ghostly residents to entertain guests in eerily innovative ways.

The iconic Mariner portrait, originally conceived by the legendary Disney animator Marc Davis, has an eerie tale that spans decades. First gracing the halls of the original Haunted Mansion attraction, this haunting artwork later found its way to the versions at Walt Disney World Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort. Now, the Mariner’s ghostly saga will plunge into uncharted waters as he takes up residence in the Haunted Mansion Parlor aboard the Disney Treasure cruise ship.

This new chapter will pay homage to Marc Davis’ enduring legacy, allowing the Mariner to uphold the master animator’s indelible impact on Disney’s haunting attractions and lore. Seamlessly blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling, the Mariner’s presence in the Haunted Mansion Parlor promises to immerse guests in a chilling maritime mystery, weaving together Davis’ iconic artistry with the high seas adventures that await on this haunting new voyage.

The walls of the Haunted Mansion Parlor will be adorned with the striking portrait of a jovial sea captain. Though his lifelong aspiration of serving aboard a luxurious ocean liner was tragically cut short by an untimely demise, his cheerful spirit lingers eternally within the confines of his private parlor sanctuary. Despite his unfulfilled maritime ambitions, this good-humored captain’s essence refuses to be extinguished, his merry soul defiantly haunting the very chambers that once provided him solace and respite. The haunting visage immortalized in his portrait serves as a poignant reminder of dreams left unlived and a life cut short before its time.

The portrait of The Captain’s enigmatic bride-to-be in the Haunted Mansion Parlor Disney Treasure draws inspiration from Marc Davis’ iconic “cat lady” concept featured in the original Haunted Mansion attraction. Utilizing innovative technology, her likeness will eerily flicker, unveiling her true spectral form and hinting at her potentially sinister intentions.

The ill-fated couple’s fateful encounter began when The Captain received a distress call from another vessel at sea. Swiftly altering course to render aid, he instead discovered only wreckage and a lone survivor – a woman adrift amidst the debris. With her striking green eyes, chestnut tresses, and a golden key adorning her neck, it’s no wonder The Captain was instantly captivated by her beauty. The pair became inseparable, eventually becoming betrothed.

A Ghostly Line of Drinkware

The haunting portraits adorning the Haunted Mansion Parlor will also inspire a Disney Cruise Line-exclusive commemorative mug collection debuting aboard the Disney Treasure. These ceramic mugs will bear an eerie resemblance to worn wooden planks from a ghostly ship. Early sketches and models offer a glimpse into the first two mugs in this spooky series – one depicting The Mariner and another bearing the likeness of The Captain’s enigmatic bride.

These ghastly drinkware designs promise to immerse collectors in the haunting lore surrounding the Disney Treasure Haunted Mansion Parlor. The Haunted Mansion Parlor will beckon foolish mortals to tempt fate when the Disney Treasure embarks on its maiden voyage on December 21, 2024, unveiling this latest chapter in Disney’s haunting legacy at sea.

The Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs stand at Disney’s BoardWalk is nearing completion and, hopefully, opening. Since signs were installed last month, awnings have been added to the stand.

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs

There’s one awning on each side of the kiosk. They are striped blue and white, matching the color scheme of Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs and the rest of the kiosk.

Some words have also been painted in white on the blue panels above the awnings. This side advertises lemonade, corn dogs, and cotton candy.

Through the rolling planters surrounding the kiosk, we saw a “pickup” sign above a window.

Lemonade and cotton candy are also advertised on blue panels on the front of the stand. The new awning fits right between the curved blue lamps.

Lemonade, corn dogs, and cotton candy are also listed on the third side.

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs is set to open this year but they have not announced an exact date.

Friendship Boats Sign

During our recent visit, crew members were installing a new sign at the BoardWalk’s Friendship dock. The dock was refurbished back in March.

The new sign is above the dock’s entrance, attached to the white archway. It has three arrows pointing to each walkway of the dock. The one on the right is labeled for EPCOT. The center is labeled “Exit.”

The left-hand walkway is for boats to Disney’s Yacht Club, Beach Club, Swan and Dolphin Hotel, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The sign is white with blue details.

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Get ready for a spook-tacular celebration on the high seas as Halloween on the High Seas returns to Disney Cruise Line! Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Donald Duck are embracing the haunting festivities with brand-new, ghoulishly delightful costumes. Mickey and Minnie are cutting a dapper yet spine-chilling figure in their batty new ensembles, while the ever-mischievous Donald has donned a dashing gentleman spider costume, complete with multiple legs ready to boogie the night away – no doubt impressing his sweetheart Daisy.

Guests are encouraged to pack their own haunting attire for Mickey’s Mouse-querade, a special party where they can mingle with Disney characters decked out in their Halloween finest. Spooky selfies with these costumed pals are a must during the themed meet-and-greets!

Once aboard, cruisers will be immersed in a world of frightful fun, sipping on themed beverages, indulging in treats galore (no tricks required!), and even trick-or-treating at sea amidst the Halloween-themed takeover of the ship’s decor and activities.

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  Halloween is Back on the High Seas 2024 | Disney Cruise LineMay 6, 2024

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Get ready for a spook-tacular celebration at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party returns in 2024 with thrilling new offerings and fan-favorite frights. This separately-ticketed event kicks off on August 9 and runs on select nights through October 31. Guests can purchase tickets starting May 8 if staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, or Shades of Green. All other guests can buy tickets beginning May 15.

The 2024 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Disney World dates are:

• August: 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
• September: 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29
• October: 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31

Prepare for a hauntingly good time with new spooky spectacles and returning favorites at this iconic Halloween celebration. From chilling entertainment to devilishly delightful treats, Disney World Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2024 promises a wicked night of family-friendly frights and fun!

New Mickey and Minnie Halloween Costumes

Mickey and Minnie are spinning a web of spooky style for Walt Disney World Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! The iconic duo will haunt the event in electrifying new neon spiderweb costumes, adding a radiant fright to their iconic looks.

Their vibrant attire, glowing with an eerie web pattern, promises to dazzle guests as Mickey and Minnie bring their signature charm to this haunting celebration. Get ready to be entranced by the dynamic pair’s latest ghoulish garb as they spread Halloween spirit throughout the Magic Kingdom.

More Villains

Prepare to encounter the dastardly and wicked during Walt Disney World Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2024! From the moment the event kicks off until the final spell is cast, Magic Kingdom will be overrun by sinister Disney villains and ghoulish foes. Keep your eyes peeled, for you may even have the opportunity to capture a selfie with these nefarious characters as they roam the park.

Their wicked presence will add an extra layer of fright and delight to this haunting celebration. Iconic villains like Maleficent, Jafar, and the Evil Queen will likely make appearances, spreading their devious auras throughout the Magic Kingdom’s lands. Brace yourself for chilling encounters with these infamous antagonists during this spook-tacular event.

DescenDANCE

Get ready to unleash your wicked moves at the all-new DescenDANCE Party during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! This villainous rave, taking place at Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland, draws inspiration from the upcoming Disney+ original movie “Descendants: The Rise of Red.” Let your inner villain shine as you groove to the beats and show off your most mischievous dance moves at this spook-tacular bash.

The DescenDANCE Party promises to be a thrilling addition to the Halloween festivities, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the world of the Descendants franchise. With its pulsating rhythms and wicked atmosphere, this dance party invites you to embrace your dark side and celebrate the spirit of the season in true villainous fashion.

Bruno Madrigal Joins the Party

Get ready to encounter the mysterious Bruno Madrigal during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! For the first time ever, the clairvoyant character from Disney’s “Encanto” will make an appearance, joining his niece Mirabel at their family Casita in Fairytale Garden. This highly-anticipated debut promises a delightfully spooky meet-and-greet opportunity for fans of the beloved film. Guests can finally come face-to-face with the elusive Bruno, whose prophetic visions have captivated audiences worldwide. Alongside the charming Mirabel, this dynamic duo is sure to bring an extra dose of magic and excitement to the haunting Halloween festivities at the Magic Kingdom.

New “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” Start Time

Families with young children can rejoice at the earlier start time for Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! This year, the beloved parade will kick off at 8:15pm, a full hour earlier than previous years, allowing little ones to revel in the spooky fun before bedtime. While the parade timing receives a spook-tacular adjustment, plenty of fan-favorite frights return for more tricks and treats.

Guests can look forward to the “Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular” fireworks hosted by Jack Skellington, the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show, and trick-or-treating throughout the Magic Kingdom. The party also offers opportunities to dance the night away, experience haunting attraction overlays like Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and Space Mountain, and indulge in Halloween treats galore.

Those with a sweet tooth can satiate their cravings at the Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party, providing prime fireworks viewing from Plaza Garden or Tomorrowland Terrace. Reservations for this ghoulish experience open on June 7, ensuring a delightfully spooky way to cap off the evening’s festivities. More details to come! Remember, this is a very popular event, so be sure to grab your Disney World Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets as soon as possible! Check out our insider info on getting discount Disney World tickets!

The Pixar Fest sculpture in Carthay Circle at Disney California Adventure features sound effects activated by MagicBand+.

Pixar Fest Sculpture with MagicBand+ Interaction

The sculpture is in a flowerbed in this courtyard. A sign lets guests know that there is MagicBand+ interaction.

Waving your MagicBand+ at the statue will activate various quotes from Pixar characters. You can hear some in our videos from X below.

Some of the quotes we heard include:

• “I’m too sad to walk, just give me a few…hours.” – Sadness, “Inside Out”
• “Crying helps me slow down and obsess over the weight of life’s problems.” – Sadness, “Inside Out”
• “You don’t need to study scary, you just do it.” – Sulley, “Monsters University”
• “I’ll see you at the finish line, buddy!” – Lightning McQueen, “Cars”

Pixar Fest offerings include special food items, Incredibles meet and greets, talking Dug from “Up,” Pixar merchandise, Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! parade, Pixar Pals Playtime Party, Club Pixar, “Together Forever” fireworks, and 50 themed Pizza Planet trucks hidden around the resort.

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