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Enjoy the magic of World all year long with Celebrations magazine! Receive 6 issues for $29.99* (save more than 15% off the cover price!) *U.S. residents only. To order outside the United States, please visit www.celebrationspress.com.

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On the Cover: “Live It Up”, photo © Disney/Cirque du Soleil Issue 29 Live It Up! 42 Contents The Magic and Letters...... 6 Mystique of La Nouba Calendar of Events...... 8 Disney News & Updates...... 10

MOUSE VIEWS...... 15 Guide to the Magic by Tim Foster...... 16 The Grand Floridian Explorer Emporium by Lou Mongello...... 18 Society : 50 Hidden Mickeys by Steve Barrett...... 20 As Time Goes By Photography Tips & Tricks by Tim Devine...... 22 by Jamie Hecker...... 24 Disney Cuisine by Allison Jones...... 26 Making Dreams Disney Secrets Come True: 54 by Jamie Hecker...... 30 Magic Walt Disney and by J Darling...... 32

Disneyland FEATURED ATTRACTION Under the Sea...... 34

FEATURED FILM Escapes: ...... 38

Relaxing in Walt 60 Lou Mongello’s Wayback Machine...... 70 Wandering the World...... 72 Disney World By the Numbers...... 73 Quick Quiz...... 74 In Search of:...... 76 Kids Korner...... 78 Mystery Quest...... 82 Tim & Lou’s Top 10...... 84 The Story Behind Gardens 66 Disney At Your Own Pace One of the best things about is that it’s filled with, well, just about everything! If you ask people to describe their ideal Disney vacation you’ll get lots of different answers. Many folks love the attractions, both old and new, and live for the thrill of being the first on in the morning, or racing along Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the dark after the sun goes down. Other people like to explore, seeking out those little details that add so much to the overall experience. Some love to “snack their way around the world,” and with the endless selection of dining options, who can blame them? Still others like to visit the different resorts for a bit of relaxation, shopping, or family time at the pool.

That’s precisely what makes Walt Disney World as wonderful as it is. No matter what you like to do, you can do it here, and you can do it at your own pace. Sure, we talk a lot about living in the moment and taking your time, but if you like riding the rides and seeing the shows, this is still the place to be. Long lines have always been a part of the park experience, and most traveling tips address that very topic. But you know what? That doesn’t mean you have to forego your favorite attractions, far from it.

Walt Disney World has seen lots of changes in recent years, and many of them were specifically implemented to lessen the stress of waiting in line. From innovations to Extra Magic Hours, Disney is constantly coming up with ways that will let you see all of your favorite attractions with little or no wait. But that’s not all. For those times when you do need to stand in line, Disney has created a new wave of interactive queues to help you pass the time in fun and magical ways. There are even some that say the queues are just as enjoyable as the attractions themselves!

The bottom line is that you can enjoy Disney at whatever pace you choose. No matter if you prefer to take your time, or enjoy the thrill of hitting all the headliner attractions in one day, Disney has you covered. So go ahead, enjoy the magic, and do it the way you like best!

Tim Foster

2 · Celebrations Editor Tim Foster

Associate Editors Lou Mongello Michelle Foster • Catherine Lusby

Contributing Writers Steve Barrett J Darling Tim Devine Jamie Hecker Allison Jones Beci Mahnken

Creative Direction and Design Tim Foster Associate Art Director Michelle Foster

Customer Service Senior Manager Lisa Mahan

Social Media Director Jessica Clawson

Contributing Photographers Tim Foster, Tim Devine, Loren Javier, Jamie Hecker

Basic subscription rate is $29.99 for six issues ($35.99 for Canada residents, $54.99 for other international residents). To subscribe online visit www.celebrationspress.com. Single issue price is $5.99. All orders must be prepaid and are payable in U.S. funds only. Celebrations (USPS 025-286) is published bimonthly in the U.S. by Celebrations Press, Inc, 308 Sundance Drive, Chester Springs, PA. 19425. Periodicals Postage Rate Paid at Chester Springs, PA and additional mail- ing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Celebrations, ATTN: Subscriptions, 308 Sundance Drive, Chester Springs, PA 19425. SUBSCRIBERS: If the postal service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

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©2013 Celebrations Press, Inc. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the express writ- ten permission of the publisher. Statements and opinions herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Celebrations is owned and operated by Celebrations Press, Inc. and is not affiliated with, authorized or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with , Disney Enterprises, Inc., or any of their affiliates. Walt Disney World Resort® is a registered trademark of The Walt Disney Company. The Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. This publication makes reference to various Disney copyrighted characters, trademarks, marks, and registered marks owned by The Walt Disney Company, Disney Enterprises, Inc., and other trademark owners. The use in this book of trademarked names and images is strictly for editorial purposes, no commercial claim to their use, or suggestion of sponsorship or endorsement, is made by the authors or publishers. Those words or terms that the authors have reason to believe are trademarks are designated as such by the use of initial capitalization, where ap- propriate. However, no attempt has been made to identify or designate all words or terms to which trademark or other proprietary rights may exist. Nothing contained herein is intended to express a judgement on, or affect the validity of legal status of, any word or term as a trademark, service mark, or other proprietary mark. While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the passage of time will always bring changes in operating schedules, attraction openings and closings, and policies. The authors and publisher shall not be held liable for any information (valid or invalid) presented here and do not represent The Walt Disney Company. 3 · Celebrations Stop and Smell the Roses If you close your eyes (not while you’re driving, please) and think of Walt Disney World, what comes to mind? Maybe laughing with your friends and family as you plunge down Chikapin Hill on Splash Mountain, smiling as the Main St. Electrical Parade floats by, riding one more time to get another glimpse of Little Leota, or doing your best Dame Judy Dench impression on . If you’re like me, you may just imagine yourself basking in the glow of a delicious meal at your favorite restaurant. But you know, of course, that there is much, much more to Walt Disney World. In fact, in each letter and article I write for Celebrations Magazine and everything I’ve done on my books and show for nearly a decade has been to encourage you to find, and help you discover some of Walt Disney World’s overlooked experiences, hidden treasures,and deeper “layers of the onion” in terms of details and story. I’ve asked you to slow down, look up, down and around, and truly SAVOR the Disney experience. And now I want to ask you to take that idea to the next level. Because Walt Disney World is not about the attractions. It’s about the parks. And throughout the parks can be found incredible beauty, tranquility, and simple joys that many people overlook. And while I understand and acknowledge that many people have a limited time in the parks and feel compelled to “race to Space” or “dash to Splash” and scurry through the parks to hit as many attractions as humanly possible... I feel bad for those people, because I think they are missing so much. Walt Disney World IS a “park” in a true community sense of the word. A place to just wander with friends and family... stroll, meander, explore (especially in places like Disney’s Animal Kingdom), and let yourself get a little lost. So next time you visit the parks, please do me a favor, OK? Put down those maps, SLOW DOWN, and yes, even STOP and smell the roses (literally and figuratively - especially with so much wonderful horticultural beauty throughout the Resort). You’ll be surprised at how much more you notice, appreciate and understand... and you might even enjoy yourself a little more in the process.

Lou Mongello

4 · Celebrations Contributors

Kevin Carpenter works in Lori Elias credits her pas- Joe Essaf’s annual family Shana Gallardo is an professional soccer and sion for Disney to long- vacations to Walt Disney elementary school teacher enjoys writing from his time friend Tara Miller, World have instilled in and a Mom to three already home in Berea, Ohio. Kevin a Cast Member with the him a love of magic and Disney-addicted boys. She has been published on ESPN Disney Cruiseline. Lori is fantasy. Along with his made her first visit to Walt Cleveland, On the Fly, and a Cleveland-area middle appreciation and passion Disney World at age 17, Cleveland.com. Kevin is a school music teacher by day, for the animated classics, and enjoys helping other life-long Disney fan with a freelance writer by night, Joe has a strong connection families plan their Disney particular interest in the and Disney fan 24/7. She has with Disney and all of its vacations. life and works of its founder, written for a number of properties. Joe will always Walt Disney. music publications, and is continue to visit Walt Disney thrilled to be able to share World and pick himself up a her love of all things Disney. delicious Mickey Bar.

Ray Harkness thanks Disney John King is a novelist, poet, Jim Korkis is an for saving his marriage. journalist, and scholar internationally recognized After being shown the joys currently teaching at the Disney Historian whose of a vacation by his lovely University of Central . writing and original wife Nancy, he now cannot Walt Disney World will research has been utilized by imagine being away from always be entwined in his other Disney Historians as work if it doesn’t involve a memories of Florida and well as the Disney Company. Disney resort. When not his youth, as he and it came touring the parks, Ray into being in the same year, writes for his blog Grumpy’s 1971. Because Walt Disney Hollow under the name World was new then, he felt Grumpwurst (grumpyspace. that it was created just for blogspot.com). him. However, he is happy to share Walt Disney World with you.

5 · Celebrations Letters

The New and a Hidden Mickey! OH NO! We started to write this letter over a month ago and waited until we could get all of our pictures downloaded to send it. Of course it was left on the back burner and now we just received our newest Celebrations magazine! We still wanted to share and can’t tell you how much we look forward to reading your beautiful publication! Thanks! We got home from our most recent WDW trip right before New Years and had a blast! We got to see so many new things at the World this trip (our last visit was just in June!) and our kids finally got to see all the parks in their best dressed holiday glory! We especially loved to finally see the New Fantasyland and made sure we got as many “good” pictures as we could. Not long after we got home, our copy of Celebrations was in the mail box and, to our All-American Hidden Mickey great happiness, the New Fantasyland was on the cover! So We were leafing through our September/October issue of many beautiful pictures. I told the kids that I didn’t even Celebrations the other day, enjoying the wonderful article have to take any, they were all here! My oldest daughter, on the American Adventure by Jim Korkis, when we Morgan, was excited to see a Hidden Mickey section on the noticed something unusual in one of the photos. Among New Fantasyland and realized that she had found one that all of the rivets on the Statue of Liberty torch in the final Mr. Barrett didn’t mention. She saw it on the right as we scene, we noticed a unique collection of three. Could this were walking out of the restaurant after a be a Hidden Mickey? It sure looked like one to us, we hope wonderful lunch. Thanks for such a great addition to our you agree! We have a lot of fun looking for Hidden Mickeys memories of a great WDW holiday trip! throughout the parks and were excited to find this one!

Melanie, Jason, Morgan, Garrett, and Tessa Pickett The Stulz Family Roswell, Georgia Lisbon, Maryland

Got a question, photo or story you’d like to share? email them to: [email protected] 6 · Celebrations Celebrations is now available for your iPhone and iPad! The digital version of Celebrations contains all the same magical content as our print edition. As an added bonus, you’ll have access to all of our back issues, including those that have long been sold out. You can purchase a six issue (one year) subscription for $29.99, and individual issues for $5.99. Download our free app to access our newsstand library where you can shop and stay notified of new issues. Visit iTunes on your Apple mobile device and search for Celebrations, it’s as easy as that!

Looks good to us! While you’re visiting the American Adventure, be sure to keep an eye out for these other Hidden Mickeys: • At the beginning of the film, look behind the kneeling female pilgrim to find a Hidden Mickey in the rocks on the shore. • At the end of the show, look closely at the fireworks on the right! See if you can spot a familiar three- circle shape in the sky.

7 · Celebrations Calendar of Events International Flower and Garden Festival And that’s just the festival opener. New topiaries, gardens, March 6-May 19, 2013 children’s play areas and interactive gardening seminars The Fab Five are having a party, and everyone’s invited to will set the stage for 75 days of festival fun as Disney’s hor- join the fun! Colorful, whimsical topiaries of , ticulture team revs up for its 20th year of beautiful blooms Minnie Mouse, , and will welcome and creative whimsy. topiary Daisy to their Epcot front-entrance celebratory barbecue. The 14-foot-tall topiary Goofy will bobble an Weekends anniversary cake while Donald and Daisy play badminton, Disney’s Studios Mickey fires up the grill, Pluto swipes a link of hot dogs and Weekends May 17 – June 9, 2013 Minnie chills out on a colorful blanket of blossoms. With character appearances, themed parades, star conver- sations, behind-the-scenes presentations and autograph sessions, the popular event brings a galaxy far, far away to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Night of Joy September 6-7, 2013 Experience a contemporary Christian music festival fea- turing live performances by Christian superstars in rock, pop and gospel.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party Magic Kingdom September / October Mickey and Minnie Mouse are decked out in their newest Halloween party-wear in front of the Haunted Mansion at the Magic Kingdom in Lake , Fla. It’s all part of the fun that takes place when the Magic Kingdom hosts “Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.” A separate ticket is required to attend.

Epcot International Food and Wine Festival September 27 - November 11, 2013 Throughout the festival, delight in outstanding food, fun and entertainment. Festival highlights include: • Nearly 30 international food and beverage Marketplaces • Signature dining experiences with celebrated chefs • Culinary demonstrations and wine seminars • The Eat to the Beat concert series, with nightly perfor- mances from popular hit-maker With so much to see and do, you can return to the festival again and again… and discover something new each time!

8 · Celebrations Photo ©Disney 9 · Celebrations Disney News tertainment, will be brought to life with the Disney Unveils Vision for same focus on storytelling and attention to detail that goes into our theme parks, resorts and cruise ships, resulting in a welcoming space that only Disney could create.” Disney Springs Disney Springs will double the number of shops, restau- alt Disney World Resort recently announced the rants and other venues for Guests to explore, resulting in Wmulti-year transformation of more than 150 establishments. In addition, Staggs noted, into Disney Springs, a unique destination that will treat Central Florida stands to benefit from the expansion with Guests to significantly more shopping, dining and enter- more jobs, tax revenues and business opportunities. tainment amid beautiful open-air promenades, meander- Drawing inspiration from Florida’s waterfront towns ing springs and waterfront charm. and natural beauty, Disney Springs will include four out- Disney Springs will feature an eclectic and contemporary door neighborhoods interconnected by a flowing spring mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands. From bou- and vibrant lakefront. In addition to a new gateway with tique shops to unique flagship anchor stores, Guests will be a signature water tower and grand entry, the destination able to explore a variety of shopping, dining and entertain- will feature: ment experiences and discover options unlike any other The Town Center, which offers a sophisticated mix of currently available in Central Florida. shopping and dining along with a promenade where Guests “Disney Springs will be a timeless, vibrant place where can relax, refresh and reconnect. Walt Disney World Guests and local residents can relax, • A colorful and thriving commercial district called The shop, dine and be entertained in an imaginative setting Landing with inspired dining and beautiful waterfront where they’ll instantly feel at home,” said Tom Staggs, chair- views. man of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Featuring distinc- • The family-friendly Marketplace that will continue to de- tive brands, world-class restaurants and unforgettable en- light Guests of all ages by combining new experiences, such

10 · Celebrations Photos ©Disney as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with clas- within Walt Disney World, but will also have an economic sic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney ripple effect on Central Florida. The project will create an store. estimated 1,200 construction jobs and nearly 4,000 - • A West Side that provides an exuberant atmosphere with tional roles. lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated Disney will share more details on specific experiences spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the ac- coming to Disney Springs in the future. Construction is slat- tivity below. ed to begin next month with new areas opening in phases. Collectively, these efforts will not only have an impact Disney Springs is expected to be complete in 2016.

Photos ©Disney 11 · Celebrations Disney News

Community and business leaders from Central Florida Exhibit featuring helped celebrate the opening, along with musical talent from Orlando’s Jones High School Master Singers. “The exhibit is an inspiring reminder of how diverse our African-American Art and nation is and how many stories there are beyond the pages of history books,” said Dr. Robert Spooney, president of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, Artifacts Opens at Epcot who attended the event. alt Disney World Resort recently opened “Re-Discov- “Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kin- Wering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey sey Collection” is another example of Disney’s commitment Collection,” an exhibit representing more than 400 years of to offering experiences that reflect diverse cultures. African-American achievement and contribution. “We always wanted to extend the reach of the collection The exhibit at the American Adventure pavilion at Epcot to a larger, more international and diverse audience,” ex- features rare art, books and documents from the private plained Bernard Kinsey. “So we are delighted to be collabo- collection of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, who have amassed rating with Disney to share the stories of our remarkable the collection over 30 years. Themed to hope, belief, cour- ancestors.” age, imagination and heritage, the exhibit’s rare art, books Walt Disney Imagineers added interactive displays placed and documents pay homage to the untold stories of Afri- throughout the exhibit to further explore the art, artifacts can-Americans who helped build and transform a nation. and history. Guest-activated lanterns will help bring the his- Their stories of determination and courage, as well as their tory to life, with narration provided by celebrities, including struggles for equality and civil rights, are at the heart of this actors Chandra Wilson and James Pickens, Jr. (“Grey’s Anato- exhibit. my”) who both attended the grand opening.

12 · Celebrations Photos ©Disney 13 · Celebrations

elcome to MouseViews, a special section of WCelebrations Magazine where you’ll get an insider’s peek at the Walt Disney World Resort. In every issue we’ll bring you a treasure trove of tips, secrets, magical moments, special insights, little known facts and a whole lot more! Whether it’s a different look at a familiar attraction, a hidden secret waiting to be discovered, or a helpful piece of advice for your upcoming trip, you’re sure to find lots of fun-filled information inside.

So put on your Mickey ears, set your imagination free, and get ready to discover all of those things that make Walt Disney World the most magical place on Earth.

Ready? Then here we go...!

15 · Celebrations What’s Behind That Door?

s we all know, there are surprises around every corner at Walt Disney World. AYou never know what you might find around the bend, over the hill, through the tunnel, or even behind the door. Behind the door? How about the door itself? It’s well known that Disney’s Imagineers leave no stone unturned as they fill each and every area of the parks and resort with painstaking detail, creating a world that’s totally immersive. Whether it’s a piece of artwork, a unique form of lighting, or even the covering on the floor, every thing that you see is carefully planned and created to be an integral part of the show. But the doors? Of course! Like nearly everything in Walt Disney World, Imagineers have taken a simple, often overlooked aspect of by Tim Foster everyday life and have elevated it to a whole new level. Whether you’re in the wild west of , wandering among the movie facades of New York Street, or taking a stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., take a mo- ment to look at the doors lining the walkways. Not only do they blend in seamlessly with the rest of the buildings, but many contain their own surprises. For example, keep an eye out for a door that says “Casting Agency” on Main Street, U.S.A. This is a tribute to Walt himself, featuring a memorable quote, a few Hidden Mickeys, and an enigmatic number “71” tucked away near the top (signifying the year that the Magic Kingdom literally opened its doors).

Doors to Nowhere Not all the doors you see on the attractions are real, in fact, most of them aren’t. For instance, there’s the infamous hallway sequence in the Haunted Mansion where creepy creeps of every size are trying any which way they can to break down their doors and join you for your ghostly tour. This is the memorable Corridor of Doors, Tim Foster is the author of partly inspired by the 1963 film, The Haunting, which also provided inspiration for the Guide to the Magic book the interior look of the mansion. The next time you visit, take a close look at the series, which includes the Guide to the Magic for Kids, the Lost door handles; you’ll see some in the shape of serpents! While the doors appear real Journals, and the Guide to the enough, they are of course part of an elaborate set. The only real door to be found Magic Autograph & Sticker here is the emergency exit; in reality your journey down this foreboding hallway Book. Tim is also the creator of takes place in a movie-set “tunnel” that’s thirty feet above the actual building floor! the www.guidetothemagic.com Over in Epcot, you’ll find a collection of more humorous doors in the Imagination website. pavilion. In the queue, be sure to look for the door to the Dimension Hall and take a peek inside. Talk about ! Elsewhere you’ll find the office doors for Dr. Nigel Channing (your tour guide) and scientist Dr. Phillip Braynard. But it’s the doors in the actual test labs that you’ll want to watch out for. Thanks to Fig- ment you won’t be visiting all the labs on your tour, but once you hear what’s going on behind the Laugh Lab door (which has a sign alerting you that a tickle test is in progress), you may agree that that’s probably a good thing. Be sure to also look out for the door to the Dream Lab and listen closely, it sounds like someone has fallen asleep on the job! The highlight of your tour (in terms of doors) is actually a simple door labeled with nothing but a name, that of Dean Finder. That’s a reference to the Dream Finder, your original host in the Imagination pavilion when it first opened. Finally, see if you can find the door to the Computer Room. It’s not the door that’s the attraction here; it’s the pair of shoes sitting on the floor. That’s a reference to the

16 · Celebrations 1969 Disney live-action film, The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes that starred . The setting for the film was Medfield College, which was also the setting for The Ab- sent-Minded Professor and the Norway pavilion and the Stave Church. Though not ex- five other Disney films actly hidden, many people think of the church as akin to the (including 1997’s Flubber, pagoda in the Japan pavilion, part of the scenery but with featuring nothing inside. But go ahead and enter, once you do you’ll as Professor Philip Brain- find a fascinating display of Viking culture complete with ard). You can also find a model of a Viking ship in the center. You’ll also find a few a reference to another Hidden Mickeys here and there. For a particularly clever character from the Med- one, look down on the boat from above (a camera definitely field College films, Dean helps here), and look for three barrels arranged in a familiar Higgins, on another door shape. in the attraction. Elsewhere, an innocuous door in the Moroccan pavilion By the way, when is a door not a door? leads to the Gallery of Arts and Histo- (No, not when it’s “ajar,” that’s a joke for ry. Again, this is an oft-overlooked area another time.) When you’re at the Mup- of the pavilion, largely because the en- pet Labs of course! When you enter the trance is marked by a large wooden Muppet*Vision 3D building, you’ll find door that, at first glance, may not ap- some pretty unusual office doors. Look pear to be one that is meant for the for the “Institute of Advanced Chronol- public. But once inside you’ll discover ogy” (“Staying Ahead of the Times”), the a wondrous collection of Moroccan “Stress Testing Department” (“Contents treasures, showcasing the lifestyle Under Extreme Pressure”), the “Division and culture of the Moroccan people. of Fashion Technology” (“Making Tomor- Speaking of Japan, no, you can’t row a Prettier Place to Be”), and the “De- enter the pagoda, but another over- partment of Artificial Reality”, where (to looked treasure awaits you toward answer our original question) you’ll find the rear of the pavilion, the Bijutsu- that “This is Not a Door.” kan gallery. Though the door is clearly marked and you can see inside, its lo- Come On In! cation outside the rear exit of the Mit- These are just a few of the many “gag” doors that you’ll sukoshi Department Store means that many people never find throughout the parks, but that’s not the whole story. find it. The gallery is quintessential Japanese tranquility, Tucked away here and there are a few doors that most complete with a Japanese rock garden (or zen garden) in Guests overlook, but actually lead to more magic. These the middle. The gallery is currently home to the “Spirited doors are a bit unusual, since at first glance they may ap- Beasts: From Ancient Stories to Anime Stars” exhibit, show- pear to be Cast Member doors, or otherwise doors that ing how many of Japan’s mythological creatures evolved you’re not supposed to enter. They’re not obviously entranc- into the beloved anime characters of today. es to more attractions, and many folks may find themselves That’s just a brief look at some of the doors you’ll find unsure of whether they are allowed to go in (or worse yet throughout Walt Disney World. Be sure to keep your eyes may not notice them at all). open as you wander around and you’ll be sure to find many Coincidentally, the ones we’ll be visiting are all in World others. You never know what surprises you may find on the Showcase, and each one is well worth entering. First up is other side!

Photos ©Tim Foster 17 · Celebrations Exploring the Lobby of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn hile every resort in Walt Disney World has a theme and story, some are also Winspired by real places throughout the United States and around the globe. From the Pacific Northwest of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge to the traditional African kraal (horseshoe-curved design) and lush savannas of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, each brings a bit of culture, history, detail and reality to each of these resorts. Some resorts are also evocative of a single location or theme. Disney’s BoardWalk evokes a turn-of-the-century seaside resort town, with its varying architecture that joins the Disney Yacht and Beach Club Resorts to complete a lakeside resort district that possesses a unity of vision thanks to architect Robert A.M. Stern, who by Lou Mongello designed all three resorts. From the outside, porches, shutters, awnings and “widow’s walks” are found ev- erywhere, creating an intimate experience. The resort is reminiscent of Atlantic City from the 1930s, elegantly recreating the ambience of the boardwalks from days gone by. The original concept for a “boardwalk” was officially born on June 26, 1870 in Atlan- tic City, New Jersey. A popular vacation destination at the time, it was replete with lavish hotels, elegant restaurants, and a wonderful beach along the Atlantic Ocean. Train conductor Alexander Boardman and hotel owner Jacob Keim came up with the idea of a pedestrian walkway made out of wood but with small openings be- tween the slats – so the sand would fall between and not be carried into the hotels and restaurants. Atlantic City’s boardwalk inspired Disney’s Boardwalk, but it was the amuse- ments, attractions, and games that helped define it. While much of the detail is ob- Lou Mongello is the host of the award vious outside, it’s inside where the true treasures lie. winning WDW Radio podcast and As you step inside the lobby of Disney’s Boardwalk, you immediately encounter the author of the definitive Disney a miniature carousel, perched atop a circular sofa. Handmade by M.C. Illions in the trivia books, “Walt Disney World 1920s, it was used as a sales tool to help him sell his full-sized carousels. This model Trivia” Volumes 1 and II. He is also the has 44 individually carved, unique, moving, and painted 4-inch-tall horses. It was producer of the newly released Audio Guides of Walt Disney World, a CD purchased and restored by Disney in 1995 specifically for the BoardWalk Resort. Dur- series that gives you a personal tour ing the restoration, Disney added real gold leaf, brass, leather stirrups, and minia- of the happiest place on Earth. You ture “light bulbs” via small pins. In fact, they even altered the speed of the carousel can listen to the show and discover so it would match the speed of Disneyland’s King Arthur Carousel. more secrets, rumors and facts at Above the carousel, the atrium is dominated by a 3000-pound chandelier. Known Lou’s website: as a “Hippocampus Electrolier Chandelier,” it contains 22-karat gold leaf and hand- www.wdwradio.com cut Austrian crystal. An “Electrolier” was the original name of an “electric chandelier,” as opposed to one powered by candles or gas. In Greek and Phoenician mythology, a Hippocampus was a seahorse with the head and front legs of a horse and the tail and hindquarters of a serpent or a fish. Below the chandelier hangs an empty crystal globe...but it wasn’t always empty! Originally it was a “time capsule,” filled with sand and artifacts from Walt Disney World’s early years and meant to be sealed and opened for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary. Damage to the globe caused the time capsule to be removed, but the

18 · Celebrations empty globe remains. In the main seat- ing area of the lobby, curious observers can spot a number of interesting details. For example, over the fireplace sits a large, grey elephant. This is a replica of Lucy the Elephant, located in Margate, NJ. The “real” Lucy, a National His- toric Landmark, is an elephant-shaped building located on the beach at Margate, standing 65-feet high and weighing 90 tons. Built in 1881, Lucy was originally intended to encourage real-estate investment on the Jersey Shore, but Lounge (which in itself is a treasure trove of antique books, evolved into a restaurant, a tavern, a house, and a tourist games, cameras, projectors, and props), and you will pass an attraction. Today, tourists can climb up to the howdah (the antique Mutoscope. An early motion picture device, the Mu- seat on Lucy the Elephants back) to look out onto the ocean. toscope dates back to 1894, when they were created by Her- If you look very closely, you’ll see a silhouette of a figure in man Casler to be placed inside penny arcades. The Muto- one of Lucy’s windows. While urban legend has many people scope was like a simple “flip book,” where individual images believing the figure is Mary Poppins, it’s just a woman in a were printed on flexible opaque cards attached to a circular large hat. core (like giant Rolodex – remember those?). The coin-oper- Flanking the fireplace are two unique chairs known as ated devices allowed patrons to view the cards through a “nanny chairs.” Designed to look like the faces and bodies single lens, while driving the reel through the use of a hand- of small children, these types of chairs were found on 19th- crank located on the front of the machine. Each Mutoscope century European carousels as seats for adults (often the held a single reel and was dedicated to the presentation of a nannies, who were tending to the children of the elite) who single short subject, described by a poster affixed to the top didn’t like the moving horses. These are reproductions, cast of the machine. This Mutoscope did come out of a Penny Ar- from original chairs dating back to 1889. They are hand- cade – the one located on Main Street, U.S.A. in Walt Disney painted, and if you turn them around, you’ll find that they World’s Magic Kingdom. bear the name of the artists in gold leaf lettering. As you continue through the lobby, take a close look in- These are just a few of the many props, details, replicas, side the acrylic case to find the reproduction of the Flip- and authentic antiques that bring the real history of the Flap Railway roller coaster from Luna Park in Coney Island, boardwalks of Atlantic City and Coney Island to life at Dis- NY. This was the world’s first upside-down loop-the-loop ney’s BoardWalk. There are many more stories and trea- roller coaster, featuring a 25-foot loop. It was part of the sures to be found hiding in plain sight. Luna Park amusement area that existed from 1903 to 1944, the park that gave the BoardWalk Resort’s 190,000 gallon To hear more about the Boardwalk’s history, details, stories and pool it’s namesake. secrets, listen to WDW Radio Show #310 and #313 at WDWRadio.com Walk down the hallway towards the 1930s-era Belle Vue or iTunes

Photo ©Tim Foster 19 · Celebrations Hidden Mickeys of the Magic Kingdom Monorail Resorts hen you stay at a Disney Resort, don’t forget to take time to search for Hid- Wden Mickeys. Many of the most compelling Mickey images are in the resorts, and you don’t have to wait in line to find them! I describe below a few of the more interesting Hidden Mickeys at the Magic Kingdom Monorail Resorts.

1. Polynesian Resort: On the lower level, just inside the main lobby, there’s a classic Mickey design in the flagstone tiles a few feet in front of the waterfall. This great image has been waiting to greet you for many years. 2. Polynesian Resort: A painting of a rocky shore with red flowers hangs on a wall at the far right behind the registration counter. Four classic Mickeys are in the painting: one white one in the middle of the painting, another white one at the by Steve Barrett middle left, one brown one just to the left of the middle of the painting, and an upside-down brown one near the left middle. 3. Polynesian Resort: Along the right rear corner staircase from the lobby, bam- boo wall decorations are composed of rings. Seen end on, some of the lower rings in the decoration on the right side form classic Mickeys. One of the best images is along the lower row in the photo, just to the left of center. 4. Polynesian Resort: At the Kona Island coffee bar, in front of the Kona Café, small purple tiles on top of the mosaic tile counter form a classic Mickey. You’ll spot it to the left of the glass case. This is one of the premier tile Hidden Mickeys anywhere on Disney property. 5. Polynesian Resort: On the “Order Here” screen at Captain Cook’s snack bar, im- ages pan from right to left. As the image moves right, look for a palm tree with Mickey’s shadow on its trunk. You have to pay attention to spot this Mickey. 6. Grand Floridian Resort: Weather vanes on various roofs at the front of the re- Steve Barrett is the author of three sort sport classic Mickey holes. Hidden Mickeys Field Guide books 7. Grand Floridian Resort: Green classic Mickeys are in the corners of the marble (Walt Disney World, Disneyland, tile designs on the floors of the first and second levels of the main building. and the Disney Cruise Line) and 8. Contemporary Resort: From the sixth floor outdoor balcony closest to the “The Hassle-Free Walt Disney World Vacation” book, as well as an iPhone front of the hotel, look left to see Mickey sitting on the edge of a roof below! (Be app for Walt Disney World Hidden sure to prop the hallway door open). This Mickey can also be spotted from either Mickeys. You can check out more monorail just outside the hotel (the opening nearest the Transportation and Hidden Mickeys at Steve’s website: Ticket Center). If you’re on the resort monorail, you have to bend down to view www.hiddenmickeysguide.com Mickey through the lower part of the window (to the left of forward motion) and below the express monorail track next to you. On the express monorail, look to the right of forward motion. 9. Contemporary Resort: High on the wall mural facing Bay Lake, a black classic Mickey is on an owl perched on a girl’s head. It’s on the red right wing (as you face the mural). 10. Contemporary Resort: On the wall mural facing the monorail, an upside-down classic Mickey is made of a blue circle for the “head” and yellow circles for the “ears.” It’s at the top of a tree at the lower left of the famous five-legged goat. (This is the only five-legged goat on the huge mural.)

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21 · Celebrations Photography 101: Part 3-“Types of Cameras” hen it comes time to take pictures during your vacation at the Walt Disney WWorld Resort, one of the most important pieces of equipment is the cam- era itself. Cameras can be divided into four main types: cell phone, point and shoot, compact mirrorless, and SLR (Single-Lens Reflex). (Because so few people are using film anymore, they are not really considered a “type” for purposes of this article.) What kind of equipment you want to use will depend on how much equipment you want to carry around, and how much money you want (or can afford) to spend. by Tim Devine I usually (meaning nearly always) carry a fully-loaded digital SLR backpack with a camera body and six or seven lenses, but I will freely admit that most people are not going to want to carry all of that weight day-in and day-out. For example, my largest lens, the Sigma 50-500 OS, affectionately known as the “Sigmonster,” weighs approximately eight and a half pounds by itself! As you can see, the weight in the camera bag adds up very, very quickly.

Cell Phone Cameras For the ultimate in portability and low cost, your cell phone is about as small and simple as it comes. The advantage here is obvious: size and cost (assuming you al- ready own a cell phone that is camera capable). Throw in the near infinite amount of apps that smartphone users have at their disposal, and you can create many dif- ferent looks and effects and easily share your images via text message and social Tim Devine is an avid photographer media. The two biggest drawbacks to cell phone cameras are relatively poor im- and the owner and webmaster of age quality and lack of storage space. Although convenient, even the best cell phone www.themagicinpixels.com, a website cameras will pale in comparison to most other cameras in terms of picture quality. created for and dedicated to fellow Disney Photography Enthusiasts. In Tablets that have cameras are included in this category but are much less portable addition to a large gallery of photos as they, obviously, cannot be dropped into your pocket. you can browse, you’ll also find tips, What cell phone camera do I own? Apple iPhone 4s, 16gb. articles and equipment reviews to help you create magical photo Point and Shoot memories of your Walt Disney World Point and shoot cameras (also known as fixed-lens cameras) have a zoom lens Resort vacation. Tim lives in South Jersey with his wife, that is permanently affixed to the camera and zooms in an out using a system of Karen, and their sons, Billy and Ryan. electronics. They have come down substantially in price over the past ten years, and Do you have a photography topic that some are predicting that many of the lines are going to die out due to evolution you would like to see in this column? and innovation. Point and shoots vary in price from less than one hundred dollars Please email to upwards of seven hundred dollars, with a feature set that will vary accordingly. [email protected] They are lightweight, most will fit into your pocket or purse, and you do not need to worry about changing lenses or carrying around extra equipment. On the downside, they have sensors that are smaller than most digital SLR or mirrorless cameras, which results in more noise (grain) at higher ISO levels. Some of the basic point and shoots allow you to change very few, if any, options, while more advances point and shoots will give you access to most options available to SLR users. One of the biggest drawbacks for point and shoot cameras is, since the lens is not removable, you must “sink or swim” with the lens that comes with the

22 · Celebrations camera. Generally these lenses are not well-suited for dark ingly worse as the lens aperture get stopped down further rides, night parades, or show photography since they do not and further (f/22 or lower). have an aperture that is large (fast) enough to allow enough Shutter lag is virtually non-existent with digital SLRs. Fur- light to enter the camera. ther, there is little to no -up time as they are ready to go Additionally, point and shoots are particularly affected by as soon as you turn the power switch on. Battery life will be “camera lag,” where the camera tends a pause for a moment the best with digital SLRs, as their physical size can be much prior to taking the photo even after you press the shutter larger than any other camera type. button. Point and shoots tend to have a “start-up time” from What digital SLR do I own? Canon 1Dx with seven lenses. As when you turn the camera on to when it’s actually ready to a backup, I still own my older Canon 5dMkII. take a picture, which could cause you to miss out on a critical shot if you’re not ready beforehand. Finally, point and shoots Mirrorless Cameras have the weakest battery life due to their small size. Mirrorless camera systems are a blend of point-and-shoot What point and shoot camera do I own? An older Canon size with the interchangeable lenses of a digital SLR. They are G10 with WP-DC28 underwater housing that I only use for the newest technology and are maturing almost daily. Their beach and waterpark photography. native lens options are much lower than digital SLRs, but there are many adapters which will allow older lenses and Digital SLR (Single-Lens Reflex) lenses from other camera systems to be used on the mirror- Digital SLRs are where the best image quality will be found, less body. Mirrorless cameras provide excellent image qual- however, they tend to require the most work. Due to their in- ity in a tiny, lightweight package. terchangeable lenses, they can be applied to nearly any task I recently purchased a Sony NEX-6 mirrorless camera and (low light, extreme zoom, fast action, etc.). They are also big- love it tremendously. It, like many other mirrorless cam- ger, heavier, and more expensive than point and shoots but eras, has a feature known as focus-peaking, which allows will have (in most cases) larger sensors that are less suscep- real-time feedback when focusing manually. By using a small tible to noise at higher ISO levels and will yield higher image metal adapter, I can mount my Canon prime lenses (small, quality, especially with high quality lenses. lightweight, very fast) to my Sony NEX. They will only work in Even the most basic or entry-level digital SLRs will be manual focus, but the peaking kicks in and places a colored more than capable for most applications in your Walt Disney halo around the areas of the picture that will be in focus, World park experience. Nearly all camera systems feature a which allows for very quick adjustments and provides con- low-cost 50mm high-speed prime (fixed focal length, non- firmation that the proper areas will be in focus. zooming) lens with an aperture of f/1.8 or faster. This, com- The Sony includes many other features that I use often, bined with advances in high-ISO noise suppression, will al- such as in-camera HDR, rich black and white, watercolor, and low you to get photos in nearly all dark conditions. With the many other special effects that will substantially reduce my huge assortment of lenses that are available for all systems, post-processing time since the camera does such a great job. and the range in price for the cameras themselves, there is a It also has a built-in Wi-Fi so I can take a photo, zap it over to match available for almost all budgets and applications. my iPhone, and share it with whomever I can, using what- The drawbacks for digital SLRs are their size and weight, ever social media I choose. along with the investment required to get into a particular There are some drawbacks to mirrorless, of course. They system. The good thing is that once you select a particular are susceptible to sensor dust just like a digital SLR, if not system to get into (Nikon, Canon, etc.), the lenses and acces- more so. They are the newest technology so there is room for sories will nearly always carry forward from body to body, maturity and improvement, and they have fairly poor bat- and there may be some trade-in and resale value with the tery life. camera body when you are ready to move on. What mirrorless camera do I own? Sony NEX-6 with 18-200, A digital SLR will need to have its sensor cleaned from time 10-18, and 16 f/2.8 lenses. to time as dust can enter the chamber and get stuck to the filter in front of the sensor during lens changes. This can For a better look at the gear that I own and use, please head manifest itself as dark spots in a photo from the dust block- over to theMagicinPixels.com and click the “GEAR” link on the ing the light hitting the sensor; the spots become increas- menu bar. Happy shooting!

23 · Celebrations Robert Stevenson he heritage of the Walt Disney Company began with , beginning Twith Oswald, Mickey Mouse, and the Silly Symphonies. The success of these ani- mated shorts gave Walt and his animators the confidence to tackle feature length animation, which they brilliantly accomplished in 1937 with and the . Animated features were now the staple of Disney, and they continue to this day. But Walt wasn’t always content to remain with the status quo. In the interest of pushing artistic and technical boundaries, he directed the Studio into live action films, beginning with the period drama Treasure Island, released in 1950. Disney eventually branched into comedies, beginning with The Shaggy Dog. Across by Jamie Hecker this wide range of material, from dramatic period films to whimsical musical com- edies, there was consistency, satisfying generations of Disney film fans. Many of the screenplays of the early films were penned by and Don DaGradi, who un- derstood their audience. But perhaps the greatest level of consistency comes from the director, so it will come as no surprise to learn that many of the early live action films were directed by one man, Robert Stevenson. His Disney career spanned near- ly twenty years, beginning with the drama Johnny Tremain in 1957 and ending with the comedy The Shaggy D.A. in 1976. In between, he directed a wide range of films for Disney, including the dramas Old Yeller and Kidnapped. He smoothly handled fanciful pieces such as Darby O’Gill and the Little People and . His stron- gest suit was for comedies, including many classics such as The Absent-Minded Profes- sor, its sequel , That Darn Cat!, Blackbeard’s Ghost, and Rides Again. Of the twenty-one films he directed for Disney, one stands head and shoulders above the others, and is his crowning achievement: 1964’s Mary Poppins, a fanciful blend of music, animation, drama, and comedy about a practically perfect English nannie and the family she aids. So profound was the film, and Stevenson’s handling of it, that it was nominated for Best Picture, with Stevenson nominated for Best Director. , in her film debut as Mary Poppins, was nominated Jamie Hecker has been a lifelong for Best Actress and took home the Oscar. fan of Disney, and is passing on his love to his sons. He and his family Robert Stevenson, English by birth, was formally educated at Cambridge Univer- visit Orlando annually and always sity, studying science. However, it was a psychology assignment involving filmgoers look forward to their next trip. that fortuitously steered him to a career in movies, first as a writer and ultimately When not in Orlando, he resides as a director. After several years of work in England, he was recruited to in northern Virginia with his by famed Hollywood producer David Selznick. His notable early achievement was beautiful wife Suzanne, two boys Jane Eyre. Stevenson worked through the 1940s and early 1950s in Hollywood, but and four cats. You can read more about his eventually turned his attention to television, most notably with “Alfred Hitchcock “hidden Disney” musings at Presents.” The Walt Disney Company was also involved in the new medium of tele- myhiddendisney.blogspot.com/ vision, and had a hit on its hands with “Zorro.” Stevenson was given the direction assignments on three episodes for “Zorro.” Walt was sufficiently impressed with his skills behind the lens and gave him the reins of Disney’s live action film Johnny Tre- main. It was a twofold success; the Colonial America drama proved to be a box office hit for Disney, and Stevenson proved he was up to Disney’s standards. His followup was the legendary Old Yeller. He next turned his attention to comedy with The Shag- gy Dog. A new Disney star was born, albeit one behind the lens. He was especially pro- lific from 1960 to 1968, when the quiet and unassuming Stevenson capably directed a dozen features, providing a steady stream of hits.

24 · Celebrations Many of his films involved working with children, which into Disney’s biggest live action hit, both commercially and many directors find quite challenging (particularly if the critically. Personally, he made a modest contribution to the children aren’t sufficiently trained as actors). Not so with film. The books were set in 1930’s England, but the script Stevenson. He worked with a young on his film moved it to 1910. Since Stevenson was a child in England at debut in Old Yeller. Recalled Kirk, “I was lucky. I had the great- that time, he advised the set decorators about toys for the est director in the world, Robert Stevenson, this very quiet nursery room in the Banks’ house. little Englishman. (He was) very patient, very good with kids. Like many other Disney Studios veterans at the time, You do (acting) for your director, and so I just managed to Stevenson had a personal relationship with Walt. He noted bring up from within me whatever he needed.” that Walt rewarded eagerness. Stevenson enthusiastically Stevenson was also mindful of the financial aspect of requested to direct The Absent-Minded Professor. He later films and the necessity of keeping to a budget. Years later, recalled, “Walt believed in enthusiasm…if you were as en- he recalled, “the (complex scenes) had to be storyboarded. thused as he was, he would give you the job.” He further re- I was on the pictures from called, “I always found him the beginning, so I was con- to be accessible. He never sulted on everything. The interfered with the direc- storyboard kept the costs tor on the set. He always down. I first suggested the stood in the background. use of storyboards for live- His view was there is noth- action on Darby O’Gill. The ing an outsider could do trick (shots) made it nec- while the picture was essary. I asked Walt, ‘how filmed. He was close to the (about) if I storyboarded writing and editing but this?’ He was delighted.” not the shooting.” While filming the com- Mary Poppins edy Blackbeard’s Ghost, Walt Mary Poppins was a long paid a visit to the set in developing project for November 1966. It would Walt, which involved years be the last time he person- of dogged pursuit for the ally oversaw a Disney film. film rights for Pamela Stevenson remembered: Travers’ work, a collection “Suddenly I came onto the of books about the fanci- set and saw him sitting on ful adventures of an Eng- one of those stools and he lish nannie. Travers finally was drinking coffee. I said, relented and prepared to ‘Walt, I thought you were in hand her material over to the hospital.’ He said, ‘Yeah, Disney, pending script approval. Since her work was more well, they cut away my ribs to get to something.” The biopsy a collection of short vignettes, an overall film script had to results indicated that he was in the late stages of cancer. be created from the material. Veteran Disney writers Bill Walt passed away the following month. Walsh and Don DaGradi, along with songwriters Richard Despite his broad success as a director, Stevenson re- and Robert Sherman, wrote the elaborate script. Julie An- mained humble, attributing a film’s success to teamwork. drews was cast for the lead, after a personal visit and re- He had a simple philosophy about his job, “When I’m direct- quest from Walt following her Broadway performance in ing a picture, what I have in mind is a happy audience, enjoy- Camelot. was cast as Bert the chimney sweep, ing it in a movie house.” based on his broad physical comedy skills. With the cast, For his contributions to the Walt Disney Company, Rob- crew, script, and songs in place, Robert Stevenson stepped ert Stevenson was posthumously named a Disney Legend in and deftly directed a masterpiece, turning Mary Poppins in 2002.

25 · Celebrations Beaches & Cream o you love burgers? Do you love ice cream? If so, then be sure you put the old- Dfashioned soda shop called Beaches & Cream on your “must do” list of restau- rants to visit during your Walt Disney World vacation! This quaint shop looks like it was plucked right out of the 50s, with red vinyl booths complete with mini juke- boxes, bright colors like teal and pink, shiny chrome everywhere you look, and last but not least, a huge jukebox that will have your toes tapping as soon as you walk in. The specialties of Beaches & Cream include hamburgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, French fries, and of course, ice cream. The entrees are hot off the grill, and include the Bacon Angus Beef Burger, Angus Beef Burger, Beaches Rachel Sandwich, Grilled Vegetable Sandwich, Classic Turkey Sub, Chicken Caesar Sandwich, and Beaches Hot Dog. All of the entrees are served with either fresh fruit or French fries. By Allison Jones The Bacon Angus Beef Burger is served up with Cobb smoked bacon, cheddar, let- tuce, and tomato on a fresh baked bun, while the Angus Beef Burger comes with blue cheese, BBQ sauce, onion rings, lettuce, and tomato. For another popular 50s entree, try the Beaches Hot Dog with coleslaw and peppers. The Beaches Rachel Sandwich is a grilled pastrami on marble rye with sauerkraut, arugula, swiss, and peppercorn Russian dressing. The ever popular Classic Turkey Sub includes Cobb smoked bacon, lettuce, turkey, and tomato on sourdough bread. The Chicken Caesar Sandwich includes chopped Caesar salad and grilled chicken on a focaccia bread roll. The vegetarian entree is the Grilled Vegetable Sandwich with chilled veggies topped with arugula salad on sea salt focaccia bread with goat cheese spread. If you are looking for a lighter meal, you can try a salad or soup including Chopped Caesar Salad with Chicken, Grilled Cheese with Tomato Bisque, Tomato Bisque Soup, or Chili. There are lots of great beverages to accompany your entree including Ice Cream Sodas, Coca Cola drinks (try it with cherry or vanilla!), milkshakes, malts, or root beer floats. The entrees range in price from $7.99-14.49. For many folks though, Beaches and Cream is all about the ice cream, and this soda shop features some of the best to be found in all of Walt Disney World! The most famous creation is undoubtedly the Kitchen Sink (right). Imagine eight scoops As an Orlando local, Allison has seen the growth of the Walt Disney World of ice cream with toppings and a whole can of whipped cream served up in a real Resort. She experienced the inside as a kitchen sink. This ice cream bonanza is a challenge to finish for even the biggest ap- Disney Cast Member and has planned petites. The servers announce the arrival of your Kitchen Sink with flashing lights Disney vacations for over 10 years. and a memorable speech (that most of your fellow diners will participate in), as Allison Jones is a travel consultant they deliver it to your table. The Kitchen Sink is world famous among ice cream con- with Destinations in Florida Travel noisseurs, but beware, finishing it is quite a feat! and MouseDine. Destinations in Florida is an Authorized Disney If the Kitchen Sink sounds like a bit more than you’d care to tackle, don’t worry. Vacation Planner selling Disney There are plenty of other amazing ice cream dishes to choose from, including Grilled vacations. Banana Bread and Peanut Butter, the Milky Way Sundae, the Fudge Mud Slide, the No MouseDine is a restaurant Way Jose, and the classic Strawberry Shortcake. The Grilled Banana Bread and Pea- consulting company for Disney World nut Butter includes caramelized bananas, whipped cream and a scoop of ice cream. Dining Reservations. Visit The Milky Way Sundae features a Bundt cake topped with three scoops of vanilla ice www.destinationsinflorida.com or www.mousedine.com for more cream, hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and a cherry. The Fudge Mud Slide is a information on Disney Dining. brownie covered with hot fudge, three scoops of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and a cherry. The No Way Jose includes chocolate and vanilla ice cream, peanut but- ter and chocolate morsels, whipped cream, and a cherry. The Strawberry Shortcake

Photo ©Tim Foster 26 · Celebrations Beaches and Cream is a table ser- vice restaurant and is one credit on the Disney Dining Plan. They only take walk up reservations, so pop in during your Disney vacation for a special treat of real grilled ham- burgers, fries, and soda shop ice cream; sure to please every family member! is a slice of angel food cake topped with vanilla ice cream, Fudge Mud Slide Recipe strawberry topping, whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, Layer as listed in large bowl: and of course, a cherry. 2 ounces hot fudge If you’re looking for something more classic, you can try 1 chocolate brownie an Old Fashioned Sundae or Banana Split. You can choose 3 - 4 ounce scoops of vanilla ice cream two or three scoops of ice cream and then add one of the 2 ounces more hot fudge following toppings: marshmallow, pineapple, strawberry, Add whipped cream as desired hot fudge, butterscotch, chocolate syrup, or peanut butter. 3 Oreo cookies It’s all topped off with fresh whipped cream. The ice cream Drizzle chocolate syrup desserts range in price from $5.99-26.99. 1 Maraschino Cherry

27 · Celebrations Magic Kingdom Hidden Tributes: Liberty Square he Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World draws much of its design influence Tfrom Disneyland in Anaheim. Main Street, U.S.A., the hub and spoke layout, and various themed lands allow for Guests of both parks to feel at home in either lo- cation. However, the Magic Kingdom has a themed land unique to itself – Liberty Square. It’s designed to evoke colonial America, complete with a Liberty Tree, and By Jamie Hecker patriotic nods to our heritage with . Like all corners of the Magic Kingdom, Liberty Square is richly themed to its settings, and naturally has a number of hidden secrets. Liberty Square’s Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe features year–round holiday shopping. On the outside, it appears as one building, but on the inside it’s set up as three sepa- rate stores. Each section represents a variety of colonial America families and crafts – a music teacher, a woodcarver, and a family of German immigrants. Pay close at- tention to the exterior wall outside the German family’s door. Hanging by the door is a simple heart–shaped sign announcing the residents of the house as Kepple, established 1779. It’s decorated in the style of German folk craft, with modest floral de- signs. Kepple sounds appropriately German, but it’s actually a reference to Walt Disney’s paternal grandfather Kepple Elias Disney, who hailed from Ireland. If you recall back to our search for hidden secrets in Frontierland, other Kepple references were recently added. Look for the Uncle Kepple Feed and Farm Sup- ply advertisements and grain bags. Jamie Hecker has been a lifelong fan of Disney, and is passing on his Adjacent to Liberty Square is the Rivers of love to his sons. He and his family America and the Liberty Belle steamship that plies her waters. As you would expect visit Orlando annually and always of a real steamship, the Liberty Belle apparently transports cargo as well as passen- look forward to their next trip. gers. All around Liberty Square are crates and barrels that have been delivered to When not in Orlando, he resides the residents. Let’s examine a few. in northern Virginia with his One collection of barrels and crates beautiful wife Suzanne, two boys and four cats. is labeled for Priscilla Lapham, the ‘inn- You can read more about his keeper’ of the Columbia Harbor House. “hidden Disney” musings at This name will be familiar with fans of myhiddendisney.blogspot.com/ Disney’s older live-action films. Priscilla was featured in the 1957 film Johnny Tre- main, which tells the story of the young teenager in colonial era Boston amidst the pending Revolutionary War. An- other nearby crate is addressed to Harold Stalmaster, Esq. This is in honor of Hal Stalmaster, the actor who played Johnny Tremain. Disney’s 1949 animated film The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad serves as inspiration for another pair of crates in Liberty Square. Ichabod Crane is the central character in The Legend of Sleepy Hol-

Photos © Jamie Hecker 28 · Celebrations low, and the film tells of ed Grandpa Marc, Requiescat Francis Xavier/No Time Off For Good his encounter with the Behavior, and Master Gracey, Laid To Rest/No Mourning Please At headless horseman, sus- His Request. Many of the additions to the queue are hands pected to be Crane’s town on, including an impressive pipe organ bearing the name nemesis, Brom Bones. Fit- Ravenscroft. This is in honor of , who pro- tingly, there’s another vided the deep voice for Uncle Theodore, the singing bust collection of crates and in the graveyard scene (the one that is often mistaken for barrels near the Sleepy Walt Disney himself). Nearby is a wall meant to represent Hollow Refreshments. a mausoleum, and several of the inscriptions honor Imagi- One crate is for Ichabod neers associated with the Haunted Mansion. ’ Crane and another is for Abraham “Brom Bones” Van Brunt, tribute reads, Farewell Forever, Mister Frees/Your Voice Will Carry both of Sleepy Hollow. On The Breeze. The caption for , who did much North of the Liberty Belle landing is another collection of of the early story work for the Haunted Mansion, reads, barrels. The lone crate alongside them is stenciled for deliv- Drink A Toast To Our Friend Ken/Fill Your Glass And Don’t Say ery to Silas Crump, the ‘caretaker’ of nearby Gracey Manor. When. has another accolade here, While Brother This is in tribute to Disney Imagineers Rolly Crump and Roland Here Reposes /His Soul’s Above One Supposes. The tribute Yale Gracey. Crump’s eccentric sketches for his “museum to Blaine Gibson, whose sculptures were instrumental in of the weird” concept were included in various areas of the the development the Haunted Mansion’s residents, reads, A Haunted Mansion. Crump and Gracey were also responsible Train Made a Stain of Absent–Minded Uncle Blaine. for many of the attraction’s special effects. Which brings us, Inside the Haunted Mansion itself is perhaps the most ob- finally, to Liberty Square’s most revered and complex attrac- scure treat. The traditional entrance takes Guests through tion. the stretching room before boarding the Doom Buggies. The Haunted Mansion, which debuted in Disneyland in Along the way, see if you can spot a door marked “Servant’s 1969 after several years of development, was an opening Quarters.” This is a limited-access hallway to the exit, used day attraction at the Magic Kingdom and has perhaps the by VIPs and disabled Guests to bypass the queue. It’s occa- richest and most interesting mythology of any Disney at- sionally featured on a Keys to the Kingdom tour. So why is traction. Like other E–Ticket rides, the Haunted Mansion the Servant’s Quarters so special? Even though it’s rarely sets its tone early by introducing elements into the queue seen, the hallway features another delightful tribute to that will enhance the overall story. Originally, the queue Imagineers. A series of bells on the wall represent different only featured a spooky graveyard with a grisly collection rooms of the mansion, and could be rung when service was of tombstones. A few, some original, some new, are worth needed. Like the markers in the cemetery, the eight bells mentioning. In that spirit, shall we say, let’s examine a few all honor Imagineers involved with the Haunted Mansion. hidden tributes. They are: Ambassador Xavier’s Lounging Lodge (for X At- Imagineer was one of many contributors tencio), Madame Leota’s Boudoir (for Leota Toombs), Grand- to the Haunted Mansion, so it’s only appropriate that he is father McKim’s Resting Room (Sam McKim), Uncle Davis’ immortalized in stone. His ‘grave marker’ reads: At Peaceful Sleeping Salon (), Master Gracey’s Bedchamber Rest Lies Brother Claude/Planted here beneath this sod. Harriet (Yale Gracey), Colonel Coats’ Breakfast Berth (Claude Coats), Burns, considered the First Lady of Imagineering, was re- and Professor Wathel’s Reposing Lounge (Wathel Rogers). cently honored with her own marker at the Haunted Man- Finally, one last Haunted Mansion secret can be found sion graveyard. Hers reads: First Lady of the Opera/Our Haunt- in the pet cemetery just past the Haunted Mansion’s exit. ing Harriet Searched For A Tune/But Never Could Carry It. Among the various markers for dogs, cats, and birds is a rec- In 2011, the queue for the Haunted Mansion received an ognizable amphibian. Older fans may recall the classic dark extensive update, now featuring interactive elements and ride Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, an opening day attraction at the several relocated tombstones. Imagineers Marc Davis, X At- Magic Kingdom. It closed in 1998 to make way for the Many tencio and Yale Gracey’s famous gravestones are now much Adventures of Winnie The Pooh, amidst much outcry from closer to Guests where they can be experienced up close. Re- its loyal fans. However, J. Thaddeus Toad is still present in spectively, they read: In Memory of Our Patriarch/Dear Depart- the Magic Kingdom, albeit in the pet cemetery.

29 · Celebrations Celebrating DCA’s Second Summer

t’s no secret that the creation of and is still big news. IIn fact, as the new and improved Disney Adventure is about to embark on its second summer season, there are a whole slew of reasons to visit and stay long into the evening. Disney California Adventure becomes even more enjoyable when the sometimes-unforgiving Southern California summer sun gives way to the clear, cool starlit night. While is well worth the extended wait, there are other ways to have fun in Cars Land at night this summer. As with all of Disney’s various By J Darling lands, this one is not lacking in detail, even for those Guests who aren’t interested in riding its three attractions. In fact, while other Guests queue up for these lat- est additions to Disney California Adventure’s offerings, those with a keen eye may have just as much fun combing this land for some great -Disney details. For example, consider grabbing a snack at the Cozy Cone stands and see if you can spot Buzz Lighter hiding under one of the cones (just like the treacherous street-cross- ing made by the Toy Story team in Toy Story 2). See if you can spot a little tractor in the petting zoo just waiting for a visit. However, those details can be absorbed no matter what time of day it is. Cars Land really comes to life once the sun goes down. The street signs light up with the neon glow that Lightning McQueen used to bring the town back to life in the first Cars film. Fans of the original Cars movie will remember the scene where Mac (Lightning McQueen’s Mac Truck friend and transportation to each race destination) fell asleep, thanks to the tunes played by some tricked out sports cars. Well, it’s not unusual for J Darling is a California native and one of those cars to make an appearance here, showing off its own neon glow as it life long Disney fan. Her parents first cranks tunes to get people dancing near Flo’s V8 diner. The car (aptly named DJ) is took her to Disneyland when she was an amazing sight to behold, blasting music (which a few well placed Cast Members 2 years old. According to them, her can’t help but dance to) and sharing its own unique light show with those Guests eyes just popped out of her head, and lucky enough to come across its path. apparently they never went back in. Of course, Disney’s is the most obvious reason for visiting DCA af- Outside of her Disney fandom, J is a singer, songwriter, blogger, and ter dark. The spectacular show of lighting, water, fire, color, and music is top notch theatrical actress. Disney entertainment. The show was designed to stay topical and include updates You can find her music at from the latest Disney films. Currently, Merida from Brave shows off her archery www.jdarlingmusic.com skills, via projections on massive mist screens. All of Paradise Pier gets in on the ac- and on Myspace at tion as the show takes over the waterfront, but the addition of Cars Land has begun www.jdarlingmusicmyspace.com. Her to change how Guests see the show. FastPasses or dining packages (either table ser- blogs are available at www.jjourneybook.blogspot.com. vice or picnic style) are still a great way to go, but because Radiator Springs Racers is still drawing large crowds late into the evening, it’s now a little bit easier for Guests to find great standing-room views right up until show time. The later showing is usually less crowded and may be a good option for those brave enough to attempt park hopping from Fantasmic! in Disneyland to World of Color in Disney California Adventure. The score from favorite Disney movies woven into the tapestry of light, lasers, and fire draws Disney fans old and young (and young at heart) alike. Two summers ago, Celebrations brought you information about the nighttime celebration, ElecTRONica. ElecTRONica turned the Hollywood area of Disney Cali-

30 · Celebrations fornia Adventure into a more adult party, themed from the then-recent movie Tron:Legacy. While this au- thor was saddened to see ElecTRONinca retire, its re- placement, The Mad T Party, is an equally happening place to be after dark. When day turns to night, Guests can grab a drink from the Drink Me bar (located across the entrance from Muppet Vision 3D) and enjoy ener- getic played by the White Rabbit DJ, dance numbers by Humpty Dumpty and the playing cards, and a concert by the Alice and the Mad Hatter. But this isn’t Walt’s . The inspiration from this himself and white ears. The Glow with the Show ears cost party draws more from the more recent film about $25 each, and have removable batteries, so they can (distributed by Disney) than it does the animated Disney be enjoyed again and again over the years. This technology classic. Through extensive use of large digital screens and seems to be around to stay, so there are usually a smatter- some fun lighting effects, one of the Hollywood courtyards ing of them dotting the crowds at most night time events. is turned into a dance party. For adults traveling alone, this While some might feel the glow distracts from the show is a great place to mix and mingle after a day touring the itself, rest assured that the light is more like a soft-candle parks. For those traveling with the younger set, the music glow rather than a harsh flashlight glow. Only these candles is all PG, and the alcoholic drinks, while present, are limited change colors to suit their surroundings. For example, if a to two per person. If the music gets to be too much, Guests Guest with Glow with the Show ears attends World of Color, can duck into the Mad Arcade (the previous home to Flynn’s and a Little Mermaid part comes on, the ears might glow Arcade), which includes midway-style games. a soft blue. During the segment, But there is even more in store for Guests longing to bring they might glow red. As we went to press, The Glow with home a special piece of interactive Disney magic. the Show hats are reported to interact with World of Color, If you were lucky enough to be a Guest at Disneyland Re- various places in Cars Land, The Mad T Party in Disney Cali- sort last summer, you may have noticed that a new form of fornia Adventure, and Fantasmic! in . Like entertainment has moved into the parks, the Glow with the the Magical Moments Pins, this technology could evolve to Show ear hats! Walt Disney World Guests might recall that include other Disney attractions as well! For large groups, they had a similar type of clothing-on-Guest type of enter- this is a great way to glow together and share the fun. tainment available in the early 2000s in the form of Magical Moments Pins that interacted with various Cast Members, As summer vacation plans come to life, don’t forget to shows, and attractions by lighting up. Well, this has taken include at least a stroll around DCA. From the quiet streets the latest in IR technology to the next level. Instead of pins, of Grizzly Peak to the energizing beats of the Mad T Party Guests can purchase ear hats that change colors and light and the nostalgic glimpse of classic films in World of Color, up in reaction to certain attractions. Currently, the hat Disney California Adventure has grown into a night time portion of the ears feature neon colored visages of Mickey destination all by itself.

Photo Courtesy of and © Loren Javier 31 · Celebrations By Joe Essaf

32 · Celebrations hen you think of classic Walt Disney World at- As part of Disney’s growing “interactive queues” initia- Wtractions, what comes to mind? Is it the pulse- tive, you’ll find plenty of magic the moment you get in pounding excitement and thrills of the Tower of Terror, line, namely Scuttle’s Scavenger Hunt. This fun-filled di- the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, or the trio of Magic Kingdom version features the comical and famous seagull, Scuttle. mountains? Or perhaps the interactive technology of As you walk along the queue, little animated blue crabs Toy Story Mania, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, scamper around collecting whatchamacallits, gizmos, or the newly-renovated ? Maybe you enjoy and gadgets. These crabs show up in multiple locations. the slower pace of Spaceship Earth, the TTA, or Living If they’re carrying something that doesn’t belong with With the Land. No matter what your taste, you’ll find it the items in that area, just point at them and they’ll take here. But there’s one type of attraction that is quintes- that item away and come back with something else. sential Disney, the one that started it all. What is it? If Soon you’ll come upon an Audio-Animatronic version of you guessed the ‘’, you’d be correct! From Dis- Scuttle, who proceeds to show off all the crabs and all neyland to Walt Disney World to and the items you’ve chosen for them to collect. Following in everywhere in-between, the dark ride has always been the footsteps of the interactive queues of , Space a staple. From ’s Flight and The Haunted Man- Mountain, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, sion to Pirates of the Caribbean and “it’s a small world,” Disney has definitely come up with a great solution for these are some of the earliest memories we all have as those long lines. Sometimes the wait can be just as much children going to Disney. With the New Fantasyland, the fun as the attraction itself! Imagineers have created the next step in the dark ride Upon reaching the end of the line, you’ll encounter an evolution: Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid. -system of clams (similar to the system used This is the dark ride of the 21st century. Chockfull of in- in The Haunted Mansion and the clams used in The Seas novation and technology, Under the Sea – Journey of the with Nemo & Friends). Once you board your clam, you’ll Little Mermaid sets the bar for future dark rides, while proceed backward down a small ramp (and this is where at the same time becoming an instant classic that will be it really gets cool). Using new technology, you’ll see a pro- enjoyed for generations to come. jection of water rising on the back of the clam in front Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid resides of you, as well as on the ceiling, complete with sound ef- in Eric’s castle, surrounded by waterfalls and geysers. The fects. This is an astounding effect that makes you feel attraction first appeared in Disney California Adventure as if you’re actually going underwater. You’ll then meet on June 3, 2011, as part of the grand Disney California Ad- Ariel and her collection of things and items. The Audio- venture renovation (which would go on to include the created for Ariel are simply breathtaking. new Cars Land as well as other attractions). It proved so In contrast to the simpler figures seen in other Fanta- popular that Disney decided to include it as part of the syland dark rides like Peter Pan’s Flight, the figures here New Fantasyland. show a wide range of expression, similar to those seen After grabbing some of Lefou’s Brew from Gaston’s in the Hall of Presidents. Make special note of how Ariel’s Tavern, you can make your way across the bridge to- fins and hair move! ward the entrance of the attraction, enjoying spectacu- Continuing on, you’ll enter a gigantic room filled to lar views of Eric’s castle along the way. You’ll be the brim with many of the familiar nautical characters greeted by a carved-wooden statue of Ariel (in her well- seen in the film’s “Under the Sea” scene conducted by Se- known “Part of Your World” pose). You’ll then meander bastian. For many, this is the highlight of the attraction. along a seashell-laden path past a shipwreck and into There is something to see everywhere you look, from the coastline caverns. Be sure to look all around you; the dancing turtles to sax players, and is truly an awe-inspir- scenery here is gorgeous, and the attention to detail, as- ing moment. But even then, the best is still to come. After tounding. The Imagineers went to great lengths to add exiting the room, the atmosphere gets dreary and gray countless details to the queue, and it shows. Looking at as you enter the sea witch’s lair. Accompanied by Flotsam the area around the shipwreck, you’ll find starfish and and Jetsam, Ursula is singing “Poor Unfortunate Souls” algae growing around the damaged and corroded wood. around an orb capturing Ariel’s voice. Ursula is one of the

Main photo © Disney: Inset photo © Tim Devine 33 · Celebrations largest Audio-Animatronics ever created by the Imagineers. edly be enjoyed for years to come. She has a special flexibility in her torso and body build, so that she can move freely. Be warned, if you didn’t fear the Fun Facts witch before, you will now! You’ll then move forward out • A new skin technology had to be used for all of the Audio- of the ocean (using the same technology as before) and see Animatronics to make them look more realistic, since they Ariel and Eric in the famous “Kiss the Girl” scene, with fish show more skin than usual. spinning and singing around them much like in the film. • There are about 200 Audio-Animatronics throughout the It’s a whimsical, touching moment to be sure, but looming attraction, including 128 alone in the “Under the Sea” room. ahead is the foreboding silhouette of the giant Ursula, now • Ursula stands a staggering 7 ½-feet tall and is 12-feet wide! the new ruler of the seas. All seems lost until, facing her ul- • Imagineers created a one-quarter-inch scale model, and timate demise, Ursula collapses to her death in a cloud of then a one-inch version, in order to better work out how dense smoke. With Ursula defeated, the next scene shows the attraction would run and what the Guest experience Eric and Ariel kissing, with Ariel regaining her voice. The would be like. final scene in the attraction depicts Eric and Ariel’s wed- • Near the entrance to the attraction, look around the rocks ding. Triton is seen giving his blessing as Ariel and Eric wave near the shipwreck. You’ll find a few carvings that are in goodbye, surrounded by Flounder, Scuttle and Sebastian. the shape of the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea submarine. Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid brings to- This is a tribute to the area’s original attraction. gether new technology and expertise, while maintaining • Look for other tributes to that attraction throughout the the charm and whimsy of the classic dark ride. The Imagi- queue. For example, there are some portholes that may neers honed their skills and created something truly fresh look familiar! and unique. From Scuttle’s Scavenger Hunt to the “Under the • Ariel’s wedding dress is embroidered with seahorses and Sea” room, it is already an instant classic, and will undoubt- starfish.

34 · Celebrations Photos © Tim Devine 35 · Celebrations By Lori Elias

story hundreds of years old…images inspired by the And of course those masters of the fairytale, the Brothers A art of ages past…a musical score from the previous Grimm, chimed in with their own telling of the story, Dorn- century: in short, the unforgettable magic and charm of röschen (Little ) in 1812. Sleeping Beauty can be described as an exercise in “looking While ’s version of the story is credited back to move forward.” in the film, it would be more accurate to cite composer Sleeping Beauty had its premiere in 1959, and with a pro- Peter Tchaikovsky’s adaptation of Perrault’s fairytale, with duction cost of $6 million was the most expensive of Dis- a touch of the . In Perrault’s rendition of ney’s films to date. Featuring the incandescent / Sleeping Beauty, which was used as the libretto of Tchai- Briar Rose, the dashing Prince Philip, the dastardly Malefi- kovsky’s famous ballet, neither the prince nor princess cent, and the doting fairies Flora, Fauna and Merryweather, were given names, and the story did not culminate with Sleeping Beauty followed Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs their kiss but went on to the couple’s married life. According (1937) and (1950) as the third of Disney’s “princess” to Perrault’s story, they eventually had two children: lovely features and was Disney Studio’s sixteenth animated film daughter Aurora, whose name means “light,” and son Day, so (ironic, considering that the film focuses on the title char- named because he was even more handsome than Aurora acter’s sixteenth birthday!). Sleeping Beauty was directed by was beautiful. Aurora and Day almost met a horrific end at , , and , under the the hands of their scheming paternal grandmother, whose supervision of . despicable plans were thwarted by the prince. Tchaikovsky altered the story in his ballet, giving Aurora’s The Origins of Sleeping Beauty name to the title character. The prince was named Flori- Like many fairytales, a number of variations of the origi- mund; it is widely believed that the later change of his name nal story exist. One of the earliest known versions can be to Philip for the film was inspired by Great Britain’s Duke of found in Perceforest, a French book of short stories that Edinburgh, who had married Queen Elizabeth II in 1947. In first appeared in the early sixteenth century. Another ren- Perrault’s story, seven fairies bestowed gifts to the baby dition, Sole, Luna, e Talia (Sun, Moon, and Talia), which was Aurora, while the ballet named six; and in both stories, be- startling for its graphically violent scenes, was penned in fore the last could offer her gift, the evil fairy (nameless in Italy by a soldier named Giambattista Basile in the early Perrault’s story and called Carabosse in the ballet) warned 1600s. Later in that century, French writer Charles Perrault of the princess’s impending death on her sixteenth birth- included La Belle au Bois Dormant (The Sleeping Beauty in day, when she would prick her finger on a spinning wheel. the Wood) in his book Histoires ou contes du temps passé, In both stories, the last of the good fairies then modified avec des moralités: Contes de ma mère l’Oye (Stories or the curse from death to a deep sleep, but unlike Perrault’s Tales from Times Past, with Morals: Tales of Mother Goose). fairytale, the ballet reached its finale with the wedding of

36 · Celebrations Artwork © Disney 37 · Celebrations Florimund and Aurora. process utilized 70-mm film, which is twice the size of the The film adopted the ending as created by the Brothers 35-mm film used both before and since that time. This new Grimm: the princess awakened by true love’s kiss and the format created a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, meaning that the width happy joining with her handsome prince. Their other major of the screen for Sleeping Beauty was more than twice the contribution to the film was the name they had given their size of its height. (In comparison, most of today’s films use princess: Briar Rose. In the film, of course, this is the name a 1.33:1 or 1.85:1 ratio.) The subsequent wider screen allowed given to Aurora by the three fairies while hiding her from for more finely detailed art, with significantly clearer back- . ground pictures in particular. While visually stunning, the larger animation paper Making a Masterpiece proved to be a challenge for the artists, who were used to The Disney team began working on Sleeping Beauty in 1951, flipping between pages in order to make the characters’ and though the story had generally been decided upon by movements look as realistic as possible. The drastically in- 1952, which was unusually early in the process, the movie creased size made the animation cels very difficult to ma- spent eight years in development. Six of those years were neuver! devoted almost entirely to animating the film. This un- Though the story was similar in feel to the earlier two precedented length of time in producing the film was in princess films, Walt Disney was determined to make Sleep- many ways affected by the diverse paths the Studios had ing Beauty distinctive from those movies. In order to move begun to take. A great deal of Walt Disney’s attention and the genre forward, he looked to the past styles of art and time were understandably caught up with the creation of music. In terms of artistry, he wanted to reach back to the the television series Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color, rich tapestries and paintings of centuries long ago, so the which premiered in 1954, as well as the significant demands need for such intrinsic detail was placed in the very capable of the opening of Disneyland a year later. hands of , a devotee of Gothic art. Earle had In some ways Sleeping Beauty was the end of an era, as it worked on backgrounds for and Peter was the final Disney film to utilize the ink and paint tech- Pan, along with a number of Disney’s short films, and was nique of creating animation cels. (101 Dalmatians, released in responsible for the medieval flavor of the film. Earle was 1961, would be the first in which animators used xerography, not only in charge of the film’s lush scenery, but also had an electromagnetic process that transferred pictures onto creative control over the animators, which was unheard celluloid, rather than all of the pictures being hand-drawn). of at that time; usually, it was the animators who made the Additionally, Sleeping Beauty would be the last fairytale to be major decisions in stylizing the Studios’ films (with Walt adapted for a Disney film until The Little Mermaid in 1989. Disney having the final say, of course). Their resulting dis- It was also a film of innovations, as it was first film ever sention made it as far as the desk of Mr. Disney, who sided to be released using the “Super Technirama-70” format. This with Earle: he wanted the design of the film to lead the style

38 · Celebrations Artwork ©Disney of the animation, rather than the other way around, which enacted, filmed and then traced onto animation paper in was quite an unusual path for the Disney Studios to take. order to avoid having to correct and re-draw any errors. Part of Walt’s desire to emphasize design was in reaction In Sleeping Beauty, this was done so that animators would to the United Productions of America, or UPA, an animation not have to imagine the characters’ actions, but would be studio whose most famous extant character is Mr. Magoo. able to see the events first-hand. Structures were built to UPA had been founded by three former Disney artists: Ste- represent the palaces of King Stefan and Maleficent, as well phen Bosustow, , and Zachary Schwartz, as the fairies’ cottage; stairs were even constructed to form following the 1941 Disney strike (profiled in the January/ the mountain from which Prince Philip battled Maleficent! February 2013 issue of Celebrations). The animation style concept of UPA avoided the realism and three-dimensional The Music of Sleeping Beauty art that Disney was known for, and following the artistic Another aspect of “looking back to move forward” was trends of the time, stressed minimalism and modernism the use of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s ballet music, written over more traditional pictures. Rather than changing his in the last century. (Tchaikovsky is perhaps best-known for view to match theirs, if anything this development spurred , which had been included in Fantasia a de- Walt on to make his scenes even more highly detailed and cade earlier.) Early in the production process, Walt Disney sophisticated. He essentially wanted the animated pictures asked staff composers Sammy Fain and Jack Lawrence to of Sleeping Beauty to be a film of moving paintings. create original songs for the film, which resulted in “I Hap- The use of color also played a big part in the conceptual pen to Have a Picture,” in which the two kings show off design of the film. The designers wished to provide strong paintings of their children in the same way modern fathers visual contrast between good and evil, so for the palace, for- would pull out snapshots; “Riddle Diddle,” sung as the fair- est, and cottage, as well as the good people and fairies of the ies prepare to make the new dress and cake for Briar Rose’s kingdom, bright colors were used, such as vivid reds, blues, birthday; “Go to Sleep,” a lullaby sung as the fairies cast the pinks, emerald greens and yellows. Maleficent, her castle enchanted sleep upon the entire kingdom; and Aurora and and her cronies were painted in darker hues—browns, Philip’s romantic duet “Once Upon a Dream,” the only song to deeper greens, and shades of gray and black. be included in the final picture, and based on a waltz from Like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty was first staged with actors Tchaikovsky’s ballet. performing the roles in a studio, complete with costumes After seeing the Gothic design of the animation, Walt and props. With Cinderella, it had been a cost-saving mea- realized that traditional theater-style movie songs did not sure for the financially struggling studio: the scenes were serve the art and story well. He then requested that an-

39 · Celebrations other staff composer, , rework the score that voice of a maid in The Sword in the Stone in 1963. Like Allen, the Tchaikovsky had composed for his ballet more than sixty other two actresses voicing the fairies were highly-regarded years earlier. While most of the film soundtrack used Tchai- for their work in radio, while also bearing impressive Disney kovsky’s music as originally written, Bruns had to make resumes. Verna Felton, the voice of Flora, had been heard as some adjustments in order to accommodate the anima- Mrs. Jumbo in Dumbo (1941), Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother, the tion, sometimes repeating motifs, other times adding flour- Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland (1951) and Aunt Sarah ishes or other minor adjustments. in Lady and the Tramp (1955). She would return to Disney in All of the songs in the finished film were taken directly 1967 to voice yet another elephant in The Jungle Book. from Tchaikovsky’s score, with lyrics added by Bruns and When audiences first heard Barbara Luddy’s voice as Mer- his staff. “Hail to the Princess Aurora” is a “lyricized” version ryweather, they certainly should have recognized her sweet of the ballet’s march to the infant Aurora’s christening, tones from that of Lady in Lady and the Tramp. Future work while the movie’s other songs were derived from dances for Disney Studios would include Rover in 101 Dalmatians within the ballet. The soundtrack was recorded by the Ber- (1961), Mother Church Mouse and Mother Rabbit in Robin lin Philharmonic in a new sound studio in Germany, using Hood (1973), and perhaps her most-loved character, Kanga in state-of-the-art equipment. the original Winnie the Pooh films. Disney Studios was thrilled to bring back another success- The Cast ful veteran, Eleanor Audley. Audley, who had been wretch- Both as Aurora/Briar Rose and as edly wonderful as Lady Tremaine in Cinderella, delved back Prince Philip made their Disney debuts in Sleeping Beauty; the into darkness as perhaps the most despised of all Disney two even auditioned together to ensure that their voices villainesses, Maleficent. (Enthusiasts of the Disney Parks would blend with each other. The classically-trained Costa also know her as the voice of Madame Leota in the Haunted would go on to perform in a number of around the Mansion attraction!) world, including the House in New York Bill Thompson, who had voiced the White Rabbit in Alice City and the in London. Shirley would in Wonderland, Mr. Smee in Peter Pan and Jock in Lady and the later have another significant singing film role, and once Tramp, portrayed King Hubert, Prince Philip’s father. He too again he would be heard and not seen: he dubbed the sing- would reunite with Disney many times, as Ranger J. Audubon ing voice of the character Freddy Eynsford-Hill, who sings Woodlore in the television series Walt Disney’s Wonderful the well-known song “On the Street Where You Live,” in the World of Color and later as Uncle Waldo in (1970). 1964 film version of the musical My Fair Lady. Did looking back to move forward make Sleeping Beauty Also making her first “appearance” in a Disney film was a success? That is open to some debate. Though reviews Barbara Jo Allen as Fauna. She would go on to provide the were mixed and Walt himself was disappointed with the fi-

40 · Celebrations Artwork ©Disney nal product, financially it was second in box office earnings signs by her husband (and fellow Legend) Marc Davis, she to the cinematic masterpiece Ben-Hur. Unfortunately, the created the gray dress worn by Briar Rose in “Once Upon a box office returns were not sufficient to offset the exces- Dream” and the subsequent birthday scene. sive costs of producing Sleeping Beauty, which contributed • One of Eyvind Earle’s design trademarks is the use of verti- to Disney Studios taking a significant loss that year. (Subse- cal lines. This is apparent in the palaces (both inside and quent re-releases in later years were much more successful out), tapestries, banners, trees, Maleficent’s mountain and and resulted in building a strong following for the film.) In home, and even the characters (aside from the three good terms of marketing, the news was brighter: over 100 differ- fairies). ent items of Sleeping Beauty merchandise were created by • Walt Disney wanted the three fairies to be similar in per- more than fifty companies, including dolls, jewelry, record- sonality. It was the animation staff who talked him into al- ings, and comic books. And if its ultimate success can be lowing each fairy to have her own distinct characteristics: judged by the affection of its viewers, then Sleeping Beauty the matriarchal Flora, fluttery Fauna, and sweetly naïve will always be recognized as a much-loved Disney triumph. Merryweather. • Sleeping Beauty was the last film of Taylor Holmes, the voice Sleeping Beauty Fascinating Facts: of King Stefan, who passed away in September 1959, about • “Maleficent” means “harmful or evil in intent.” nine months after the movie’s premiere. • Sammy Fain, who with Jack Lawrence wrote the original • The physical appearance of Princess Aurora/Briar Rose was (and unused) score for Sleeping Beauty, composed the songs based the actress who modeled her dances, Helene Stanley, for Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan. as well as her voice actress, Mary Costa. • It is ironic that the production process for Sleeping Beauty • Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, which opened on July 17, 1955, is the was the longest to date (around eight years), as Peter Tchai- centerpiece of Disneyland. It is the smallest of the Disney kovsky composed the entire ballet score in forty days, the Parks castles, and is the only castle with a working draw- shortest length of time for any of his pieces. (Those forty bridge. In 1957, the original castle opened a walk-through at- days were over a five month period.) traction with animated dioramas created by Eyvind Earle • Disney Legend Alice Davis, perhaps best-known as the cos- and based on the movie. This attraction closed in 2001 but tume designer for the attractions “it’s a small world” and re-opened in 2008, replacing the dioramas with rooms with Pirates of the Caribbean, had her first Disney assignment special effects and animated scenes. with Sleeping Beauty. Costumes were constructed for the • Other versions of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle can be found at live actors playing out the scenes of the film. Using de- and .

41 · Celebrations LIVE IT UP!

THE MAGIC AND MYSTIQUE OF LA NOUBA By Lori Elias

42 · Celebrations ividly-colored costumes…infectious music…innova- and a parade of notable tall ships from around the world Vtive choreography honed to its finest precision. While in the city’s harbor. As an extension of the event, the Québe- these descriptions might bring to mind any of the enter- cois government wanted to sponsor a show that could tour taining shows found at Walt Disney World, they arguably the entire province as part of the festivities. Upon hearing reach their highest level in La Nouba, the enigmatic produc- of this, Guy Laliberté approached the officials of Québec 84 tion created by the internationally acclaimed troupe Cirque with the idea of a circus troupe which he called Cirque du du Soleil. Soleil—Circus of the Sun. With financial help from the pro- When Disney fans hear the word “circus,” they may think vincial government, “Le Grand Tour” opened in the eastern of P. T. Flea under the big top or Dumbo soaring through the Québec town of Gaspé before moving on to its future home, air. Cirque du Soleil, however, is a showcase of some of the Montreal, and other large cities throughout the province. world’s elite performers in gymnastics, trapeze, cycling, and The following year, Cirque du Soleil traveled to Ontario, in- other acrobatic feats accompanied by stunning music, cre- cluding Toronto and the capital city of Ottawa, and in 1986 ating a unique spectacle that has enthralled audiences all expanded their tour throughout the entire country. over the world. In 1987, Cirque du Soleil made its first trip south of the The sights and sounds of border—the United States/Cana- Cirque du Soleil are such a perfect da border, that is—with a hugely fit for the magic of Walt Disney successful show entitled “We Re- World that it is almost difficult invent the Circus,” presented in to fathom that the troupe began a number of cities in southern in a cozy village outside of Qué- California and later traveling bec City, over 1500 miles away. In throughout the country. Subse- 1980, a stilt-walker named Gilles quent tours throughout North Ste-Croix assembled a troupe America, Europe and Asia result- of street performers which he ed in rave reviews and sold-out named Les Échassiers de Baie- theaters, establishing Cirque du Saint Paul—“The Baie-Saint-Paul Soleil as one of the world’s pre- Stilt-walkers.” Engaging in musi- miere performing ensembles. cal acts, acrobatics, juggling and In 1993, Cirque du Soleil opened fire-breathing (in addition to the show Mystère in its own the- stilt-walking, of course) as they atre at the Treasure Island Hotel mingled with the community, these entertainers proved to in Las Vegas, and in 1998 opened another “resident” show, be a fascination for the local townspeople. O, at the Bellagio Hotel in the same city. In August of that The performers later changed their name to Le Club de year, work began on Cirque du Soleil’s first free-standing Talons Hauts, or “The High Heels Club,” and in 1982 instituted permanent theater, erected in the West Side of Downtown La Fête Foraine de Baie-Sait Paul, a multi-day festival that Disney in Walt Disney World. This theater would be a 1671- brought in street-performing groups from outside of the seat structure built to resemble a large white circus tent, local area. As the ensemble’s reputation grew, Ste-Croix and similar in style to the troupe’s blue and yellow headquarters Guy Laliberté, a performer with the High Heels Club, started in Montreal, and would house Cirque du Soleil’s newest ad- to consider the possibility of developing their own traveling dition to its series of shows, La Nouba, which opened on De- circus. cember 23, 1998. The Club’s big break came two years later, as 1984 marked Since then, countless Guests have been enthralled by the the 450th anniversary of Canada’s discovery by French ex- sights and sounds of La Nouba. The cast of almost 70 per- plorer Jacques Cartier. To commemorate the occasion, formers is directed by Franco Dragone and choreographed Québec City hosted “Québec 84,” a region-wide party that by Debra Brown, with music direction by the show’s com- ran for over two months. The celebration was to include poser, Benoit Jutras. The show’s more than 3000 costumes concerts, historical exhibitions, watersport competitions were designed by Dominique Lemieux.

Photos and artwork © Disney 43 · Celebrations Set designer Michael Crête based his scenery on the paint- hilarious antics. They reappear later within the show as air- ings of René Magritte, a Surrealist painter from Belgium headed astronauts and doddering denizens of the Old West. who lived from 1898-1967. Magritte was known for taking As the lights come down, La Nouba’s band, consisting of ordinary objects and presenting them in unusual propor- six costumed musicians—who perform on over twenty tions or combinations. For example, in his painting Personal musical instruments—signal the start of the show. A clean- Values, a comb is twice as large as the bed that it rests upon, ing woman, Petite Madame, is tidying up an old attic when and a water goblet is almost as big as the wardrobe behind she discovers a world and characters beyond her imagina- it. Meanwhile, the inner walls of the room appear to be a tion. Singers, instrumentalists, acrobats, jugglers and cy- blue sky with white clouds…so is the room inside or out- clists lead Petite Madame through a fantastical spectacle of side? Magritte’s works create an idea of “fantasy meets real- the meeting of two vastly different groups—the stoic, staid ity,” a concept that defines La Nouba throughout the show’s city-dwellers (Urbains) and the vivid, vivacious circus people 90-minute experience. (Cirques). La Nouba’s name comes from the French expression faire Who are these mysterious beings encountered by Petite la nouba, which means “to party” or “live it up,” and from the Madame, as well as the audience? There is the Walker, a moment Guests enter the theatre, it is clear that this will be cheerful clown puttering in and out of scenes with a smile a remarkable experience. Two silent but silly clowns, Sergei that never fades. In sharp contrast is the towering, angry and Balthazar by name, assist in ushering Guests to their Titan, who brings a sense of foreboding that ultimately seats while entertaining the gathering crowd with their culminates in battle. Les Cons, or “the Nuts,” are four clowns

44 · Celebrations Photo © Véronique Vial, Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil dressed entirely in white who appear throughout La Nou- saults on the wire’s 90-foot span, which hangs an awe-in- ba as a silent Greek chorus. Present in almost every scene, spiring 34 feet above the stage. they are invisible to most of the characters but interact Later in the show, as enchanted Guests look on, a door with each other in response to everything they see. Guests opening to a beautiful rural scene descends from the ceil- seated near the stage or on the floor-seat aisles may even ing. But is it just a door? Of course not—this is Cirque du So- find themselves pulled into the action by Les Cons! And leil, and not only that, it’s Cirque du Soleil’s show at the most perhaps the most endearing is the Green Bird: an awkward magical place on Earth! This act is called the aerial cradle, but charming creature who is frustrated by her inability to a contraption shaped like an open-air box upon which the fly from the world of the Urbains into the circus world she Walker and his lovely partner demonstrate both agility, as would give anything to join. Mingled among these captivat- they weave themselves among the bars of the cradle, and ing characters are the performers whose mix of artistry strength, as they take turns supporting each other from and athleticism have made Cirque du Soleil the unique per- over 30 feet above the crowd. formance experience that it is. Believe it or not, there are performers who soar even Much of the action takes place high above the crowd. A higher than that! La Nouba’s team of aerialists swing across trio of funambulists—the technical term for tightrope the stage on four trapezes set in two different levels at a walkers—strides along a wire only a half-inch wide, balanc- jaw-dropping 53 feet in the air. With impeccable timing, ing themselves on not only their feet but also their heads… the trapeze artists move from level to level with spins and and that’s not all! They also ride bicycles and turn somer- turns, tossing themselves—and each other—from bar to

Photo © Dirk Franke, Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil 45 · Celebrations 46 · Celebrations bar, even switching places as they cross each other in mid- balance himself upon a growing tower of furniture that air! Such synchronized work obviously takes a lot of prac- included a table, five chairs and even a baby carriage! This tice, and the team rehearses at least three times per week routine was replaced in February 2010 by juggler Anthony in addition to their ten scheduled shows. And yes, there is Gatto, who had been featured in Cirque du Soleil’s show a safety net in case anything should go awry. It might go Kooza. In this exciting sequence, the 11-time world record unnoticed by many Guests, as it is lowered from the ceiling holder sends over half a dozen rings, clubs and balls hur- and secured mechanically, meaning that no stagehands are tling through the air at any one time. needed to keep it in place. Cirque du Soleil’s theater at Down- A second substitution occurred later that year. Until 2010, town Disney is the first of its theaters to use this device. La Nouba featured the roue allemande, or German wheel. Another act that takes performers above the crowd is the Each of the two wheels used by Cirque du Soleil consisted aerial ballet. Red silk ribbons are dropped from the ceiling, of a pair of hoops, six and a half feet in diameter. The hoops and the performers dance among the ribbons and move were connected in six places by horizontal bars barely the fabric to swing gracefully as they are carried to dizzying wider than the performers themselves, on which each per- heights. Using their own strength with no other supports, forming artist balanced his feet while steering the wheel the dancers wrap themselves up in a coil of ribbon which is through its turns. The artists would not only spin within unwound as they appear to free-fall to the stage. their wheels, but also balance on top of them and become Not all of the action happens in the sky, however, as there the axis around which the wheel would turn. are many exciting performances on the ground as well. A This segment was replaced with the Skipping Ropes act, perennial fan-favorite is the diabolo act. Diabolos are yo-yos which helps to show the sharp contrast between the lives that originated in China. Unlike the yo-yos that typically en- of the Urbains and the Cirques. At first the Urbains perform tertain American children (and adults!), the diabolo is com- a rope-jumping routine that is very somber, lackluster, and prised of an hourglass-shaped spool that is manipulated by robotic. The colorful Cirques artists then arrive, with their a string held onto by wooden sticks, one in each hand. In colorful costumes and electrifying, acrobatic stunts. this fast-paced act, four young Chinese girls demonstrate Perhaps the most iconic act of La Nouba occurs near the juggling and tossing tricks with the diabolos while simul- show’s finale: the Power Track/Trampoline. A three-story taneously performing a synchronized dance routine that building ascends from under the stage, while on the roof of includes leaps, cartwheels, somersaults, and handsprings, the structure the Titan engages in combat with a dancer while never losing control of the spinning toy. called the Red Pierrot. Trampoline artists leap from the Speaking of spinning, nothing gets the audience into the Power Track, a large cross-shaped trampoline in the floor act like La Nouba’s cyclists. While this was not a part of the of the stage. They work in tandem with performers who original show, the cycling sequence was added shortly af- emerge from the building’s open windows and spring to ter La Nouba opened, and has become a dynamic segment trampolines set alongside the building. In an amazing dis- of the production. Highlights of this act are cycling tricks play of synchronicity, accuracy and strength, the perform- such as G-turns, in which the rider spins the bicycle in a ers bounce from the trampolines to climb up the sides of circle by balancing only on the front tire; boomerangs, so the structure and dive through its windows. An astounding called because the rider and front tire turn in a circle, then 394 flips and 62 twists occur during the seven-minute rou- return to their original positions; and megaspins, in which tine; in fact, this act is so enticing that even Les Cons get in the rider rotates the bike while turning on its back tire. The on the action, joining the trampoline performers in their cyclists then take their bikes into the “house,” or audience Power Track stunts. seating area, jumping their bikes from step to step and rid- As the Titan and Red Pierrot’s battle intensifies, both ing around the seating bowl. To top off the act, Les Cons men are hurled from the top to the trampolines below and bring a member of the audience to join them on-stage for a amazingly bounce back to the roof. In the end, each man daredevil stunt. (A word of advice: if you are ever that lucky bows to the other in a show of respect for his opponent’s Guest, remember to keep your head down!) prowess. For over ten years, La Nouba included a chair-balancing As each of these gasp-inducing segments is occurring, it is act. An agile acrobat called an equilibrist would climb and easy to miss other moments happening on-stage, but no act

Photo © Véronique Vial, Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil 47 · Celebrations is ever presented by itself. A park bench with four perform- of instrumentalists are stationed on 75-foot high raised plat- ers may pass by overhead, or the Green Bird might stop by to forms, with three musicians on each side of the stage. This check out the action. Les Cons could zip past on unicycles, or, gives them a bird’s eye view of the variety of action which is as Cirque du Soleil is a direct descendant of The High Heels crucial: along with the physical demands of constantly play- Club, stilt-walkers may pass through. Guests attending the ing a variety of instruments through a 90-minute show, the show should keep their eyes open for all kinds of surprises! orchestra has to stay mentally attentive, as they can be called The music of La Nouba is a big part of the show’s mys- upon to adjust tempos or musical phrases to quickly adapt to tique. The composer, Benoit Jutras, has drawn on musical any unplanned incidents during the show. styles from across the globe, including European folk songs, Though La Nouba is on Walt Disney World property, don’t classical, bluegrass, and . These genres not only exist in- expect to see Mickey Mouse making a cameo appearance dividually but are also juxtaposed within each other. This from a trapeze. La Nouba is exclusively a Cirque du Soleil blending of styles, along with a combination of orchestral, production. The show’s creators, however, did offer a subtle rock and folk instruments, which run the gamut from vio- homage to their host: the Cleaning Lady, Petite Madame, lin to harmonica to electric guitars, help provide a sense of discovers a happy ending at the show’s conclusion in a nod timelessness and universality. Adding to the “other-worldly” to Cinderella. scope of the soundtrack is the use of a counter-tenor, an ex- La Nouba is presented Tuesday through Saturday at 6:00 tremely high male singing voice. With a range that lies high- and 9:00 P.M. There are specific times during the year when er than a typical man’s voice and reaching into a woman’s this schedule is different, so Guests planning to see La Nou- vocal range, a counter-tenor’s timbre has an ethereal sound ba should check WaltDisneyWorld.com to ensure that the that defies gender, creating a haunting sound not typically show is running. Tickets can be purchased by phone, online, heard in either popular or most classical music. or at the box office in the theater’s plaza level, which also in- While a show’s orchestra is often assembled together at cludes a boutique featuring Cirque du Soleil apparel, music, the foot or back of the performance area, La Nouba’s sextet recordings, DVDs and gifts.

48 · Celebrations Photo © Disney Photo © Camirand, Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil 49 · Celebrations 50 · Celebrations alt Disney World is famous for its meticulously The GFSO’s music features a wide range of styles, Wthemed environments, many of which trans- though amazingly all of the arrangements seem apro- port you not only to a different place, but to a different pos of the pristinely evocative Victorian setting of the time. For example, if you ride on the resort line of the lobby. You might hear old-fashioned Dixieland music, futuristic monorail, you can visit the turn-of-the-cen- with a mix of style and a slower New-Orleans- tury charm of the Magic Kingdom station, the retro- style tempo. Or you might hear the sounds of swing, future world of the Contemporary, and the lush, exotic with its distinctive sound filling the expanse of the setting of the Polynesian. But the most elegant stop lobby as if the six-piece ensemble were a full-sized big on the round-the-lagoon journey can be found upon band. You may be entertained by timeless jazz stan- your arrival inside the white-on-white archway of the dards flavored with bossa nova accents, or even classic Grand Floridian station. Its architecture, with majestic Disney songs from those beloved films of years past. mansard windows that allow the sunlight to cascade But while the tunes may be familiar, these are Dis- inside, recreates the ambience of the nineteenth cen- ney classics performed in a way you’ve probably never tury on a grand scale. heard before. The unique arrangements of these Dis- Your impressive entrance into this resort, however, ney songs are the work of the pianist, John Katalenic, is about to give way to one of the biggest “wow” mo- who finds creative ways to make these songs fit the grandeur of the hotel. For example, “Belle,” the Broad- way-style open- ing from , is transformed into a stately waltz in three-quarter time. The GFSO’s version of “Kiss the Girl” from The Little Mer- maid features an arrangement of trombone, trum- pet, and flute that transforms the calypso-style song ments at Walt Disney World. As you exit the station into a heavenly flight of fancy. It may take Guests a into the second floor of the resort, the lobby beckons few moments to recognize these songs in their new with five stories of opulence. Two massive white chan- arrangements, but some songs, like the Dixie swing of deliers, each with four layers of lights under little lamp The Jungle Book, need little tinkering. Bandleader and shades, hang from giant, stained-glass cupolas. The or- drummer, Patrick Doyle, loves digging into the drums nate carpet, which is about the size of a football field, on “The Bare Necessities” and “I Wanna Be Like You.” is dotted with overstuffed, vintage furniture, all of In their light gray tuxedos, peach-colored bow ties which gives the lobby of the Grand Floridian a cushi- and vests, gleaming black shoes, and white spats, the ony hush despite the huge space. And if you arrive at band is an enduringly classic symbol of the Grand Flo- just the right time, the scene will be completed with ridian. And enduring they are; this septet has played the remarkable music of The Grand Floridian Society five sets, seven nights a week, since the Grand Florid- Orchestra. ian resort opened in 1988.

Photo © Tim Devine 51 · Celebrations As seen from the monorail entrance, the orchestra notes even more so than in a more modest venue. performs on a balcony on the far end of the second And they overwhelmingly do avoid them. The mu- story of the lobby area. In a sliver of space, six musi- sicians have played together for a long time, and the cians squeeze themselves in and around their instru- melodies sound seamless in their understated, yet ments, including a baby grand piano and a tympani surprisingly textured way. As the musicians take their drum that (when bonged) will reverberate through- solos on the trombone, the trumpet, or the saxophone out the majestic lobby. (especially the monstrous bass sax, used on rare occa- Behind the bandstand is a walkway leading to sions for “ Theme”), each performer jazzes Mizner’s, the often-bustling bar where Guests congre- up these wonderful songs, making each performance gate to toast the evening, talk to one other, and listen unique, and adding that special, spontaneous touch to music. Despite the fact that the band is facing the to the Grand Floridian experience. The classic sound other direction, the music can be heard clearly over of the band is the result of years of commitment by the spirited chatter of the patrons, making it an ideal world class, expert musicians. location to enjoy the group. Patrick Doyle recently celebrated his fortieth an- While most musicians perform in front of an au- niversary playing music at Walt Disney World. In 1972, dience, the GFSO instead plays to the entire building, during his freshman year at West Virginia University, with an audience that might be sitting below in those he drove down to Florida with some friends to answer overstuffed chairs, relaxing to the side on the upper auditions for musicians at the Magic Kingdom and levels, standing by a balcony railing, or even walking other Walt Disney World entertainment venues. He by to some other part of the resort. Guests staying in landed a role in Liberty Square’s fife and drum corps, the hotel have told Patrick Doyle that they sometimes which he would soon lead. Later on, he substituted for prop their doors open while getting ready to go out for drummers while marching in formation along the pa- the night, in order to enjoy the music. “Playing for up to rade route with the eighteen-piece Walt Disney World five stories, I was worried that the venue would lack in- Band. In 1978, he started performing in the Magic King- timacy,” Doyle said, “but the atmosphere works out re- dom with The Pearly Band, a small Dixieland band that ally well, and people in those couches love to sit down dressed in colorful costumes with big “pearly” buttons, and absorb the music. So the intimacy is of a different like the band in the “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” sort—the response isn’t always conscious.” At times it sequence of Mary Poppins. Soon after EPCOT opened, almost sounds as if the building itself is playing the The Pearly Band expanded to become The Pearly Kings music. The band can see Guests who listen from so and Queens and performed in the United Kingdom pa- many vantage points, and Guests can hear the music vilion. For the next five years, Doyle would play in the anywhere in the building. The music of the GFSO, alter- fife and drum corps, now relocated to the American nating in the evenings with a classical pianist on the Adventure in EPCOT. first floor, is an essential part of the resort. When the Grand Floridian was getting ready to open There are many comfortable spots to listen to the in 1988, he was asked to lead what would be The Grand music, no matter if you’re on the first floor, the second Floridian Orchestra. With studio space being scarce on floor, or standing by the railing on any of the guest Disney property, the musicians who were convened room floors. There is not an acoustic dead spot in the for the original incarnation of the GFSO rehearsed entire space. Ironically, the musicians themselves can- hundreds of stock arrangements for period-appro- not hear firsthand how well the sound carries from the priate music in the studio Doyle had built in his ga- bandstand, so the acoustics are something they must rage. The band was passionate about the culture of conceptualize. This realization occurred to Doyle on his America’s past, as evidenced by a string of vintage cars third month on the job, when he heard the bass player parked along the street to Doyle’s house like a car show. tuning up, unplugged, and could hear every crisp note In its first year, the band had nine members, including from the third floor. Bad notes reverberate from the three saxophones and a female vocalist. Shortly there- far walls too, so the band knows it must avoid those after, the GFSO became the septet it has been for most

52 · Celebrations of its history. The GFSO is comprised of Patrick Doyle (bandleader, Most of the band-members have an interesting drums), John Katalenic (piano), Charlie Silva (string and elec- musical past. In 1976, Harold Johnson, the trombonist, tric bass), Davy Jones (trumpet, coronet, flugelhorn), Harold migrated from Denver, Colorado, to play ragtime mu- Johnson (trombone, vocals), and Rex Wertz (flute, clarinet, sic in a four-piece ragtime band in Fort Myers, Florida. bass/tenor/soprano saxophone). Soon he started auditioning for Walt Disney World, and in time started playing as a substitute musician for the park. He would make his long commutes to his Disney World gigs by motorcycle. In 1981, he start- ed playing with the Kids of the Kingdom as a regular member. Later, he would march with The Walt Disney World Band for eight years, and eventually become its leader and assistant conductor. After some serendipi- tous years playing full time at Rosie O’Grady’s in his- toric Church Street Station (while still subbing at Walt Disney World), Johnson joined the GFSO, and played his first night on January 2nd, 1994, along with the pianist, John Katalenic. Through his many years of musical ex- perience, Johnson had already known the other band members for quite a long time. The effect of this music is magical. The beautiful melodies enhance the Victorian atmosphere of this beautifully decorated resort, and the intoxicating rhythms often encourage children (and some adults) to dance. Although the Grand Floridian lobby is an ex- pansive space, the six musicians are able to perform these great songs in ways that are surprisingly inti- mate. Guests en route to Mizner’s pass close by the bandstand, and the musicians are friendly and ap- proachable. For younger Guests, this may be their first exposure to real live music. “This project has just been more than wonderful, and the fans are just amazingly nice,” Doyle said. “They go to these parties and events over their lifetime, and they know these songs, but they hear them anew, when played by us in an accurate rec- reation of this older style. We’ve gotten so many great responses over these twenty-five years.” Like so many of the live music acts in Walt Disney World, this band offers great performances that are worth more than a hasty listen while rushing from Point A to Point B. The next time you visit the Grand Flo- ridian, take a moment to enjoy the music if the band is playing. More than a moment if you can. Relax on a com- fy couch or do some window shopping. If you do, you’ll be rewarded with an extraordinary opportunity: to travel, in time, through music, to an unforgettable place.

Photos © Tim Devine 53 · Celebrations Making Dreams Come True: Walt Disney and Disneyland Part One By Kevin Carpenter

54 · Celebrations alt Disney was restless. Perched on a bench in Los to time spent together at the Disney studio. While the girls WAngeles’s Griffith Park, he munched on a handful of rode bikes and played along the studio’s many streets, Walt and waved as the colorful horses carried his two stalked the halls of the animation department, scoping out young daughters round and round the carousel. Walt dearly that week’s work. Always a devoted father, he sometimes loved his Saturday afternoons with Diane and Sharon, but, had to bow to reality and mix in a little work on “Daddy Day.” on this day, his mind was heavy. Not because his daughters Walt was used to it. He had been blending work with fam- were keeping him from more important things. Quite the ily time from his very first moments of fatherhood. When opposite. He found himself wishing that he could find a way went into labor with Diane on December to join in their merriment. 18, 1933, Walt was with the president of the University of Walt cherished these childhood years – reveling in the Southern California, being honored for his distinguished glee and innocence of his daughters – but he also realized service to children. As word reached him that his firstborn that something was missing. If daughter’s birth was im- children found such delight in minent, he rushed from an afternoon at the park, why the awards ceremony to did their parents have to sit be at his wife’s side during idly by? There should be a place that joyous hour, to the that provided genuine fun for bemusement of the many everyone in the family to en- guests and dignitaries. joy…and that was not the case Why, then, years later in the 1940s. as he sat on that Griffith Amusement parks and Park bench, did Walt feel so carnivals of that era were de- frustrated? signed solely for the entertain- He recognized the need ment of children, to the exclu- for a family-friendly park sion of almost everyone else. in California that would If they were having enough cater to guests of all ages. fun, the younger set could look A place where everyone, past the chewing gum littered children and adults alike, on the walkways and the “at- could play together, ex- tractions” that were anything plore together, and laugh but. Adults, on the other hand, together. The problem? were all too aware of these Nothing like this existed at shortcomings. That left fami- the time. So Walt, the ulti- lies in a familiar predicament – children at play and parents mate creative genius, did as he had done so often through- slumped off to the side. As Walt later shared with Readers out his career, he decided to create one himself. Little did Digest, “At an , the only fun provided for a he (or the world) know at the time, but this creation would father, besides having his bottom dropped out from under become one of his crowning glories. Walt Disney was going him on the roller coaster, was the same he enjoyed all week: to build Disneyland. buying the tickets.” Walt’s focus on improving wholesome family enter- The Beginning of a Dream tainment should come as no surprise. He was a man with Disneyland (although the concept was far too nebulous profound professional responsibilities, but also remained to even have a name at this point) would be a new kind an involved and attentive father. Although his workdays of amusement park, one specifically designed from the at Walt Disney Productions often stretched deep into the ground up to attract the masses. A real park for all ages. Par- night, Walt made sure to spend his weekends with Diane ents would no longer be relegated to the sideline, everyone and Sharon. These “Daddy Days” took many forms, from a would have fun together. Out were the harassing cries of trip to the aforementioned Griffith Park merry-go-round the carnival barker and grimy pathways; Walt’s Disneyland

Photos Disney 55 · Celebrations would be different. it was Hazel who suggested that he take a relaxing trip to Admittedly, that Saturday afternoon at Griffith Park was that summer’s Chicago Railroad Fair to clear his head. Walt not the first time Walt considered building a park to wel- readily agreed and, along with fellow train buff Ward Kim- come visitors. But the Griffith Park experience had crystal- ball, traveled back to his hometown. lized the very concept of what would set Disneyland apart Once at the fair, Walt took particular notice of how the and ensure its eventual success; whatever he built must be organizers used numerous themed exhibits about railroad- for everyone. ing’s illustrious history to draw in huge crowds. The Chicago Thoughts of a Disney park had danced in Walt’s head trip might have begun as a stress-relieving indulgence to for several years, back to when the Disney studio first be- Walt’s favorite hobby, but it quickly became one of research. gan fielding innumerable requests for tours of its Burbank Walt and Ward’s journey, though, did not end in Illinois. plant. Walt certainly did not want an endless parade of visi- The pair made an eastward detour to Michigan for a visit tors traipsing through the busy work floors where produc- to Henry Ford’s Greenfield Village. This attraction featured tion could be interrupted, so he toyed with creating a small many historical buildings, both authentic and reproduc- park on the premises to be the focal point of these tours. tions, which seemingly transported visitors back to Amer- Guests could then visit the Disney studio while animated ica’s past. Walt was clearly inspired, for much of Greenfield production kept humming along unimpeded, and hopefully Village’s nostalgic whimsy showed up in his plans for Dis- become future theatergoers and customers. neyland. With studio finances in desperate straits from the out- break of World War II through much of the ‘40s, neither the Mickey Mouse Park studio tour park nor Walt’s spark of inspiration at Griffith Back in Hollywood and bursting with new ideas, Walt sent Park ventured far beyond the starting line. The attraction a memo to studio designer Dick Kelsey detailing his dream of Disneyland – a place where entire families could spend for a small tourist attraction. Dubbed Mickey Mouse Park, time together in a pristine and themed environment – the plans called for a village green with a railroad station at might seem obvious to modern readers, but, at the time, it one end and a town hall (actually an administration build- looked to be a huge risk. Walt just could not muster enough ing for Disney employees) at the other. Further staples of a support to begin planning in earnest. small town’s main street were also included, chief amongst Ironically, in 1948, it was this same unrelenting financial them an authentic firehouse and police station. pressure that finally propelled the Disneyland dream from The Disney presence at Mickey Mouse Park – other than Walt’s imagination into reality. Unsteady studio finances the name – was intended to be understated. Only a few from years of wartime belt-tightening understandably select shops would sell studio merchandise, ensuring a re- weighed heavily on Walt’s mind. At times like this, he often freshingly calm atmosphere. In an interesting twist, Walt found support during his daily arthritis treatments. Hazel also planned a store that would sell products created by the George, the studio nurse, proved a valuable friend and con- Disney artists themselves. fidante, lending an ear as he recounted the stresses of run- The oddest inclusion, and one that seemingly went ning the Disney studio. Knowing that Walt had fallen in love against everything Walt espoused, was Mickey Mouse Park’s with trains during his early years in Marceline, Missouri, Carnival section. His memo gave scant detail beyond some

56 · Celebrations planned midway games and a roller coaster, but did ac- the bottom line and all too cognizant of the boom-or-bust knowledge that the finer points of the carnival were to be cycle of the studio’s finances, Roy Disney made the difficult worked out later. Considering Walt’s outspoken disdain for decision not to support this pet project of Walt’s. carnivals, there is little doubt that his vision more closely Almost five years would then pass before the world final- resembled the spirit of Storybook Circus as opposed to a ly learned about Walt’s dream of a Disney theme park. But, raucous carny sideshow. even after Roy’s rejection of Mickey Mouse Park, the wheels Nevertheless, the influence of Greenfield Village on this of Disneyland were still turning – literally and figuratively – initial proposal appeared immense. In fact, to many, there and right in Walt’s own backyard to boot! seemed little amusement (but plenty of theming) to be The Chicago Railroad Fair had not only inspired Walt to found at Mickey Mouse Park. A village and stage- finally put his park plans down on paper, but also to pursue coach ride were briefly mentioned, but the small town itself a more hands-on role in his railroading hobby. With much remained the star of the show. assistance from studio mechanics, he built his 1/8th scale Mickey Mouse Park sprang into life in that August 31, 1948 Carolwood Pacific Railroad for use at his home in Holmby memo – and went dormant just as quickly. With an eye on Hills. After finishing its construction in 1950, Walt would frequently treat guests to a train ride around his spacious yard. Riding atop the engine, dubbed the Lilly Belle, he was enchanted by the squeals of laughter from all aboard. With his park decidedly on the studio’s back burner, the Carol- wood Pacific kept Walt’s dream alive and well, albeit far from the public’s eyes. On March 27, 1952, Disneyland stepped back into the spot- light. That morning, Burbank residents were greeted with an intriguing headline, “Walt Disney Make-Believe Land Proj- ect Planned Here.” Everyone now knew about Disneyland and, for Walt, it did not happen a moment too soon.

Artwork Disney 57 · Celebrations the characters were to be immor- talized in statue. There were also plans for singing waterfalls and a zoo of miniature animals. It was a relatively simple plan, one that drew heavily from Walt’s ideas for Mickey Mouse Park. This unpretentious Disneyland was esti- mated to cost just $1.5 million. Per- haps most incredibly, though, Walt had assured the Burbank Board of Parks and Recreation that Disney- land would not be a commercial venture and sought no profit! Whether that was genuinely his Disneyland plan or just soothing words for the benefit of uneasy city of- Disneyland promised to be an entirely new frontier for ficials, no one will ever know. But it was enough to win ten- Walt Disney. Animated features had to be painstakingly tative approval from the city for Disney’s park on Riverside produced over several years, coddled and nurtured from Drive. Truthfully, Burbank was never fully on board with concept to storyboard to ink and paint to photography. Walt’s plan for Disneyland. Thoughts of loud carnival bark- But once the feature hit the big screen, that was it. No more ers, dirty streets, and the general unfriendliness of most changes could be made. A disappearing raccoon in ? amusement parks left residents of the city quite suspicious. Oh well, too late to fix it now. That permanence rankled Despite Walt’s pleas that his park would be different, it did Walt, an inveterate tinkerer and perfectionist. not take long for the city board and residents to shift from No, his Disneyland would be different. If an attraction tenuous allies to outright adversaries. did not work correctly, it would be removed. If a ride could Meanwhile, Walt had a much bigger question on his be made more exciting, then Walt would “plus” it. He could mind: how would he actually go about getting Disneyland stroll through the park, listening to his guests’ honest feed- built? Even with the plans now public, Roy continued to back, and then make changes on the fly. This would be a withhold financial support. The ensuing rift in the studio whole new ballgame for the Disney studio, and one right up forced Walt to make the difficult decision to go it alone. He Walt’s alley. As he acknowledged, “I’ve always wanted to work created Walt Disney Enterprises, which later became WED on something alive, something that keeps growing. I’ve got Enterprises (and much later ), as that in Disneyland.” a private company separate from the main studio, and the But the Disneyland revealed to the world in 1952 by the controlling hand of his elder brother. As the sole head of Burbank Daily Review would not be the one we all know and WED Enterprises, Walt now called all of the shots. love today. To start, the park was to be built on a sixteen- After a short dalliance with a Zorro television project, acre plot of land on Burbank’s Riverside Drive, adjacent to Walt gave his WED staff the go-ahead to start planning Dis- the Disney studio. The Riverside Drive project would have neyland in earnest. Sketching out Walt’s vision on paper fell welcomed guests in familiar fashion, with railroad tracks to a new Disney employee, . Having joined the encircling the park and a small town center inside the en- studio just months earlier, Goff played an integral role in trance. There would be plenty of room for picnicking, a imbuing this design with an appealing charm. Mississippi steamboat ambling across a large lake, and an Bearing the initials of its creator, WED Enterprises repre- “old town” that would not look out of place in modern-day sented much more than a business venture. For Walt, it was Frontierland. personal. The small group, including his brother-in-law and Several of Walt’s original ideas, though, never made it off El Grupo stalwart Bill Cottrell, worked out of a tiny building the drawing board. Instead of costumed Disney characters that had actually been relocated from the former Disney roaming the park (or waiting at meet-and-greet locales), Hyperion studio. These early Imagineers were crammed

58 · Celebrations right on top of each other in the WED workshop, as opposed reality. Yet, as Disneyland planning stretched into the spring to the studio’s animators in their palatial offices. And that’s of 1953, their renewed collaboration could not change one just how Walt wanted it. Like the earliest days of the Dis- fact, the Riverside Drive location had reached a dead end. ney studio, Walt fostered a spirit of us-against-the-world When Walt planned a project, it tended to get bigger, not amongst WED’s Imagineers. In that small workshop, the hal- smaller. And that’s exactly what happened with Disneyland. cyon days of Hyperion were alive again. Walt’s endless brainstorming meant the small Riverside As Walt pushed forward with Disneyland, perhaps his Drive plot had become an impossibility. Not to mention biggest triumph was convincing Roy to come on board. The that the increasingly boisterous objections from Burbank slowly improving studio finances allayed most of Roy’s con- residents made these plans completely untenable. Happily, cerns, but Walt also had some help, once again in the form the Disney studio eventually put the Riverside Drive land to of Hazel George. Hazel so fiercely believed in Walt and his good use…it just took another forty years. Where Walt first planned park that she created the “Disneyland Boosters envisioned his theme park now stands the Walt Disney Fea- and Backers Club” to recruit donations from fellow Disney ture Animation building, the home of artists who continue employees. Seeing the confidence Walt had instilled in his to bring magic to life for present-day audiences. employees to fully trust his vision so impressed Roy that he Moving on from Riverside Drive was an undeniable turn- acquiesced and gave his support to the project. ing point for the Disneyland project, but not one that meant Roy’s monetary contribution was not substantial – just its demise. A new location was needed, and this time it had $10,000 for planning fees – but his acceptance of Disneyland to be big. Walt just needed to look farther than across the was worth more than all the money in the studio coffers. The street from his studio. Thirty miles southeast to be exact, to brothers Disney were once again working hand in hand and an orange grove in Anaheim. everyone in the studio was now pulling in the same direction. Walt and Roy were finally united in making Disneyland a To be continued...

Photo and artwork ©Disney 59 · Celebrations Escapes Relaxing in Walt Disney World By Shana Gallardo

60 · Celebrations f your family is like most, when you book your Walt Disney whirlwind vacation, you may find that when you get home IWorld Resort vacation, you start planning right away. You you’re in need a vacation to recuperate. So what about those may carefully plan each day with a park and dining reser- places in Disney that you may not have known about? What vation. Every moment of your vacation is thought out and about taking the time to set aside some relaxation time for planned, from waking up at your Disney themed resort, go- you and your family? Relaxing? Sure! There are many differ- ing to parades, shows, and meals to going to sleep in your ent things for you to do in Disney besides rides and attrac- comfortable Disney resort. Every moment is strategically tions that will leave you feeling like you were sprinkled with mapped out. Hey, you may even have a spreadsheet ready pixie dust. Let’s take a look at some of the wonderful things for your group. You are in commando mode from the min- you can do in Walt Disney World that can invigorate you, re- ute you step off Disney’s Magical Express bus. But after this vitalize you and leave you feeling relaxed.

A Victorian Retreat The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a beautiful re- sort. The opulence and exquisite décor are incredible. When you’re there, you will feel like you are in the middle of a Victorian movie and all its elegant splendor. Even if you’re not staying there, plan on going to this magnifi- cent resort to walk around and relax. The grounds are meticulously landscaped and have a wide array of flow- ers and shrubbery. The outdoor walkways and light posts are perfect for an afternoon or evening stroll. But it’s the main lobby of this deluxe resort that will take your breath away. The five story interior is furnished with beautiful marble floors, a grand piano, amazingly com- fortable chairs and couches, and spectacular balconies, all crowned with the most gorgeous chandeliers hang- ing from ornate tray ceilings and incredibly detailed stained-glass window skylights. There are visual delights all around, from the sweep- ing grand stairway and old-fashioned open-cage to the beautiful tapestries and architectural details. But don’t forget to look down! Embedded within the marble floor you can find some amazing things. You can see kissing Cinderella’s hand before getting ready to waltz. You will also find “GF” (the resort’s logo) en- crusted into the floor surrounded by flowers and vines. Also in the marble floors you can see a blushing abstract Minnie Mouse. This one is a little more difficult to see but once you find it, you will be reaching for your cameras. In the carpets you can find Cinderella’s carriage with “GF” in the center. But it’s not just about visual splendor. For a truly relaxing moment, sit in one of the many comfy chairs and just listen. If you’re there at just the right time, dies of the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra cascading you can enjoy the tinkling of the ivories as a piano player from the second floor balcony. The atmosphere, beauty entrances you with melodies on the grand piano in the and impeccable music are extremely relaxing. What a heart of the lobby. Or you may hear the distinctive melo- great way to slow it down.

Photos ©Tim Foster 61 · Celebrations Magic On the Water For our next stop, I encourage you to kick off your shoes and relax as we experience one of the better kept secrets in Walt Disney World. The is a parade of 14 barges that takes place on the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake in the Magic King- dom area. The pageant is a fantasy of colored light bulbs that dance through the nighttime water. It is beautiful and very peaceful. Grab a lounge chair on the beach and watch the waters light up and dance before your eyes. You can view this spectacular show on the beach at The Polynesian Resort, the beach of The Grand Floridian, The Wil- derness Lodge, Fort Wilderness, The Contemporary Resort, and in front of The Magic Kingdom (during extended evening hours). The pageant features King Triton and a host of sea animals including turtles, sea horses, whales, and even a sea monster. You’ll also see a large American Flag, surrounded by lots of red, white, and blue stars of various sizes. The pageant is set to music which is piped into the viewing areas. This nighttime amazement starts at the Polynesian Resort at 9 p.m. and ends at the Contemporary at 10:05 p.m. (with a Magic Kingdom stop around 10:20 p.m. when the park is open late). Check with Guest Services at any of the above resorts for exact times (and be aware that extreme weather conditions may cancel the pag- eant). So sit on the beach, let your feet dip into the sand or lie down on a lounge chair and watch a breathtaking electrical show. Ahhh, very relaxing.

62 · Celebrations Sweet Wishes If you’re one of those families that can’t miss a parade or fireworks show, this one is for you, The Wishes Dessert Party. Stressed spelled backwards is desserts, so melt those cares away and enjoy some scrumptious goodies. For those of you who aren’t familiar with Wishes, it is a high-tech nighttime fireworks display set to music. Your narrator is . In addition to the amazing fireworks, keep an eye on the Castle as it changes colors. Wishes is a spellbinding pyrotechnic extravaganza that not only dazzles the eye, but also tells a story–that of good triumphing over evil. The Wishes Dessert Party is exactly as it sounds. You get priority seating and viewing to see Wishes, the nighttime spectacular located over Cinderella’s Castle in The Magic Kingdom, and get to eat an array of delicious desserts. Terrace is the setting for this wondrous delight. The area is covered, so if it is a bit sprinkly out, there is no need to worry. Although it’s titled The Wishes Dessert Party, it’s also an excellent spot to view the Main Street Electrical Parade, a colorful parade of all your favorite Disney characters on floats that come alive with lights, while you are munching on your tasty treats. Anywhere you sit is a great viewing spot. You can feast on chocolate covered strawberries, fruits, various pastries, cannolis, chocolate mousse cups, crème brulee, truffles, donuts, tiramisu, brownies, rice crispy treats, cookies, and more while sipping coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or cold beverages. The best part is you do not have to worry about finding a great location to view Wishes. Oh, don’t forget to look up at the start because will fly right above the patio! There are even coloring tables for the little ones. This self-service buffet of all-you-care-to-enjoy sweets is $21.99 for adults and $ 11.99 for children ages 3-9. Ar- rival time is one hour before Wishes begins and you can exit a half hour after it has ended. So, sit back, eat, and relax while viewing two classic, incredible favorites. Note that this is an extremely popular event and it sells out quickly! You’ll want to make reservations far in advance.

Photo ©Disney 63 · Celebrations Strolling Along the BoardWalk many flat screen TVs (even when in the bathroom) and Another extremely relaxing place is the BoardWalk, enjoy some awesome food. Big River Grille and Brewing located right outside of Disney’ BoardWalk Resort over- Works offers delicious food and produces its own beer looking Crescent Lake, just across the way from the too. While the BoardWalk is a fun-filled, lively nighttime Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. The BoardWalk offers stop for many, you can visit any time of day. Even though amazing shops, delicious dining experiences, and fun the games and street performers don’t come out until for everyone. During the evening, you can play various evening, you’ll find a different sort of tranquility early carnival type games, watch upbeat street performers in the day. You can gaze out across the lapping waves such as a juggler, see a tarot card reading, or even take of the lake, enjoy a scrumptious pastry, and even take a family bicycle ride on a surrey. If you’re hungry, stop a boat ride to the different resorts. For those who love in to Flying Fish Café for some fresh seafood or suc- a good morning stroll, this is the place to be. You can culent steaks. If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean walk all the way around Crescent Lake, or even take a style food, there’s the delicious Kouzzina presented by 10-15 minute walk to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The celebrity chef Cat Cora. Let’s not forget about The ESPN BoardWalk is quiet and serene at this time of day, and Club. Here you can catch the latest game on one of it’s a wonderful place to chill.

64 · Celebrations BoardWalk Photos ©Tim Foster Gather ‘Round the Campfire On our last relaxing stop, we are going to sing some fun campfire songs at Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-Long. Located at the Fort Wilderness Camp- ground, this gathering is sure to become your family’s new favorite way to unwind. Purchase a s’mores kit or bring along your own sweet treat to roast over a fire. Chip ‘n’ Dale are on hand to sing, dance, take photos, and sign autographs while a cowboy plays guitar for your enjoyment. After the campfire sing-a-long, stay and relax under the moon and stars while watch- ing a movie on a giant screen. There are benches to sit on or you can bring blankets or sports chairs. This is another one of Walt Disney World’s best kept secrets, and best of all, with the exception of purchasing the s’mores if you wish to, it’s free.

These are just a few of the many opportunities to kick back and decompress in Disney. So the next time you’re visiting and want to take a break, remember that doesn’t mean you’ll miss any of the magic. Go ahead and put that watch away and tuck away those schedules. The pixie dust is everywhere, just waiting to be discov- ered. Even in a moment of solitude. Enjoy!

Campfire Photo ©Disney 65 · Celebrations

66 · Celebrations alt Disney, like many novice golfers, got frustrated Each hole on the course is introduced with a whimsical Wwhen he tried to take up the game to relieve stress. verse, written by Imagineer Robert Coltrin, WDI concept As he told writer Pete Martin, “I took up golf. Had to get up designer for the course. For those who may otherwise be at 5:30 in the morning and go out with a couple of fellows to preoccupied with not exceeding the six-stroke limit per get in nine holes before work.” Strangely, Walt’s interest in hole, here is a hole-by-hole tour of the course, complete with golfing and his interest in the movie Fantasia combined to commentary. The course is divided into different segments, create a delightful experience for Walt Disney World Guests, inspired by passages from Fantasia. the miniature golf course known as “Fantasia Gardens.” For many years, Imagineers tried to incorporate ele- In the film, Toccata and Fugue in D Minor by Johann Sebastian ments from the animated feature Fantasia into the theme Bach featured shadowy live action shots of the orchestra that parks. For example, in 1984 there were plans by Imagineer transitioned into abstract animated patterns that reflected the Claude Coats for a possible “Fantasia Gardens” overlay of the music. Swan Boat ride pathway at the Magic Kingdom that would include topiaries of some of the characters from the film. 1. Our musical game has just begun There were also plans to include “Fantasia Gardens” as And here comes treble for everyone part of the never-opened Beastly Kingdom section of Dis- Up to the top the ball must run ney’s Animal Kingdom. The boats would have sailed past For any hope of a hole-in-one. Greek temples and Mount Olympus, as well as beneath a While this is the first hole on the course, it was the last brightly colored rainbow archway. one completed, and it turned out to be one of the most diffi- Even though the Beastly Kingdom never came to be, the cult, requiring a straight, well-hit shot. The Imagineers tried idea of creating a place called “Fantasia Gardens” remained. to design the course with varying degrees of difficulty. Soon, a new Disney entertainment venue was created near the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort for families and con- 2. The notes upon the staff you see ventioneers, partly inspired by the classic film. Though not May seem quite lovely musically a boat ride, this new venue still took Guests on a magical But now as you being to play journey alongside classic characters and whimsical set- You’ll see they may get in your way tings. Add in a dose of classic family fun and you have the If you putt directly over Mickey’s head on the first shot, makings of a classic Walt Disney World attraction. the ball will roll right toward the hole and avoid all the ob- stacles. Grab a Putter! The eleven acre “Fantasia Gardens” is home to two very 3. Before our little fugue concludes different golf courses. The first, “Fantasia Fairways,” is a Lil- The music swells and changes mood liputian traditional 18-hole golf course designed for putting Avoid the rests and you will hear only, with diminutive water hazards, dog-leg bends, roughs Chimes a ringing sweet and clear. and sand traps. This was project manager Paul Katen’s favorite hole be- The other course, called “Fantasia Gardens”, is a miniature cause he felt every player would be rewarded with a pleas- family-friendly golf experience themed to the Disney ani- ant tune on the xylophone steps. mated classic feature, Fantasia. “Some of [the items in the Fantasia Gardens’ course] were In the film, Nutcracker Suite by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky featured no-brainers,” said Joe Lanzisero, WDI senior concept design- sugar plum fairies, waltzing flowers, dancing mushrooms and the er, in May 1996 after the area opened. “Things people iden- changing of the seasons. tify with when they think of Fantasia: elephants and hip- pos, snowflakes, mushrooms, Mickey and the brooms. We 4. Spring is here and just beyond wanted soft classical sequences that were more garden-like Blossoms float upon the pond and fit the environment. That’s why there’s no Rite of Spring The open bud should be your goal section [with its oversized dinosaurs].” Its dainty petals surround the hole.

Photo ©Tim Devine 67 · Celebrations The Imagineers nicknamed the two lilies “floating” in the Mount Olympus is the source of all the streams and ponds water-like artificial turf Titanic and Edmund Fitzgerald. on the course. (While readers are probably aware of the Titanic and its ill-fated maiden voyage, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald was the 9. The impish faun loves to tease largest boat on North America’s Great Lakes, which sank in As plays his pipes with ease Lake Superior in 1975 during a storm.) So if you putt straight and true Perhaps he’ll play a tune for you. 5. These lively mushrooms circle ‘round This is one of the simpler holes on the course. When the While one is hopping up and down ball goes into the hole, the little faun statue plays a tune. At the feet of little Hop Low The digitized music is actually on a microchip and plays Is where you want the ball to go. through a 50 watt amp and two little speakers. This is a clever variation on the traditional “drawbridge” theme found at many miniature golf courses. The best 10. In all of the land there’s no one more raucous strategy is to hit your ball right in front of little Hop Low, Than this fellow here, the infamous Bacchus the small mushroom, when he is in the “up” position. This He’s poured you a path that you simply putt up should put you in a good position in the lower putting area. Hit it and it spills to the cup. Due to a misinterpretation of the design during con- 6. As winter arrives, the fairies create struction, the hill ended up being three feet higher than A frost-covered pond where they can skate originally intended, creating a steep 45-degree angle and Their path on the left is where it should roll making for a much tougher shot. The idea here was that Then watch as it waltzes down to the hole. when the ball rolled down the side it would sound like a In the film, the flying fairies make little skating trails pachinko game and its distinctive “plink, plink, plink” as the with their feet, so the Imagineers tried to imitate that with ball hit the wine bubbles on the way down. the different concrete grooves. In the film, Dance of the Hours by featured 7. And so this musical suite we close a comic ballet with dancing ostriches, Hyacinth Hippo, her dance Amidst the flurry of winter snows partner Ben Ali Gator, and bubble-blowing elephants. Weather the storm where snowflakes fall Or easily putt around them all. 11. You will notice in a glance This hole was inspired by the snowflakes in the last scene These graceful ladies love to dance of the Nutcracker Suite, and is based on the traditional This bird ballet is lovely, but “windmill” theme found in many miniature golf courses. They may distract you as you putt. Imagineering was especially happy with the eyelashes on In the film, The Pastoral Symphony by Ludwig van Beethoven these artificial topiaries of ostrich ballerinas. depicted the mythical world of ancient Greece with cupids, fauns, centaurs, and a playful Zeus on Mount Olympus throwing light- 12. And there, the dance grows even greater ning bolts to disrupt the wine festival of Bacchus. Enter now: Ben Ali Gator With hippo high, he strains beneath 8. Within Mount Olympus this opus unfolds Now simply putt between his teeth. And what mythological creatures it holds! Be careful, if you don’t hit the ball into the gator’s mouth When putting the ball, be careful to go with enough speed, he’ll spit it back to you. Straight through the pillars to the caverns below. Because of budgetary reasons, the nearly 30-foot tall 13. After they dance their amusing duet mountain home of Zeus was almost cut from the final de- Hyacinth Hippo will now pirouette sign. Thankfully, some last minute reconfiguring of the bud- Carefully watch as she spins here for you get allowed it to stay. The squirting fountain at the top of Time it just right and the ball will go through.

68 · Celebrations This hole was based on the “sideway bridge” from tradi- 16. Mickey’s in trouble for casting a spell tional miniature golf courses. Careful timing will allow the Meant to assist him in filling the well ball to go through to the green beyond. Otherwise, the ball Now armies of brooms with a water supply drops into the moat. Are ready to douse anything that goes by. “Everyone gets the payoff here. You don’t have to do any- 14. Twilight brings a mood of romance thing special to get the brooms to dump the water. The wa- The perfect time for an elephant dance ter squirts not only over the putting area, but over where So while she strikes this beautiful pose the people walk, too. This is programmed so that the buck- Aim for the path beneath her toes. ets shoot water in sequence, but if you make it to the put- Imagineers originally struggled with getting the ele- ting green in one shot, the ball has to go by three sensors so phant to squirt precisely into the little pond. However, dur- all the buckets splash at one time,” smiled Lanzisero. ing the test and adjust phase, they noticed that kids loved the idea of getting wet, so rather than limiting the water 17. When Mickey is dreaming, he’s brave and he’s brash effect the Imagineers simply turned it up! Conducting the stars and creating a splash From high on a cliff, he’s on top of it all 15. Before we can finish this silly ballet He’ll show you his stuff when you’re putting the ball. This fanciful fountain is ready to spray “You putt off one side, and inside the little piece of rock- So keep an eye out for each little jet work is a sensor that sets off a wave crashing up against a They’re hopping and hoping to get the ball wet. cliff,” Coltrin said. This is an Imagineering joke. The pop jets of water do not affect the golf ball at all, nor do they react when the ball 18. The wave has grown bigger, with magic it stirs goes into the hole. However, Guests will still wait for the wa- When up from the bottom, a whirlpool occurs ter to stop before trying to take a shot. This lulls the unsus- A putt to the left will spin it, and then pecting Guests into a sense of security before the big water We hope you’ll return here again and again! payoff at the next hole. This a parabolic bowl and ideally, the ball will make about five or six revolutions before it falls through the finale hole, In The Sorcerer’s Apprentice segment by Paul Dukas, Mickey shooting off one final spray of water. Mouse appears as the apprentice who attempts some of his mas- And thus ends our tour of Fantasia, and one of the most ter’s magic tricks, bringing brooms to life and flooding the room. magical rounds of miniature golf you’ll ever play!

Photo ©Tim Devine 69 · Celebrations private events. For one reason or another, the shows, restaurant and classic midway rides never came to be, but that was not the BoardWalk’s only unrealized concept. And this one was go- ing to be BIG! Disney’s Boardwalk As work on the BoardWalk progressed, discussion of the theaters and rides quietly disappeared, but something else That Never Was was on the horizon. With the popularity of Fantasmic! in Disneyland on the Rivers of America, it was decided that a etail and stories in Walt Disney World don’t exist solely water show should be performed on Crescent Lake for the Din the theme parks and attractions, they can be found benefit of Guests of the BoardWalk, Yacht Club, and Beach in everything we experience throughout the resort. One of Club Resorts. With large, floating barges lined with neon, the Walt Disney World Resorts that is replete with story, this nighttime show was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber. both real and Imagineered, is Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Best known for composing Phantom of the Opera, he was Villas, designed to resemble the boardwalks in Atlantic City tasked with writing a show based on...wait for it...Noah’s and Coney Island, during their heyday in the 1920s and 30s. Ark. Yes, THAT Noah and THAT Ark! But Lloyd Webber was But while the promenade reflects and pays tribute to the perfect choice, as he had previously written two other what one may have seen during those times, Disney’s Board- stories inspired by Biblical tales: “Jesus Christ Superstar” and walk was originally supposed to look quite different. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Disney wanted more than a boardwalk inspired by the el- Also part of the Disney Decade plan, the belief was that egant hotels, restaurants and promenades; they wanted a since the monorail resorts have the Electrical Water Pag- true carnival-like atmosphere. So, like the boardwalks that eant, Epcot should get one as well. Don Frantz, who pro- inspired them, Disney’s BoardWalk was originally supposed duced and directed “SpectroMagic,” was in charge of devel- to be dominated by a giant ferris wheel, located on a pier opment, and storyboards and models were built, as this which stretched out into Crescent Lake. In 1991, as a continu- was going to happen. Until one day.... ing part of the “Disney Decade,” it was announced that not Michael Eisner, chief executive officer of The Walt Disney only would there be a lighted ferris wheel, but a real, an- Company from 1984 until 2005, changed his mind. Instead, tique carrousel, and a “midway of classic arcade.” he wanted a show about...(here it comes)...horses. Why? Additionally, Disney wanted this to be a destination and According to legend, after attending an equestrian show, entertainment venue, so it had planned to build two din- he decided that it would be a perfect first for Walt Disney ner show attractions at the BoardWalk as well. The first World. It was to be called “EQ” and a nighttime show. Who was to be a 900-seat theater show based on the song ‘’Under knows why it was never built (although it may have been the Sea’’ from The Little Mermaid. A second, smaller theater too similar to an Arabian nights-style show which still ex- would have had 350 seats. ists just a few miles from Walt Disney World). A restaurant that was never developed was to be named When Noah’s Ark was cancelled, it was considered for the “Walt’s Attic.” And while it was never realized, above Jel- Disney-MGM Studios to be “their Fantasmic!” until Disney lyrolls, on the Villas side of Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, is a realized that if Fantasmic! was already so popular in Dis- room known simple as The Attic. A cozy room with large neyland, why not just bring it here instead of developing an windows overlooking the BoardWalk and Crescent Lake, it entirely new show? is one of Walt Disney World’s true “Best Kept Secrets.” Filled So, Noah and his Ark were shelved, right alongside EQ, the with over-sized chairs, loveseats and antiques, this room Ferris Wheel, carousel and Walt’s Attic...but it’s fun to imag- also features a covered terrace, and is a great place to sim- ine what might have been (and no good idea ever dies at ply relax and unwind with a good book, or can be rented for Imagineering, so you never know...).

70 · Celebrations

hen we last parted ways, we had just finished en- 90s where coffee shops and bookstores were a popular Wjoying a wonderful parade from the comforts of place for TV friends to hang out. the Hall of Fame Plaza. For a person who likes to read, and more specifically Once the parade was over, the blockade that made read about all things Disney, this is definitely a place to it impossible to move forward had been lifted and we visit while you’re at the park. For the weary, there are could continue on our tour of the park. Directly in front many places to sit and take a load off of one’s feet. of us is what I lovingly refer to as LucasLand, but being To add to the desirability of this location as a quiet that Disney now owns the empire, who place to unwind, the small seating area has been set- knows what cute name I’ll come up for it now. We made up with a TV airing Disney cartoons for the younger our way toward the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacu- Guests. As a set of explorers who often bring the prog- lar, if for no other eny with us, this is reason than to pull an extremely wel- the rope on the well come site since it outside the attrac- means we can give tion so we could the young ones a hear it talk back. We distraction they’ll didn’t arrive in time not want to rebel to make it to a show, against. but we got to enjoy The large selec- walking around, tion of books is a looking at the vari- huge draw in and ous props that help of itself, but it was us feel like we are in exciting to see that one of the many In- one can also pur- diana Jones movies. chase coffees and We didn’t have to travel far to move out of one George tasty bakery items. In fact, Writer’s Stop sells a real fan Lucas masterpiece and into another as we saw the gi- favorite, the carrot cake cookie. ant AT-AT luring us to the Star Wars themed area of The Writer’s Stop is a great place to take a break from the park. I must admit this is one of my favorite areas, the hustle and bustle of the parks, and when you’re look- largely because I’m a child of the Star Wars generation. ing for a place to relax, it doesn’t get much better then We took a spin on and continued on. to sit back with a book, a baked good, and a piping hot As we continued to make our way to the back of the drink. Or, if you are a kid, to plop in a comfy chair and park, we both noticed a little store called the Writer’s watch some classic Disney cartoons on the television. Stop. Being that we love books, went in to take a look. So, my fellow wanderers, the path less taken may be We were greeted by the sight of endless bookshelves disguised as a simple store. Sometimes it pays to poke and surprisingly few people. Not only that, the them- your head in and see what is going on. ing really gives off the vibe that this store was a set for Until next time, this is Ray and you have been Wan- a TV show, and reminded us of many shows from the dering the World 72 · Celebrations Photo ©Tim Foster Current number of official Disney Princesses. They are: Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora (Sleeping 10 Beauty), Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, , , Tiana, and Rapunzel.

Number of princesses that are set to be added in the coming months. In June 2013, Merida from Brave 2will join the group, followed by Anna from the upcoming film (due for release in November 2013). 25,000 Estimated number of products that have been based on the franchise. 3 billion Sales, in dollars, of Disney Princess merchandise in 2006 alone. Number of princesses that aren’t royalty by blood or marriage. That would be Mulan, though she 1 did receive a grace of honor from the Emperor of China, the only female to earn that distinction. Some may protest that Pocahontas belongs in the same category, but since she is the daughter of the chief of her tribe, she is considered to be royalty by English standards. 14 Age of the youngest princess, that being Snow White. Tiana is the oldest at 19. Number of characters to be dropped from the official Disney Princess lineup. That dubious honor 1 belongs to Tinker Bell, but don’t feel badly for her. The reason she was dropped was that because she was so popular, it was decided that she would be part of her own group, the Disney Fairies.

Number of princesses who didn’t wear a tiara or crown in their respective feature films. These 5 would be Snow White, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, and Mulan (though all of them do wear crowns in their roles as Disney Princesses).

Artwork ©Disney 73 · Celebrations How Well Do You Know the Haunted Mansion? by Tim Foster

1) What year did the first version of the Haunted 6) In Disney parks throughout the world, which Mansion (in Disneyland) open? land is NOT home to a version of the Haunted a) 1955 Mansion? b) 1969 a) c) 1971 b) Fantasyland d) 1975 c) Frontierland d) Main Street, U.S.A. 2) What is the Haunted Mansion called in Disneyland Paris? 7) What is the last name of Constance, the bride a) La Maison Haunteé seen in the attic? b) Gracey Manor a) Coats c) b) Toombs d) Museé Fantôme c) Hatchaway d) Widowmaker 3) Who provides the voice of the Ghost Host? a) Paul Frees 8) How many times has the bride in the attic b) Thurl Ravenscroft been married? c) Walt Disney a) None d) b) 1 c) 3 4) During the ride, Guests pass by a clock that d) 5 strikes thirteen. What do the hands of the clock resemble? 9) Whose shadow can be seen playing the piano? a) Fingers a) The Bride b) Serpent’s tongues b) The Ghost Host c) Daggers c) Master Gracey d) Devil’s tails d) One of the hitchhiking ghosts

5) Which Disney villain was part of an early 10) Who wrote the music for “Grim Grinning concept for the attraction? Ghosts”? a) Maleficent a) b) Captain Hook b) X Atencio c) Chernabog c) The d) Cruella de Vil d) George Bruns

74 · Celebrations 11) What is the name of the family immortalized 14) How is the “dancing ghost” effect in the in the series of busts in the new interactive ballroom achieved? queue? a) Glass reflections a) The Gracey Family b) Holograms b) The Crypt Family c) Mirrors c) The Yesnid Family d) Projections on mist screens d) The Dread Family 15) How many candles are on the birthday cake 12) In which film did the pipe organ seen in the in the ballroom? Disneyland version’s ballroom originally a) 3 appear? b) 7 a) Treasure Island c) 13 b) Johnny Tremain d) 21 c) 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea d) Swiss Family Robinson

13) What well known actor played the part of a young teenager on the 1969 companion Quiz Answers record, The Story and Song from the Haunted 1) B 6) D 11) D Mansion? 2) C 7) C 12) C a) Kurt Russell 3) A 8) D 13) B b) 4) A 9) B 14) A c) Dick Van Dyke 5) B 10) A 15) C d) Tom Hanks

ANSWERS BRAIN BUSTERS WORD SCRAMBLE WHERE AM I? KIDS KORNER (pages 78–81) Cinderella 1. Brave 1. Final scene 2. Sleeping Beauty 2. Portrait in the Pirates Bazaar shop WHO AM I? FIND THE DIFFERENCE 3. The Jungle Book 3. Flag outside the Pirate’s League 1. Hector 4. A Bug’s Life 4. Crest on the wall in the queue 2. Briar 5. The Haunted Mansion 5. Map inside the Pirates Bazaar 3. Woody 6. Bolt 6. Sign for the Tortuga Tavern 4. Mike 7. Mary Poppins 7. Barrel in the courtyard by the 5. Tow 8. entrance of Pirates of the Caribbean 6. Flynn 8. Bottle of rum in one of the scenes in MYSTERY QUEST (pages 82–83) the militia side of the queue for the WHERE IN THE WORLD attraction 1. China 2. Mexico SECRET SYMBOLS 3. America 4. Canada 1. East India Trading Co. symbol (inside 5. 6. Japan 1. The barrel is shorter. the Pirate’s League) 2. The keyhole is missing. 2. Tortuga Tavern sign PIRATE CROSS 3. The color is different. 3. Checkerboard in the queue B Y R E N R U T L L I W J O H O Y O L O H N O T G N I R R O N A P M 4. There is an extra piece of rope. 4. “Ye Pirate Oath” sign outside the O I A G U T R O T R A T H E S A L 5. The lantern is lit. Pirate’s League T I Z C F E F S A O F E N G R O R S M T E K W E P I L L A N T G E W 6. The planks are flipped. T A E E R P I F L B E A Y N S D L 7. There is an extra crack in the tile. R C C O O T E D L R I N D K E C C 8. A band is missing. A I G U P M J A C K E C E E L O A P L O I R T C I R E A S P Y T M O 9. “League” is spelled wrong. H E L O B K W E K L I D P T R P A 10. The barrel is bigger. N G D A B B P A Y N D R O A U A S V N A E G E S P A N T N D D T S S O A A N T G S I V E A R H O A S O FIND THE DIFFERENCE BONUS ANSWER O R S E N O J Y V A D T A D E R B D I U D E A D M A N S C H E S T R Carlos N K U M P M E E A R T I E S H Y A E L I Z A B E T H O C O D E H O B

75 · Celebrations Mickey’s By Tim Foster

With summer right around the corner, I’ve found my thoughts increasingly turning toward the promise of fun in the sun and cool ocean breezes. And what better way to have fun amongst the waves than tossing around a brightly colored beach ball!? I thought a Mickey-shaped beach ball would be even better (though a bit awkward to catch), and wondered if one existed. I remembered seeing various Mickey-shaped playthings like checkers and ping pong paddles at his house, but sadly his home is no longer around. However, a passerby did let me know that a Mickey Mouse Beach Ball could still be found around these parts, so I decided to head out on a quest to see if I could find it.

I was unsure of where to go first, and then it occurred to me that the best place to look for the beach is by the ocean, so I set off for the Seas With Nemo and Friends pavilion. I soon came across a charming locale called Coral Caves Beach, where you could go diving and swimming (as long as you didn’t mind the sharks). But there was no beach ball in sight. After being sidetracked looking for an elusive orange fish, I found myself in a giant aquatic facility. Still no beach ball however, though apparently a fun-loving prankster decided to leave an arrangement of rocks in a Mickey shape on the sea floor.

After striking out at the Seas pavilion, I searched a map to see where I should go next. There was a nearby resort called the Caribbean Beach, and I excitedly hurried over to see what I could find. Alas, no beach ball, but I did discover this whimsical painting in an eatery called Shutters. A charming Mickey-shaped cloud floated over the blue-green water, and I pointed it out to a fellow diner. She agreed that it was a wonderful image, but was quick to tell me of an even more impressive Mickey cloud that she had come across. She showed me this photo and I agreed that it was indeed magnificent. She told me the painting was located in the Solarium of a place called the Beach Club. When I told her that I was really looking for a Mickey beach ball, she happily told me that she had seen one in the very same Beach Club!

76 · Celebrations Arriving at the Beach Club, I was immediately struck by the sheer size and elegance of the resort. There were nautical touches everywhere, and I could almost smell the sea salt in the air. As I wandered around, I came across several paintings, though I couldn’t seem to find the one with the Mickey cloud. I did discover this ocean scene with a Mickey-marked buoy, but of course this wasn’t what I was searching for. I asked a nearby sailing enthusiast if they knew where the picture of the Mickey cloud was, or better yet, if they had seen a Mickey beach ball. The replied no, and asked if I was sure if I was in the right place. I said yes, the Beach Club, and was embarrassed to learn that I wasn’t in the Beach Club at all. Instead, I had wandered into the Yacht Club, but thankfully learned that the Beach Club was but a short stroll away.

On my way to the Beach Club, I happened upon a delightful ice cream shop called Beaches & Cream. Ordinarily, I would have continued on my quest, but the allure of an ice cream sundae was impossible to pass up. I was even more delighted to discover a treasure trove of multi-colored beach balls lying about, though they were strictly for decoration. Mickey wasn’t far away though, as I spotted the familiar three-circle arrangement in an illustration of onion rings, of all things. I looked through the shop to see if I could find a Mickey beach ball, but even though they seemed to have everything under the sun here (including the Kitchen Sink, whatever that was), I still couldn’t find the beach ball. However, I was just a few steps away from the Beach Club, so I finished my refreshment and continued on.

I finally found my way to the Beach Club, and I could almost feel the ocean breeze in my face. I soon discovered the Solarium, and was delighted to find the painting with the Mickey cloud in the entryway. I still couldn’t find the beach ball though, and I continued my search through the lobby, the stores, and the many hallways throughout the resort. Despite all of my searching, I still couldn’t find what I was looking for. I was just about ready to give up, but as I hung my head down in disappointment, a smile spread across my face. For there it was, in the pattern of the carpet, the Mickey Mouse Beach Ball! Unfortunately, it was only an image and not the real thing, but it was just as well...for as I suspected it seemed like it would be very awkward to toss around. But that was OK, I was now more intrigued with finding out what this Kitchen Sink was that everyone was talking about...

77 · Celebrations Can you remember the first names of the following characters? 1. Barbossa 2. Rose 3. Pride 4. Wazowski 5. Mater 6. Rider

Can you figure out which World Showcase pavilions are shown here?

1 2

3 4

5 6

78 · Celebrations See how many phrases you can find in this Pirates of the Caribbean crossword. When you’ve found them all, the remaining letters will spell out a secret message!

BLACK PEARL DAVY JONES COTTON JACK SEA TURTLES BARBOSSA DEAD MANS CHEST COMPASS NORRINGTON HEART ANGELICA AZTEC GOLD BOOTSTRAP TORTUGA ELIZABETH SAO FENG RUM BLACKBEARD MARTY CALYPSO GIBBS CODE

Answers on page 75 79 · Celebrations Snow White was the first Disney Princess to appear on screen. Who was the second?

Someone has ransacked the Pirate’s League! Can you spot the 10 differences in the photos below?

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BONUS QUESTION What is the name of the man being dunked in the well in the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction?

80 · Celebrations See if you can unscramble these movie titles.

1. VEBAR 2. GLINPESE TAYUBE

3. HET GELUNJ KOBO 4. A SUBG FILE

5. ETH THUDEAN SMONIAN 6. TOLB

7. ARMY SNOPPIP 8. DELTGAN

Answers on page 75

In each issue, our Kids Korner columnist will answer questions that are too tough for the grown-ups! If you have a question for her, send it to: [email protected].

Which character deserves their what is already in the park? I think a long very own meet and greet location? dark ride would be cool, something that I love finding characters around the parks takes you on a tour of all the places we and was so happy when some of my see in the movies (with a bit of hyperspace favorites got their own location - like Tinker travel thrown in!). Bell and Duffy - but wouldn’t it be cool if the Villains got their own meet and greet?!?! What’s your favorite attraction to Maybe some place near the Haunted ride at night? Mansion or in the Hollywood Studios. It Nighttime at the parks is almost an could be done up all dark and creepy (but attraction by itself…the parks seem fun for the kids!) with a couple of Villains in entirely different and there are always new there “fighting” for your attention. discoveries to be made - like the lights in the walkways in Epcot. Everything changes! OK, you get to make a new Star But the one attraction I actually prefer to Wars attraction...what will it be? ride at night is the Mad Tea Party in the Hmmm...Star Wars already has a stage show Magic Kingdom. I guess it’s the spinning and a thrill ride (it’s thrilling to me!!!), so and the lights, but it is so much FUN (and what could be added that would go with pretty)!

81 · Celebrations 1 2 3 4 Secret Symbols Where can you find these cryptic inscriptions?

• With that, Imagineers were now able to create Little Known Facts scenes that Guests would experience much like a • Pirates of the Caribbean was one of the original at- movie, with much greater control over lighting, spe- tractions at Disneyland, and one of the last that Walt cial effects, and sight lines. A similar strategy was Disney himself oversaw. Originally, Pirates wasn’t used in the Haunted Mansion, which was also origi- to be included in the Magic Kingdom for fear that nally conceived of as a walk-through attraction. Florida residents (being in such close proximity to

the actual Caribbean), wouldn’t find it exotic enough. • Does the narrator sound familiar? That’s Paul Frees, Disney later acquiesced to public demand (Pirates of who also supplies the voice for your Ghost Host in the Caribbean turned out to be one of the most pop- the Haunted Mansion. ular attractions at Disneyland), and construction

was soon under way. • The Disneyland version is much larger than its Flor- ida counterpart. Additions there include an opening • When Pirates of the Caribbean was being conceptu- bayou sequence and a second, longer drop. alized for Disneyland, it was originally going to be a walk through attraction with wax figures. Partly out • Inspiration for the fortress comes from the Castil- of concern for crowding and traffic flow, it was later lo de San Felipe del Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico, decided to incorporate boats as the means of con- once used by Spanish soldiers in their fight against veyance through the attraction. pirates several hundred years ago.

82 · Celebrations Where Am I? Can you determine where these photographs were taken?

2 1 3

6 4 5

8 Only the best explorers will be able to figure this one out...

7

Answers on page 75 83 · Celebrations Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Rapunzel

1. Rapunzel’s origins go back much farther than Tangled of mation should retain the fluidity of the hand-drawn art course, all the way back to 1812 in fact. That’s when the seen in older Disney classics, while simultaneously taking Brothers Grimm included her story as part of a collection advantage of the latest advances in technology. called Children’s and Household Tales, or Grimm’s Fairy 5. In a nod to classical styling, the film was modeled to con- Tales as they are commonly known today. This collection vey the look of traditional oil on canvas. One of the main of stories also included Cinderella, Little Briar-Rose (Sleep- inspirations for the look of the movie was a painting ing Beauty), and Little Snow White. The Grimm Broth- called The Swing, by French artist Jean-Honoré Fragonard. ers’ story was actually an adaptation of a much The painting was described by Keane as “romantic and early tale, Persinette, written by Charlotte- lush,” and was a great aid in allowing the artists to create Rose de Caumont de La Force, published in a painterly look for the film. 1698. 6. The painterly inspirations of Tangled should come as 2. In the original tale, Rapunzel is named for no surprise; Rapunzel herself is very talented when a plant in a forbidden garden that Rapun- it comes to painting, music, baking, and astrono- zel’s mother desired to eat when she was my. She even turned the walls of her tower into pregnant. The fairy of the garden, a grand mural. upon discovering that the father 7. Even with Keane’s emphasis on traditional was stealing the plants, allowed him styles, Tangled still presented a number of to take them to his wife on the con- technological challenges. Chief among them dition that the child be given to her. was Rapunzel’s hair. It took six years of pro- The exact identity of the flower that gramming and refinement to finally get the Grimm Brothers were referring to Rapunzel’s hair to behave as the direc- has been debated over the years, with tors’ intended. The program used likely candidates being corn salad to animate Rapunzel’s hair was and rampion (both similar to called Dynamic Wires, and lettuce or spinach). used differential mathemat- 3. Adjusted for inflation, Tangled ics to handle the complexi- is the second most expensive ties involved in bringing her film ever made, trailing only Pi- hair to life. rates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. The total cost of pro- 8. How much hair? Well, Rapunzel’s hair is 70 feet long, but duction is estimated at $260 million, with the film taking that’s just the beginning. Her hair consisted of nearly six years to make. That may sound like a lot (and it is!), but 100,000 individual strands, which in real life would weigh the movie ended up earning more than twice that at the over ten pounds. It’s a good thing that computer imagery box office, making it a resounding success. was used, could you imagine drawing all of that hair over 4. Though much of the budget was devoted to the extensive and over again? use of , producer was 9. Speaking of CGI, Tangled is the first Disney princess film to careful to ensure that the film retained the look and feel be animated via computer imagery. Tangled was also the of classic Disney hand-drawn animation. To that end he first princess film to receive a PG rating by the MPAA. organized a special seminar for the artists and animators 10. Rapunzel became an official Disney Princess on October called “The Best of Both Worlds,” emphasizing that the ani- 2, 2011, nearly a year after the release of Tangled.

Keepsake Image: “Victorian Splendor”• Photography by Tim Foster 84 · Celebrations Artwork ©Disney Back Cover Photography © Disney

“Disneyland is like Alice stepping through the Looking Glass; to step through the portals of Disneyland will be like entering another world.” —Walt Disney