Disney and Florida Attractions News Blog

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 13, 2013) – When the sun goes down at SeaWorld Orlando, a new world of fun and adventure comes to life. Summer Nights at SeaWorld Orlando is a nighttime spectacular that includes incredible shows, an all-new attraction – Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin – thrilling coasters under the stars, and a nightly Shamu show that ends with a bang. During Summer Nights –- June 22 through August 11 -- SeaWorld is open until 10 p.m., providing even more time for guests to play.

Headlining Summer Nights is the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, where guests can experience the epic world of Antarctica through the eyes of a special hero penguin named Puck; Shamu Rocks, a larger-than-life experience where guests watch majestic killer whales perform amazing behaviors choreographed to a rock-n-roll beat; and Sea Lions Tonite, a hilarious, satirical show featuring Clyde and Seamore spoofing the other SeaWorld shows that will have everyone in stitches.

Join the Party with Shamu & Friends as they dance the night away at the Village Square located at the front of the park. The party begins every night one hour prior to park closing with an emcee on stilts who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. With countless bubbles floating overhead and music in the air, this celebration of summer is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages. The Party continues 30 minutes after park closing.

Summer Nights at SeaWorld, plus the epic, new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin – the coldest theme park attraction in Orlando – coupled with amazing admission offers and values, makes the park a must-see for locals and residents this summer. The best admission deals can be found online at SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Additional details:

Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin – SeaWorld Orlando’s must-see new attraction --transports guests into a rarely seen, icy world. Families feel the majestic grandeur of the South Pole and see it through the eyes of a special hero penguin named Puck on a first-of-its-kind family ride. Guests explore a massive penguin colony in an expanse that envelops them in cool extremes, both above and below the penguins’ icy world. When the sun goes down, the ice of Antarctica is illuminated in vibrant color. It’s a must-see, one-of-a-kind theme park experience only at SeaWorld in Orlando.

Shamu Rocks - Rock the night away with Shamu during this spectacular killer whale show with more flash – and certainly more splash – than a rock concert. Shamu Rocks is a high-energy celebration of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring killer whales with a stunning light show, water fountain display and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry. And new this year is an electrifying twist on this classic favorite! End your day at SeaWorld Orlando with a bang at the final Shamu Rocks show of the evening, where a rockin' fireworks finale will light up the night sky.

Sea Lions Tonite - SeaWorld’s popular sea lion comedic duo takes the laughs into the night. Hilarious hijinks ensue in this evening show as the park’s talented sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite daytime SeaWorld shows and attractions.

Additional Summer Nights Experiences

Summer Nights VIP Tour - Experience the highlights of Summer Nights at SeaWorld Orlando, VIP-style. This six-hour, guided tour includes an opportunity to feed dolphins, front-of-the-line access to our most popular rides, including Manta and Turtle Trek, and reserved seating at our exhilarating night shows, Shamu Rocks. Included with the tour is the convenient, all-you-care-to-eat All Day Dining Deal, where you and your family can enjoy all of your favorite foods from your favorite participating restaurants!

SeaWorld Coasters At Night - Experience an even more extraordinary sensation by riding our many attractions by moonlight, including Manta, Kraken, and Journey to Atlantis. The thrills reach an all time high when the lights go down and the stars come out.

For more information visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Fans Invited to Meet the Stars of "Teen Beach Movie," "Shake It Up," "Jessie," "Phineas and Ferb," Marvel Universe, "Gravity Falls," "Good Luck Charlie," "A.N.T. Farm," "Kickin' It," "Dog With A Blog," "Lab Rats," "Crash & Bernstein" and "Wander Over Yonder"

-- Musical Performances by Bridgit Mendler and R5 featuring Ross Lynch, plus "Teen Beach Movie" 'Surf Crazy' Fan Dance Saturday --

-- Popular Characters Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, Jake, and All-New Mickey Mouse Cartoon Shorts Screening Sunday --

BURBANK, Calif. (June 14, 2013) – An unforgettable experience awaits kids, tweens and families who can meet their favorite stars from Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior, experience live performances, get autographs and rock out to Radio Disney tunes over three fun-filled days, FRIDAY, AUGUST 9–SUNDAY, AUGUST 11, at the ultimate event for Disney fans, Disney’s D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

The schedule includes musical performances by certified gold Hollywood Records recording artist Bridgit Mendler (Disney Channel's "Good Luck Charlie") and Hollywood Records' pop-rock sensation R5 featuring Ross Lynch (Disney Channel's "Teen Beach Movie" and "Austin & Ally"), a 'Surf Crazy' fan dance with stars from the Disney Channel Original Movie "Teen Beach Movie," a special screening of never-before-seen Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts and more.

On FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, in celebration of "Phineas and Ferb: Mission Marvel," a special-one hour telecast featuring an epic teaming of characters from two hugely popular Disney and Marvel franchises, fans can meet the stars and characters including Phineas, Ferb, Agent P, Spider-Man and Iron Man. The unforgettable special premieres this summer on Disney Channel.

On SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, bikers and surfers unite on the dance floor of the Disney Channel booth for the ultimate beach ball bouncing, high-spirited ‘Surf Crazy’ fan dance with stars from Disney's “Teen Beach Movie,” an exuberant song, sand and surf fest, premiering July 19 (8:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel.

On SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 in the Disney Channel booth, Disney Junior fans of all ages are invited to meet beloved characters from top-rated preschool series "Sofia the First," "Doc McStuffins" and "Jake and the Never Land Pirates," and enjoy a special sneak-peek screening of new Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts in Stage 28.

Popular radio personalities from Radio Disney, the 24-hour contemporary hits radio network and the only radio broadcaster for kids and families, will join in the fun every day, along with the Radio Disney Road Crew, for interactive entertainment, fun prizes and the hottest music from kids' favorite artists.

Following is the schedule of stars making special appearances and signing autographs in Disney Channels' booth:

Friday, August 9

10:00-11:30 am "Phineas and Ferb" creators/executive producers and stars Dan Povenmire and Swampy Marsh, plus stars Vincent Martella and Alyson Stoner, with character appearances by Agent P, Phineas and Ferb

11:30 – 1:00 pm Marvel Universe stars, plus character appearances by Spider-Man and Iron Man

1:00 – 2:30 pm "Crash & Bernstein," stars Cole Jensen, Tim Lagasse, Landry Bender, Aaron R. Landon, plus Crash appearance

2:30 – 3:30 pm "Gravity Falls" stars

3:30 – 4:30 pm "Lab Rats" stars Tyrel Jackson Williams, Billy Unger and Spencer Boldman

4:30 –5:30 pm "A.N.T. Farm" stars Jake Short, Sierra McCormick, Stefanie Scott and Aedin Mincks

6:00 – 7:00 pm "Shake It Up" stars Zendaya, Roshon Fegan and Adam Irigoyen

Saturday, August 10

10:00 – 11:00 am "Dog With A Blog" stars G Hannelius, Blake Michael, Francesca Capaldi and Beth Littleford

12:30 – 1:30 pm "Kickin' It" stars Jason Earles, Leo Howard, Olivia Holt and Dylan Riley Snyder

1:30 – 2:30 pm "Jessie" stars Skai Jackson and Cameron Boyce

2:30 – 4:30 pm Good Luck Charlie" stars Bridgit Mendler, Jason Dolley, Bradley Steven Perry and Leigh-Allyn Baker, plus a performance by actress and Hollywood Records recording artist Bridgit Mendler

4:30 – 5:00 pm Performance by Hollywood Records' R5 band

5:00 – 7:00 pm "Teen Beach Movie" stars Ross Lynch, Grace Phipps, Garrett Clayton, John Deluca, Chrissie Fit, Jordan Fisher and Mollee Gray, plus 'Surf Crazy' fan dance

Sunday, August 11

10:00 – 12:00 noon "Sofia the First," "Doc McStuffins" and "Jake and the Never Land Pirates" character appearances

12:00 – 1:00 pm "Sofia the First" star Wayne Brady, plus Sofia

1:00 – 2:00 pm Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts screening (stage 28)

2:30 – 3:30 pm "Wander Over Yonder" stars Jack McBrayer and April Winchell, plus creator/executive producer Craig McCracken

*Schedule is subject to change.

Tickets to the D23 Expo are available at http://www.D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo, including the Disney Legends Ceremony, and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Admission is $47 for a one-day adult ticket and $37 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $136 for adults and $106 for children. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will receive a discount for up to four admissions, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests.

The highly anticipated D23 Expo 2013: The Ultimate Fan Event returns to the Anaheim Convention Center from August 9 – 11, 2013, once again bringing the entire world of Disney under one roof and offering attendees unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks as only D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can! Visit www.D23Expo.com to buy tickets before the prices go up on June 16.

Highlights of D23 Expo 2013 include:

• Live Concerts including Disney Legends and Academy Award®-winning composers Richard Sherman and Alan Menken, as well as “Broadway and Beyond” featuring performances by Heidi Blickenstaff (The Little Mermaid), Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins and Beauty and the Beast), Merle Dandridge (Tarzan® and Aida), Josh Strickland (Tarzan®) and Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King).

• Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives—an insider exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of Mary Poppins, the ABC hit Once Upon a Time and Disney’s enduring exploration of the land of Oz with costumes, props, and set pieces.

• Disney Legends Awards–a stirring biennial event paying tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy.

• D23 Expo Dream Store and Silent Auction—a magical store featuring apparel, art, collectibles, and more Disney-inspired items. A rare Silent Auction offers attendees to bid on Disney artifacts, artwork, experiences, props, and more.

• 2013 Fan Art Contest—this year’s contest is themed to the upcoming 50th anniversary of Mary Poppins. Finalist artwork will be displayed in the Fan Art Gallery.

• And much more including celebrity appearances, panels and presentations, sneak peeks and unique experiences, all celebrating the past, present, and future of Disney.

(from the Disney Parks Blog)

Reservations for premium events for the 18th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, which runs September 27-November 11, will begin at 7 a.m. on August 13.

From the Party for the Senses grand tasting experience on select Saturday nights to a new taste of Scottish cuisine, there are lots of experiences available. Price per ticket:

• New Scotland, Land of Food And Drink (Sept. 28), $95 or $115


• New Spirits Confidential (Nov. 1), $80 or $95


• New Parisian Breakfast (Saturdays), $37


• New Hibachi Experience (Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, Nov. 5), $120


• “3D” Disney’s Dessert Discovery (Oct. 4, 11 and 25), $55 or $90


• Epcot Wine Schools (Sept. 29, Oct. 27, Nov. 3), $135 per person


• Culinary Adventures in Signature Dining (more than 25 dinners throughout the festival; prices vary)


• Mixology Series: Taste, Shake and Indulge Like the French (Saturdays), $65


• Kitchen Memories (Sept. 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8), from $110-$170


• Cheese Seminars (Sept. 28, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9), $80


• Party for the Senses (Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 and Nov. 2), $145, $180 or $285


• Food & Wine Pairings (Tuesdays, Thursdays), $55


• Sweet Sundays (Sept. 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10), $99


• The Discovery of Chocolate (Oct. 13 and 27), $75

Additional events include Italian and French pairings and lunches, and a Mexican tequila lunch. Guests also can book special festival experiences including daily Culinary Demonstrations ($14), Mixology Seminars ($15) and Wine, Beer or Spirit Seminars ($14). Inside-the-park festival dining experiences as well as culinary and beverage programs require park admission fees. Event updates and details will be posted on the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Facebook page in August.

Reservations may be made starting August 13 by calling 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378).

Starting in 2014, we will be bring you SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration! – A celebration marked by a whole new “Sea of Surprises.”

All three SeaWorld parks will be sharing the fun and delight throughout the 18-month celebration with uniquely SeaWorld moments.

Starting March 21, 2014, we invite guests to join us as we celebrate with new interactive experiences, new shows and daily entertainment, more up-close animal encounters throughout the park, and a Surprise Squad treating guests with prizes every day.

SeaWorld San Diego will celebrate 50 years with a new interactive entrance plaza. The area will be called Explorer’s Reef™ and will open in March for the celebration kick-off. The 16-month construction project will transform the existing front gate area through sculptural and design elements inspired by waves crashing over a reef, as well as up-close encounters with marine life. The new front gate concept will replace existing ticket booths with a beach-themed, concierge-style ticketing area that will provide guests with a single location to purchase admission, as well as sign up for tours, animal interactions and dining experiences.

From the moment they enter the park, guests can connect with the sea through multiple touch pools featuring shark pups, stingrays and cleaner fish. Explorer’s Reef encompasses more than three acres, including new and innovative retail and culinary opportunities for guests. The multi-million dollar renovation effort will not only make entering the park faster and more efficient, but will significantly enhance the arrival experience.

As part of SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration, there will be more surprise encounters with animal ambassadors throughout the day. A pair of Magellanic penguins, a lemur, or even a parade of flamingos could surprise guests at any moment at all three SeaWorld locations.

What’s a celebration without surprises? The SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” will roam the SeaWorld parks giving away prizes and special gifts. Guests could receive exclusive access to rides or behind-the-scenes experiences, celebration t-shirts or Shamu-themed merchandise, reserved show seating and more.

SeaWorld is known for amazing animal shows and each park will have something new for the 50th celebration. Even park pathways will come to life with spontaneous entertainment at unexpected moments, including performers with sea-inspired costumes and props, a bubble brigade and splash mob.

To underscore SeaWorld’s commitment to the environment and passion for protecting the ocean, a series of giant sea life sculptures will be displayed throughout the parks. SeaWorld commissioned environmental art group Washed Ashore for the large-scale art created from ocean debris. The works serve as a reminder that our animal friends need healthy environments.

As part of its continuing commitment to new technology that enhances the guest experience, SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration will include new ways for fans to connect to the parks and each other though digital devices. The parks will be launching a variety of enhancements, from interactive apps that provide fun new ways to experience the park to new games and video content.

BURBANK, Calif. – June 11, 2013 – D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is thrilled to announce a special theatrical performance, Broadway and Beyond.

Thomas Schumacher, president and producer, Disney Theatrical Productions will host a musical journey into Disney's history on Broadway and beyond at the D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The performance features an all-star line-up, including Heidi Blickenstaff (THE LITTLE MERMAID), Ashley Brown (MARY POPPINS and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST), Merle Dandridge (TARZAN and AIDA), Josh Strickland (TARZAN) and Alton Fitzgerald White (THE LION KING), who sing beloved songs from the award-winning musicals they starred in as well as classic tunes from the Disney on Broadway catalogue.

The one-night-only performance will take place on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. on Stage 23 inside the Anaheim Convention Center.

DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS, a division of The Walt Disney Studios, was formed in 1994 and operates under the direction of Thomas Schumacher. Worldwide, its eight Broadway titles have been seen by over 124 million theatergoers, grossed over $8.9 billion and have cumulatively run a staggering 195 years. With 15 productions currently produced or licensed, a Disney musical is being performed professionally somewhere on the planet virtually every hour of the day.

The company’s inaugural production, Beauty and the Beast, opened in 1994. It played a remarkable 13-year run on Broadway and has been produced in 28 countries worldwide. In November 1997, Disney opened The Lion King, which received six 1998 Tony Awards including Best Musical and is now the highest grossing show in Broadway history. The show continues in its 16th smash year, having welcomed over 68 million visitors worldwide. The Lion King can also currently be seen on tour across North America, the U.K., and Japan, and in London’s West End, Hamburg, Tokyo, Madrid, and Sao Paulo.

Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida opened on Broadway next, winning four 2000 Tony Awards, and spawning productions around the world. Mary Poppins, a co-production with Cameron Mackintosh, opened in London in 2004 and established itself as one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge in recent years. The Tony Award-winning Broadway production played more than six years at Disney’s New Amsterdam Theatre and can now be seen on tour across North America and in Mexico City.

Tarzan, which opened on Broadway in 2006, is now an international hit with an award-winning production in its 6th year in Germany. In January 2008, The Little Mermaid opened on Broadway and was the #1-selling new musical of that year. Its success continues with three new productions around the world: Holland, Russia and Japan.

Two new critically acclaimed productions opened on Broadway in 2012, receiving seven Tony Awards between them: Newsies, in its second year at the Nederlander Theatre, and Peter and the Starcatcher, now playing at New World Stages.

Other successful stage musical ventures have included King David in concert, the national tour of On The Record, several touring versions of Disney’s High School Musical, and Der Glockner Von Notre Dame in Berlin.

Its new musical, Aladdin, will open in Toronto in fall 2013.

Summer sizzles at Epcot as some of the world’s greatest tribute bands rock the stage on select summer nights. Classic hits U2, The Bee Gees, The Police, and many more will rock during Sounds Like Summer concert series. The high-energy performances for Walt Disney World Resort guests take place at the open-air America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.

The schedule (entertainment subject to change without notice):

June 9 to 15: Stayin’ Alive ~ A Tribute to the Bee Gees
June 16 to 22: Hotel California ~ A Salute to the Eagles
June 23 to 29: Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot ~ The Ultimate Billy Joel Tribute Show
June 30 to July 6: Slippery When Wet ~ The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute
July 7 to 13: SouthBound and Company ~ A Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 14 to 20: The Police Experience ~ A Tribute to The Police
July 21 to 27: 2U ~ A Tribute to U2

Show times are 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 p.m. – except on July 4 when show times are 5:15, 6:30, 7:45 and 9 p.m.

Sounds Like Summer concerts are included with Epcot admission.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Car Masters Weekend, now in its third year, is the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day as Downtown Disney West Side hosts a classic car show with a modern twist June 15-16, 2013. Featuring all things “Cars,” the event also showcases meet and greets with Disney•Pixar “Cars” and “Cars 2″ characters, a sock hop at Splitsville, select discounts on food and shopping, and more exciting entertainment for the whole family.

In a race for ‘Best in Show’ at Sunday’s awards ceremony, car enthusiasts from the local Muscle Car Network of Central Florida will display more than 150 classic, muscle and exotic cars for families to view and vote on their favorites. Guests also can take pictures with favorite Disney•Pixar “Cars” and “Cars 2″ characters Lightning McQueen, Mater and Finn McMissile.

Revving up the fun, legendary automotive designer Chip Foose and Disney•Pixar “Cars” filmmaker Jay Ward will host celebrity chat shows on the Car Masters Stage throughout the weekend. Foose, who contributed to the design of Ramone in the Disney•Pixar “Cars” film, also will be on-hand for autograph sessions and will have Chip Foose design items available for purchase at the event.

New this year, Splitsville – the luxury bowling emporium — will take guests for a spin on the dance floor when it hosts the first Car Masters Weekend Sock Hop. This rockin’ and rollin’ special event, taking place Saturday from 6-9 p.m., features live entertainment, a fun bowling competition, a buffet of Splitsville delights, a limited bar, raffle prizes and special appearances by Foose and Ward. A limited number of Sock Hop tickets will be available beginning June 5 at DisneyCarEvent.com for $69 per person.

Also making Car Masters Weekend debuts are a special street performance by artists with La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil, a chance for guests to play the upcoming Disney Infinity video game and new interactive activities based on future Disney film releases “Monsters University,” “The Lone Ranger,” and “Planes.”

Fan-favorite Car Masters elements returning this year include the chance to test drive remote control “Cars 2″ RideMakerz models; vehicles on display from the Exotic Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway; live performances by the Car Masters Singers and DJ’s spinning classic-car tunes from the ’50′s and ’60′s. Guests also can idle over to the Chevrolet Showcase, pose for photographs inside the newest Chevrolet models and discover the latest in design and automotive technology. In addition, fans can purchase tickets for an all-day “Cars” and “Cars 2″ movie marathon at AMC Downtown Disney 24.

The event will take place at Downtown Disney West Side from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. For more information, visit DisneyCarEvent.com.

Orlando, Fla. (May 28, 2013) -- What makes Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, Orlando’s can’t-miss waterpark? By offering the latest and hottest deal for locals to enjoy Central Florida’s coolest beach again and again – including the After-2 p.m. Pass.

For the cost of a single day’s admission, guests can enjoy Aquatica after 2 p.m. throughout the rest of 2013. With no blackout dates and unlimited admission to Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, after 2 p.m., Orlando's coolest beach is a hit for all ages time after time. Whether it's tiny tots splashing around in Kata's Kookaburra Cove®, teens sliding down Taumauta Racer® or adults relaxing on the laid-back beaches, guests can enjoy Aquatica all year long.

Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, is a one-of-a-kind waterpark that could only come from SeaWorld®. Inspired by a whimsical take on the South Seas, Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark, immerses guests in the playfulness of the sea, taking them in, over and under the water with the world’s most unique water rides and animal encounters. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark, mixes animal experiences, waters from serene to extreme, high speed waterslide thrills and wide, sandy beaches to create a day of non-stop fun.

Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, After-2 p.m. Pass is $50 for children, ages 3-9, and $55 for adults. To learn more about Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark, or to buy your After-2 p.m. pass, visit AquaticaOrlando.com, call 888-800-5447, or visit our ticket counters at Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark.

Procrastination is never a good thing when studying for something as important as the release of MONSTERS UNIVERSITY.

MONSTERS UNIVERSITY releases in theatres in 3D on June 21, 2013!

For more blogs on Monsters University CLICK HERE