Linda Mac's Orlando Adventures

Magical Moments can and do happen when you least expect them. Last Sunday Deb Wills, Masayo and Nozomi ( from Japan) and myself were wandering around World Showcase when Masayo spotted Goofy near the seating area for the Liberty Inn.

When we all took a closer look not only was Goofy making a special surprise appearance but so was Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck, Pluto, Stitch, Baloo and Rakifi. WOW! Masayo and Nozomi’s enthusiasm for everything Disney is contagious! The three of us just turned into little kids and pretty much left Deb in the dust. Sorry about the Deb. She laughed at us and said "Go for it". What a good sport!

We were some of the first people to spot the characters just hanging around and took many wonderful photos. As more people realized what was going on, the character handlers started organizing lines. I tried to find out if this would be regular character meet and greet but really couldn't get any firm information. The cast member told me it was a one time event to surprise guests. Well, it was a magical surprise for us.

To celebrate Disney-Pixar's newest animated film, Ratatouille, which is due out on June 29th, two of the star characters made their first appearance today in Disney-MGM Studios. Remy and Emile (he's the fat rat on the right who eats garbage in the movie trailer) arrived at 11:10 am and spent about 45 minutes signing autographs and posing for pictures. They have a brand new set located in The Magic of Disney Animation attraction and have replaced the characters from Meet The Robinsons. The backdrop is a kitchen with oversized icons of creme, eggs and cheese.

Remy and Emile's arrival was not listed on today's Disney-MGM Studios Times Guide and New Information sheet, so the crowds were pretty light for their first appearance. According to a Cast Members I spoke to, they will appear for about 45 minutes and then take a "cheese" break for another 45 minutes before returning to their set. I noticed an odd thing while waiting my turn in line, most of the parents were referring to Remy and Emile as mice. I guess that most people did not realize they are rats and cute one's at that. Especially, Emile.

For more information on Character Meet and Greets, please click here.

UPDATE: Remy and Emile are leading the Stars and Motor Cars Parade everyday at Disney-MGM Studios. Poor, over weight Emile has to walk but Remy is lucky enough to be driven in a Special Stars Car. They are followed by several dancing chef's.