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D23 Expo To Host Special Performance Of Broadway And Beyond

Disney Theatrical Productions to Present “Broadway AND Beyond” at D23 Expo

A Musical Journey Into Disney’s History on Broadway and Beyond

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.

D23 Expo Broadway and Beyond — Heidi Blickenstaff

The one night only performance will take place on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 6:30pm 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 16^th 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 6^th 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 Glöckner Von Notre Dame in Berlin.

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

About D23 Expo 2013

The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks. For the latest D23 Expo 2013 news, visit www.D23Expo.com. To be part of the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with #D23Expo.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 90-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com; member-exclusive discounts and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 9–11, 2013.

Fans can join D23 at www.D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us @DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.

Celebrate D23 Twitter Followers With Sweepstakes Series

Celebrate 100,000 D23 Twitter Followers

With Cool Disney Swag!

05.21.13 – To thank Disney fans for helping us reach this amazing milestone on Twitter, we are giving away Walt Disney Archives merchandise, D23 limited-edition t-shirts, and more in the new “#D23Swag” sweepstakes series.

Here’s How it Works:

Starting on May 30th at 12:00 p.m., PT, we will send out a special message for our Twitter followers to “re-tweet.” You can re-tweet the message any time between when the message is originally sent from @DisneyD23 and 5:00 p.m., PT, that day. Those who re-tweet will automatically be entered into a randomized drawing to win cool D23 swag! For the full set of rules, click here.

Mark Your Calendar:

You’ll have a chance to participate every other Thursday after May 30 (don’t worry, we’ll remind you the day before so you don’t forget)! The sweepstakes series will include the following seven dates: May 30, June 13, June 27, July 11, July 25, August 8, and August 22.

Winning Cool Stuff:

Prizes will include Walt Disney Archives merchandise, D23 limited-edition t-shirts, and more! Winners will be sent a Direct Message via Twitter to verify eligibility—so make sure you’re following @DisneyD23 on Twitter!

Disney Film Project Podcast Review

Films, for those who aren’t aware, are some of my favorite things in the entire world. My affinity for almost all things Disney mostly stems from my love of Disney movies. From there it grew to parks, music, tv shows, and beyond, but for me, it all comes back to the big screen. Imagine my excitement when a little over two years ago I learned that friends of mine were putting together a podcast revolving around reviewing and critiquing Disney films! I have to admit that I was a tad jealous that I wasn’t involved in the podcast, but that soon dissipated.

The Disney Film Project, from whence the Podcast was born, started as the brainchild of owner and proprietor, Ryan Kilpatrick. He began the project with this as his goal: “This is my attempt to view all the Disney films, both shorts and features. Read along to see what I learn as I embark on this voyage, and see what I discover as we watch the true genius of Walt Disney.” Ryan would often conduct what he called tweetwatches in a FriendFeed chat room where he would live tweet a movie and a bunch of us would all press play and watch along at the same time. We would jump in to the chat with questions and comments in awe of Ryan’s often exhaustive research regarding the film we were watching.

Eventually, the project grew into what quickly became one of my favorite podcasts, the Disney Film Project Podcast. Ryan recruited a fantastic crew of film buffs to be his co-hosts in Briana Alessio, Todd Perlmutter and our very own Cheryl Perlmutter as the glue that holds them all together as the show producer. From the very first episode on Beauty and the Beast back in January of 2011 up to this weeks episode 117 featuring Mulan, it has been entertaining along the entire way.

The podcast typically focuses on one film per episode, whether live action, animated feature, direct to video sequel or even Disney Channel Original Movies. Occasionally there are episodes that cover a theme like Halloween specials or multiple films in one, but for the most part on average a good hour or so is devoted to a single film. Each week it is apparent the effort that goes in to this podcast from the hosts of the show and their amazing research skills (always try to find a Star Wars connection).

I am one of those crazy completionists, so I diligently watch each film a few days prior to listening to the upcoming episode so it is fresh in my mind. This has been an interesting task as some of the films have been downright awful (I’m talking to you Condorman, Inspector Gadget, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 1 & 2 (and I’m sure eventually 3) and Hunchback of Notre Dame II), but even in the movies that are laborious to watch, the podcast episodes still shine. Sometimes it is even more enjoyable to hear a film completely torn apart. Along with those notoriously not good films you of course encounter the gems of classics like Mary Poppins, Darby O’Gill and the Little People (with my personal favorite, Sean Connery!!!), Cinderella, and fan favorites like the Avengers.

One of my favorite things about the Disney Film Project Podcast is that I always learn something new, whether it is a film I’ve never seen before, or one like The Little Mermaid I’ve seen dozens of times. These four take their time and do their homework to bring something fresh and new to each episode they produce. I have been fortunate to be on two episodes of the podcast for Cinderella and Up. If you want to go back and start from the beginning, you can download the mp3s via iTunes. DFPP is also available for streaming via Stitcher radio on smartphones, through the podcast app subscription on ios devices, and also streaming directly from the Disney Film Project website.

If you are looking for a new podcast that will keep you well informed and entertained when it comes to the films of the Walt Disney Company, including subsidiaries like Pixar, Marvel and Touchstone, look no further than the Disney Film Project Podcast. Go listen to what the wonky sluices over there have cooking up on their blog with new movie reviews, for films new to Blu Ray, in theaters or on the Disney Channel. This is one podcast you should definitely give a chance if you are at all a fan of Disney films and desire to learn more or even just to see if you can guess what their ratings are and if they match yours. Head on over and check them out now!

Disney’s Oh My Disney Blog Review

Disney started a new blog several weeks ago that has quickly become one of my daily must visits. It is called Oh My Disney or OMD for short. This blog is one of the most fun and quirky things I’ve discovered of late. If you aren’t already ready this hilarious daily dose of Disney, what are you waiting for?

OMD is one of the newest official blogs put out by The Walt Disney Company. You can find fantastic offerings about Disney films, tv shows, music, parks and more. One of the aspects I love most is that this blog is written in the colloquial style, as if you were having a conversation with a late 20s to mid 30s Disney lover. It isn’t the traditional just the facts ma’am post that you get, and by all means that serve a purpose, from several other blogs. This is a lighthearted glimpse into some of Disney’s greatest pop culture productions, sometimes even crossing over into ABC and ESPN territory.

Check out this image Graphing Our Emotions: The Lion King Edition:

This is just one of many reasons why I love this blog. There are things that will make you laugh, cry and remember why you love Disney.

I am so glad I happened to catch a tweet from a friend who works for Disney who said he was working on a new project and that we should all check it out. This blog is something that I can honestly say has brought cheer and smiles to me every day since. It started just under two months ago with the first post titled “Everyone Should Listen to Chef Gusteau” released on February 4th. This blog is part advice column, part reminiscing about Disney’s fantastic history, and part let’s just have fun. Across the header of the site you will often see posts with themes if you don’t want to go through all posts daily (which I strongly recommend). These sections are labeled as Aww (mostly romantic moments), Oh, Snap! (a little snarkiness served up Disney style), Retro (things that are typically geared towards younger generations (than mine) that grew up in the 90s – side note, super scary to think of 90s things as retro, but I digress), Silly (pretty self explanatory), and Whoa (things you definitely need to check out – case in point, the fantastic new Mickey Mouse Short, Croissant de Triomphe). Croissant de Triomphe on Disney Video

Often times this blog says what I’m thinking, or at least what I’d like to think I thought of before they posted it. Some of my favorites include The Snuggly Duckling: Best Pub Ever, We Dare You Not To Cry: The Most Blubber Cry-Worthy Pixar Moments (SPOILER ALERTS), WALL-E: How to Win Every Argument Ever, and 10 Paperman GIFs to Make You Believe In Destiny. There are so many more, but I want you to discover them on your own.

Have you seen OMD? If so, what are some of your favorites? If you ever need a pick-me-up, this is the place to go! Hop on over and check it out and let me know what you think of this great new addition to Disney’s blogs. I mean how could you not love a site that features a fantasy edition of the Bachelorette based around the male characters of the Lion King or a video condensing Mulan to 60 seconds? I would love to see more like this from Disney in the future and can’t wait to see what else OMD has coming down the pike!

Disney Easter Matching Game From Wonder Forge

I was super excited to receive the Wonder Forge Disney Easter Matching Game to review just in time for Easter!

This isn’t just your average matching game, because every so often you get a surprise glimpse of one of your favorite Disney Characters all dressed up and ready to celebrate Easter with your family. It was so fun to see Zoe’s face when she got a character that was as she called them ‘extra cool’!

The Disney Easter Matching game is played with the normal 72 cards, however instead of 2 of each card there are 4. While this took a little getting used to, Zoe found that it was easier for her to play.

The game is recommended for Children ages 3 and up, and is played like the classic matching game where the player with the most matched cards wins! If you are looking for a harder option, you can play with the rule that you must find all 4 matching cards. Playing Alone? Time yourself to see how long it takes to find and match all of the cards. Also, if you have a younger Disney Fan at home, you could play with half the cards for a less intimidating and faster matching game.

We really enjoyed playing the Disney Easter Matching Game together! It was a really fun twist on the classic matching game that I am sure we’ll be playing all year long.

If you’re looking for a really fun last minute goody to fill your Easter Baskets that is fun for the entire family, I suggest picking up the Disney Easter Matching Game from Wonder Forge.

Make sure you follow Wonder Forge on Facebook and Twitter for information on all their new games and giveaways!

Dane Cook Tapped To Voice Dusty In Disney’s Planes

Dane Cook Tapped To Voice Dusty In Disney’s Planes

High-Flying Animated Comedy Adventure Soars into Theaters August 9, 2013

Dane Cook has been tapped to voice the lead character Dusty, a plane with high hopes in Disney’s Planes. Inspired by the world of “Cars” and directed by Disneytoon Studios veteran and aviation enthusiast Klay Hall (“King of the Hill,” “The Simpsons”), “Disney’s Planes” is an action-packed 3D animated comedy adventure about Dusty’s dream of competing as a high-flying air racer—and his decidedly unfortunate fear of heights. The film takes off in theaters in 3D on Aug. 9, 2013.

“Dane Cook brings unmatched charisma and brilliant comedic timing and instincts to the character,” said Hall. “He gives Dusty a great edge.”

Cook is well known for his appearances on Comedy Central and HBO specials, and for his successful comedy albums. He recently guest starred on “Louie” opposite Louie C.K., and his film credits include starring roles in a host of films, including “My Best Friend’s Girl” opposite Kate Hudson, “Dan In Real Life” opposite Steve Carell, and “Mr. Brooks” opposite Kevin Costner. The actor/comedian just signed a deal with NBC Entertainment and Universal Television to develop a new project starring Cook.

The all-new story offers an exciting cast of characters and centers on Dusty’s high-flying dream. But Dusty’s not exactly built for racing, so he turns to a seasoned naval aviator who helps Dusty qualify to take on the defending champ of the race circuit. Dusty’s courage is put to the ultimate test as he aims to reach heights he never dreamed possible, giving a spellbound world the inspiration to soar. Disney’s Planes is produced by Traci Balthazor-Flynn and executive produced by John Lasseter. For more information, check out Disney.com/Planes, like us on Facebook: facebook.com/DisneyPlanes and follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/DisneyPictures.

Wordless Wednesday – RunDisney Princesses

Wordless Wednesday – February 20, 2013

Disney Twenty-Three Spring Issue On Stands February 12th

RETURN TO OZ IN THE ALL-NEW SPRING ISSUE OF DISNEY TWENTY-THREE

ON STANDS FEBRUARY 12

A Dazzling Behind-The-Scenes Look At Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful,

The 15th Anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and

Never-Before-Seen Concept Art from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen

The spring issue of Disney twenty-three, the flagship magazine of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, hits stands February 12, loaded with articles to delight both Disney fans and the general public. The cover story, “A Great and Powerful Odyssey,” gives readers an exclusive tour of the land at the end of the road of yellow bricks in Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful releasing in theaters this March. The article features interviews with stars Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams and Zach Braff. In addition, there’s a sneak peek of 2014’s Maleficent, starring Angelina Jolie, which offers a new take on the legendary Sleeping Beauty story.

The Emerald City theme continues with a second story illuminating the many connections between Disney and Oz, including Walt Disney’s early attempts to bring Oz to the big screen. The story includes rarely seen images from the Walt Disney Archives and a fond look back at Disney’s 1985 release Return to Oz.

In celebration of the 15th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we sit down with Imagineer Joe Rohde as he reflects on the evolution of Disney’s wildest and most spiritual park.

“Frozen in Time” includes concept art from the upcoming film Frozen, due in theaters this November. Walt Disney Animation Studios brings an ice-covered world to life as Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell) seeks to reverse a curse put on her kingdom by a cold-hearted snow queen (voiced by Idina Menzel), who also happens to be her sister.

Disney twenty-three also offers the latest on exciting new projects from the world of Disney and a look at some celebrated classics. The spring issue:

Celebrates the 30th anniversary of Disney Channel from the original show Good Morning Mickey through theHigh School Musical trilogy;
Reveals the secrets and hidden delights to look out for when exploring New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom ;
Catches up with Bob Baker, a legendary Los Angeles puppeteer whose exquisite artistry is threaded throughout Disney history;
Tells the story of master glass craftsmen, the Arribas brothers, who now have art in 14 (and counting) different Disney park locations around the globe.

The Disney discoveries do not stop at the end of the publication this spring. In conjunction with the release of this spring issue of Disney twenty-three on February 12, www.D23.com will feature original and exclusive stories that complement the contents of D23’s glossy magazine. Only available on D23.com:

An exclusive Q&A with Brian Henson about his first film, Return to Oz;
An off-road tour of Kilimanjaro Safaris with the head zookeeper in celebration of Disney’s Animal Kingdom 15th anniversary;
An in-depth look at Disney Channel’s schedule, stars, and shows and an exclusive look back at the first day of programming as the Channel turns 30.

Disney twenty-three is delivered directly to the doorstep of all D23 Gold Members, along with a special gift. The gifts for this issue are reproductions of vintage Disney Valentine’s Day cards, which will be attached exclusively to member issues. This special gift will be received by members just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Beginning February 12, Disney twenty-three magazine will be available at retail locations across the country for $15.95, and can also be purchased online at DisneyStore.com and throughout the Disneyland^® and Walt Disney World^® Resorts.

About D23

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club celebrates the remarkable past, present, and future of Disney, taking its name from 1923, the year Walt Disney founded his world-famous company. D23 brings its members a host of exclusive benefits, including a weekly e-mail newsletter; an array of discounts and special offers; and exclusive, member-only special events.

Disney fans can join the world’s only Official Disney Fan Club by visiting www.D23.com or select shops at the Disneyland^® Resort, the Walt Disney World^® Resort and www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow “DisneyD23” on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook.

Prep and Landing Totally Tinsel Edition Is A Must Have For Your Holiday Movie Collection!

It’s a week until Christmas, and what better way to get in the holiday spirit than by taking a look at the Prep and Landing Totally Tinsel Edition, which is by far one of my most favorite holiday Blu-Ray movies!

The Prep and Landing Totally Tinsel Edition is a great way to own both features, Prep & Landing and Prep & Landing: Naughty vs Nice, along with 45 minutes of hilarious extras and shorts, including the Emmy award winning Short Operation Secret Santa!

From the moment I first watch the original Prep & Landing, which was released in 2009, I was hooked! I fell in love with Wayne, Lanny, Magee, and the gang!

On Christmas Eve, a high-tech team of elves from an elite unit known as ‘Prep & Landing’ ensures homes around the world are prepared for Santa’s visit. But when two hilarious little elves face unexpected challenges and are pushed to their limits, it’ll take a great big effort to save the season

And in Prep & Landing: Naughty vs Nice, released in 2011, Wayne and the gang are back for more holiday high jinks!

The outrageous yuletide adventures of Christmas elves Lanny and Wayne continue in this totally tinsel adventure that reminds us there’s room for everyone on the ‘nice’ list. Santa’s stealthiest little elves must race to recover classified North Pole technology, which has fallen into the hands of a computer-hacking naughty kid, in an effort to stop Christmas from descending into chaos.

The extras on the Prep and Landing Totally Tinsel Edition are so much fun! Loading with tons of North Pole commercials, Kringle Academy, North Pole News, Behind the Scenes with Grace Potterand, and more! Also included is my absolute favorite short Tiny’s Big Adventure!

httpv://youtu.be/E_sRZsLUmyw

If you are a big Prep & Landing fan or if you are just looking for a fun Holiday Blu-Ray for the family, I hope that you check out the Prep and Landing Totally Tinsel Edition!!!

And if you want to have even more Prep & Landing fun, make sure you check out the Prep & Landing site with Winterpedia and fun movie activities here!

Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure Available Now On Disney Blu-Ray

Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure is available now for the first time ever on Disney Blu-Ray!

I absolutely love Lady and the Tramp, which probably explains my unusual love of Tony’s Town Square at the Magic Kingdom, so when the opportunity to review Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure came about I jumped at the chance!

In Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure, Lady and Tramp’s mischievous pup Scamp decides that he doesn’t fit in with his family and decides to run away. Once he has left his collar behind, he joins a gang of junkyard dogs who don’t always have his best interests in mind. Scamp also meets, saves, and falls in love with a pretty little pup named Angel, voiced by Alyssa Milano, along the way. This movie is a great example of the heartwarming direct-to-video sequels that were being created at the time of its original release. There are some great nods to Lady and the Tramp in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure, and it really looks great in this Blu-Ray Format.

Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure has some fun bonuses, and we really enjoyed the Puppy Trivia Track which allows you to watch the movie with tons of fun facts about dogs, the movie, and dogs as they have appeared throughout Disney. Also on the Blu-Ray release of Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure you can find some Pluto Bonus Shorts, which are always a must watch for my family.

You can absolutely tell that Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure was created by people who have love and respect for Lady and the Tramp, and is a cute movie to watch if your family is full of dog lovers! We enjoyed the movie, but be warned it is a shorter side so you may be asked to watch it twice!!!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYd0k3pfrKM&feature=share&list=PLA205D38295C070D7

The Aristocats Special Edition Brings This Disney Classic To Life In Stunning Blu-Ray For the First Time!

The Aristocats Special Edition Brings This Disney Classic To Life In Stunning Blu-Ray For the First Time!

Disney’s spectacular 20th full-length animated feature The Aristocats has arrived for the first time ever in stunning Blu-ray high definition as a The Aristocats Special Edition 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD) and Digital. Featuring a beautiful new digital restoration and great new bonus features, The Aristocats Special Edition invites audiences to relive all the tune-filled feline fun, comedy and adventure of this Disney classic.

The exciting tale takes place in the heart of Paris where a kind and eccentric millionairess, wills her entire estate to ‘Duchess,’ a high society cat, and her three kittens. When the bumbling butler Edgar tries to pull off the ultimate catnap caper in order to secure the fortune for himself, it’s up to alley cat Thomas O’Malley and his band of swingin’ jazz cats to save the day. The Aristocats features the voice talents of Eva Gabor, Phil Harris, Sterling Halloway and legendary French singer Maurice Chevalier, who performs the film’s titular opening song. The legendary Disney songwriting team of brothers, Richard and Robert Sherman, get the joint jumping with the jazz-inspired musical numbers Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat, Scales and Arpeggios, and Thomas O’Malley Cat.

The Aristocats Special Edition is chocked full of great bonus features, and is an especially wonderful treat if you are a super fan (like I am) of the Sherman Brothers!!! During The Lost Open featurette, Richard Sherman takes you through storyboards of a never-before-seen alternate beginning which introduces a deleted character and a deleted song How Much You Mean To Me and Court Me Slowly written and performed by the Sherman brothers. This song demo was one of the few times Richard and Robert ever sang together. And if your little one is anything like mine, they will be playing all of the songs over and over again! Zoe is especially fond of Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat! Also, The Aristocats Special Edition also has one of my most favorite Figaro shorts!!! Additional classic bonus features on The Aristocats Special Edition include the delightful deleted song, She Never Felt Alone and The Great Cat Family (Excerpt), which explores the history of cats.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6kVxV4O_dk&feature=share&list=PL2F52ED02924C2731

The Aristocats Special Edition full bonus features include…

– Oui Oui Marie Music Video

– Deleted Song – She Never Felt Alone: This deleted song, complete with animation, will tug at the heartstrings of any animal lover, as Duchess explains to Thomas O’ Malley why she must return to her beloved owner Madame Bonfamille. Richard Sherman discusses the song he co-wrote with his brother Robert, which captures the special relationship between a pet owner and their animal. It’s a moving sequence that will stir everyone’s fondest memories of their favorite pets.

– The Sherman Brothers: The Aristocats of Disney Songs: A tribute to the legendary Disney songwriting team of Robert and Richard Sherman, with particular emphasis on The Aristocats.

– The Great Cat Family (Excerpt): This animated excerpt tells the history of cats from ancient Egyptians to the present.

– The Classic Disney short Bath Day: Figaro has been freshly bathed and perfumed by Minnie when he meets up with Lucifer and his gang who chase him. In the ensuing fight, the gang is fooled into beating up Lucifer and making Figaro the winner. But the victor is soon put back in the tub by Minnie.

– Disney Song Selection:

The Aristocats
Scales and Arpeggios
Thomas O’Malley Cat
Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat

I am a huge The Aristocats fan, and it is such a treat to be able to share these with my family in the stunning Blu-Ray format! It really is amazing all the details that seem to pop out at you when you view it on Blu-Ray! The Aristocats Special Edition is a great addition to you Blu-Ray Disney Classics collection!!!

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Preview – Landscape of Flavors

Last night a few friends and I were able to experience dinner at the new food court, Landscape of Flavors, at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. We sampled several different menu items from the restaurant and were very pleasantly surprised by both the level of service, quality of food and presentation for a value resort. First off, the food is served on real plates and bowls and with real silverware, as opposed to the paper plates and plastic utensils one finds at other counter service restaurants. I hope you enjoy some of the pictures from our dinner as well as breakfast this morning! We cannot wait to go back and try some more of the items we didn’t get to this visit. I have a feeling this will quickly become one of my go to counter service restaurants.

Tandori Shrimp with Naan bread with choice of 2 sides (Cauliflower and Paneer shown)

Tandori Acorn Squash & Basmati Rice with Naan bread with choice of 2 sides (Cauliflower shown)

Create Your Own Pasta Bowl with Ciabatta Toast . Choice of Pasta, Meat, Sauce and Toppings. ( Bowtie Pasta, Pesto, Cheese and Chicken shown)

Create Your Own Burger with 2 sides. Choice of Toppings and Cheese on a multi grain roll. ( Cheddar and Bacon with Double Fries shown)

Create Your Own Salad with choice of Meat, Dressing and Toppings. ( Shown with Shrimp, Ranch, Tomatoes, Roasted Beans, Cheese, Corn, Chick Peas, Roasted Red Peppers)

Meatball Sandwich on Ciabatta with a Side Caesar Salad

Mickey Mouse Oreo Vanilla Cupcake. Yellow Cake, Butter Cream icing, White Chocolate Mickey Face and Oreo Cookie Mickey Ears. Also Pictured is the Chocolate Croissant

Macaroon Cupcake , Vanilla Cake with Vanilla Buttercream. Candy Pearls around the sides and 3 Macaroons on top

Mini Buckwheat Character Shaped Waffles with Side of Bacon ( not shown side of apples)

American Breakfast Platter. Scrambled Eggs, Breakfast Potatoes, Turkey Bacon, Chicken Sausage and Biscuit.

Create-Your-Own Yogurt Parfait. Vanilla Greek yogurt with choice of toppings. ( Shown are Strawberries, Brown Sugar, Granola, Pistachios, Dried Apricots and Craisins)

Steak and Egg Breakfast Burger topped with a fried Mickey Egg, Pepper jack cheese and Bacon served with Breakfast Potatoes

Create-Your-Own Omelet With your choice of ingredients and served with Breakfast Potatoes ( shown here with Spinach, Feta Cheese, Tomato, Cheddar Cheese and Onions)

Breakfast Chicken Burger topped with Pepper Jack cheese and a green chili omelet served with Breakfast Potatoes

Her Universe Star Wars To Debut at Disney’s Star Wars Weekends and Online

It’s a good time to be a fangirl of the Star Wars saga as Her Universe, the female sci-fi genre line of fashionable apparel and accessories, revealed today it’s new Spring/Summer line to debut at Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida on May 18th (running each weekend till June 10th) and online at www.heruniverse.com on May 21st.

Created by actress Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars: The Clone Wars, the current seasonal offering from Her Universe Includes a racer back tank top and fashion tops featuring such beloved characters as Princess Leia, R2-D2 and Darth Vader as well as a unique Princess Leia zip-hoodie and a fun Ahsoka Tano youth tunic created to help young girls feel just like Anakin’s Padawan learner on The Clone Wars. To accentuate the new Star Wars apparel, Eckstein and Her Universe are offering two new charms – a Boba Fett design and a Japor Snippet replica, the good luck charm given as a gift to Padme from a young Anakin Skywalker. All of this Star Wars treasure can be carried in the new cotton canvas Star Wars tote bag featuring the Star Wars symbols. Several new apparel pieces are also being introduced for the younger “Jedi-in-training” including several Star Wars youth designs and, for the first time, a Jedi onesie for the tiniest followers of the Force featuring the adorable art of popular Star Wars illustrator Katie Cook.

“I was very excited when Ashley approached me to do kids’ designs for Her Universe,” said Cook. “She’s doing a wonderful thing for the female fan community already… and she’s doing those of us with little girls an even bigger favor by giving the littlest fangirls nerdy gear of their own!”

In addition to the new product line being available at Disney’s Star Wars Weekends, Eckstein will also, for the fourth year in a row, be co-hosting the Behind The Force live stage show and signing autographs each weekend of the event.

“Disney’s Star Wars Weekends is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Ashley Eckstein. “I truly enjoy meeting Star Wars fans of all ages and that’s why I am so excited to be offering merchandise for women, girls and now babies! As the voice of Ahsoka Tano, I cannot wait to see baby girls in an Ahsoka “Jedi in Training” onesie or little girls running around in Ahsoka’s new costume top!”

Her Universe was launched in 2009 by Eckstein, and her partner, The Araca Group, known as one of the most innovative theatrical production and merchandise companies in the world. Her Universe was created to directly address the expanding market of female fans by entering into its first agreement with Lucas Licensing to develop and produce a line of female-centered Star Wars apparel and accessories. The success of that line was followed up with a collection for the Syfy network including such shows as Battlestar Galactica. Visit www.heruniverse.com to purchase the new Star Wars collection or visit a Hot Topic store near you to find select Her Universe items. You can also learn more about Her Universe by following Eckstein on Twitter and visiting the Her Universe Facebook page.

Running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 18th through June 10th, Disney’s Star Wars Weekends is an annual event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park celebrating the Star Wars Saga, as well the animated television series Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Each weekend offers fans a unique opportunity to join Jedi Masters, Sith Lords and Star Wars celebrities for special shows, presentations and memorabilia. For more information on Star Wars Weekends, visit: di sneyworld.com/starwarsweekends or disneyparks.com/blog.

Photo credit: – Kelsey Edwards Photography

Ahsoka Hoodie — Her Universe has made a youth long sleeve costume tunic top, complete with thumbholes and a hood, to keep girls cozy while they pretend to be their favorite Jedi Padwan, Ahsoka Tano, from The Clone Wars

Good Luck Charm — Anakin Skywalker gave this Japor Snippet symbol for good fortune to Padme Ami-dala. Now you can own this new Sterling Silver plated good luck charm and add it to your Star Wars by Her Universe charm bracelet.

R2D2 Hero — R2-D2 is one of the most beloved heroes of the Star Wars saga and is always there to save the day. This new combed cotton jersey tee from Her Universe features everyone's favorite droid.

It's never too early to show them the ways of the Force! Featuring a new, original "Jedi in Training" design by renowned artist Katie Cook, this infant tee is perfect for any youngling.

Lea Princess — Inspired by our fans, because Her Universe is a place where princesses save themselves, this new tee featuring original art from Katie Cook showcases Leia Organa, the self rescuing princess that started it all.

Lea Hoodie — Cosplaying Leia has never been so comfortable in this new costume hoodie from Her Universe. By wearing this lightweight zip-hoodie you can be Princess Leia with the hoodie up or just geek chic with the hood down.

Looking for Love — Inspired by Princess Leia herself, Carrie Fisher, who always liked the phrase "Looking For Love In Aldraan Places" and shared her thoughts with Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein, this new 100% combed cotton jersey tee is perfect for any fan with a witty sense of humor.

Never underestimate the power of the Dark Side! Show the sexy side of the Sith with this Darth Maul inspired racer back tank top from Her Universe.

Little MissMatched adds new Disney socks, clothes, and accessories!

Little MissMatched is easily one of our favorite stores (Please, no one tell TrenD) in the Downtown Disney Marketplace.

While we, Zoe and I, love their fun socks I always wished that they had some Disney options…and finally they have added them!

Currently they only have the anklet socks, $11 for 3 coordinating NOT matching socks, and they are available in 15 different styles.

In addition to the socks, they have added Disney clothing and accessories.

As with most things in Little MissMatched, the prices are comparable to those around the parks.

The small sling bag and the drawstring backpacks are $17, the t-shirts are $19, and the knit sweaters are $49.

While I am not a huge Pook-a-Looz fan, I don’t mind them so much on the Little MissMatched items. I think my favorite ones are the Alice and Wonderland Socks!!!

I am really excited about taking Zoe back and picking out a few goodies!!!