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Mickey Monitor – November 2003

Your “Wishes” for new Magic Kingdom fireworks come true

There’s nothing quite like fireworks over Cinderella Castle. Seeing all those colors blooming over the symbol of fairytale splendor is like dreaming while you’re awake.

Of course, when it comes to dreams, Disney creative artists think the sky’s the limit. That’s why the brand-new Castle fireworks show is many times bigger and, frankly, blows “Fantasy in the Sky” away.

Show creator Steven Davison said the new show, Wishes™: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams, launches fireworks shells from eleven different locations, plus low-level and ground-level areas, with a stunning ten-line launch from the Castle roof.

“It’s the biggest, most complex, and ‘over-the-top’ Magic Kingdom® fireworks show we’ve ever done,” Steven said. “And for the first time in a Walt Disney World® show, you’ll see fireworks acting.”

As you hear classic character voices and music swirling around you, the fireworks will actually perform in patterns of colors across the widest panorama ever seen over the Castle. And it all tells a story.

“We took ‘When You Wish Upon a Star’ as the framework,” said Steven. “Each verse of the song becomes a section of our show. The section about love features romantic songs from Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and so on. Another part is about magic, featuring Genie from Aladdin and the Sorcerer’s Apprentice from Fantasia.” (And yes, Tinker Bell’s flights will continue on those magical nights.)

Dastardly Disney villains lurk within the show, too. When the Wicked Queen casts her spell, all the pyrotechnic shells break loose with a thunderous clash between nice and nasty. Will the “good fireworks” win? C’mon, what do you think?

Wishes is what Disney folks call a “kiss goodnight,” bringing Guests together for something magical at day’s end.

Like Dopey, who kept going back for extra kisses from Snow White, you’ll most likely want to experience Wishes over and over!

Celebrating the magic of gathering

This year, we’re celebrating the special magic that happens when friends and family gather together-Magical Gatherings™. Of course, Passholders have always thought of this place as their own. But now, we’ve put together a variety of planning tools to help you bring along friends and family.

We’ve also arranged special magic just for larger gatherings of eight or more-like a dinner at Epcot® with storytelling for the kids and VIP viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, or a rambling safari on the African savannah at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, including a themed dinner.

To find out how we can help you plan your gathering, just call us at (407) 560-PASS (7277) and we’ll connect you to one of our Magical Gatherings Travel Planners.

ABC Super Soap Weekend hunk tells all!

TV hunk Cameron Mathison, a.k.a. “Ryan Lavery” on All My Children, had to get something off his chest. During his previous ABC Super Soap Weekend appearances, it was his shirt. For the Mickey Monitor, it was his affection for his fans.

“We’re like family,” the 34-year-old, Canadian-born actor told us. “I think it’s because we are in their living rooms every day and all year long.”

Cameron will be appearing when Colgate Total® presents ABC Super Soap Weekend at Disney-MGM Studios, November 8 and 9. Over 30 top ABC stars from One Life to Live, General Hospital, and All My Children will get together with their fans for two days of autographs, chats, a street party, and even a glittering motorcade down Hollywood Boulevard.

During “Conversations with the Stars,” you might get a chance to ask your own questions. At a special edition of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire – Play It!, you may sit in the “hot seat” with your favorite star. Or maybe you’ll be “Star for a Day,” which Cameron recalled with a chuckle.

“This is when one of the fans gets to act with me and I get to be a complete goof,” he said. “And I am a complete goof, so that comes easily!”

Daytime drama stars usually work in closed STUDIOS WITH NO LIVE AUDIENCE REACTIONS. Cameron believes his opportunity to meet fans at the Disney-MGM Studios inspires his performances on the TV show.

“Super Soap Weekend is a time for our melting pot of fans to gather from all across the country to bond with us and give us their love and immediate feedback,” Cameron said. “It’s so great to get this kind of feedback. You bring it back to the set with you, and it makes you want to do the best work possible.”

And because you’re a passholder, an admission fee to this event is no more required than Cameron’s shirt.

New Passholder Lanyard

And a Lion King 1 ½ pin to put on it!

To help you celebrate the magic that happens when you gather with family and friends at the most enchanting place on earth, we’re going to give you an exclusive “Magical Gatherings™ 2004 Passholder” lanyard. Just swing by the Island Mercantile at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park on January 24, 25, 31 or February 1 (during regular Park hours) to get yours. There’s a limit of one per Passholder.

And what better way to break in your new lanyard than with an exclusive, new pin? We can’t think of one. So in honor of the February 10, 2004 Video Premiere of The Lion King 1 ½, we’re releasing a limited-edition pin featuring the lovable stars of the film, Timon and Pumbaa. But only 2,000 are being issued, so be sure to head to the Island Mercantile to purchase yours beginning January 24 for $10.50 (plus tax). Please not that there is a limit of two pins per Passholder, per day.

Last but not least, don’t forget your valid Passholder I.D. You’ll need it to pick up your lanyard and to buy your pin!

Share the joy of Disney holidays

The holidays around the Walt Disney World® Resort are always magical. And this year in particular, we’re celebrating the joy that happens when family and friends come together to share that holiday magic with each other. So bring your loved ones and make it truly a season to remember, November 28-December30.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
November 30, December 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18 & 19

It’s the enchantment of Christmas in the fantasy of the Magic Kingdom Park. You’ll enjoy nightly snowfalls, an enchanting parade, Character greetings, family photos, tasty treats, use of some of the most popular attractions and more. To cap off the evening, gather for Wishes™ nighttime spectacular with a special holiday twist.

The party runs from 7 p.m. until midnight each night. Get your tickets soon. It sells out fast! And when you buy in advance, you save.

Passholders, Be sure to pick your preferred dates early-there’s a Passholder exclusive pin waiting for those of you who attend! Perfect to start your stocking-stuffing-season, it’s adorned with Mickey, three of his favorite holiday pals and all the trimmings. Only available at the party, the pin will be released on November 30 in a limited edition run of 3,000. Get yours while they last for $10.50 (plus tax) at Magic Kingdom’s Expo Hall. Remember, there is a limit of two per Passholder per day.

Advance tickets:
· $35.95 plus tax for Guests ages 10 and up
· $25.95 plus tax for ages 3-9
Day of tickets:
· $41.95 plus tax for Guests ages 10 and up
· $31.95 plus tax for ages 3-9

Holidays Around the World
November 28-December 30

Nowhere is the feeling of togetherness and goodwill so apparent as it is during this Epcot® celebration. And one of its best-loved traditions is the Candlelight Processional-a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator. This year’s narrators include Rita Moreno, Robby Benson, Andy Garcia, Edward James Olmos, Gary Sinise, Ben Vereen, Sandi Patty and Marlee Maltin. (Entertainment is subject to change.) A Candlelight Processional Dinner Package is the perfect way to guarantee your seats for the performance and to enjoy a fine Epcot restaurant. Packages start at just $28.99 (plus tax) for Guests ages 10 and up and $10.99 (plus tax) for Guests ages 3-9. Call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463) to book.

Also as part of Holidays Around the World, you’ll be able to enjoy a nightly tree-lighting ceremony with Mickey and friends, and find storytellers throughout World Showcase giving glimpses of the legends and lore of the season from other cultures.

Celebrate the Season, Studios-style!

Get ready. The Characters are dressing up and stepping out to spread some holiday cheer around Disney-MGM Studios. Come see Minnie, Santa Goofy, Pluto, Lilo, Stitch and more of your favorites at The Sorcerer’s Hat for autographs and pictures. Sarge and his Toy Soldiers from the Disney presentation of the Pixar film, Toy Story, will be hosting a meet and greet, and some of your Fantasmic! Friends will be making appearances as well.

On Hollywood Boulevard and at The Sorcerer’s Hat, you’ll enjoy holiday-themed sketches, the Holiday GleeClub and A Citizens of Hollywood Tree Lighting.

DAK the Halls

In some circles, DAK is the nickname for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, but all circles can enjoy the fun going on here this season! In Camp Minnie-Mickey, you’ll find Character-themed holiday trees with garland and “snowcaps” on the light poles. Don’t forget to have your picture taken with Santa Goofy!

At Restaurantosaurus, it’s a holiday-themed Donald’s Breakfastosaurus, where more photo opportunities await. And this time, they’re with Donald, Mickey, Goofy and Pluto—all dressed in their merry best for a special breakfast. Priority seating can be made at any full-service Disney dining facility or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463).

Festival or the Season
November 28-December 24

You’ve come to know and love this Downtown Disney® event as “Christmastime in the City.” But because we’re celebrating holidays from many cultures, a new name seemed only fitting.

Throughout the Downtown Disney area, you’ll find fabulous window displays offering a look at a variety of traditions, and Santa Claus will be waiting for you at the Marketplace. Live entertainment will include carolers, Magic Music Days concerts, holiday trees, lights, a special photo opportunity location and more.

Perks in your 2003 pass sleeve

To get the most out of being a Walt Disney World® Passholder, remember to pick up your new Pass Sleeve from the Guest Relations window at any Theme Park beginning on January 1, 2004. You’ll find a world of special offers!

Just fore Passholders
Savings on the Big Courses

Through December 31, 2003, you can tee up to savings of 30% off Day Visitor Rates for you and up to three Guests. Tee times at this rate are limited, and may be made up to 14 days in advance by calling (407) WDW-GOLF (939-4653). Advance reservations are required.

Savings on the Mini Courses

You take some off your score, we’ll take some off the price. Deal? Okay, we’ll take some off the price anyway—50% off the regular rates on Disney’s Miniature Golf Courses to be exact! On top of that, you can bring up to three Guests for 15% off each. Just watch that mini slice!

Cirque du Soleil
Exclusive offer on an exclusive show

Have you heard the buzz about the Cirque du Soleil® show, La Nouba™? The music. The performances. The costumes. Better yet, have you seen it for yourself? Well, we’re going to give you the perfect opportunity to do so. Because right now you can enjoy the show for only $59.00* for Category 3 seats on performances now through December 6, 2003!

In addition to the great rate, you’ll also receive a Passholder exclusive (and fashionable) Cirque du Soleil clown nose. You don’t have to wear it ... but then you run the risk of hurting the clowns’ feelings.

To enjoy this great deal on this Walt Disney World-exclusive show, call (407) 939-7604 today.

*Price is subject to change without notice. Please arrive a minimum of one hour prior to show time. Advance reservations required. Clown nose must be picked up at Cirque du Soleil merchandise location on day of show. Must present ticket to receive nose (one per ticket only). Tickets and noses based on availability. Restrictions apply.

Save on a room with a view?
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

As a Passholder, you can take advantage of special savings on a Savannah View room at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Talk about a truly moving experience—you’ll overlook a living canvas of animals roaming just outside your window! And now through 12/26/03 (excluding 11/25-11/27/03), you can escape to this lush African adventure for just $149** (plus tax) per night. The number of rooms available with this offer is limited, so hurry and book to enjoy the savings of $126* per night!

Just call (407) 560-PASS (7277) and ask for code AMI.

*Savings based on non-discounted rate for same room.
**Additional per-adult charges apply if more than two adults (18 or older) per room. Prices and other terms subject to change without notice. No group rates or other discounts apply. Valid Passholder ID. required at check-in. Advance reservations required. Other Resorts and room types available at varying rates.

New Year. New Offers.
Both Happy

The hardest part of our two New Year’s Eve offers is choosing which one to take advantage of.

On one hand, you have the Cirque du Soleil® show, La Nouba™ celebration. Not only is it a celebration of the New Year, but also of the show’s fifth anniversary. So, for an additional $18 per regular-priced ticket, you can come out and enjoy a glass of champagne, a limited-edition show program (including a special insert autographed by the performers) and a masterfully scored evening of entertainment.

On the other hand, you have the New Year’s Eve party on Pleasure Island. The Island is transformed into a kinetic street party complete with live music from big-name talent, like Blondie, the Sugar Hill Gang and Jeff Kashiwa! You’ll also enjoy delicious desserts, a champagne toast at midnight and a special fireworks spectacular. Not to mention the variety of exciting clubs you can visit. And here’s the happiest part—as a Passholder, all this can be yours for just $69 (plus tax) if you purchase by December 15, 2003. That’s a $10 savings off the retail price of the event!

To take advantage of either offer, call (407) 560-PASS (7277).

Pleasure Island offer is valid for Passholder and one Guest. Valid Passholder I.D. number required at time of purchase Valid I.D. and Passholder ticket require’ at time of entry. Guest must accompany the Passholder. Entertainment subject to change without notice.

You gotta get your Keys to the Kingdom!

A few Mickey Monitor staffers recently took in the Keys to the Kingdom tour to experience firsthand the cause of all the positive buzz among Passholders. What we discovered was an excursion filled with fun and fascinating facts, a revealing look at much of the magic behind the magic.

From hidden Mickeys to hidden Walts to the story of just what’s so haunted about The Haunted Mansion, you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for the details and features hidden in plain view throughout the Park. The tour even goes below ground into the fabled tunnels under the Magic Kingdom® Park, where scarce few Guests have tread.

Afterwards, we spoke with Clay Shoemaker, Tour Administrator, about some of the history behind the most popular tour going. He told us that guided tours have been available in Disney Parks since they first began at Disneyland® Resort in 1958. As these History and Heritage tours grew in popularity, so too did the number of questions put to tour guides about what happens backstage.

“Guests would always be interested in how things are run and how the magic is made,” Clay said. “So the groundwork was laid for what today has become the Keys to the Kingdom tour.”

So, next time you’re in the neighborhood, go get your Keys to the Kingdom. Don’t forget—Passholders receive a 15% discount off the regular price of the tour. Just call (407) WDW-TOUR (939-8687). Of course, the price is valid for Passholders only who must be 16 years or older. Advanced reservations are required.

Exclusive Quarterly Passholder Pin #4

By now you should be parading around the Theme Parks with your introductory “75 Years with Mickey” pin shining on your lanyard. And it’s probably right next to your Magic Kingdom Park and Disney-MGM “75 Years with Mickey” pins. Right? Well, make room for another one—the Disney’s Animal Kingdoms® Theme Park pin!

This limited-edition pin features Safari Mickey hanging out in his wacky khakis. You may purchase it beginning November 15, 2003 for $8.50 (plus tax), but only 7,500 are being issued, so get yours soon! And remember, there is a limit of two per Passholder per day.

This exciting Passholder-Exclusive Pin will be on sale at one location in each of the four Disney Theme Parks: Island Mercantile in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, The Sorcerer’s Hat in Disney-MGM Studios, Town Square Exposition Hall in the Magic Kingdom Park and Pin Central in Epcot®. All you have to do is show up and present your valid Passholder I.D.

Disney-MGM Studios “haunted” by hit film

Welcome, foolish mortals, to the ghoulish delights of moviemaking! Right now on Soundstage 4 at the Disney-MGM Studios, you can stand in the middle of an actual set from Walt Disney Pictures’ The Haunted Mansion, the eagerly anticipated movie based on one of the all-time greatest Disney attractions.

The gigantic ballroom set comes straight from Hollywood, where the film is being readied for its November 26 release. This is a very rare chance for you to “walk the set” before the film opens.

“The same set you will see on theater screens in November will be the one you can experience here in person,” said Walt Disney Imagineering Show Producer Theron Skees. “In a sense, you become part of the making of the movie.”

You may be familiar with the ballroom already, because it figures so prominently in recent trailers for the film, The set will be fully “dressed” with tables, lamps, drapery, and ornamentation, just as if a scene were about to be filmed. A huge staircase, enormous pipe organ, and an oversized fireplace are among the focal points, along with a generous supply of props, costumes, and artwork to round out the experience.

“This is where a pivotal scene takes place in the film,” Theron said. “It was perfect for our ‘story’ here, which is about how a major motion picture comes together.” Via video screens, you’ll meet members of the film cast and creative team, including Producer Don Hahn and Director Rob Minkoff, whose stellar credits include The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast.

The Making of The Haunted Mansion Movie will only materialize at Disney-MGM Studios through the end of this year. But since you’re a Passholder, you have more than a “ghost” of a chance to see it again and again.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort boasts popular rates

It’s big, beautiful and boisterous. But most of all, it’s a bargain. Our newest Resort celebrates pop culture from the ‘50s to the ‘90s with everything from pet rocks to platform shoes.

This just may be our funnest and funniest Resort. And if the giant Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head don’t make you giddy, the value-priced room rates will.

Popular icons, gad-gets and catch phrases from each decade abound throughout. You’ll be immersed in pop artifacts everywhere you go. If they aren’t already built into the architecture, they’re standing tall just outside your room. Why, even the Resort’s three pools are in on the fun.

Ever had a memory rush? That happy feeling you get when you see something that triggers a memory from the past? This place is loaded with them. Just walking through the lobby is guaranteed to spark one.

The walls are filled with games, toys, and fashion fads from each decade, all displayed under glass. It’s sort of like a museum, except instead of old dinosaur bones, there are old 8-track tapes.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort, opening with all its pop culture nostalgia on December 14, 2003, is a perfect place to visit now that we’re celebrating the magic that happens when people gather together. To reserve your place in history, just call (407) 560-PASS (7277) today.

Disney artist on hand for Festival of the Masters

Get ready for the 28th Annual Festival of the Masters Art Show at the Downtown Disney® area November 7-9. It features over 150 artists from around the world including one who’s quite familiar to us here at the Mickey Monitor.

He’s Disney’s own Tom Shumilak, the artist responsible for the Festival’s signature art for the last three years. Tom will be on hand to sign posters and pins featuring his newest creation, Deco Mick.

“I wanted to do something abstract. See how far I could push it and still be true to Mickey,” Tom told us.

While you’re there, be sure to catch the work on display at the House of BIues® Folk Art Festival and take in the Magic Music Days Jazz Jam at Pleasure Island, too.

And be sure to tell Tom we said “Hi.”

Key Dates

NOVEMBER 2003
· Festival of the Masters — Nov. 7-9
See 150 award-winning artists and their creations at Downtown Disney West Side.

· ABC Super Soap Weekend — Nov. 8 & 9
Spend a weekend with Susan Lucci and more of your favorite ABC Daytime stars at Disney-MGM Studios.

· Celebrate Mickey... 75 lnspEARations — Nov. 18-April 2004
Be on the lookout for 75 very special tributes to Mickey throughout the Walt Disney World Resort.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2003
· Festival of the Seasons — Nov. 28-Dec. 24
Watch the Downtown Disney area turn into a winter wonderland with lights, enchanting window displays and Santa Claus himself.

· Holidays Around the World — Nov. 28-Dec. 30
Celebrate the season throughout the eleven countries of World Showcase in Epcot.

· Holiday Décor — Nov. 28-Dec. 30
See Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Disney-MGM Studios decked out in their holiday best.

· Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Nov.30,Dec.2,4,5,7,9, 11,12,14,16,18 & 19
Enjoy snowfalls, parades, cocoa... and Mickey, 7 p.m. until midnight each night in the Magic Kingdom Park.

· Teddy Bear and Doll Weekend — Dec. 5-7
Be part of this annual event featuring over 40 unique bear and doll artists at Epcot. Call (407) 827-7600.

· Pleasure Island New Year’s Eve — Dec. 31
Ring in the New Year with an Island-wide party full of live music, dancing and fireworks, 8:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m.

JANUARY 2004
· Atlanta Braves Spring Training Tickets on Sale — Jan. 3
They’re back. Spring Training begins in March, so get your tickets soon!

· Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Reservations — Jan. 5
Start making your reservations for stays starting late spring!

· Passholder Cruise — Jan. 25
Sail away on our second Passholder Disney Cruise Line® vacation! Book online at disneycruise.com or call 1(800) 370-3086 and ask for booking code APC.

Passholders have a blast at Mission: SPACE preview

A bold group of Passholder “pioneers” have earned a special place in Disney history for being among the first to ride Mission: SPACE. And if their enthusiasm is any indication, the new Epcot® attraction is going to top everyone’s must-do list.

“I’ve been coming to Disney since I was little girl, but there’s never been anything like this,” said Alma Lahens, a young Miami teacher. “I almost can’t describe it. It’s so real!”

The amazing level of realism and detail immerses every Guest in the Mission: SPACE experience, beginning when each is given a crew title and hands-on tasks to perform. After the cheek-stretching liftoff straight into the sunny sky (a favorite part of the voyage), lunar orbits propel the X-2 rocket toward Mars, where more surprises await.

Longtime Passholder Carolyn Mercer of Palm Coast, Florida rode the attraction with her family.

“I remember when my son Mark was a baby, sitting on my lap while we watched the TV coverage of the first men walking on the moon," Carolyn said. “Now we’ve all been to Mars together, twice!” The Mercers plan to ride many more times, though apparently another intrepid space explorer already holds the Mission: SPACE riding record.

“A cast member told us that someone rode 60 times!” said Alma. “We’re going to call some of our friends right now and tell them they have to ride it, too!”