Disney World Blog Discussing Parks, Resorts, Discounts and Dining | Only WDWorld

Disney World Salutes Hollywood Classic Movies With Min & Bill's Dockside Diner

2012-01-18T06:38:00.000-05:00

At Disney's Hollywood Studios, theme park guests will find themselves surrounded with an unbelievable amount of tributes to Hollywood, California and the legendary movies that have been created there.

Min and Bill

For those of you not familiar with the 1930 film, Min and Bill, it revolves around Min Divot, who owns a dockside inn and her fisherman husband Bill. The movie starred Marie Dressler and Walter Beery. It also led to Dressler winning the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1931 for her performance.

Min and Bill was a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) production and it makes sense that you may see it included at Disney's Hollywood Studios since the theme park was originally called Disney-MGM Studios due to the licensing agreement that Disney had with MGM.

Min & Bill's Dockside Diner

At Disney's Hollywood Studios, Min & Bill's Dockside Diner can be found along the shores of Echo Lake in the shape of Bill's fishing trawler, tying in to the theme of the movie. Although the Diner does not float, it appears to be a complete boat from all angles. The boat is given the clever name "S.S. Down The Hatch" using the nautical references to tie to the fact that you can purchase food here.

Disney Imagineers also used the architectural style that was popular in the 1930's around Hollywood called "California Crazy" in the design of this diner. Buildings like these were very popular and were designed to instantly catch a customer's eye and make a lasting impression.

Secret Tribute To Hollywood Classic Movies

Besides the obvious tribute to the classic film Min and Bill, Disney also decided to "hide" references to several other Hollywood Classic Movies in this area. If you notice the crates that appear at first glance to just be dockside props, they each have special addresses on them that are worth noticing.

The above crate is addressed to George Bailey of Bedford Falls, New York and was sent from Wainwright Enterprises. Jimmy Stewart fans will quickly recognize this reference to "It's A Wonderful Life."

This crate is addressed to none other than Scarlet O'Hara at the Tara Plantation. Certainly you recognize this reference to "Gone With The Wind."

This classic film may be harder for some, but Orson Welles fans will recognize that Charles Foster Kane receiving a package from the "Rosebud Sled Company" refers to "Citizen Kane."

Max Bialystock is the intended recipient of this crate. Musical fans will instantly recognize this a crate that pays homage to "The Producers."

The last crate is addressed to Rick's American Cafe in Casablanca, Morocco that is gives away the title of this well known Humphrey Bogart classic "Casablanca" that is also referenced with an entire scene in "The Great Movie Ride."

Hollywood References Abound

Throughout Disney's Hollywood Studios there is a tremendous amount of references to Hollywood for those with a sharp eye. Min & Bill's Dockside Diner is a great example of how a Disney theme park snack stand can be so much more than a place to get a bite to eat.

The Ultimate Christmas Lighting Display: Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights

2011-11-30T06:04:00.000-05:00

There may be no greater display of Holiday Lights than the one that resides at the Walt Disney World Resort. From it's early beginnings in Little Rock, Arkansas at the home of Jennings Osborne to its current home in Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Osborne Family Spectacle Of Dancing Lights has been a Holiday tradition for millions to enjoy.

Osborne Family Dancing Spectacle Of Lights

Awesome, Amazing, Jaw-Dropping, Awe-Inspiring, & Spectacular are just a few of the words that one could use to describe the Osborne Family Dancing Spectacle Of Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

It all started in 1986 when Jennings Osborne's 6 year old daughter Breezy asked him if he would hang some Christmas lights on their house in Little Rock, Arkansas. This grew each year until in 1993 they had amassed over 3,00,000 lights in their display.

The neighbors were no longer endeared with the display and filed a law suit to make it stop. The Osborne's needed to find a new location for their now famous display.

In 1995, the Walt Disney World Resort gladly offered to become the new permanent home for this one of a kind Christmas light spectacle and the number of lights quickly grew to over 4,000,000.

It is appropriate that this "Ultimate Christmas Lighting Display" appears on the Streets Of America section of Hollywood Studios, since Holiday Lighting Displays are truly an American tradition.

2011 marks the 17th year that the lights have appeared at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It is a process that begins in August and runs through the end of October to get all of the lights installed. Each year the display keeps getting bigger and better with new additions to make it even more amazing.

The pictures below are amazing, but they do not do justice to walking down the Streets Of America in the middle of it all with the artificial snow falling and the music blaring just trying to take it all it. This is something that every Disney World fan should strive to experience for themselves!

The 2011 version of the Osborne Family Spectacle Of Dancing Lights will appear from November 10th, 2011 - January 7th, 2012. Viewing the Lights is free with your paid Hollywood Studios admission.

Tune-In Lounge: Adult Oasis At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-10-14T15:07:00.001-04:00

The Tune-In Lounge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is one of those places that you can walk by a hundred times and never know that it is there. Disney World does such a good just of creating atmosphere and fake storefronts, especially in Hollywood Studios that many people never give the neon sign above a non-descript door a second glance. Within that door is an Adult Oasis that can provide a wonderful escape and chance to relax during a busy day.

This tiny alcove next to the 50’s Prime Time Café is a fully stocked bar that services patrons waiting to be seated in the restaurant or those who know to venture through its own doorway beneath the neon sign.

The mirrored wall behind the bar makes the size of the space at first appear to be much larger than it is. Once you get past the optical illusion you realize how intimate the setting is.

Once seated at the bar you can order one of the specialty cocktails with names like:

• Blue “Glo-Tini”
• Dad’s Electric Lemonade
• Mowie Wowie (pictured above)
• Grandma’s Picnic Punch

Each concoction comes one of Dad's "Experimental Electric Ice Cubes." Who said that kids are the only ones that get to have fun.

There is a selection of beers on tap, bottled beers, full bar for mixed drinks, and of course soft drinks.

If you are not in the mood for an alcoholic beverage you can also order one of the 50’s Prime Time Café’s Milkshakes or Malts, including the famous PB&J Milkshake (pictured above.)

If you have not tried the PB&J Milkshake before and you are a fan of milkshakes, I would highly recommend it. Also you get a full glass and enough to completely fill the glass again in the metal mixing cup, all for less than the price of one beer!

This air-conditioned respite from the long lines and hot sun is just the break many adults are looking for when they are touring Disney’s Hollywood Studios without children. The bar is first come first serve and the full menu of the 50’s Prime Time Café is available if you care to eat at the bar.

Children are allowed in this area, but typically they are there while waiting for their table to become available in the restaurant.

You can also enjoy the themed waiting area, complete with TV’s and 50’s programming.

During your next trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios make sure you check out the Tune-In Lounge and take the time to relax and enjoy your day at Disney World.

Celebrate Disney World's 40th Anniversary By Visiting One Man's Dream At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-09-25T21:39:00.000-04:00

The Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate its 40th Anniversary on October 1, 2011. One of the best places to learn more about the formative times that lead to the development of Disney's Project X is inside of One Man's Dream at Disney Hollywood Studios.

Project X

The code name for the Florida Project that Disney was working on was referred to as Project X. Within the One Man's Dream attraction you will find a recreation of the conference room where Walt Disney filmed his now famous video telling the public about what would eventually become the Walt Disney World Resort.

Within this mock-up you can see several of the drawings and proposed layouts that were created.

Remember that the plans that Walt Disney had created for this new venture was much more than establishing an East Coast version of Disneyland. He wanted to use the vast amount of land to create a prototype city, where many of his ideas around city planning and transportation methods could come to fruition.

This was the time that Walt Disney also presented his idea for EPCOT - Experimental Prototype City Of Tomorrow. Although Epcot was never built exactly as Walt envisioned it, many of the forward thinking principals of city planning, transportation, and public services were incorporated into the design of the Walt Disney World Resort and its theme parks.

If you look really closely at this set you will find a marked up version of the script that guided Walt's dialogue for the filmed presentation.

Walt's Narration

Here is an excerpt from the script:

Welcome to a little bit of Florida here in California. This is where the planning is taking place for our so called Disney World Project...So the sketches and plans you will see today are simply a starting point--our first overall thinking. Everything in this room may change time and time again as we move ahead. But the basic philosophy of what we're planning for Disney World is going to remain very much as it is right now. We know what our goals are: we know what we hope to accomplish. And believe me, it's the most exciting and challenging assignment we have ever tackled at Walt Disney Productions.

Today I want to share with you some of our thinking about Disney World.

Happy 40th Anniversary Disney World!

As Disney World celebrates its 40th anniversary, it continues to change and grow in its attempt to improve and "plus" itself. We at Only WDWorld look forward to celebrating the 40th anniversary of Disney World and many more in the future. Despite all of the changes it still exudes the passion and exuberance of the man who started it all - Walt Disney.

Voyage Of The Little Mermaid At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-08-23T23:16:00.001-04:00

Since 1992 the Voyage Of The Little Mermaid has been charming audiences at Disney's Hollywood Studios. This 15 minute show gives Disney World guests a condensed retelling of the story using black light puppets, lasers, animated film, audio animatronic creatures, and live action singing and acting.

Voyage Of The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid holds a special place in Disney Studios Animated Film history. It is recognized as the start of the 2nd Golden Age of Disney Animation. The 1989 classic animated film certainly deserves a prominent place in the Disney World Theme Park that is dedicated to Hollywood and movies.

The experience starts in a light-hearted nautical themed pre-show area. Throughout the area where you wait to enter the actual theater is a collection of "fictional" nautical items that few people take the time to explore. They are very funny and worth your time to check out while you are waiting.

The theater itself places the audience in an undersea environment, ready to explore the world of aquatic life and mermaids.

They use lasers, mist, wind and water effects to really bring the audience into the action of the show.

The black light puppetry is amazing. There are nearly 100 puppets that are used during the show, setting the stage for the action of the animated film that the show is based upon.

Ariel is played by a live actress that sings the classic songs from the film. She also deals with a huge Ursula that is 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide.

Ultimately Ariel gets her prince, as she and Eric are reunited. Ariel's father, King Triton, is faced with the difficult decision to let his daughter follow her wish and become human.

The show is wonderfully presented and does a great job of retelling the movie in an engaging manner that continues to thrill audiences after 19 years.

Must See Disney World Attraction

The Voyage Of The Little Mermaid is a Must See Disney World Attraction for all ages. Although it can be too scary for the youngest Disney World guests, this does appeal to a large range of ages. This show is well done with the mixture of different presentation medias from water effects to puppets to live action. This show has it all. Make sure you check it out during your next visit to Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Muppet Labs Make Science Fun At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-07-21T22:03:00.000-04:00

Muppet Labs is the home of Muppet favorites Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his faithful assistant Beaker. At Disney's Hollywood Studios, where the Muppets call home at the Walt Disney World Resort, there are a number of great signs from Muppet Labs that you should definitely check out.

Muppet Labs: U-Do-It Experiment

The Muppets are the masters of the gag. At Muppets Labs they bring their own brand of science to entertain and make you laugh. The series of U-Do-It experiments are designed to give you some fun "tricks" to take home.

The Tongue & Ear Theory

This trick involves the old notion that it is impossible to stick out your tongue and touch your ear.

Proceed as follows:

Ask the person nearby: "Can you stick out your tongue and touch your ear?"
99.3% of the time they will say: "That is impossible!"
Show them they are in error by just:
- Sticking out your tongue
- Touching your ear (with your hand.)

Remember that Science can be sneaky sometimes!

The Phantom Fingertip Phenomenon

This is a great trick to amaze friends at home:

Holding your index fingers in front of you close, but not touching (see above picture)
Looking directly between these fingertips, stare at some distant object.
Eureka! A phantom fingertip should float in midair before your very eyes!

The Rate Of Rumor Rebound

This is a research based experiment while you are standing in one of Disney World's characteristic long lines:

Studies show that our rumor will get back to you 32.7 minutes after you share it with the person standing next to you in line.

Here is the RUMOR:

"I saw ELVIS waiting in line a Muppet Vision 3D."

Did you realize that the Muppet Labs invented the Water Fountain? Yes, this was just another refreshing service from Muppet Labs Department of Rehydration & Thirst Quenchification.

The Muppet Labs are even known to conduct experiments at exits to attractions, like this Mob Psychology Experiment at the exit to Muppet Vision 3D conducted by the Dept. of Line Engineering.

The Muppet Labs Dept. Of Line Engineering also creates helpful signs to let you know how much longer you have to go in your journey to the attraction.

Muppets Bring Fun To Disney's Hollywood Studios

The Muppets bring a tremendously fun element to Disney's Hollywood Studios. There are a wonderful collection of gags and signs that any Hollywood Studios guest should take the time to wander the area around the Muppet Vision 3D Theater. There are so many items to catch the you will never see it all in just one visit. These signs from the Muppet Labs are just a small taste of what there is to enjoy.

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue At Disney World

2011-06-22T22:21:00.001-04:00

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue is the much anticipated upgrade to the 20 year old Star Tours Attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios. This collaboration between Lucasfilm (including George Lucas himself), the creators of the Star Wars Movies and the Disney Imagineers delivers an amazing attraction for fans of all ages.

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue
Star Tours originally opened at the then MGM Studios in 1989. It operated for over 20 years until September of 2010 before the major overhaul took place. The changes to the ride itself are amazing and any Star Tours and/or Star Wars Fan is certain to enjoy it. They have added an element of variation to the ride with a total of 54 different combinations of scenes that you may enjoy including scenes on 6 different settings that will be familiar to Star Wars fans. You randomly visit two of those setting plus enjoy one of 3 different openings and one of 3 different closing scenes.

The physical changes start from the outside. The signage as depicted above has changed to reflect the added "The Adventures Continue" to the name.

Once you enter the show building you will see the familiar Starspeeder with R2D2, but upon closer inspection this starspeeder is now the Starspeeder 1000 model instead of the original Starspeeder 3000. This change was made to reflect the fact that this storyline actually takes place earlier than that of the previous version of the attraction.

You will also notice that C-3PO is entirely gold colored, instead of the mixed version that was previously there. You will also find out that C-3PO along with many of your favorite Star Wars characters now make a much more prominent appearance in the attraction.

In the main room with the Starspeeder 1000 there is a large video screen that was continually showing interesting information like this Flight Arrival Screen shown in multiple languages (above and below). They also showed short video clips depicting the various places that your Star Tours Flight might take you to.

Off to the side as you get closer to the attraction entry area you will find an RX-24 (Rex) model droid with a "Defective - Return To Factory" label on it. Star Tours Fans will recognize Rex as their pilot in the original version of the attraction.

Fans of the original Star Tours will also recognize these bird-like droids from the original attraction queue, although now they are kept in cages in order to keep them out of trouble.

As to be expected the detail is amazing in the attraction queue. Above is a picture of more droids that you may notice while you are moving through the line.

The droid pictured above is working at a security station that is scanning luggage with humorous results. Definitely worth checking out.

As you reach the top of the ramp just before being assigned to your Starspeeder 1000 you will encounter this chatty droid.

Aly San San is the spokesbot for Star Tours and she gives you the briefing during the pre-boarding video.

These maintenance robots provide some humor during the pre-boarding video.

Also during the pre-boarding video you see how C-3PO ends up aboard the Starspeeder 1000 instead of the droid who is supposed to pilot the craft.

Finally it is time to board the Starspeeder 1000 to enjoy the flight.

A Sequel That Is Better Than The Original

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue is one of those rare cases where the sequel is better than the original. The collaboration that took place between the Disney Imagineers and George Lucas and his Lucasfilm crew did an amazing job of updating the attraction and bringing more "true" Star Wars elements into the attraction.

Fans of the original attraction will be pleased with the tributes to the original. New fans will be impressed with the random ride sequences that will cause you to want to come back again and again to see them all. You need to ride a minimum of three times to see all of the elements at least once and most likely it will take more than that to see them all.

The upgraded sound and video along with adding the element of 3-D makes the simulated journey even more realistic.

Lastly, they added the element of "The Rebel Spy", where one of the passengers in the Starspeeder 1000 is singled out to be "The Rebel Spy." Great idea, and another way to keep the ride interesting and fun for Disney World Guests. We expected a lot and our expectations were surpassed. That doesn't happen too often, but Disney did this one right and deserve credit.

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue is an absolute must for your next Disney World Vacation!

Former Hollywood Landmark - Carthay Circle Theater Is Recreated At Disney World

2011-05-29T16:41:00.000-04:00

At Disney's Hollywood Studios, where you can visit the "Hollywood That Never Was," you can also see a recreation of a Hollywood Landmark Theater that no longer exists in the "real" Hollywood in California. On Sunset Boulevard of Hollywood Studios you can find the Carthay Circle Theater, which is famous for hosting premiers for some of Hollywood's best known movies including Gone With The Wind and Disney classics Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs & Fantasia.

Carthay Circle Theater

The original Carthay Circle Theater resided at 6316 San Vicente Boulevard and opened in 1926. It became one of the most famous movie theaters in Los Angeles during Hollywood's Golden Age.

On December 21, 1937 the Carthay Circle Theater became tied to Disney forever. That was the day that Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs premiered to a star studded audience. Little did the assembled celebrities know at the time, but the first feature length animated film by Walt Disney was to create a phenomena that was previously unheard of taking mere cartoons into the forefront of Hollywood Entertainment.

Within the Disney World version of the Carthay Circle Theater you can discover several pictures that were taken during the momentous premiere of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs.

Walt Disney And Lillian At The Premier Of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs.

Celebrities wait in line outside the theater with Costumed Dwarfs At The Premier.

Pioneer Of Fantasound

The other noted Disney premier to be held at the Carthay Circle Theater was Fantasia in 1940. Not only was Fantasia a film that was many years ahead of its time, but the Carthay Circle Theater became one of two theaters in the country to install special "Fantasound" Equipment so that the audience could enjoy the movie in stereo sound. This was the pre-cursor to the advanced sound systems that movie goers take for granted today.

Carthay Circle Theater - Only At Disney's Hollywood Studios Today

Unfortunately today you can only find the Carthay Circle Theater at Disney's Hollywood Studios. This retail location is the only testament to the original besides pictures, since the Hollywood original was demolished in 1969 after being considered obsolete.

When you visit Disney's Hollywood Studios take note that this Sunset Boulevard Landmark is a re-creation of a Hollywood Legend that played a prime role in Disney company history. Take the time to go inside and check out the pictures of the original and soak up some of that Hollywood atmosphere.

Pixar Pals Countdown To Fun! Parade At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-04-10T08:59:00.000-04:00

The current parade at Disney's Hollywood Studios is a lively affair with all of your favorite characters from the great Pixar animated Classic Movies. You will see 6 different films represented during the Pixar Pals Countdown To Fun! Parade including: The Incredibles, Monsters Inc., Up!, Ratatouille, Toy Story 3, and A Bug's Life.

Pixar Pals Countdown To Fun Parade
The newest parade at Disney World just exudes fun. The Pixar Pals Countdown To Fun! Parade at Disney's Hollywood Studios includes floats, dancers, and an unbelievable number of characters from 6 great Disney Pixar Animated Films.

The music sets the stage for this upbeat parade and the song they use is a remake of the Todd Rundgren classic: "Bang The Drum All Day." The tune is instantly recognizable and will have you wanting to sing and dance along with the characters and performers.

The Incredibles
Leading off the Pixar Pals Countdown To Fun! Parade are the characters from The Incredibles. On the ground they have Elastigirl (aka Mrs. Incredible) and Frozone. There are also many brightly attired performers including some on scooters to help keep the energy level high and to engage the Hollywood Studios crowd. On the red and yellow Countdown to Fun Float is none other than Mr. Incredible dancing to the music.

A Bug's Life
The next Pixar film represented is the 1998 classic A Bug's Life. The float is a recreation of the P.T. Flea's Circus Caravan from the film with Francis prominently positioned in a saxophone.

Preceding the float you will find Flik and Dot making their way along the parade route with performers in colorful ladybug costumes.

P.T. Flea has never seen his circus so well advertised. The float instantly brings back memories from the movie. The overall float design is excellent and looks great.

You can see Gypsy riding on the back of the float and it is followed by Slim, the walking stick bug. Seeing these characters made me want to see the movie again (which I am sure is part of the goal of including them in the parade!).

Ratatouille

Next up is the float representing the adorable "little Chef Remy" from Ratatouille. The float returns to Countdown to Fun! style, but adds it's unique flavor by making the blocks look like cheese.

The characters on the floats like Remy were very active and were constantly dancing to the music and waving to the crowd.

Monsters Inc.

There couldn't be a parade of Pixar characters without including Mike Wazowski, Sulley, and the gang from Monsters Inc. Their float is an ingenious recreation of the Scream Floor with Mike and Sulley along for the ride.

The float depicts the Scream Floor and the large canisters that are used to store the screams that are collected. Also high above you can see the doors that are used to transport from Monstropolis to the human world. The details are amazing. There is even a tote board that shows the scare totals with Sullivan (Sulley) having a slight lead over his nemesis Randall.

Up!

The heart tugging Pixar film Up! is represented next with your favorite characters: Russell, Dug, and Carl Fredricksen. Leading the way in the parade are Wilderness Explorer Russell and Dug the Dog.

Carl Fredricksen rides the float and impresses the crowds with his dance moves. Note the balloons that are worked into the design of the float.

Toy Story 3

Last, but not least the characters from Toy Story 3 are represented. Leading the way for the Toy Story gang are Mr. Potatohead, Jessie, and Bullseye.

The float for the Toy Story characters incorporates many of the great classic toys that you see in the movies like: Speak and Spell, Tinker Toys, and Barrel of Monkeys. You will also see Buzz Lightyear and Woody take center stage on the float. The representation of Buzz Lightyear's spaceship and the little green aliens at the top of the float are great.

You will also see the "villain" of Toy Story 3 - Lots-'O-Huggin Bear making his appearance on the float as well.

Parade Worth Seeing

The Pixar Pals Countdown To Fun! Parade is definitely one that is worth seeing. This high energy parade will have you singing along and excited to see all of the characters from some of your favorite Disney Pixar films.

It is definitely worth your time to make sure that you catch this parade during your next visit to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Whether you have children or you just love the memorable characters from these Disney Pixar movies you will enjoy the parade.

Disney World Fans Await The Return Of Star Tours

2011-03-17T06:04:00.000-04:00

Disney World Fans are anxiously awaiting the May 20th return of the Star Tours attraction to Disney's Hollywood Studios. After 20 years of thrilling fans, this Star Wars based attraction is getting a much anticipated upgrade that is sure to please.

Star Tours - The Adventure Continues
Over the past several months little bits and pieces revealing the changes to Star Tours have been released by various Disney sources. Although we won't have to wait much longer until the new attraction in unveiled, I thought it would be helpful to gather together all that has been revealed in one article.

Timeline
One of the first things that we learned about the "new" Star Tours is that it takes place much earlier in time from the original Star Tours. The original is said to have taken place shortly after Episode VI: Return Of The Jedi. The new Star Tours will take place many years earlier shortly after Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith.

Since we are in an earlier time we will not be able to travel in the same Starspeeder 3000, since it did not exist. Instead we will travel in the earlier model Starspeeder 1000 (pictured above.)

Since the original Star Tours was the "first flight" for Rex, when we travel back in time we encounter different droids. The new pilot is an AC Series droid referred to as "Ace"(pictured above) that has a personality that is much different from Rex.

We will also meet a new "spokesbot" for Star Tours modeled after the WA-7 "Waitress Droid" from Episode II: Attack Of The Clones called "Aly San San" (pictured above.)

Star Power
The new Star Tours is adding characters that you recognize from the Star Wars Movies. The first star encounter will occur as your Starspeeder 1000 is about to take off. Although "ACE" is supposed to be your pilot, C-3PO ends up being the Droid in the pilot seat as you take off on your adventure.

Other Star Wars Characters that you should recognize that have been mentioned are: R2D2, Boba Fett, Princess Leia, Yoda, Admiral Ackbar, Chewbacca, and Darth Vader.

Although you won't see George Lucas during your Star Tours adventure, he has been involved with the story of the new Star Tours. In the above picture he is shown with C-3PO sitting in the pilot's seat of the Starspeeder 1000.

Multiple Destinations and Dimensions
One of the first changes that you will notice is that Star Tours - The Adventure Continues will be in 3-D. This added dimension will increase the realism of the Starspeeder 1000 adventure. The other big change is that the attraction will have multiple possible destinations and story lines, so it will NOT be the same ride each time. Possible destinations include experiencing a podrace on Tatooine, or racing through the cities on the planet of Coruscant. Others journey also wait to be discovered by Star Wars Fans.

Disney World Fans Count Down The Days!
Although Star Tours located Disney World and Disneyland are closed for refurbishment, the Disney World version will open first on May 20th (Disneyland follows on June 3rd). Disney World has smartly decided to coordinate the re-opening of Star Tours with the opening weekend of the Star Wars Weekend.

Count down the days Star Tours Fans and Star Wars Fans alike! The new adventure will be upon us soon and it certainly appears that this adventure will need to be experienced many times in order to see all that it has to offer.

Rope Drop At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-03-02T06:12:00.001-05:00

Each morning at Disney's Hollywood Studios a short performance takes place as Disney World guests eagerly await the time that they can head towards their favorite attractions.

Hollywood Studios Park Opening
Shortly before Disney's Hollywood Studios opens (usually at 9:00 AM), Disney World guests are allowed to present their tickets and proceed through the turnstiles at the front gates.

They are then allowed to walk onto Hollywood Blvd and fill the street until it is time for the park to officially open. This allows park guests to avoid a rush through the turnstiles and keeps things more relaxed. There is much more space for guests to congregate on Hollywood Blvd.

At about 5 minutes before the park opening you will see some cast members come out in character and interact with the crowd. Since this is Hollywood Studios they are movie producers, of course, and they are shooting the opening of their production and need a crowd scene with audience participation.

Here is a short video clip showing the "mini-show" that served as the official park opening:

Once the "show" is complete the park is now open and everyone is free to head to Toy Story Mania (literally) to either get in line to ride or get a FASTPASS for later!

Discover Walt Disney At One Man's Dream In Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-02-14T21:31:00.000-05:00

Everyone has heard of Walt Disney, but how many people know much about the man behind the name that has become synonymous with family entertainment?

Within Disney's Hollywood Studios you will discover an attraction that is called One Man's Dream that will help you to learn more about the special visionary that not only created Mickey Mouse, but who invented the standard by which all modern theme parks are measured.

One Man's Dream
The attraction called One Man's Dream is layed out like a timeline of Walt Disney's life, taking you on a self paced tour from his earliest achievements and accolades up through the development of Disneyland and the planning for Walt Disney World.

The use of genuine artifacts from the Disney Archives makes this much more than just a retelling of Walt's life. The ability to see some of these items, like Walt's 2nd Grade Desk (pictured above ) allows you to make a connection with Walt the person.

Alice Comedy
In the 1920's Walt made a splash by creating the Alice Cartoons which featured a young girl put into the world of the cartoons.

Walt had recruited Virginia Davis to play the role of Alice in what turned out to be a series of well over 50 Alice Comedy Cartoons.

The Alice Comedies had titles like "Alice Hunting In Africa" and "Alice's Spooky Adventure."

Oswald & Mickey

Walt Disney's first well-known animated character was Oswald The Lucky Rabbit, but after losing the rights to Oswald, Walt had to come up with a new character,. The year was 1928 and during a transcontinental train ride with his wife Lillian he can up with the idea for a Mouse that he wanted to call "Mortimer." Lillian didn't like that name and suggested the more friendly name of Mickey which became the name of Walt's mouse character.

Mickey Mouse made his debut in 1928 in the cartoon "Steamboat Willie." Soon Mickey Mouse became Walt's most memorable character with the sound and dialogue synchronized perfectly to the on-screen action. Walt even performed the voice for Mickey Mouse.

Innovations In Animation

Walt Disney may be best known for the advancements that he developed for the art form of animation. From the start of synchronizing the dialogue with the action, bigger and better developments were right around the corner. For the breakthrough Silly Symphony Flowers and Trees, Disney introduced color to animation.

One of the most amazing developments was the Multiplane Camera that gave the animated films a sense of depth. This camera broke up the painted scene into several sections on different layers that the camera could move through to show the illusion of depth. This added a sense of realism to the animated films that had never existed before.

At One Man's Dream, you can see an actual Disney Multiplane Camera on display.

This lead up to Disney's first full length animated feature film - "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," which was filmed in Multiplane Technicolor.

The next innovation that came was during the production of "Fantasia." Here Disney sought to create a true concert experience by improving the sound experience for the movie. They recorded on 8 tracks in the studio and mixed it down to 4 discrete tracks that fed into the very first surround speaker system. This was called "Fantasound" and it is nearly identical to audio systems in use today.

Just A Small Taste Of One Man's Dream

This is just a small taste of what you will find when you visit One Man's Dream at Disney's Hollywood Studios. There is plenty more to learn about Disney's progression of animated movies, true life adventures, and theme park creation.

Any fan of Walt Disney the man or the Disney Parks will enjoy this opportunity to learn more about the history of this amazing man.

Toy Story Fun At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-01-25T21:25:00.000-05:00

Toy Story Mania! is certainly the most popular attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios. As soon as the park opens a crowd races to either get in line for the attraction or get in line for a FastPass so that they can ride it later. With all of the excitement for Toy Story Mania!, many people never notice what the Toy Story characters are up to on the building across the street.

Toy Story Command Post
There is a small building that looks like a brick ticket booth that is next to the FastPass Machines for Toy Story Mania! On this tiny building with windows that have their blinds drawn closed, is a sketch worth investigating.

This sketch is labeled Command Post and it looks like something that perhaps Andy has drawn up for his little Green Army Men.

On the left hand side of the drawing labeled as PLAN A is the RECON Position with the Signal Corps Communicator being shown partially lowered from the building. The picture below shows the real life enactment of PLAN A.

You can see how the little Green Army Men have used Tinker Toys and a Jump Rope to lower the Speak & Spell into position.

On the right side of the Command Post Drawing is PLAN B. Here you see a larger Top Secret Message Decoder being placed into position.

The industrious Green Army Men have created Tinker Toy cranes to lower the Scrabble Board (aka Secret Message Decoder.) If you look closely there are two messages on the Scrabble Board: "You've Got A Friend In Me" and "Meet The Toys."

Toy Story Fun

In the hectic rush to get inside the building for the Toy Story Mania! attraction many people miss what is going on outside the building. There is much to notice. The Disney World Imagineers continue to place surprises and treats for Disney World guests to discover beyond riding the attractions and viewing the shows. Take the time to see them and immerse yourselves in the stories that surround you!

Sid Cahuenga's One Of A Kind Shop At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2011-01-20T21:17:00.000-05:00

Sid Cahuenga's One Of A Kind Shop is certainly NOT your typical Disney World Gift Shop. In this shop will find unique and autographed items from stars of Movies, Sports, and Music that you can purchase.

Sid Cahuenga's One Of A Kind

You will find Sid Cahuenga's One Of A Kind Shop in Disney's Hollywood Studios on Hollywood Boulevard on the left just as you enter through the turnstiles. Many people treat the shop as Hollywood atmosphere and never bother to look inside. They are really missing out.

Inside of the shop you will find an amazing assortment of movie artifacts and signed photographs from Movie Stars, Sports Heroes, and Music Stars and Legends. One of the prized items for sale is the coat that Dick Van Dyke (Bert) wore during the production of Mary Poppins. It can be yours for $6,500.

This shop is filled with amazing items. Even if you have no intention of buying anything, it is well worth your time to visit the shop and browse around. You are sure to find autographed pictured of some of your favorite actors, actresses, and musicians.

In the above picture you can see that an Audrey Hepburn autographed photo will cost you $1,600, but you can get an autographed Raquel Welch photo for a steal at only $200.

In the above picture you can get autographed pictures of you favorite musical idols like Simon and Garfunkel, Pete Townsend from the Who, Barbara Streisand, and Diana Ross. You can also find current Disney Channel Stars like Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez.

Pirates Of The Caribbean fans can even find autographed pictures of Captain Jack Sparrow himself Johnny Depp. I was impressed to actually see several different autographed pictures of Johnny Depp including one of a much younger version with the cast of 21 Jump Street.

Star Wars fans will also be delighted to know that there is a very large selection of autographed pictures of Star Wars characters. You can definitely see that the actors that attend the Star Wars Weekends were well represented.

One of the highlights of my resent visit to Sid Cahuenga's was seeing the authentic Walt Disney autograph that was available for sale. It was a check signed by Walt in a nice framed display that can be yours for just $5,500.

Don't Just Walk By

Sid Cahuenga's One Of A Kind Shop is a shop that you should definitely visit, even if you are just window shopping. It is rarely crowded, which means that you can easily take your time exploring the store and seeing all of the interesting pictures and artifacts. Probably the most interesting part of browsing is realizing that these items are for sale, and if you decided that you really had to have it you could!

So don't just walk by during your next trip to Disney's Hollywood Studios, make a point of visiting Sid Cahuenga's because you never know what you may find.

International Brotherhood Of Second Assistant Directors

2010-12-22T20:21:00.000-05:00

On Sunset Boulevard at Disney's Hollywood Studios you will see a reference to the IBSAD aka International Brotherhood Of Second Assistant Directors in a window on the 2nd floor of the Villains in Vogue Shop.

IBSAD
Disney's Hollywood Studios pays homage to classic Hollywood by recreating famous Hollywood landmarks, using billboards to convey messages from 1920's Hollywood and by placing Hollywood movie making references throughout. Once such reference is the mention of the International Brotherhood Of Second Assistant Directors.

During the height of Hollywood popularity nepotism (the act of hiring family members whether they were qualified or not) ran rampant. Often the "not so talented" family member would be given the fancy title of Second Assistant Director and the responsibility of standing behind the director while holding their coffee for them.

The catch phase on the sign stating: "We're Standing Behind You!" was a reference to the job duties of the Family Member - Second Assistant Directors.

Note: Second Assistant Director is a real job title for people in the film and television industry today. The mention about the humorous job duties of the "not so talented" family member is not intended to belittle the duties of the present day Second Assistant Directors.

Hollywood Studios Details
Details like the mention of the IBSAD are plentiful at Disney's Hollywood Studios. One doesn't have to look far to see them, but you may have missed many of them on Sunset Boulevard in your haste to get to the Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror and the Rock 'n Roller Coaster. During your next Disney World Vacation take the time to spot some of these classic Disney Imagineering details.

Osborne Family Spectacle Of Dancing Lights At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-11-26T12:38:00.000-05:00

There may be no greater display of Holiday Lights than the one that resides at Disney World. From it's early beginnings in Little Rock, Arkansas at the home of Jennings Osborne to its current home in Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Osborne Family Spectacle Of Dancing Lights has been a Holiday tradition for millions to enjoy.

Osborne Family Dancing Spectacle Of Lights
Awesome, Amazing, Jaw-Dropping, Awe-Inspiring, & Spectacular are just a few of the words that one could use to describe the Osborne Family Dancing Spectacle Of Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

It all started in 1986 when Jennings Osborne's 6 year old daughter Breezy asked him if he would hang some Christmas lights on their house in Little Rock, Arkansas. This grew each year until in 1993 they had amassed over 3,00,000 lights in their display.

The neighbors were no longer endeared with the display and filed a law suit to make it stop. The Osborne's needed to find a new location for their now famous display.

In 1995, the Walt Disney World Resort gladly offered to become the new permanent home for this one of a kind Christmas light spectacle and the number of lights quickly grew to over 4,000,000.

2010 marks the 16th year that the lights have appeared at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It is a process that begins in August and runs through the end of October to get all of the lights installed. Each year the display keeps getting bigger and better with new additions to make it even more amazing.

The pictures below are amazing, but they do not do justice to walking down the Streets Of America in the middle of it all with the artificial snow falling and the music blaring just trying to take it all it. This is something that every Disney Worldd fan should strive to experience for themselves!

The 2010 version of the Osborne Family Spectacle Of Dancing Lights will appear from November 8th, 2010 - January 3rd, 2011. Viewing the Lights is free with your paid Hollywood Studios admission.

Happy Holidays!

Beauty And The Beast At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-11-09T20:27:00.000-05:00

Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage is one of the longest running shows at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It opened on the same day that the movie opened in theaters, November 22, 1991. This was the first time that a Disney Stage Show opened on the same day as the movie that inspired it.

Beauty and the Beast
Even before the movie premiered, Disney knew they had something special with the story of Beauty and the Beast. They were so confident that it would be a hit that they designed a Stage Show to be performed at what was then Disney MGM Studios.

When it debuted in 1991, "Beauty and the Beast" was performed in the original Theater Of The Stars that was located where Sunset Boulevard now begins. It was temporarily moved to a theater in the Streets of America area of the park in 1993 while Sunset Blvd was being constructed. It wasn't until 1994 that it moved into its current home in the new 1500 seat Theater Of The Stars located near the Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror on Sunset Boulevard.

The 25 minute long performance features the voices of many of the original actors from the animated classic including: Robby Benson (Beast), Angela Lansbury (Mrs. Potts, the teapot), Jerry Orbach (Lumiere, the candelabra), David Ogden Stiers of "M*A*S*H" (Cogsworth, the clock) and young Bradley Pierce (Chip, the cup).

The show is lively and well choreographed. It is also fast paced and sure to hold the attention of your entire family.

Fans of the film will recognize some of their favorite songs from the movie like "Be Our Guest" and the touching "Beauty and the Beast."

Beauty and the Beast is an excellent stage show that sometimes gets forgotten in the shadow of the Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror. The entertainment is top notch as you watch the story of Belle, Gaston, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, Chip, and the Beast unfold in front of you.

Disney does a great job in translating an animated movie into a memorable live stage production experience that you will want to make a part of each visit to Disney's Hollywood Studios. The singing, dancing, and costumes are all top notch. Make you you put "Beauty and the Beast" on your list of must see attractions for your next Disney World vacation.

Hollywood Boulevard At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-10-20T22:47:00.000-04:00

At Disney's Hollywood Studios you are immersed in a vision of an idyllic Hollywood in its heyday. An amalgamation of all that was good in Hollywood brought together in one compact setting.

Hollywood Boulevard
At the entrance to Disney's Hollywood Studios you enter Hollywood's equivalent of Main Street: Hollywood Boulevard. This Disney World creation has taken authentic portions of real buildings from Hollywood, California during the 1930's and placed them together on Hollywood Boulevard. This creates a feeling of a place you know and recognize, but never actually existed in this form.

During the 1930's America looked to Hollywood to escape the reality of the Great Depression. People embraced the glamour and excitement that was associated in the city known for creating cinematic magic. This was Hollywood at its peak. The buildings were fresh and new and the excitement level was high. Disney Imagineers took elements throughout Hollywood and placed them together to make "their" Hollywood.

As you enter Hollywood Studios on the left you will find Sid Cahuenga's One-of-a-Kind shop. The name comes from the Cahuenga Pass near the Hollywood Bowl, but the architecture of the shop represents the bungalow style that was popular in the 1920's in the Hollywood/Los Angeles area. The bungalow style appeared before the Craftsman style that came into fashion later.

On your right as you enter Disney's Hollywood Studios you will find Oscar's Super Service Station (and Classic Car Souvenirs) that mimics the Art Deco Gas Stations that came about in the 1930's.

Just inside the entrance to the park you will find this replica of the Crossroads of the World tower that marked the first outdoor shopping center.

The Darkroom takes the name of a similar location in Hollywood although the Disney World version uses the architecture of a completely different building found on Beverly Boulevard in Hollywood. This is a perfect example of how the Disney Imagineers mixed and matched styles in order to fit them together on their Hollywood Boulevard.

Also appearing throughout Hollywood Studios are billboards representing classic images of Hollywood, like this one of the Hollywoodland housing development.

The building for Pluto's Toy Palace actually copies the design of a Dog & Cat Hospital from Highland Avenue in Hollywood.

Adrian & Edith's Head to Toe shop is based upon the Chapman Market Building on Sixth Street in Los Angeles. The design firm was known for taking basic box buildings and adding decorative stucco to turn it into Spanish or Mexican detailing.

The Keystone Clothiers is based upon Owl Drug Company on the "real" Hollywood Boulevard built in 1934. The architectural firm credited with the design was Morgan, Walls, & Clements, who are recognized for creating the "look" of many of the classics buildings during the height of Hollywood's popularity.

Disney World's Hollywood

As you stroll down Hollywood Boulevard in Disney's Hollywood Studios you are met by many details of classic Hollywood that put you in the spirit of Hollywood at its best. This is a vision of the glamorous and magical Hollywood that inspired so many.

Disney World has captured that magic of early Hollywood and makes it come alive each day for thousands of Disney World guests. There are many details that most park visitors will never notice in their pursuit of thrill rides and movie based attractions. What they will notice is that they are in a place that feels like Hollywood should, even though most have never been to the real Hollywood.

Note: Many details for this article were found in "The Imagineering Field Guide To Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World."

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-09-21T23:14:00.000-04:00

Disney World takes guests on a behind the scenes look at how stunts are done for a classic adventure movie like "Raiders Of The Lost Ark." In the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, you will see stunts re-enacted from your favorite scenes of this great George Lucas movie.

Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular
The Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular has been thrilling audiences at Disney's Hollywood Studios since August of 1989. Even after over 20 years, this attraction still draws large crowds to the action packed show. It often fills the 2,000 person theater to capacity. Disney FastPass is available to ensure that you are able to attend the show that best fits your schedule.

One of the favorite aspects of this show is that it asks for volunteers from the audience to perform as "Extras" during the movie scene re-enactments. The chosen audience members are briefly interviewed, get a chance to perform in front of the audience and then head off to wardrobe to get a costume to be part of the action later in the show. Note: Arrive early for the show in order to get a seat closer to the floor if you are interested in being a volunteer. Then when the time comes be enthusiastic and wave your arms to get "noticed." They only take adults over 18 for these volunteer positions.

Indiana Jones fans will love the classic scenes that are re-enacted starting with the famous scene where Indiana gets past all of the temple defenses to get the Golden Idol only to end up being chased by a 12 foot boulder.

After the opening, the stage is pulled out of the way to open up to a Cairo city scene where a well choreographed fight scene takes place. There is a lot of action going on and all of the stunt performers do an excellent job. Since a stunt show is about action, here are several pictures to capture the action as you will see acrobatics, fighting, daring rooftop maneuvers, zip lines, and finally an explosion.

The scene concludes with a giant explosion as a truck crashes and flips over. At the end of each scene they return to talk to the audience and make you feel that you are really behind the scenes of a real movie set.

The last big scene involves the German base and airfield where Indiana and Marion fight to escape the German Army. Here we see the classic showdown between Indiana Jones and the muscular German Mechanic as Marion is trying to control the German aircraft. Again pictures best convey the action as stunt fighting, shooting, and explosions make this a thrilling climax to the 32 minute show.

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Is A MUST SEE!

The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is a MUST SEE Disney World Attraction that should be on your list for every trip. No matter how many times you have seen this show it is still entertaining and exciting to watch. It reminds you better than any other attraction (besides Great Movie Ride) that Disney's Hollywood Studios is about Hollywood and the Movies. Here you see how they create some of the magic that you love.

Disney's Hollywood Studios: Crossroads Of The World

2010-09-08T21:40:00.000-04:00

Disney's Hollywood Studios is Disney World's tribute to Hollywood. Many of the buildings that you see in Disney's Hollywood Studios are patterned after actual buildings and landmarks from Hollywood, California.

Today we take a look at the Crossroads Of The World.

One of the first landmarks that catches your eye as you approach and enter Disney's Hollywood Studios is the Crossroads of the World. Its placement at the front of the park with its tower extending into the sky certainly gets your attention. On top of the tower is a globe and perched on that globe you will find Mickey Mouse himself joyfully greeting all park guests.

At Disney World the Crossroads Of The World is a functional gift shop and information station for Hollywood Studios (pictured below). Its bigger purpose is to serve as a weenie (Disney term) to catch your attention as you enter the park. You see it from a distance and you are automatically drawn to it. You want to get closer to see what it is.

When you get close you see the welcoming Mickey Mouse at the top of the art deco styled structure. Many people do not realize that this structure is a near identical copy of the structure of the same name in Hollywood(Pictured below).

Photo by Carol M. Highsmith

Crossroads Of The World

The original Crossroads Of The World is recognized as America's first outdoor shopping mall built in 1936 and designed by Robert V. Derrah. It is located at 6671 Sunset Boulevard. The tower structure that Disney World copied was 55 feet tall with an 8 foot diameter revolving globe on top. The shopping center followed Derrah's Streamline Moderne Style which was a branch of Art Deco. The main building of the shopping center was actually shaped line an ocean liner and the surrounding buildings were designed to look like cottages taking architectural styles from various ports of call like: Spanish, English, Oriental, French, and Cape Cod styles.

The era of the 1930s was considered the "Golden Age of Travel." During this time traveling by ocean liner was the ultimate travel experience and evoked thoughts of far away, beautiful places to explore. This influenced the art and architecture of that time.

Unfortunately nothing stays in its idealized state. Although the Crossroads Of The World still exisits, the shopping and dining that it was known for has been replaced with office space. During the 1970's the complex became run down and dilapidated. Fortunately new owners have revived the complex and rejuvinated it. Perhaps not the same as its hey day, it still makes for a photogenic tourist attraction which is a testiment to its bold architecture and styling.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney Imagineers sought out classic images and structures throughout Hollywood's history to bring to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Many of the buildings that Disney has duplicated do not exist in the "real" Hollywood today. Over time Only WDWorld will continue to show you the Disney Version compared to the Hollywood originals. For many people this will be the only way for them to experience the classic era of Hollywood.

Make a point during your next Hollywood Studios visit to look closer at the Crossroads Of The World and tell your family of the story of the original structure in Hollywood.

Disney World Hidden Secret: The Muppets Leave The Key Under The Mat For You

2010-08-25T21:51:00.002-04:00

When visiting the Muppet Vision 3D attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios you can discover one of Disney World's Hidden Secrets.

Throughout the Disney World Parks and Resorts there are a number of unadvertised "special" treats for those that discover them. Most guests will walk right by and never know that they even existed. For those that do find out about them, it provides a little extra Disney Magic to enjoy during your trip.

One such hidden treat can be found on the way to see the Muppet Show.

Muppets Leave The Key Under The Mat
Once you enter the Muppet Vision 3D building, as you go through the turnstiles look immediately to your right. You will see the box office pictured below.

If you read the sign hanging from the box office window it says:

"Back in 5 minutes

key is under mat"

If you look down you will discover that there is a Welcome mat on the floor just below the Box Office Window as pictured above.

If you take the time to reach down and actually lift up the mat you will discover that there really is a key under the mat!

Be The Disney Expert!

The next time that you visit Disney World remember this secret and impress your family. Although this is something that is relatively simple, you will be amazed at how impressed people will be that you knew to look under the mat.

Over time you will collect a number of these "Hidden Disney Secrets" and they will become the special things that your family will want to do each time they come to Disney World.

Last Tour To Endor At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-08-16T08:53:00.000-04:00

On Saturday August 14th, Disney's Hollywood Studios hosted the Last Tour To Endor special event which was part of the Star Wars Celebration V in Orlando, FL.

Last Tour To Endor
Besides the weather being incredibly hot and humid, the event lived up to expectations. The crowd was filled with guests wearing their favorite Star Wars based costumes and that only added to the fun. This was a special hard ticket event (separate admission fee) that took over Disney's Hollywood Studios after it closed at 7:00pm and ran until 1:00 AM.

As a special way to say goodbye to the current version of Star Tours, the Hollywood Studios attraction that has been in place for over 20 years, the event provided an evening for Star Wars fans to get together, enjoy special shows as only Disney can provide, and experience the Hollywood Studios attractions.
One of the highlight events of the evening took place a the theater for the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular.

Indiana Jones Meets Star Wars
A special show was developed just for this event by the Disney Imagineers with the blessing of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. It took a fun look at combining Indiana Jones and Star Wars into one universe.

The show was called: "Raiders of the Lost Jedi Temple of Doom: A Fan Film of Epic Proportions."

Special Star Wars Celebrity Guests that were in town for Celebration V attended the show and appeared as "extras" in the performance. During the 1st of the showings (which the pictures and video are from) we saw: Warwick Davis - Wicket the Ewok, Ashley Eckstein - voice of Ahsoka Tano in Clone Wars, Jeremy Bulloch - the original Boba Fett, Matt Lanter - voice of Anakin Skywalker in Clone Wars, & Dee Bradley Bakeria - Voice of the Clones and others in Clone Wars.

For those of you already familiar with the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios there were many similarities as the new show greatly embellished the "normal" show with a multitude Star Wars characters.

Here is a video clip of the marketplace fight scene:

Here is a 2nd clip showing the fantastic end scene with the fight in front of the airplane, only instead of a german mechanic, Indiana Jones faces Darth Vader.

The show was amazing and loved by the packed stadium filled with Star Wars fans.

Although it was amazing to see this special show, I hope that they (Disney World) will make it a regular part of the Star Wars Weekends that are held each year at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The show was well done and it would be a shame for it not to be performed again.

Hyperspace Hoopla

One performance that does appear at Star Wars Weekends did make a smashing appearance at the Last Tour To Endor: the Hyperspace Hoopla.

The Hyperspace Hoopla was the craziest dance contest you have ever seen, as the characters from Star Wars battled for the title of best dance routine. The results were hilarious.

In the above picture you see the famed Cantina Band performing and doing some awesome dance moves.

To no ones surprise Darth Vader stole the show with his Michael Jackson imitation and Stormtrooper back-up dancers.

Not to be outdone, the women of Star Wars performed their own stunning dance routines.

The above picture shows all of the contestants up on the stage all at once.

Another group shot with many of the Star Wars characters on the stage at the same time.

Star Wars Fireworks

It would not be a Disney World Special Event and the Last Tour to Endor fireworks did not disappoint. The 12 minute fireworks display combined music and sound bites from all of the Star Wars Movies and the fireworks were synchonized to folow along with the action.

The result was one teriffic show. This was the first fireworks show that I have seen firsthand at Disney's Hollywood Studios and the results were impressive. The guests had to crowd together to get a go view, but the combination of low level fireworks and special effects were tremendous. These fireworks left a lasting impression on all in attendance.

Last Tour To Endor

The Last Tour To Endor was a success. There were always things that could have been done differently, but I think everyone was very impressed with the special shows and entertainment that was there on this special night.

Rock 'n Glow Dance Party At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-08-10T21:37:00.001-04:00

The Rock 'n Glow Dance Party at Disney's Hollywood Studios is part of Disney World's Summer Nightastic! Events for 2010. Five nights a week this summer the nights at Hollywood Studios are Rocking!

Mulch, Sweat, 'n Shears

The resident Rock band from Disney's Hollywood Studios, aka Mulch, Sweat, 'n Shears makes their way from the Streets of America in their landscaping truck to the center of attention. Serving as the headliner for the Rock 'n Glow Dance Party, Mulch, Sweat, 'n Shears gets the attention they deserve. They are playing their classic rock on a newly constructed stage in front of the giant Sorcerer Mickey Hat.

Readers of Only WDWorld may remember that Mulch, Sweat, 'n Shears was voted Disney World's Best Band earlier this year.

This band combines great rock music with an engaging personality to be a fan favorite. It was great to see them on the big stage.

The only regret from this particular night is that a couple of my favorite band members were not performing and substitutes were in their place. Nonetheless it was still an entertaining show.

They are a band that performs well in front of a crowd and the fans appreciated it.

Summer Nightastic! At Hollywood Studios
The Rock n' Glow Dance Party added a fun spark of life to the night at Disney's Hollywood Studios. As a fan of Mulch, Sweat n' Shears it is great to see them literally get on the big stage and perform for a large audience.

They always put on a great show and this was no exception.

Rosie's Victory Garden At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-07-29T22:39:00.000-04:00

Rosie The Riveter At Disney's Hollywood Studios
Rosie The Riveter was a classic icon during World War II paying homage to the women who were supporting the war effort while their men were fighting overseas. At Disney's Hollywood Studios you will find their tribute to Rosie in their Rosie's All American Cafe.

Rosie's Victory Garden - Victory With Vegetables
In addition to the cafe, there is a Victory Garden, complete with vegetables planted near the quick service eatery.

Victory Gardens were part of a United States Government initiative to get the general public to plant their own vegetables in order to reduce the shortages caused by World War II.

Rationing of basic foods became a necessity during the war, so the United States government started rationing: cheese, milk, coffee, eggs, meat, sugar, and canned goods. It was also difficult during this time to harvest and transport fresh fruits and vegetables to market, so the goverment urged the citizens to do their part by planting "Victory Gardens."

An unbelievable 20 million Americans planted gardens during this time. These gardens sprung up in backyards, rooftops, and empty city lots. Neighbors got together and pooled their resources and shared their crops, all in support of their country.

The US Department of Agriculture estimates that 9-10 million tons of fruits and vegetables were harvested from the Victory Gardens, an amount equal to all commercial production of fresh vegetables at the time.

It is amazing what the American people can accomplish when the challenge is put before them.

Little Noticed Corner Of Hollywood Studios

The next time you are visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios take the time to veer off your path to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and visit Rosie's All American Cafe and the nearby Rosie's Victory Garden.

Most Hollywood Studios visitors do not know that this Victory Garden exists, even if they have visited the parks multiple times. Take the time to visit the garden and share with your family this little bit of history and the reminder of what the American people can accomplish when they band together with one purpose in mind.

Star Wars Jedi Training Academy At Disney's Hollywood Studios

2010-07-07T22:17:00.001-04:00

Has your child ever dreamed of being a Jedi? At Disney World they can train to become one!

Disney's Hollywood Studios has a Jedi Training Academy that allows young Padawans (Jedis in training) to receive instruction from a Jedi Master and face off against Darth Vader himself in a lightsaber duel.

Year Round Attraction

While the Jedi Training Academy was initially only available during Star Wars Weekends each year, the attraction proved to be so popular that it has become a year round event that occurs daily at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Jedi Training Academy
Several Times each day (check your show times guide as you enter the park) there is a 30 minute show where approximately 25 young Padawans are selected to participate. (Show up early if your child would like to be selected.)

Those who are selected are given a brown robe and lightsaber for their training (unfortunately you have to give them back at the end of the training, but still plenty of photo opportunities!)

The kids will learn the ways of the Force from a real Jedi Master, who will have them recite the sacred Jedi Oath and then teach them the ways of the Force and Jedi lightsaber fighting techniques.

Once they have mastered their training in an easy step by step process suitable for any age Jedi, they are in for a real challenge.

Stormtroopers and Darth Vader make an appearance to challenge these new Padawans. Each will have his or her chance to try out their newly practiced skills against Darth Vader himself.

Great Fun And Photo Opportunity
This is a great interactive Disney attraction and makes for great photo opportunities and memories as your young Jedi Knight takes on the infamous Darth Vader in a grueling lightsaber battle.

The adults in the audience are envious that they don't get their chance to channel the Force and battle Lord Vader themselves.

This is the type of special Disney activity that you will talk about long after the trip is over. It is certainly worthwhile to make this a must do at Disney's Hollywood Studios if you have children.

May The Force Be With You!