D23 Expo- 2017

This past week, the Disney community was rocked by D23. Those who don’t follow social media, the Bi-Annual event dominated the entertainment news world with breaking announcements of new additions and exciting changes to the Disney Theme Parks. Also, the Anaheim Convention saw a gathering of some of the most popular movie franchises including Marvel, Star Wars, and even a ‘few’ Princesses.

There was a lot of news to come out of D23 2017 but here are a few that really stuck out with me; both good….and bad.

1) Tron Roller Coaster Confirmed

Rumors have been going around about the possibility of the popular roller coaster from Shanghai Disneyland will be constructed at one of the Disney theme parks in the US. The rumor was confirmed but not to the extent we first thought. It was believed that Tron was going to take the place of Tomorrowland Speedway. However, based off the concept art rendering of the Tron entrance, it looks like it's going to be directly next to Space Mountain rather than kicking the speedway off its tracks. This left many fans relieved to see a classic ride remain which is a rarity as you will soon see.

2) Modes of Transportation

With growing competition with Uber, Disney’s response is with the announcement of the “Minnie Van”. These red with white polka dot family vans are going to bring all the Disney-whimsy along with the convenience you’d experience with taxis or Uber/Lyft drivers; which are a great alternatives to riding the bus for 45 minutes. It is currently in the soft opening stage at select resorts at WDW but- sooner than you think- guests will be able to use the ‘Lyft’ app to book these ‘TOO CUTE’ vehicles for a flat rate of $20 per one way trip.

Another big announcement out of the Disney rumor mill was the ‘Skyway’ Gondolas. The Disney Skyliner is scheduled for construction at the Walt Disney World Parks providing transportation to Hollywood Studios and Epcot from select WDW Resorts. Imagine the views that we're going to get!

3) Feature Films: Animated & Live Action

Not only did we get first looks at highly anticipated features like ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ and ‘A Wrinkle in Time’; but we were also we're blessed with the presence of collection of actors from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, 'Star Wars The Last Jedi', and those lucky audience members got to see one of the largest gatherings of Disney Princesses to date.

After much speculation that casting was hitting a dead end, Disney surprised us all with the announcement of two young stars and legendary actor- Will Smith- taking on the title roles of the live action adaptation of 'Aladdin'.

In the animated world, we got our first inside scoop of the highly anticipated sequels: 'Incredibles 2' and 'Ralph Breaks the Internet'. Brad Bird announced that 'The Incredibles' will pick up right where they left off in the first movie while Disney Animation Studios gave the audience an unforgettable scene where 'Wreck it Ralph' character Vanellope Von Schweetz is seen enjoying a slumber party with all the Disney Princesses. Needless to say, the Internet went crazy over that one!

4) A Star Wars Hotel

The one announcement that had me screaming was when they announced a totally immersive hotel experience that will take you right into the story of a galaxy far far away. Let me go put on my Rey costume and sign me up! More information to come- of course- but till then we have some pretty amazing concept art.

5)  Mickey's first ride

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway is set to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios replacing the iconic main attraction- The Great Movie Ride. As excited as I am to see Mickey star in very first theme park ride, I am saddened to hear of the closure of The Great Movie Ride. It was one of my favorites as a child and it will continue to be one of my Fondest Memories even as it closes in August of this year.

The new ride will utilize the same outdoor façade,  but will apply new technology that was described as 2.5 D.

For all of those who hate to see old attractions go, just remember that change is inevitable...

 Which leads me to number six…

6) Epcot - and the future of Future World & World Showcase

It was announced in small increments…

First they announce the confirmation of the Ratatouille Ride in France, then they announced a new video for the China pavilion, and then they said…Epcot to receive a new front entrance…

That’s when they showed the concept art. What we saw was the future of what EPCOT is turning into. We are seeing the phasing out of an educational theming and the increasing presence of Disney characters; both animation and live action. Then a rumor was confirmed…Guardians of the Galaxy will be taking over the Universe of Energy Pavilion.

Now…this is a subject I want to got further into in the future but here and now I want to be clear- I AM EXCITED. I always look forward to change and I truly believe that the changes coming to EPCOT is needed more than ever.

Another D23 ends and now we wait...

Who wants to join me for D23 2019?