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Hello everyone,
Note: Some of you may wonder why I am posting this on the Character Central blog. Well, actually we pride ourselves in being the definitive source for all theme park characters around the world. Our database here at Character Central includes characters from the Universal theme parks, Hershey Park and Alton Towers, amongst others. It just so happens that most of our travels take us to the Disney Parks, and that tends to be where most of the characters we meet appear. Our name isn't Disney Character Central, it is Character Central. So with that taken care of let's get down to the subject at hand!
As you may be aware by now, my most favourite characters of all time and my childhood heroes are the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. First appearing in their comic book debut in May 1984 (they were previewed at comic book convention in New Hampshire on 5th May, to be precise!), the TMNT have gone on to become one of the most successful brands of all time. As well as the original, long running comic, they have spanned three separate animated TV series (1987-1996, 2003-2009 and 2012-present), a live action series (1997-1998), four live action films (1990, 1991, 1993 and 2014), two animated films (2007 and 2009), endless merchandise and further comic book series taking the TMNT to new and exciting heights.
In the early 1990's the Disney-MGM Studios (now Disney's Hollywood Studios - which celebrated its 25th anniversary yesterday) featured a show starring the TMNT and their friend April O'Neil (see, there was a Disney link here!), something which I would have given a limb to see as a kid! A while ago I found a book at work which had some photos of the old show, which I took some photos of on my old phone. Sadly, I no longer have access to the book, and the images aren't the greatest quality, but I thought I would share anyway.
When Nickelodeon bought the TMNT in 2009 they revitalised the brand and in 2012 launched the third incarnation of the Turtles in the new and current series seen on their network. One of the best things that Nickelodeon did was to launch the TMNT as characters at their Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida. Jon and I have been there and attended the special meal held by the TMNT, and it was one of the most exciting moments of my life - coming face to face with my heroes! You can read all about our wonderful experience at the Nick Suites, here. Some of my most favourite photos from that trip are below.
Last year the TMNT started appearing at other locations around the world, including a theme park in Germany, the Mall of America in Minnesota, and various theme park locations across the UK. In November last year they made an appearance at a local toy store, and I of course just had to be there!
This year the Nickelodeon series will enter its third season, and with no sign of slowing down - especially with a new movie on the way - we have a lot to look forward to with the TMNT.
Happy 30th Anniversary to the Heroes in a Half Shell, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
Dan.
Why not visit our dedicated pages for each individual Turtles here at Character Central!
Donatello
Michelangelo
Leonardo
Raphael
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Today is the 25th anniversary of the grand opening of Disney's Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Originally named the Disney-MGM Studios, the park has seen many new additions over the years, including characters!
So let's take a character filled tour of the Studios as we wish it a very Happy 25th Birthday!
Happy 25th Birthday Disney's Hollywood Studios!
A Belated Happy 16th Bitthday to Disney's Animal Kingdom
Last week saw the 16th anniversary of the opening of Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Sadly Jon and I were not available to post anything, but, better late than never, right?! So, here's a few pictures from our fun times at Animal Kingdom in celebration of its 16 years.
Dan.
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Hello everyone,
This past weekend Jon and I were fortunate enough to be at Disneyland Paris for Spider-Man's official Disney Parks debut!
We were up bright and early Saturday morning, and were first in line to meet him on his big day!
His photo location is at the Backlot area of the park, next to the Blockbuster Cafe (which recently received an Iron Man overlay). Throughout the Studios all the way down to the location there are new signs advertising the experience. Once you arrive at the area there is an outdoor queue area with a wait time board.
Once you get through the outdoor queue you proceed to enter the main building which has a short indoor queue featuring oversized pages from the Daily Bugle (the newspaper Peter Parker works for).
Then finally it's your turn! You are made to enter behind a set piece which serves as a frame for your photo. Spider-Man is there waiting for you! The Cast Member will ask for your camera, or you can just get a PhotoPass one. Strike your best pose, you're about to be headline news!
And voila... You just made the front page of the Daily Bugle! Neat, huh?
This is a great new addition to the park, and one I am sure will be popular with the boys (as well as girls of course, but more so with boys I would imagine). Disney did a good job of the photo location, and Spider-Man himself looks great.
We have had a lot of questions on our Facebook and Twitter about whether Spider-Man can speak, and I can confirm that he does.
Officially Spider-Man will be at Disneyland Paris until the 10th July, but given how popular he is already, I would anticipate he would stay longer. I guess we shall have to wait and see!
Dan.
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Hello everyone,
This year for the first time, Disneyland Paris have introduced a brand new spring celebration, which started on 5th April and will run until 22nd June.
Titled Swing into Spring, it comes with two brand new entertainment offerings, character greetings, decorations and more!
Jon and I of course had to pay a visit, and I have put together the following comprehensive round-up, as a guide for those planning a trip, and something to make you want to plan a trip if you aren't already!
Disney's Spring Promenade
The key event during Swing into Spring is Disney's Spring Promenade, a dazzling show-parade centred around Central Plaza and the Royal Castle Stage.
Let's take a look at some photos from the Promenade, then I'll give a brief guide to how it works, as it has multiple viewing areas which offer different experiences.
The Promenade runs up to five times daily, from mid-morning to around 2 or 3pm, and as I said above, has multiple vantage points. The best place, in our opinion, to watch the performance is in front of the Castle Stage. From here you get to see Clarabelle and the band playing, as well as the cavalcade pass by twice (once out to Central Plaza, and once back again). Not only that, you of course get the view of the gorgeous Sleeping Beauty Castle behind.
Other good places to watch include on the south side of Central Plaza at the top of Main Street, facing the Castle, and at the intersection of where the cavalcade section leaves the Castle Stage area and enters Central Plaza (from here you get two viewings of the cavalcade, too).
We absolutely love the Spring Promenade. The music is very catchy, and embodies the true Main Street spirit, the costumes are bright and colourful for both characters and performers, and the entire thing has an energy to it that really brings the park to life with the celebration of spring.
Note that there are certain days that the show does not take place. Check the park schedule for details.
Welcome to Spring
Welcome to Spring is a small show that takes place at the Town Square Gazebo at the entrance to Main Street USA. It features the Citizens of Main Street who sing and dance along to a selection of classic Main Street tunes, including the wonderful 'Walking Right Down the Middle of Main Street USA'. As with the Promenade, the show brings a really good energy to Main Street and adds music and movement to Town Square that is colourful and fun. Although it doesn't feature characters, it is well worth stopping by to watch it.
Performances take place up to about five times daily. However, as with the Promenade, there are certain days that the show does not take place. Check the park schedule for details.
After the show, the Citizens of Main Street walk around Town Square greeting guests for a short while.
The best place to see the show is on the street between the Emporium and the former photography store (soon to be Flora's), facing the gazebo. There are usually coloured mats on the ground marking the line where you can stand.
Character Greetings
No seasonal event at Disneyland Paris would be complete without character greetings! During Swing into Spring you can find Minnie Mouse and Duffy at the Boarding House on Main Street USA wearing very special, particularly cute, spring outfits! Sometimes they meet together, sometimes separately. The schedule can change daily, so be sure to ask an attending Cast Member who is appearing at the location on the day of your visit.
When Minnie and Duffy aren't at the Boarding House, Russell from Disney-PIXAR's 'UP' greets his fans.
Of course, there are other regular meet 'n' greets throughout the park, as there usually are, but because of the spring season, some may have moved, or are appearing more often than they usually do.
On the days when the Promenade doesn't run, Mary Poppins and Bert greet guests in Town Square. Sometimes Mr Penguin comes with them, but not always. Unfortunately he did not when we were there, hence why he isn't in the photo below.
Rabbit has also been out and about a lot more than usual, since he is in the Promenade show, and can randomly appear in Fantasyland or other areas of the park - we even found him in Discoveryland one afternoon with Pooh!
Rapunzel has been given her own special location for the season, which features a large heart topiary with the word 'Spring' across it, and a small Pascal statue in the details. Be warned that she is ridiculously popular, and lines can be two hours long before her greeting time starts! (Literally!)
Decorations and Topiaries
For the brand new season, Disneyland Paris have worked exceptionally hard in a short amount of time to bring some stunning new decorations and topiaries to the park, starting at Main Street Station, working up through Town Square, and culminating in the spectacular topiaries found on Central Plaza.
Spring Magical Moments at the Disneyland Hotel
The Disneyland Hotel's Thursday through Sunday 'Magical Moment' has had several spring themed versions since the start of the season, and while it is not easy to predict when they will have a particular theme, just be aware that they can happen on any given day (of the days it runs). When it does happen the music will be different, and the characters will wear cute spring outfits.
And Finally...
There are other small things that all add to the experience that unfortunately we didn't get pictures of, such as the horses who pull the horse-drawn streetcars wearing cute spring bonnets and special spring cupcakes at the Cable Car Bake Shop.
Throughout the park you can also pick up a special "Junior Explorer's Guide" to the park, which tells young guests about horticulture and nature at Disneyland Paris. It's a cute idea, and makes for a nice free souvenir from the season!
On top of all that, over at Disney Village, you can celebrate spring with special kiosks selling baked goods and merchandise, and topiaries and decorations scattered throughout.
If you're considering a trip to Disneyland Paris for the spring season, you can check prices and availability on the official Disneyland Paris website, hereg(214505)a(1961589)) . They have some great offers right now, including up to 25% off hotel and and park tickets, and free half board meal plans!
Have a great weekend everyone,
Dan. |
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 | Happy 22nd Birthday Disneyland Paris! | |
| DisneyDan
Saturday, April 12, 2014 3:32:01 PM |
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Hello everyone,
Today is the 22nd anniversary of the grand opening of Disneyland Paris' main theme park!
Often described as the most beautiful of all the Magic Kingdom style parks, it features the gorgeous Sleeping Beauty Castle, and incredible detail in every land, attraction, boutique and restaurant. Parc Disneyland at Disneyland Paris is simply stunning.
So, in our usual tribute style, I'm going to post some of Character Central' pictures below, for your enjoyment!
Happy 22nd Birthday Disneyland Paris!
Of course, let's not forget that Disneyland paris features it's second park the Walt Disney Studios, plus seven themed hotels, Golf Disneyland, Lake Disney and Disney Village!
Happy 22nd Birthday Disneyland Paris!
Dan. |
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 | Happy 71st Birthday Chip 'n' Dale! | |
| DisneyDan
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 11:28:58 AM |
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Today is the 71st birthday of the adorable furry duo, Chip and Dale! First appearing on this day in 1943, they were seen causing Pluto trouble in "Private Pluto" - something which they have continued to do ever since! With their distinctive high pitched voices, hysterical laughter and obsession for acorns, they have won the hearts of millions world over.
At the Disney Parks and Resorts they can always be found greeting guests, starring in the parades and shows, and generally causing mischief where ever they go. We love meeting Chip 'n' Dale, and they are amongst our absolute favourite Disney pals to play with at the parks.
Thanks for all the fun and memories, and here's to many more years of cheeky laughter and fun!
Happy 71st Birthday Chip 'n' Dale!
In our usual style, here's a photo cavalcade of some of the fun times we've had with them at the parks over the years.
Dan. |
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Hello everyone,
Today we are pleased to announce the exciting news that Oswald the Lucky Rabbit finally made his official Disney Parks debut at Tokyo DisneySea in Japan! Greeting fans at a special location in American Waterfront at the park, he has been received with instant love from the entire Disney community, and a sense of completeness now that he has taken his rightful place in the Disney family.
Although we personally could not be there at his debut, many fan pages and accounts are posting pictures across the internet, and it's almost impossible not to find good photos of him! The Disney Parks Blog even posted about his debut, and shared this photo, which I have inserted below.
Image (C) The Walt Disney Company
Jon and I will be at Tokyo Disney Resort in less than 8 weeks time, and intend to be at park opening to meet him on our first day at the resort!
Over at Disneyland in California, another very rare rabbit appeared this week for the Springtime Roundup at Big Thunder Ranch - Roger Rabbit! Having been part of the Bunny Hop on Main Street last year, Roger now joins the new festivities at the Ranch, greeting guests for some Easter fun. We understand that he is expected to appear daily until the Springtime Roundup ends on April 20th, but of course that is subject to change at any time. Character Central forum member Dan-Tasmic! posted some photos of Roger greeting just yesterday, in our Springtime Roundup topic, here on the forum.
Ok, that's all for now.
Dan. |
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 | Happy Mother's Day! | |
| DisneyDan
Sunday, March 30, 2014 5:07:28 AM |
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Today in the UK and Ireland it is Mother's Day. Let's celebrate the occasion with some photos of some of our favourite Disney mums!
Some are not actual mothers, but take on the role in one way or another, like Wendy Darling for example.
Happy Mother's Day to all the mums out there, have a great day!
Dan. |
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 | Time to Spring Forward! | |
| DisneyDan
Saturday, March 29, 2014 1:54:47 PM |
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To all our friends and fans across Europe, tonight it's time to Spring Forward!
Here to remind you are the perpetually late White Rabbit and the master of timekeeping, Cogsworth!
Dan. |
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No trip to a Disney Park would be complete without meeting everybody's favourite star, and the world's most famous mouse, Mickey! I've compiled a list of our top places to meet him at each of the 11 Disney Parks around the world. Some of them are not as obvious as you would initially anticipate, as I have tried to offer suggestions of places where you find him wearing different outfits, or where lines are shorter.
So, let's take a look! I've organised the locations purely by destination, and not in any kind of rank order.
1. Disneyland Park at the Disneyland Resort in California
Disneyland is the gateway to the whimsical world of Toontown, and where better to meet Mickey than in his house there? Depending on your time of visiting, Mickey could be wearing a variety of outfits which include his classic suit, his bandleader outfit, Steamboat Willie outfit or Sorcerer's Apprentice hat and gown. You never know which one he'll be wearing, and while you wait you get to explore the magical home of the world's most beloved mouse!
2. Disney California Adventure at the Disneyland Resort in California
When Mickey visits DCA, he greets is fans on the historical Buena Vista Street, wearing his 1920's Los Angeles clothes. It's a cute outfit and a fitting location indeed.
3. Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
Mickey's home at the Magic Kingdom is in Town Square Theater on Main Street USA. Here Mickey feels most comfortable, and actually talks to guests whilst wearing his special magicians costume! What sort of conversation will you have with him?
Sadly we haven't yet visited Mickey at Town Square Theater since he started talking to guests. The photo above is from a previous visit. The picture below is one taken by our good friend Lori, who has been lucky enough to meet him since he started talking!
4. EPCOT at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
While visiting EPCOT, Mickey greets guests at the Character Spot. Although he doesn't wear a special outfit here, it is the only place you can meet him regularly in the park.
Note that the backdrop has changed since we last saw Mickey here, but remains largely similar.
5. Disney Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
At Disney's Hollywood Studios, Mickey wears his Sorcerer's Apprentice inside the Magic of Disney Animation building. Which spells will you help him conjure up?
6. Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
Join Mickey before he sets off on his next expedition, at the Adventurers Outpost on Discovery Island! Minnie is nearly always there too, also wearing her explorers costume.
7. Disneyland Park at Disneyland Paris
This one is a bit more obscure (you might have expected I had chose 'Meet Mickey Mouse' in Fantasyland), but I have chosen Discoveryland because when Mickey visits the retro-future he dons his special space suit. Although he doesn't come out daily in Discoveryland, unlike the rest of the locations listed above, it is fairly regular, and it is the only place in the world you will find Mickey wearing a space suit!
8. Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris
When he's filming on location at the Studios, Mickey greets fans wearing his classic outfit at Toon Plaza, in Toon Studios. The backdrop is nearly always that of his house back in Toontown.
9. Tokyo Disneyland at Tokyo Disney Resort
Again, you might have expected me to chose Mickey's permanent location in Toontown, but that can often get lines of 4 hours or more, and so I have picked somewhere a bit more "relaxed". Although he doesn't come out daily in Westernland, when he does, Mickey wears his special Western outfit. The Japanese call this a "free" character set, meaning he will walk around greeting guests, instead of having a multi-hour wait! Be warned though, when he appears, there will nearly always be hoards of Japanese fans screaming for the attention of their idol! The experience of watching them do that is alone worth meeting Mickey here over any structured location!
10. Tokyo DisneySea at Tokyo Disney Resort
Deep in the heart of the Lost River Delta, Mickey is on an excavation trip. When he's taking a break from digging up ancient ruins, he greets his fans in his tent, wearing his cute archaeologist outfit. This is one of the few places at Tokyo Disney Resort where a structured meet 'n' greet location has relatively "short" lines, too, making it a great place to visit Mickey and friends!
11. Hong Kong Disneyland at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Bears and gold are the main attraction in the little town of Grizzly Gulch. It's also where Mickey likes to hang out when visiting Hong Kong Disneyland, and he does it in style, wearing his excellent gold rush costume! Minnie nearly always appears alongside him, too.
Of course, these locations aren't the only places at the parks where you can meet the Big Cheese, but are the ones that I felt were different or unique in some way.
Dan. |
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