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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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 | 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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Today, 12th March 2014, is the 12th anniversary of the grand opening of Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris.
A lot has changed over the last 12 years, and the park has continued to grow into its own identity; a park filled with great shows, thrilling attractions and of course our favourite Disney character friends.
The park is not without its flaws though, and while many often claim that is lacks the attraction count of the other parks it does have 14 permanent attractions, 2 long running "permanent" shows, a parade, character greetings, and of course shops and restaurants. Of those 14 attractions and 2 shows, 5 are completely unique to Walt Disney Studios, and many of the others have a definite Parisian twist or alterations to them to make them "distinctly Disneyland Paris".
Later this year the park will be opening a brand new attraction, again that will be completely unique, which will utilise new technologies. "Ratatouille: L'Aventure Totalement Toquée de Rémy" will whisk guests into the world of Remy and Emile from Disney-PIXAR's Ratatouille, shrinking them down to size in a magnificent Parisian adventure! As well as the attraction, the park will gain a brand new restaurant and a new store, too.
We very much look forward to the next 12 years as the Walt Disney Studios continues to grow. It'll bring more depth and more storytelling to its lands, binding together the magical worlds of Disney and the wonders of movie world.
For this photo tribute, I have deliberately left out many character photos, as we nearly always post characters shots to the blog anyway. I thought the park deserved some attention for its 12th birthday, and so nearly everything you see below are non-character photos, but of course, I have thrown a few character ones in for good measure!
Happy 12th Anniversary Walt Disney Studios Park!
Here's to the future!
Dan.
If you're considering a trip to Disneyland Paris, you can check prices and availability on the official Disneyland Paris website. They have some great offers right now, including up to 30% off hotel and and park tickets, and half board meal plan!
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 | Happy 61st Anniversary Peter Pan! | |
| DisneyDan
Wednesday, February 5, 2014 11:13:07 AM |
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Today, 5th February, is the 61st anniversary of the premiere of Walt Disney's classic, Peter Pan. Debuting at the Roxy Theatre in New York City in 1953, it is the studio's 14th animated feature film.
Peter Pan, his Lost Boys, the Darling children and the pirates have gone on to become some of the most iconic characters ever produced by Walt Disney. They feature in many parades, shows and attractions round the world, as well as still greeting their fans.
Just as time stands still in Neverland, time has been good to Peter Pan and friends, allowing them to continue to have adventures for the past six decades, bringing joy and happiness to millions across the world, with their two simple beliefs that you should never grow up and if you think of all the joy you'll find when you leave your worries behind, you really can fly.
Youthful and timeless, and not looking a day older than their debut in 1953, Peter Pan, Wendy and all their friends will continue to bring adventure to those who believe for many more years to come.
Happy 61st Anniversary Peter Pan and friends!
Here's a selection of pictures from our travels through Neverland with Peter and the gang over the years.
Dan. |
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| Happy 55th Anniversary Sleeping Beauty! | |
| DisneyDan
Wednesday, January 29, 2014 11:41:08 AM |
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Today, 29th January 2014, is the 55th anniversary of the release of Walt Disney's beloved masterpiece, Sleeping Beauty.
Despite the fact that the film was not released until 1959, Walt Disney opened Disneyland in 1955 with Sleeping Beauty Castle as it's central icon, an icon which has since been duplicated in Hong Kong Disneyland (2005), and vastly improved upon at Disneyland Paris (1992).
In our usual Character Central style, let's celebrate with a cavalcade of photos from the Disney Parks around the world.
Happy 55th Birthday Sleeping Beauty!
Dan.
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 | Happy 112th Birthday Walt Disney | |
| DisneyDan
Thursday, December 5, 2013 11:13:04 AM |
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Today is 5th December, which would have been Walt Disney's 112th birthday.
Born in Chicago on 5th December 1901 to Canadian father Elias and American mother Flora, Walt found himself growing up in a rapidly changing world. The automobile, electricity and telephones were amongst the new technologies that were gradually altering the way people went about their everyday lives.
Soon came World War I, and Walt found himself too young to enlist - but he did anyway!
While away he discovered his talent for drawing, and became known for decorating the helmets his comrades had found, with illustrations.
From there Walt developed his talents further, and found himself creating characters and shorts such as the Alice comedies and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit.
Sadly Oswald wasn't too lucky for Walt, but it did spur him onwards to develop a new character in 1928 - Mickey Mouse.
Mickey was Walt, and Walt was Mickey.
Walt Disney was a creative genius, who was far ahead of his time. Bringing a whole new definition to the world of film and television, Walt pioneered many new concepts and technologies.
Walt won more Oscars during his lifetime than any other person, a record that he still holds.
With his studio now one of the best in the world, Walt turned to other things. Bigger things.
Walt's ultimate dream was of course Disneyland; a place where anyone can come and have fun, away from reality.
In July 1955 Disneyland opened and has since become probably the most famous theme park in the world. Capturing Walt's very essence, and offering a true escape from the outside world, Disneyland was, and continues to be, the Happiest Place on Earth.
Of course, Walt's dream grew and grew, and so did Disneyland, to the point where Walt dreamt even bigger!
Florida was to be the home of Walt's final dream, one which sadly he did not get to see through to completion (having passed away in 1966).
Walt dreamt of a huge community where people not only lived and worked, but where they played an vacationed; known as EPCOT. A complete city built from the mind of this brilliant man.
Walt Disney World opened in October 1971 by his surviving brother and business partner, Roy, and was dedicated to Walt having changed the name from simply Disney World to Walt Disney World.
Although Walt's vision of EPCOT never came to fruition as he saw it, it certainly has come true. Walt Disney World has given Central Florida a different identity to what it had 50 years ago. From swamps to a metropolis filled with hotels, malls, other theme parks and indeed entire communities of people who live and work there. Walt Disney World itself has thousands of Cast Members who live and work at the resort, who come from all over the world, ensuring that Walt's final vision is forever captured in an amazing and colourful reality.
Over a century after his birth, we are on the brink of the 12th Disney Park opening (Shanghai, 2015), have a world filled with hundreds more movies, TV shows and even stores, a cruise line and much, much more.
All the parks have their own little nod to Walt and his dreams, remembering the man who started it all.
Walt Disney lived to entertain, and entertained for a living. He gave the world a slice of imagination and inspiration that is unrivalled, and that will continue for many more decades.
Happy 112th Birthday, Walt Disney. We thank you for your dedication to your dreams.
Dan. |
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 | Happy 5th Birthday Bolt! | |
| DisneyDan
Thursday, November 21, 2013 2:25:56 PM |
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Today, 21st November, is the 5th anniversary of the release of Disney's Bolt.
Bolt stars the title character, Bolt, along with new friends Mittens and Rhino.
Let's celebrate their big day with some photos of our adventures with the at the Disney Parks.
Happy 5th Birthday Bolt, Mittens and Rhino!
Dan. |
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 | Happy 85th Birthday Mickey and Minnie Mouse! | |
| DisneyDan
Monday, November 18, 2013 10:53:28 AM |
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Hello everyone,
Today is the 85th birthday of the two most famous mice in the world, Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
On 18th November 1928, Walt Disney's Steamboat Willie debuted to the public, and stars were born.
Without Mickey and Minnie, we wouldn't have the Disney company that we have today. For that we are eternally grateful to Walt Disney, and of course Mickey and Minnie, and look forward to many more decades of fun and laughter with them.
Happy 85th Birthday Mickey and Minnie!
In our usual style, here's a photo cavalcade of some of the magical adventures we've had with Mickey and Minnie at the Disney Parks and Resorts over the years.
Dan. |
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