New 3D Characters at Walt Disney World

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train 

Opens May 28 at 

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs announced that the “crowning jewel” of New Fantasyland, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, will officially open on May 28.  A special dedication ceremony was held today at Magic Kingdom Park, in which invited guests got a sneak peak at the new ride.   

Imagineers Bring Full 3D Audio-Animatronics to Life

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at Imagineers working on some of the most advanced Audio-Animatronics ever created!

Watch this video to see how they’re bringing them to life at the new Seven Dwarfs Mine Train attraction at Magic Kingdom Park.

Photos and videos are courtesy of Disney Parks and Walt Disney Imagineering.

Walt Disney would be proud to see his dreams coming alive in this new edition to WDW.

   

“Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is both literally and figuratively the centerpiece of New Fantasyland, so we knew it had to be something special,” Tom Staggs said. “The attraction appeals to everyone in the family and provides just the right blend of heart, humor, and thrill while keeping with the charm of this special land.” 

We found this video on YouTube - you are on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train thanks to  Attractions Magazine:


The exterior portion of the train ride reminds us a lot of Big Thunder Mountain, but once inside, there is no comparison. According to Walt Disney Company, "the family-style coaster features an innovative new ride system that allows cars to swing back and forth as they travel down the track. The cars are even designed to reflect similar vehicles that appear in the film, handmade of wood by the Dwarfs, shaped by an axe, and used to haul rocks and jewels."

The attraction opens on May 28, so be sure to keep checking here and the Disney Parks Blog for updates.

Kung Fu Panda 2 Coming to a Theater at Sea

Fun for the Whole Family This Summer

Just in time for Summer vacations, Royal Caribbean has announced a special  "Pandamonium" Package featuring the brand new Kung Fu Panda 2^TM movie showing onboard four of their ships.

The movie premieres  worldwide on May 26th with special "red carpet premieres" being held for the film in June on the 5,400-passenger Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, as well as the smaller Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas.

Press Release: Royal Caribbean Premieres Kung Fu Panda 2 at Sea (April 26, 2011)
 

What's included  (Click here for more details)

See Kung Fu Panda 2^TM in the 3D onboard theater when you cruise with Royal Caribbean International® this summer, plus score our Summer Pandamonium Package* featuring:

• VIP seating at the 3D movie!
• INCLUDED Pets at Sea^SM Plush Pal (1 per stateroom)
• INCLUDED Coca-Cola® Fountain Package (2 per stateroom)
• INCLUDED cupcakes from the Cupcake Cupboard (2 per stateroom)
• INCLUDED 8x10 photo with Po or other DreamWorks® characters
• Exclusive Meet & Greet and photo opportunity

Offer details

Package valued at $200! Plus, enjoy FREE character breakfasts, surprise appearances, and FREE parades with Po, Shrek, and friends – all part of RCI's exclusive DreamWorks® Experience.

Hurry, must book by May 31, 2011. Offer valid for sailings in June, July and August, subject to availability.  Be sure to mention the "Pandamonium" Package when booking.

Available on

The Summer Pandamonium Package is available on these innovative ships:

• Allure of the Seas®
• Oasis of the Seas®
• Freedom of the Seas®
• Liberty of the Seas®

See our video for a preview of the DreamWorks Parade Allure of the Seas on our YouTube channel.   Credits:  Kung Fu Panda and all related characters and properties TM & © 2011 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C. ©2011 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships' registry: Bahamas.