As D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event has reached its final day, excitement hung in the air as fans eagerly anticipated a dazzling array of Disney magic. The event had drawn Disney enthusiasts from around the world, uniting them to share in the wonder and hear firsthand from the stars and creators behind the brands they cherish. The Anaheim Convention Center buzzed with energy as guests explored five stages of unique presentations, from a heartwarming musical tribute to Richard M. Sherman to a nostalgic reunion with the voice actors who gave life to iconic Disney characters.
The celebration reached its grand finale with the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony at the Honda Center. This evening’s event honored 14 individuals whose remarkable contributions have shaped Disney’s legacy. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the ceremony promised unforgettable moments, including surprise performances that left the audience in awe. The ceremony was more than just an award show; it was a tribute to those who have played a pivotal role in Disney’s journey of storytelling and innovation.
For those unable to attend in person, the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony became available for streaming on Disney+ starting at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT on Monday, August 12th.
At the Honda Center last night, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro took the stage for a dazzling musical celebration, thrilling Disney’s most dedicated fans. He shared exciting glimpses into the future of Disney parks, cruise ships, and more, including a groundbreaking partnership with Epic Games that promises to revolutionize storytelling. The evening was filled with major reveals, unexpected celebrity appearances, and unforgettable musical performances, capping off an exhilarating second day of the fan extravaganza.
Sunday, August 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center
Panels & Presentations
9:45 a.m.
Disney Legends in Conversation
Walt Disney Archives Stage
Join a captivating discussion as the latest Disney Legends share insights into their remarkable careers. Hosted by Disney Legend Don Hahn, this engaging conversation will feature Martha Blanding, Mark Henn, Colleen Atwood, and Joe Rohde as they reflect on their journeys and contributions to Disney’s legacy.
11:45 a.m.
Dream Chasing: Four Decades with Walt Disney Imagineering
Walt Disney Archives Stage
Leslie Iwerks, Bob Weis, and Wendy Lefkon will gather for a fascinating conversation that spans four decades of Imagineering projects across the globe—from Anaheim to Paris, Tokyo to Shanghai. Their insights are sure to spark inspiration and remind audiences that every dream worth pursuing is worth the effort.
12:15 p.m.
Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman
Premiere Stage
The celebration spanned from Mary Poppins to Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, offering a heartfelt and exuberant musical tribute to the legendary Disney songwriter Richard M. Sherman. The event was filled with remarkable performances and unexpected guest appearances from those who had the deepest respect and affection for him.
1:45 p.m.
Donald Duck’s 90th Quacktacular
Walt Disney Archives Stage
Donald Duck’s 90th anniversary is being marked with a series of special events, featuring exclusive screenings, unseen artwork from the Walt Disney Animation Research Library, and appearances by Disney Animation artists and the iconic voice behind the beloved character.
2:45 p.m.
Disney Character Voices: Inside the Studio
Premiere Stage
Fans can take a trip behind the scenes with Disney Character Voices and join live recording sessions featuring their favorite Disney characters. They might even get a chance to voice a character themselves! The event showcases a variety of beloved voices, including Bret Iwan (Mickey Mouse), Kaitlyn Robrock (Minnie Mouse), Disney Legend Bill Farmer (Goofy), Dera Wilson (Daisy Duck), and many more.
3:30 p.m.
Restoring Disney Animation Classics
Hyperion Stage
Kevin Schaeffer, Director of Restoration, and Disney Animation artists Eric Goldberg and Michael Giamo will take the audience on a fascinating journey through Disney’s preservation efforts. They’ll showcase transformation clips and explain the process behind bringing classic films back to life.
5:30 p.m.
Charles Phoenix’s Big Retro Disneyland Slide Show
Walt Disney Archives Stage
This pop culture journey takes a nostalgic look back at the early days of Disneyland, delving into the histories and iconic moments of Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, the original Tomorrowland, and the revamped Tomorrowland from 1967.
Show Floor Experiences
Walt Disney Archives Presents: “A Great Big Beautiful Car Show”
“A Great Big Beautiful Car Show” celebrates classic car shows and American nostalgia with an impressive display of more than 20 vehicles from the Archives’ collection. In the “Worlds Beyond” section, visitors can marvel at imaginative vehicles inspired by far-off places.
ESPN: Showcasing College Football in the Mighty Marvel Manner!
ESPN and Marvel join forces to celebrate college football and the College Football Playoff. Kicking off a decade-long collaboration, they debut original artwork that reimagines university mascots in the style of classic Marvel covers.
Lightstorm
The Avatar Pavilion invites guests to dive into an enchanting experience inspired by the world of Avatar. Attendees can explore the vibrant culture of the Na’vi, journey through the glowing Bioluminescent Forest, and feel the thrill of flying through the mountains like a banshee.
Show Floor Sponsors and Licensees
This year’s event boasts an array of exciting booths from favorite brands, each offering something special. RSVLTS presents the “Workshop of Wonders,” crafted by Disney Legend Tony Baxter and Michael and Jimmy Mulligan. Lionel Trains will offer a unique photo opportunity featuring a surprise from Disneyland Resort. Attendees can also be among the first to try out Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed from THQ, explore a Disney Villains tunnel from Pandora, enjoy The Oasis at D23, connected by AT&T, and visit Bullseye’s Playshop from Target, among many other attractions.
Talent Central Opportunities
On Sunday at Talent Central, a stellar lineup of celebrities and creative minds will be showcased. The roster includes Pete Docter, Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer; Trent Correy, Dan Abraham, and Eric Goldberg, the team behind Once Upon a Studio; Ashley Eckstein, who voices Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars; Michael James Scott, known for his role as Genie in Aladdin on Broadway; Disney historian and filmmaker Leslie Iwerks; Tony Anselmo, the iconic voice of Donald Duck; Bret Iwan, the voice behind Mickey Mouse; and many more.
Discover more from SNAP TASTE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
