Tron rollercoaster attraction coming to Tomorrowland at Walt Disney World in a new space

Images copyright Disney.  All rights reserved.

At the 2017 D23 Expo, Disney announced that the most popular attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is coming to Walt Disney World Resort. A thrilling, Tron-themed attraction will be added in a new area near Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom.  Interestingly, as you can see from the design concept above, this new attraction will not replace the Tomorrowland Speedway, as initial rumors suggested.  Instead, this attraction will be placed beyond the Speedway, where the current walkway between Tomorrowland and The Fantasyland Circus is.  One interesting question remains - how will this impact the WDW Railroad? 

Farewell PUSH the talking trash can

It appears PUSH the talking trash can will never again grace the concrete walkways of Tomorrowland, at least for now.  Several reports indicate a possible contract dispute led Disney to break ties with the performer operating PUSH and so the beloved walk-around character is no more.  Now Disney has confirmed the talking trash can is no more.

UPDATE (Feb. 10):  According to an Orlando Sentinel article, Disney says PUSH will remain in Tomorrowland.  Earlier, an apparent internal Disney FAQ gave talking points to cast members about PUSH's removal.  I'm sure there will be more to come on this. 

UPDATE 2:  Disney has confirmed PUSH is gone, according to a new Orlando Sentinel article.

But did you ever stop to wonder just how PUSH did what he did?  He was a fully mobile and fully interactive character.  He could carry on complete conversations with people seemingly on his own.  Well, of course, that wasn't the case, but it was pretty hard to pick out just how it was done.

Now that PUSH has been retired, I'll let you in on the secret.

 

PUSH did indeed have a handler/operator.  If you looked carefully around at the crowd, you just might spot a person standing somewhere within eyesight of PUSH wearing a hat, some sort of fanny pack or satchel and holding his hand up to his mouth for an unusually long time.  Yep, that's the PUSH operator.  I've had the opportunity to secretly observe this performance several times and I have to say the person(s) who operate PUSH are quite good at blending in and not being conspicuous.  It's hard to see from the above photo, but this person is wearing headphones so he can hear what's being said around the PUSH character.  He can then speak into the mic and talk with unsuspecting guests.

It's a pretty simple operation but was beautifully done.  Even after I figured out who to look for, there were several times I couldn't find the operator, he had blended in so well.

So it is with great sadness and regret that I say farewell to PUSH the talking trash can from Tomorrowland.  I can only hope that there will come a day soon when you might make a return.

Tip Tuesday - some of the Hidden Mickeys of Tomorrowland

 

Time again for another Tip Tuesday!

This week, I'm starting a series of tips about hidden Mickeys at Walt Disney World.  If you're not sure what a hidden Mickey is, check out my post from May 2009 explaining what hidden Mickeys are.

I'm going to go from land to land throughout the parks, starting with the Magic Kingdom to showcase some of my favorite places to find hidden Mickeys.  I won't share photos of every single one, because I want you to find them for yourself and, to be honest, some are very hard to capture.

But let's start with an easy one (seen above).  As you're walking through the queue of Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, you'll come across this obvious side profile hidden Mickey depicted in an image of the planet Pollost Prime.  There are a couple of instances of this hidden Mickey.  But Pollost Prime isn't the only planet featuring a hidden Mickey, see if you can find the other one.

Coming out of Buzz, see if you can spot a hidden Stitch and another hidden Mickey.

 

Another great place to find hidden Mickeys is on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority.  During one of the interior show scenes, you'll come across this woman in a beauty parlor.  Pay close attention to her belt and you'll see a rather familiar black icon.  This one's very hard to shoot, so be ready!

While you're on the TTA, you'll pass through the upper portion of the shop, Mickey's Star Traders.  Look quickly because you may catch several hidden Mickey's embedded in the mural above the main floor.  If you didn't see them, don't worry, just go into the shop and look around as much as you'd like.  There are a LOT of hidden Mickeys, so see how many you can find!

Finally, head over to the Carousel of Progress to see a classic Walt Disney World attraction.  See if you can find our friend Mickey Mouse in the final scene (the Christmas scene).  Here's a hint:  check under the tree.

There are many more hidden Mickeys in Walt Disney World, so take your time, look carefully and you'll find Mickey all over the place!!

Enjoy the hunt!

Photo Friday: Lights on!

Welcome to another Photo Friday!

One of the best things about Space Mountain is what you can't (or aren't supposed to) see -- and that's how compact the attraction really is.  This is a shot from inside Space Mountain during a rare moment when the lights were on.  As you can see, the attraction carefully winds in and around a maze of support beams. 

When you stop to think about it, it's pretty incredible how the Imagineers managed to cram so much into such a relatively small space.

So the next time you're standing by for blast off - you'll have some idea and some appreciation for where you're heading!

Tip Tuesday: 100,000 target on Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin

Welcome to another Tip Tuesday!

This week's tip is short and sweet -- especially if you're interested in scoring that elusive 999,999 on Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin.

There are a few 100,000 point targets you can hit in this attraction. I talked about another 100,000 point target more than two years ago.

This target can be found in the opening scene of the attraction. See that big claw attached to the robot on the right side of your car? There is a Z-target underneath.

If you can hit the target, each shot is worth 100,000 points. The trick is to hit the target as you approach and leave the claw. Once you're right underneath it, your blaster can't tilt up far enough to hit it.

So the next time you're trying to defeat Zurg and save the universe, keep an eye out for this high point target and you could be the next Galactic Hero!!!

Tip Tuesday: Stitch's Great Escape

Welcome to another Tip Tuesday!

Wait!!!!

I know you've read the headline and seen the photo, but don't click the back button just yet!!!

Ok, Ok... so Stitch's Great Escape isn't the most popular of attractions at Walt Disney World (actually, it just might take the prize for the most hated attraction), but hear me out.

Despite a few completely gross moments, Stitch has some elements that make this attraction worth visiting every once in a while, especially if you know how to avoid the things that make you want to (glurp!).... well, you get the point.

So why is Stitch worth checking out occasionally? It's all about the audio-animatronics. If you're a fan of these fantastic creations that were invented by Disney, then you'll want to check out Stitch.

The Pre-Show
The pre-show presents a humorous skit featuring "Sarge" who helps you (the new recruits) to understand how the detention area works. Sarge is another very well-articulated audio-animatronic. While the story is a bit lacking, it is fun to see just how life-like the Imagineers were able to make Sarge.

Anyway, an emergency arises and the next thing you know you're heading for the main teleport area. TIP: try to stand on the right side of the pre-show area. This way you'll be among the first to enter the main attraction and, thus, have your pick of seats. Keep reading to see why this is helpful.

The attraction
You'll want to try to sit on the lowest row possible. There's a reason for this which I'll discuss in a bit. Above your head is a large U-shaped bar which looks a lot like a roller-coaster harness. It has nothing to do with keeping you safe, it's just there to get your body into position so all the other sensory effects will work.

One of the problems guests often have with this attraction is the bar pressing too hard on your shoulders. So here's how you avoid this. When the cast member begins to lower the bars, hunch up your shoulders and sit up VERY straight. This will raise your shoulder line a few inches. Stay this way until the bar touches your shoulders and stops. Now relax. Ahh... you have room to breathe.

As the show continues, of course, Stitch makes his appearance. As with Sarge, Stitch is a great audio-animatronic as are the two "guns" in the room. You don't need to pay too much attention to what Stitch is saying just yet -- enjoy the advanced movement of Stitch and the guns.

Oh, why do I suggest sitting along the lowest row? During the first part, Stitch will spit water at an unsuspecting guest. By sitting in the lowest row, you're pretty much guaranteed you won't get a stream of water in your face (and this isn't just a slight sprinkle, it's a full jet of water).

At one point, Stitch will make the power go out and the room will become pitch dark. Now it's time to pay attention to what the little blue guy is saying. At one point Stitch will "jump" on your shoulders. Here's where you'll be glad if you did the shoulder trick I mentioned earlier. While you might feel slight pressure on your shoulders, it won't be uncomfortable at all.

As I said, pay attention to what Stitch is saying. When he mentions finding a chili dog, take a deep breath and hold it. Stitch will burp and then the smell of chili dog will briefly fill the room. This is why you're holding your breath for a few seconds. Fortunately it doesn't last long. Stitch's lack of manners is the other major part that many guests find completely nauseating. After a few moments, you can breathe cleanly again, the power will be restored, the lights will come back on, Stitch will make his escape (to Walt Disney World, naturally) and the attraction is over.

The darkness portion also is the point that freaks most children out -- mine included. I strongly DO NOT recommend any kids under the age of 8 experience this attraction, especially if they have issues with darkness.

While I still agree with many that Stitch's Great Escape needs to permanently teleport off planet, I don't think people should just avoid it completely. There are some great audio-animatronics that I think are worth the effort, chili dog burps and all.

Tip Tuesday: Space Mountain tidbits

Welcome to another Tip Tuesday!

With the recent announcement that new "Starry-o-Phonic" audio now is in Space Mountain at WDW's Magic Kingdom, I thought it would be a perfect time to share a few tidbits about Space Mountain that may help your next trip from Starport Seven-Five go a little smoother.

Three to a car
For those who haven't been on Space Mountain before, the ride vehicles are a bit different that other coasters. Each car can hold three guests, sitting "toboggan" style, meaning guests sit in front of each other as opposed to side-by-side. This really isn't a major issue, except when kids come into play, especially if the kids are a bit nervous about riding.

Here's what I suggest: Have the nervous child sit either in the middle seat (best) or the front seat. Have an adult sit right behind them (middle or back seat). The adult can then keep a hand on the child's shoulder to reassure them throughout the ride. I did this with my younger son and daughter for their first rides on Space Mountain, and they seemed to do just fine. I think it was a bit comforting knowing I was right behind them the whole way.

For those who are dying to get a front row seat, it's best to do a bit of counting. Remember that there are three guests to a car. Usually the cast member assigns guests to rows from front to back. Try to position yourself so you will be the first or the fourth person in the queue when the next cars pull up (remember two cars are connected to each other). If you manage this, you just might find yourself in the front seat (which is a bit roomier than the others!).

Smile!
A new feature added to Space Mountain in late 2009 was on-ride photos. The one major different between on-ride photos for Space Mountain and those of other major attractions (Splash Mountain, Buzz Lightyear, Rock-n-Rollercoaster, etc.) is that the angle of the shot is to the side, as opposed to the front. This means you are moving from left to right (or right to left) instead of moving toward the camera. This results mostly in a side-profile (as opposed to a full face) image.

One way to help improve the shot is to turn your head toward the camera when the shots taken. Depending on which track you're on will determine which way to turn (left or right). As you shoot through the launch tunnel (those pulsing blue lights), see which way your car is going to turn. If it turns to the right, you want to look to the left. If it turns to the left, you want to look right. You'll want to turn toward the camera just as your car is whipping around that first turn after the launch tunnel (you'll see the huge flash).

After the shot is taken, sit back and enjoy your trip through the cosmos while you listen to the new audio track.


When to launch
Space Mountain is one of the major attractions at the Magic Kingdom. This means the standby line can get long quickly. If you want to get in a few run on Space Mountain, I strongly suggest being at the Magic Kingdom right at park opening. Once the gates open, head straight to Space Mountain (but please don't run).

As you approach, take a quick glance at the lines for the FastPass machines. At the start of the day, there may be a big line of people trying to get FastPasses. If there's a decent line -- skip it. Head straight into the attraction. You'll likely find it's likely a short wait. By the time you're coming out of the attraction, the initial FastPass lines will have died down - grab a FastPass for later in the day and move on (unless the standby line is pretty short - if so, go again!).

Space Mountain is a great attraction for just about anyone. It really doesn't go that fast -- the speed is mostly an illusion, thanks to the lack of light and other visual references.

Enjoy your next trip from Starport Seven-Five!

TTA's new narration not so hot

A few weeks ago, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority reopened after a refurbishment in coordination with the ongoing refurbishment at Space Mountain.

Initially, the highly popular attraction reopened with the same narration many fans have come to love. In the last week or so, however, a new narration has surfaced.

While I haven't heard this in person, I have watched some videos of the new TTA narration and I have to say I'm not that thrilled.



The video above is one of the ones I watched to listen to the new TTA script.

This new script acts much more like a preview for Tomorrowland as opposed to a narration of scenes you encounter along the "super skyway." To me, the concept of "Tomorrowland" has been completely ditched. I might expect this from a vacation planning video about tomorrowland.

The new narration also includes quick soundbites from some Disney characters including Stitch, Mickey Mouse and Buzz Lightyear.

Especially strange is the segment inside Space Mountain. Even though you can't see anything because of the construction walls, there's no sound at all in Space Mountain. Nothing. Nada. It's pretty boring. The construction walls don't even have anything on them.

It may just be the video, but it appears this new narration is harder to hear as well. There were a couple of segments I couldn't make out.

I usually love many of the improvements Disney makes. I'll even admit I found parts of the very brief Stitch's Supersonic Celebration to be fun.

I'm not so sure about this new narration. I guess I'll have to see and hear it for myself the next time I'm there.

What are your thoughts? Have you experienced the new TTA?

TTA reopens today

The Tomorrowland Transit Authority has reopened today.

Dewayne Bevil from the Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers has pictures.

Stitch returning to Tomorrowland stage?

Dewayne Bevil over at the Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers is reporting that Stitch may be making a return to the currently deserted stage in Tomorrowland. Word is that Disney is developing a "Totally Tomorrowland Christmas" stage show that will feature the well-known little blue alien.

So far, Disney has not announced anything about this new show.

If this is true, it would be nice for something to go on that unused stage, even if it is temporary. While Stitch's Supersonic Celebration was a disaster, I hate to see good space go unused.

Buzz Lightyear meet and greet area to be updated and maybe moved

According to a Notice of Commencement filed with the Orange County government, the meet-and-greet area for Buzz Lightyear soon will be updated. The notice described the updates as "area development modifications including hardscape, landscape and electrical." No additional description was included in the notice.

Based on a sketch included, it appears the meet-and-greet location might be moving from the queue area to the right of the Carousel of Progress entrance (see above photo) to the old entrance to the now demolished Galaxy Palace Theater, though the notice did not specifically indicate the meet-and-greet area was moving.

If the Buzz Lightyear meet-and-greet area is moving, it would be a welcome improvement to that part of Tomorrowland. The current meet-and-greet area has just a simple battery-shaped stand where Buzz stamps autograph books. There is no themed background or other sort of theming around. Of course, this same area also is the meet-and-greet location for Stitch, so I can understand why Disney didn't want to add much theming to the area.

So far, no schedule or timetable has been announced for this project.

Stitch's Supersonic Celebration opens in Tomorrowland

He’s been called the “Guru of Gross-Out” and “the Maker of Mischief.” Now Stitch stars in his very own live show, “Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration,” an out-of-this-world spectacle that combines comedic quips and musical madness for Walt Disney World guests.

The all-new show at Magic Kingdom stars the cosmic cut-up from Walt Disney Pictures’ “Lilo & Stitch” as he invades a zany interactive experience at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. Guests join in a Galaxy Day celebration when the outdoor stage comes alive with high-energy music, dazzling dance moves and real-time animation.

The 25-minute show features the same cutting-edge technology used in “Turtle Talk With Crush” and “Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor,” letting guests interact with an animated Stitch in one-on-one encounters. The fuzzy, loveable alien officially known as “Experiment 626” spots specific guests in the audience, asks questions and entertains them in a playful and personalized way.

Whether Stitch takes digital snapshots of audience members or comments on clothing they’re wearing, the show is different every time. He engages audience members of all ages, making them the “stars” of the intergalactic interlude.

In the show, guests follow Stitch as he pilots a “borrowed” space cruiser. Stitch joins a cast of cosmic characters – including party host Tip Trendo, space diva dancers and two malfunctioning, breakdancing robots – on his celebratory journey to planet Earth.

“ ‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’ immerses Tomorrowland guests into Stitch’s whimsical world using real-time animation technology,” said Kristine Bunnell, show producer for Walt Disney World Entertainment. “And during this year’s ‘What Will You Celebrate?’ our show gives guests another reason to party.” “Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration” is scheduled six times daily.

Tip Tuesday: 999,999 at Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin

Welcome to another Tip Tuesday!

This week's tip is pretty straightforward. How to get that max score (999,999) at Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom.

If you've never been on this attraction, first, you can't imagine what fun you're missing. It's one of my top 3 attractions at the Magic Kingdom and a DisneyDaddy must-do (again and again!). You get into a omnimover-style vehicle and go through a series of scenes trying to hit a bunch of "Z" targets that are all over the place. Many of these targets are worth a small amount of points per hit (100 to 1000 per hit). There are, however, some high point value targets (worth 10,000 to 100,000 per hit) that can help you achieve the maximum possible score of 999,999.

One such target is pictured above. The photo here is a second shot of the same set piece with the target in an easier place to see it. After you go through the first scene, you will come to a scene with Zurg in this orange ship. It isn't tilted like the picture shown above, it's level. It's also lower to the ground. That's what makes this such a hard to hit target.

See the Z at the base of the ship? That's a 100,000 per hit target. The hitch is that your blaster can't tilt down that far to hit it when you are right in front of the ship. You have to hit this target as you approach and leave this scene. If you're a good shot, you can get in 3-4 shots as you approach and 3-4 more as you turn around (facing backward) and shoot back at the target.

If you're really lucky, the ride will slow down (or stop) at just the right moment so you can blast away!

Some other high-point targets include a target on the back side of the orange robot's hand in the first scene. This supposedly is a 100,000 point target, though every time I've hit it, I only got 10,000 points.

In the scene with the volcano in the distance, there is a target at the top of the volcano. That's another 10,000 point target.

What other high-point targets do you know about? Post a comment!