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At D23 Expo 2022, Chairman Josh D’Amaro Shares a Boundless Future for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

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Last Updated on October 13, 2025 by Daily News Staff


D’Amaro offers first look at future of Avengers Campus, the Disney Treasure, and preview of Disney 100 Years of Wonder, the biggest celebration in the history of The Walt Disney Company

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Today at D23 Expo 2022, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro shared a look into the future for Disney theme parks and beyond, with announcements that continue to defy expectations and inspire imagination. Highlights included the expansion of Avengers Campus at Disneyland Resort with a third attraction; a first look at the Disney Treasure, the next ship joining the Disney Cruise Line fleet; a closer look at the Frozen-themed lands coming to three park destinations around the world; and a behind-the-scenes look at the blue-sky brainstorming of Disney Imagineers.

At D23 Expo 2022, Chairman Josh D’Amaro Shares a Boundless Future for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products – D’Amaro

“It’s terrific to be together in person and connect with our fans again at D23 Expo. I love sharing in the excitement with them for what we have ahead of us,” said Josh D’Amaro. “As the world’s greatest storytellers, I’m thrilled to share the new and innovative ways we are bringing next-generation Disney magic to life across Disney parks and experiences.”

As D’Amaro welcomed thousands of fans back to the ultimate Disney fan event for the first time since 2019, the audience was wowed by appearances from special guests, celebrities, never-before-seen characters and electric performances that filled Hall D23 with music and excitement.

Disney D23 1300893 ID 1427169c2ef2
A Boundless Future: Disney Parks, Experiences and Products On Sunday, September 11, 2022, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro shared a look at Disney’s boundless future. With announcements and updates from around the world, the D23 Expo audience got a behind-the-scenes look at the big dreams of Disney Imagineers.

Singer-songwriter Jordan Fisher kicked off the show with a rousing performance of the popular anthem “Happily Ever After.” Executive Producer and Disney Legend Jon Favreau joined to share a first look at the Mandalorian and Grogu before they encounter guests starting in mid-November inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park in Anaheim. Then, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige shared how Avengers Campus at Disneyland Resort will expand the Multiverse with a third attraction, along with the debut of the Incredible Hulk, who will appear in his Quantum Suit at Avengers Campus in California beginning next week for a limited time.

The audience was brought to their feet with a stellar performance by Disney Legend and Tony Award-winner Anika Noni Rose, the voice of Tiana in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Princess and TheF Frog,” as more details were revealed about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure coming to Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in late 2024. As D’Amaro shared a closer look at the Frozen-themed areas coming to Hong Kong Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Resort and Disneyland Paris, the audience was treated to a moving rendition of the “Frozen 2” hit song “Into the Unknown” performed in Cantonese, Japanese and French.

A highlight of the morning included a look at what’s possible when Disney Imagineers and their collaborators dream big. Disney Animation Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee, the Academy Award-winning writer and director of “Frozen” and “Frozen 2,” shared how the studio is working with Walt Disney Imagineering on concept explorations for Dinoland U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and potential expansion opportunities at Magic Kingdom park, both at Walt Disney World. Finally, D’Amaro offered a look at Disney100, the biggest celebration in the company’s history, which will kick off in January.

The presentation was full of exciting announcements with an incredible slate of experiences coming to Disney parks, resorts, cruise ships and beyond:

New Stories Coming to Disneyland Resort
Guests at Disney California Adventure park will soon head into the Multiverse alongside fan-favorite Super Heroes, as details on a never-before-seen third attraction with a brand-new story was announced for Avengers Campus. Joining in battle with the Avengers means facing foes from anywhere and everywhen, including a new threat, King Thanos, a Multiverse variant designed specifically for Avengers Campus.

Just around the corner from Avengers Campus, Pacific Wharf will be reimagined as San Fransokyo from the Oscar-winning Disney Animation film “Big Hero 6,” complete with a place to meet Baymax as well as new spots to eat and shop.

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At Disneyland park, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will invite guests into a cartoon world where toon rules apply, and Mickey’s Toontown will step into a new era of inclusive experiences for families of all ages when it opens in early 2023.

Across the way, progress continues on the reimagining of the Paradise Pier Hotel to Pixar Place Hotel, where guests will feel as though they’ve stepped into a Pixar art gallery featuring new interpretations of favorite Pixar pals. Over at the Downtown Disney District, more than a dozen new and reimagined locations will open, including a Southern Californian favorite, Porto’s Bakery & Café. For running fans, runDisney races will return to the resort in 2024.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort
Imagineers joined D’Amaro onstage to discuss new story details for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, coming to Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort in late 2024. Several members of the original film cast will return to lend their voices to the attraction, including Anika Noni Rose as Tiana, Bruno Campos as Naveen, Michael-Leon Wooley as Louis and Jenifer Lewis as Mama Odie. 

Walt Disney World Resort and the Transformation of EPCOT
The next major milestone in EPCOT’s multi-year transformation will include the completion of the World Celebration neighborhood in late 2023. Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana will also open in late 2023, inviting guests to follow the story of water on the planet, inspired by Moana’s connection to the ocean. Fan-favorite character Figment will also appear live to park guests by the end of 2023.

Over at Magic Kingdom, TRON / Lightcycle Run will invite guests to enter the Grid in spring 2023. Popular anthem “Happily Ever After” will play again when an updated nighttime spectacular returns to light up the skies over Cinderella Castle in 2023. At the Haunted Mansion, the Hatbox Ghost will materialize in 2023.

New Horizons for Disney Cruise Line and the Disney Treasure
The sixth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Treasure, will set sail in 2024. Imagineers have dreamed up a new design concept inspired by the theme of adventure, celebrating Walt Disney’s lifelong love of exploration. The Grand Hall — the magnificent three-deck-tall atrium that welcomes guests on board — is inspired by the grandeur and mystery of a gilded palace, drawing on real-world influences from Asia and Africa, and paying homage to the far-off land of Agrabah. At the center, the signature statue will feature Aladdin, Jasmine and their Magic Carpet.

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line is bringing the magic of a Disney vacation to families and fans in Australia and New Zealand during limited-time cruises that immerse guests in Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars stories beginning in late October 2023. Additionally, repositioning cruises for the Disney Wonder will be the first South Pacific voyages for Disney Cruise Line, giving guests the chance to experience destinations like Fiji and Samoa.

In the Bahamas, progress continues on a beautiful new island destination at Lighthouse Point, which will bring the natural beauty and rich culture of the Bahamas to life for Disney Cruise Line guests.

Three Frozen-themed Lands Highlight Expansions at Parks Around the World
Inspired by Disney Animation’s stunning films, World of Frozen will open in the second half of 2023 at Hong Kong Disneyland – the first of three Frozen-themed areas coming to international Disney parks. It will blend Arendelle with the park’s natural landscapes on Lantau Island.

At Disneyland Paris, the Frozen-themed land will be the next major milestone in the ongoing transformation of Walt Disney Studios park. This land will offer a gorgeous lakeside promenade and will immerse guests in the same magical wintry setting from the films. A new Tangled-themed family attraction will join the new gardens leading into the land. Frozen will also be part of the transformation of the Disneyland Hotel, reopening in 2024. As part of the grand finale of the 30th Anniversary celebration underway, a new stage show, “Pixar: We Belong Together,” will debut next year in Walt Disney Studios park.

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At Tokyo Disney Resort, Frozen is one of the stories coming to life as part of the Fantasy Springs expansion at Tokyo DisneySea, joining two other Disney Animation stories, “Peter Pan” and “Tangled,” plus a brand-new hotel integrated right into the park. Fantasy Springs will feature several new Audio-Animatronics figures, including Elsa, who sings in Japanese and whose movements sync with the rhythms of the language.

Shanghai Disney Resort will be the first Disney resort to bring the world of the Oscar-winning Disney Animation film “Zootopia” to life. At Zootopia Central Station, guests will find animals going about their daily lives. At the Zootopia Police Department, which doubles as the entrance for the land’s new family attraction, guests will be greeted by an Audio-Animatronics figure of Officer Clawhauser.

Mickey’s favorite teddy bear, Duffy, is a favorite of fans in all three Disney resorts in Asia, and D’Amaro shared that Duffy & Friends will star in their very own six-episode, stop-motion animated series on Disney+ next year.

Disney 100 Years of Wonder
D’Amaro concluded the presentation with a first look at how Disney Parks, Experiences and Products will mark Disney 100 Years of Wonder (Disney100), the biggest celebration in the history of the company. New décor, specialty food and beverages, character experiences and more will come to parks around the world, with the heart of the celebration rooted at Disneyland Resort.

  • Two new nighttime spectaculars — “World of Color – One” and the new fireworks show “Wondrous Journeys” — will kick off in late January at Disneyland Resort. “World of Color – One” at Disney California Adventure will celebrate the storytelling legacy started by Walt Disney a century ago. It’s going to be World of Color like you’ve never seen it before, with an all-new inspiring story told through some favorite characters. “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland park will ignite the wonder in everyone and feature nods to all 60 Walt Disney Animation Studios films to date, taking viewers on a journey filled with artistry, music, storytelling and heart. Special entertainment moments will also pop up across the resort, including the long-awaited return of the “Magic Happens” parade this spring.
  • A brand-new nighttime spectacular will come to the World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT in late 2023 as part of the Disney100 Celebration.
  • Hong Kong Disneyland will also unveil a new statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse near Cinderella’s Carousel as part of the Disney100 Celebration. 

For more information, visit DisneyParksBlog.com.

About Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

Disney Parks, Experiences and Products brings the magic of The Walt Disney Company’s powerful brands and franchises — including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, ESPN, 20th Century Studios and National Geographic — into the daily lives of families and fans around the world to create magical memories that last a lifetime.

When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, he created a unique destination built around storytelling and immersive experiences, ushering in a new era of family entertainment. More than 65 years later, Disney has grown into one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and leisure experiences, with iconic businesses including six resort destinations with 12 theme parks and 52 resorts in the United States, Europe and Asia; a top-rated  cruise line with five ships and plans for two more; a luxurious family beach resort in Hawai’i; a popular vacation ownership program; and an award-winning guided family adventure business. Disney’s global consumer products operations include the world’s leading licensing business; the world’s largest children’s publishing brands; one of the world’s largest licensors of games across all platforms; Disney store locations around the world; and the shopDisney e-commerce platform.

These experiences are created by Disney Imagineers, the creative force behind experiences found in Disney theme parks, resort hotels, cruise ships and consumer products — including books, games and merchandise.

SOURCE Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at STM Entertainment and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

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Entertainment

Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Starring Bad Bunny Wins 7 Emmys, Sets New Record

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Executive produced by Roc Nation and JAY-Z, the show becomes the most-awarded halftime production in Emmy history.

Stadium vibe: Nighttime stadium halftime stage with bright spotlights, confetti, and a silhouetted performer before a packed crowd. Super Bowl LX Halftime Show
A nighttime Super Bowl-style stadium halftime stage lit with dramatic spotlights and pyrotechnics, as a silhouetted performer stands center stage with confetti falling and a packed crowd glowing with phone lights.

The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show starring Bad Bunny took home seven Emmy Awards at the 78th Emmy Awards, making it the most-awarded Super Bowl halftime show in Emmy history, according to Roc Nation. The live spectacle—executive produced by Roc Nation and JAY-Z—won across major production categories, underscoring how the halftime stage has evolved into a full-scale, awards-caliber live television event.

The record-setting wins included Outstanding Variety Special (Live), Outstanding Music Direction, Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, Outstanding Choreography for Variety or Reality Programming, Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Variety Series or Special, Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Special, and Outstanding Technical Direction and Camerawork for a Special. Roc Nation also noted the show set a global viewership record, pulling 4.157 billion views in 24 hours across global broadcast, YouTube, and social platforms.

Beyond the trophies and viewership numbers, the halftime show leaned into big-name star power with special guest performers Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, plus additional appearances from Karol G, Cardi B, Jessica Alba, Pedro Pascal, Young Miko, and others. The sweep signals not just a win for the artists on stage, but for the behind-the-scenes creative teams turning the halftime show into one of the most technically ambitious live productions on television.

What to watch for: With Emmy recognition now firmly in the conversation, expect future halftime shows to push even harder on cinematic staging, choreography, and broadcast innovation—because the bar (and the awards) just got higher.

Source: Roc Nation (PRNewswire), Sept. 6, 2026

Link to original press release: https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-apple-music-super-bowl-lx-halftime-starring-bad-bunny–executive-produced-by-roc-nation–jay-z-wins-seven-emmys-302870842.html

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Entertainment

BronzeLens Film Festival Returns to Atlanta for Two Weekends of Global, Diverse Storytelling

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Last Updated on August 26, 2026 by Daily News Staff

BronzeLens Film Festival returns to Atlanta Aug. 21–23 and Aug. 27–30, 2026, featuring 150+ films and Opening Night documentary “Love Patrick: Nothing is Impossible.”
Love Patrick: Nothing is Impossible image. Image Source:  BronzeLens Film Festival

BronzeLens Film Festival Brings International Lineup to Atlanta Across Two Weekends

Atlanta becomes a hub for filmmakers and film lovers this month as the BronzeLens Film Festival marks its 17th annual celebration of cinema. Running August 21–23 and August 27–30, 2026, the festival brings together industry leaders, emerging creators, and audiences for two weekends centered on one idea: diverse storytelling deserves the biggest possible stage.

Founded to elevate underrepresented voices in film, BronzeLens says its 2026 lineup continues that mission with more than 150 Official Selections. The slate spans projects connected to creators and stories from across the globe, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Ghana, Guadeloupe, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, South Africa, The Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Festival organizers note that every film in the program is either produced by creators of color or focuses on stories about people of color.

Opening Night spotlight: “Love Patrick: Nothing is Impossible”

This year’s Opening Night feature is Love Patrick: Nothing is Impossible, directed by the Horne Brothers. The documentary chronicles the life and legacy of fashion designer Patrick Kelly, whose work and vision helped reshape how Black creativity and style were seen on a global stage.

For audiences, it’s a fitting kickoff: a story about artistry, identity, and ambition—exactly the kind of conversation-starter BronzeLens aims to put in front of the public.

A festival built for films—and the conversations after

BronzeLens founder and executive producer Kathleen Bertrand says the festival’s purpose goes beyond screenings.

“We believe the true magic of film happens both on the screen and in the conversations it inspires,” Bertrand said. “Our mission is to champion outstanding filmmaking while creating dynamic opportunities for filmmakers, creators, talent, and audiences to connect, collaborate, and help shape the future of storytelling.”

That emphasis on community and connection has helped BronzeLens become a key cultural event in Atlanta’s film ecosystem—one that continues to grow in reach as the industry increasingly looks for authentic, globally resonant stories.

Notable names tied to the 2026 Official Selections

This year’s Official Selections are associated with a wide range of acclaimed artists, including:

  • Academy Award® winner Viola Davis, narrator of The Ebony Canal: A Story of Black Maternal & Infant Health
  • Academy Award® winner Jordan Peele, producer of Spilled Milk
  • Emmy Award winner Loretta Devine, co-star in Black Seeds Continue to Grow
  • Golden Globe nominee Blair Underwood, producer and co-star in The Listeners
  • Grammy Award-winning artist T.I., featured in The Birth of Trap Music and director of Da’Partments 2
  • Ambyr Michelle, co-star in Escape Room
  • The late Erica Ash, starring in The Making of a Classic
  • Lauren E. Banks in Channels

Where it’s happening

Festival headquarters will be located at The Tara Atlanta, 2345 Cheshire Bridge Road NE.

For the full schedule, the complete list of Official Selections, and ticket information, visit www.BronzeLens.com. The official hashtag is #BronzeLens2026.

If you’re looking for a late-summer event that blends culture, craft, and community—BronzeLens is positioning itself as one of the film festivals where the industry (and the audience) will be paying attention.

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Source

  • PRNewswire press release: “The World Will Be Watching as BronzeLens Celebrates Its 17th Annual Film Festival”(BronzeLens Film Festival), published Aug. 7, 2026

Related links

  • BronzeLens Film Festival (schedule, Official Selections, tickets): www.BronzeLens.com
  • Official hashtag: #BronzeLens2026 
  • Festival HQ venue info: The Tara Atlanta, 2345 Cheshire Bridge Road NE, Atlanta

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May the Fourth: Celebrating National Star Wars Day | Fun Facts & Festivities

National Star Wars Day, also known as May the Fourth, is a celebration of the Star Wars franchise that takes place annually on May 4th.

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Last Updated on May 4, 2026 by Daily News Staff

National Star Wars Day, also known as May the Fourth, is a celebration of the Star Wars franchise that takes place annually on May 4th. The day is filled with festivities such as costume contests, trivia games, and movie marathons. Fans of the series can dress up like their favorite characters, watch their favorite movies, and make outer space snacks.

The phrase “May the Fourth Be with You” was first introduced by the Conservative Party in the UK in 1979 to congratulate Margaret Thatcher on becoming the first female Prime Minister. Since then, the phrase has become synonymous with Star Wars Day and is used by fans around the world to greet each other on this special day.

National Star Wars Day was first organized in Toronto, Canada, in 2011, and has since become a worldwide phenomenon. Fans of all ages come together to celebrate their love for the franchise and to honor its creator, George Lucas.

Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just a casual admirer, National Star Wars Day is a day to let loose and have some fun. May the Fourth be with you!

National Star Wars Day

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/?s=Star+Wars+Day

Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at STM Entertainment and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

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