Is The Freeze On For Norway at WDW?

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As you may have heard by now, the Norway Pavilions in the World Showcase at EPCOT may be going under an extended refurbishment during the off-season.  What does this mean?  That is the question that many in the Disney community is wanting an answer to, and quickly!

There has been some speculation that Maelstrom may receive a FROZEN overlay, others think it may be completely turned into a FROZEN attraction.  Still others are hoping that it will be a simple update, with some fresh paint and a few screws tightened up.  

What I have heard, is that the country of Norway has ceased any support for the pavilion from a financial standpoint.  I hope that the officials of this beautiful country decide to help supplement any refurbishment that may take place, if they hope to have a say in what type of changes might be made.  Otherwise, there may be a bit of Sven and Olaf in the place of some of the Vikings!  

It is only my opinion, at this time, but I think that FROZEN should NOT be a part of the Norway pavilion, as I believe it cancels out the original ideas of the Disney Imagineers in presenting something about the cultures of the countries of the World Showcase!  I like Maelstrom as it is!  It is a bit of a unique experience, and I get chills when I see the scenes, as portrayed, in this attraction that allows me to see just how beautiful this land is, and the hard work it has taken to make Norway the country that it is today!

So, where should FROZEN go?  I truly think the best place would be at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!  With the closing of the American Idol Experience, one has to wonder if the success of the Frozen Summer Fun may be getting a more permanent venue?  Makes sense to me, but at this point, we will just have to see how it all comes together!

For now, we’ll just sit back, and see what develops!  If you have any thoughts, please share them in the comments section below!

Thanks for reading and may you have a Blessed and Magical day, my friends!

If I Were a Disney Heir

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be an heir to the Walt Disney legacy?  I sure have!  If I were an heir to Walt, I believe I’d have to have my hands into everything that is going on around the company.  Walt was known for animated movies using mostly innovations he designed. The creation of Mickey Mouse was his opening act into this genre that really gained traction when Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered to thunderous applause and the accolades of industry critics when it took an Oscar.  He was also known for family friendly entertainment!  I think of movies like Old Yeller, Toby Tyler, and Pollyanna brought challenges of families of the early years to the big screen.  They showed us the importance of family and being together.  I love these Disney Classics.

When it comes to the theme parks, Walt Disney knew that there needed to be a place for the entire family to come together and spend some quality time connecting with each other.  Thus, Disneyland was born!  And, out of that we have seen the parks grow!  First, Walt Disney World with eventual growth to four different theme parks, resorts of all levels for guests to choose from, and many activities outside of the parks to keep you occupied for weeks and never have to leave the property.  And, let’s not forget, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and soon Beijing!

If I were a part of the Disney family, I would truly want to have someone keeping and eye on how things are done.  Making sure that the movies are high quality to entertain families and give them a reason to spend some time together.  Checking up on the theme parks to be sure that the Guest Experience measures up to the level that Walt expected every time he walked into Disneyland.  And, even applying the values of the Disney name to any other venture that falls under the family umbrella.

Sure, Walt Disney had tough times and made some rough decisions as he grew his company.  And, it should be expected, that as the company continues to grow, there may be some small setbacks along the way.  But, if I were an heir, I’d have a sense of pride and commitment to secure a future NOT just for the stockholders and employees of the company, but also for the guests of our films and theme parks.

But, alas, I will just have to accept that I am not an heir.  Not a family member.  The only things that connect me to Walt Disney is my love for the Disney product, and my birthday, which is December 5.

Thank you Walt for leaving your legacy for all of those who have inherited your dreams!