EnglishConvention - D23 2024 : A Grand Opening Day Filled with Magic, Surprises, and Unforgettable Moments
By Mulder, Anaheim, Convention center, 09 august 2024
The excitement was palpable as Disney fans from all around the world descended upon the Anaheim Convention Center for the much-anticipated kickoff of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa®. The first day of this extraordinary celebration did not disappoint, offering a whirlwind of magical experiences, surprise announcements, and unforgettable moments that showcased the rich legacy and future of The Walt Disney Company.
An Electrifying Start: Disney Entertainment Showcase at the Honda Center
The day began with a bang at the Honda Center with the Disney Entertainment Showcase, an event packed with surprise celebrity appearances, exclusive previews, and electrifying musical performances that set the tone for the weekend. Fans were treated to a lineup that highlighted Disney’s unmatched ability to forge deep emotional connections through its beloved characters and stories.
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, took the stage to open the event, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the fans who have supported Disney throughout its storied history. Our deep bond with fans, forged over a century of storytelling, is stronger today than ever before, Iger said. Driven by the unmatched strength of our creative studios, the wide appeal of our brands and franchises, and the innovative ways that we bring our stories to life in our theme parks and experiences.
The Music of Marvel: A Melodic Journey through the MCU
One of the standout moments of the day was the Music of Marvel panel, hosted by Academy Award-winning composer Michael Giacchino. Joined by an all-star lineup of composers and songwriters, including Christophe Beck, Laura Karpman, and the award-winning duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the panel offered fans an in-depth look at the music that has become synonymous with the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Fans were thrilled to hear stories behind their favorite Marvel scores and songs, and were given exclusive insights into upcoming projects. In a particularly exciting reveal, Laura Karpman announced that she would be composing the score for the highly anticipated film Captain America: Brave New World. Meanwhile, Michael Giacchino treated the audience to an early preview of his score for the upcoming Marvel Studios film The Fantastic Four: First Steps, leaving fans eager for more.
A Milestone Moment: Let It Go Receives Diamond Plaque
The celebration of music continued with a special recognition of Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, who were honored with a Diamond plaque by Disney Music Group President Ken Bunt. This prestigious award was in recognition of their groundbreaking achievement with the song Let It Go from Walt Disney Records’ Frozen Original Soundtrack, which has been RIAA® certified Diamond, signifying $10 million in sales. This marks the first time a Disney song has received the Diamond Award, highlighting the timeless impact of the Frozen franchise and its music.
Looking Ahead: Exciting Announcements for Disney’s Future
D23 is not just about celebrating Disney’s past; it’s also a platform for unveiling the future. The first day saw a series of exciting announcements that had fans buzzing with anticipation. Among the most noteworthy was the announcement of a memoir by legendary Disney director Ron Clements, titled Making Disney Magic . . . from a Mermaid to Moana: Tales from a Disney Animation Director. Set for release in July 2025, this memoir promises to offer an intimate look into the life and career of one of Disney’s most influential filmmakers. With a foreword by his longtime creative partner John Musker, the memoir will be richly illustrated and filled with behind-the-scenes stories and insights from Clements’ four-decade-long career in Disney animation.
A Galaxy Rebuilt: New Trailer for LEGO Star Wars
Over at the Lucasfilm Pavilion, the excitement continued as a new trailer for LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy was unveiled. Set to debut on Disney+ on September 13, 2024, this animated special promises a fresh and humorous take on the Star Wars universe. The plot centers around Sig Greebling, an ordinary nerf-herder voiced by Gaten Matarazzo, who stumbles upon a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple, setting off a chain of events that upends the galaxy.
The voice cast for the special features an impressive lineup, including Tony Revolori, Bobby Moynihan, Marsai Martin, and Ahmed Best, with a special guest appearance by Mark Hamill. Hamill, who also serves as a consulting producer on the project, joined the panel to share his enthusiasm about this new direction for the LEGO Star Wars franchise, delighting fans with his insights.
Rocking the Night Away: Simple Plan’s High-Energy Performance
The day’s entertainment reached new heights as platinum recording artist Simple Plan took to the stage for a full set, performing some of their biggest hits alongside a newly released cover of Can You Feel The Love Tonight from the upcoming Mickey & Friends pop-punk album, A Whole New Sound. The performance was a high-energy celebration of music and nostalgia, and the crowd erupted with joy when Mickey Mouse made a surprise appearance, joining the band on stage and showcasing his love for music.
The Excitement Continues: What to Expect on Day Two
As the sun set on the first day of D23 2024, the excitement for what lies ahead only continued to build. The next two days promise even more immersive experiences, with fans eagerly awaiting specially curated shows, panels, and presentations that will offer insider access and unique opportunities to connect with Disney’s storytellers, creators, and talent.
One of the most anticipated events is the Disney Experiences Showcase, set to take place at the Honda Center. Guests can look forward to exclusive reveals of groundbreaking innovations that Disney is developing for its theme parks and entertainment experiences around the world. This showcase is expected to unveil some of the most exciting developments in the company’s pipeline, giving fans a glimpse of the magic Disney has in store for the future.
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event continues to be a one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates the very best in creative storytelling and innovation from across the worlds of Disney. This year’s event, reimagined to be more expansive and immersive than ever before, is a testament to Disney’s century-long legacy of magic and wonder. With three packed days of showcases, performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and surprises, D23 2024 is shaping up to be the ultimate celebration of Disney’s rich history and bright future.
Fans are encouraged to stay connected with the latest news and announcements by following DisneyD23 on social media and joining the conversation using the hashtag #D23. For those unable to attend in person, the D23 experience extends beyond the convention center, offering fans around the world a chance to join in the celebration through online updates, live streams, and exclusive content.
As D23 2024 continues, the next two days are poised to deliver even more magic, with something special around every corner. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or new to the magic, D23 2024 is an event that captures the essence of Disney—a place where dreams come true, stories come to life, and magic is waiting to be discovered.
(Source : press release)