News of the week includes Disneyland debuting Cars-themed monorails while raising ticket prices. Then we dive into Star Wars Weekends at Walt Disney World as Maggie offers tips and insight into the event and Ricky reports on the new Carbon Freeze Me experience. Exactly one year after Star Tours: The Adventures Continue opened at Disney's Hollywood Studios, we take a look back at the past and future of the classic Star Wars attraction through interviews with Industrial Light and Magic senior visual effects supervisor Dennis Muren and Walt Disney Imagineering show director Susan Dain.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/372

News this week includes details of Cars Land and Carthay Circle menus, The Avengers passes $1 billion in 2 weeks, and Walt Disney World guests will soon be frozen in carbonate. After our trip Around the World, we head to the Magic Kingdom to experience the new Merida "Brave" meet-and-greet with three baby bear cubs. Then two listeners write in with a first-hand report of Disney's ongoing NextGen Fastpass RFID testing.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/371

After discussion of Walt Disney World testing the Fastpass of the future and announcing a new Pirates attraction, Ricky reviews Marvel's The Avengers as it smashes box office records. Then we welcome Imagineer Jonathan Ackley back to the show along with Imagineer Matt Beiler to discuss Agent P's World Showcase Adventure, coming soon to Epcot, as well as Splitsville co-founder Mark Gibson to discuss the new entertainment concept restaurant coming to Downtown Disney.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/370

Beyond news of upcoming Disneyland D23 events and newly-announced films, Ricky talks Test Track with Walt Disney Imagineers to learn the details of the ongoing ride update to take guests into the digital realm of automotive design. Then we learn more details and opening dates for New Fantasyland attractions as Walt Disney Imagineer Chris Beatty leads us on a tour through Storybook Circus and behind the construction wall to take an inside look at The Little Mermaid and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train rides as well as the Beauty and the Beast area.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/369

It's been a BIG Disney news week and we cover it all including the D23 tweet-up marking the return of the Little Orange Bird to the Magic Kingdom, the debut of the new Vision House exhibit at Epcot's Innoventions, the massive ElecTRONica finale dance party at Disney California Adventure, and Rich Ross' departure as chairman of the Walt Disney Studios. Plus we hear Kirk Douglas give a surprising performance at a recent 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea screening in Hollywood. And we take a trip to the Magic Kingdom and back listening to the new monorail narration that debuted this week, plus dive into monorail history in To Disney and Beyond with Adam Alcantara.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/368

Today marks the end of two popular Disney attractions, ElecTRONica at Disney California Adventure and Test Track at Epcot. In addition to news surrounding these and other closings as well as upcoming grand openings and more, we take final trip to ride Test Track with binaural audio, from the queue to the pre-show to the ride itself.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/367

Details of exciting Destination D concerts and Star Wars Weekends celebrities along with other upcoming theme park events fill this week's news. Then we welcome Adam Alcantara to discuss whether the Disney Vacation Club is right for you. We conclude with listener feedback, not only from e-mails but also fielding live questions from the chat room.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/366

No April Fool's joke - The Avengers take over a Walt Disney World monorail this week, among other big Disney news. Then we head back to the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship for an in-depth look at the Muppets Adventure Game, part of the Midship Detective Agency. And after some listener feedback, we jump to Disneyland Paris to share the full debut performance of the new Disney Dreams nighttime spectacular.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/365

After exciting news about upcoming Disney hotels, attractions, and video games, we offer a complete report from the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship Inaugural preview. Aboard the new Disney Cruise Line ship, we cover everything from new features like the AquaLab, Satellite Falls, Muppets Adventure Game, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and Europa to restaurant and show reviews along with a few surprises.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/364

We take a trip inside Storybook Circus as it opens as the first phase of the New Fantasyland expansion at the Magic Kingdom with the new Dumbo, Barnstormer, and Fantasyland Train Station. Hollywood Drive-In Golf also opened this week at Universal Orlando, with two uniquely fun miniature golf courses. And Ricky reviews the new Blu-ray release of The Muppets.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/363

This week's news includes the announcements of the Cars Land grand opening and 2013 D23 Expo and dates, among many other big stories. Ricky reviews the surprisingly good sci-fi movie, John Carter. Then we head to Universal Orlando Islands of Adventure for interviews with Universal Creative designers Eric Parr and Thierry Coup about the reopening of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride. Finally, new contributor Maggie Cambron offers tips for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/362

News this week includes the D23 announcement of Fanniversary event details. We also head to New York for the Christening of the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship featuring Neil Patrick Harris and the ship's fairy godmother Mariah Carey. Then we bring you to One More Disney Day with reports from the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Park for 24 hours of excitement, including binaural audio from our own Inside the Magic meet-up.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/361

Surprising news this week includes Walt Disney World announcing attraction closings and openings. Ricky shares thoughts and a scene from the newly-updated Blue Man Group show at Universal Orlando. Then we are joined by Walt Disney Imagineer Jonathan Ackley to discuss the creation of the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom role-playing game. Finally, Ricky answers your questions in Listener Feedback.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/360

One More Disney Day plans begin to surface along with other Disney and theme park news. Then we take a retro-style trip to Disney California Adventure for the new Minnie's Fly Girls Charter Airlines show. From MegaCon 2012 in Orlando, TRON stories are shared in a panel discussion featuring Bruce Boxleitner, Cindy Morgan, and Peter Jurasik.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/359

With no one single stand-out story this week, Ricky explores each of many smaller Disney and theme park news stories in detail, adding a few thoughts and opinions along the way. Changes to FastPass rules, Kilimanjaro Safari and it's a small world, sound bites from this week's Walt Disney World visits from First Lady Michelle Obama and Super Bowl 46 MVP Eli Manning, Disney Cruise Line excitement, and much more. Plus, your questions are answered in Listener Feedback.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/358

After discussing rumored attraction opening dates and other theme park news, Ricky reviews the new Lady and the Tramp Diamond Edition release to Blu-ray. Then we take a trip to the Magic Kingdom for the new romantic version of The Magic, the Memories, and You! And following last week's Disneyland Hotel review, Ricky offers a trip report from the rest of the Disneyland Resort, including the new Main Street USA music, Jolly Holiday Bakery, Lunar New Year Celebration, Disney Gallery, New Orleans Square band, and changes at Disney California Adventure. Then we end we a special Super Bowl 34 halftime performance by Disney.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/357

In addition to a few Disney surprises, we run through all the new experiences announced for Universal Orlando in 2012, including the Cinematic Spectacular and Superstar Parade. Then we head west to Disneyland as Ricky reviews the newly-renovated Disneyland Hotel, including an in-depth discussion of its towers, rooms, restaurants, and pools.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/356

President Obama visits Walt Disney World, talking tourism and causing entertainment shake-ups around the resort, including a special one-time fireworks show at Disney's Hollywood Studios called Rock the Night. We share highlights from both Obama's speech and the fireworks show itself, featuring the park band Mulch, Sweat, and Shears. Plus we catch up on Listener Feedback, with your questions and comments.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/355

We begin with news about the Disney Fantasy christening, new shows for Disney California Adventure, and other surprises. Then we battle evildoers as we help test the new Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom interactive game at Walt Disney World. Finally Ricky climbs into a Ferrari 458 Italia and drives a few laps in the new Exotic Driving Experience at the Walt Disney World Speedway, including interviews with president and COO Rick Fedrizzi and professional race car driver Christian Fittipaldi.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/354

The new year brings exciting theme park news and the promise of new attractions to come. But this week we also take a look back at the recently closed Jaws ride at Universal Orlando with a special binaural ride audio mix as well as an interview with its show director Adam Bezark, discussing not only that classic attraction but also others he has helped create including IllumiNations, Fantasmic, Terminator 2 3D, Spider-Man, Ghostbusters, and more.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/353

It's the 2011 Ear in Review with Ricky Brigante and Paul Barrie from A Window to the Magic, discussing everything that happened in the world of Disney throughout the past year!

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/352

Merry Christmas everyone! After a surprisingly large amount of Disney and theme park news for a holiday week, we answer some listener trip planning questions and then dive into a variety of Christmas entertainment, including songs from the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, Mickey's Christmas Carol on Disneyland Records, Disneyland holiday attraction overlays, and more.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/351

The Christmas season brings little Disney and theme park news, but plenty of live entertainment from the parks and this week we take you to Disney's Hollywood Studios to enjoy a binaural trip through the Osborne Spectacle of Dancing Lights, perfect for enjoying in the background as you wrap presents.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/350

Big Harry Potter news from Universal Studios on both coasts leads off this week's show, followed by more surprises, announcements, and other news from the Disney universe and beyond. Ricky reviews The Rocketeer 20th anniversary Blu-ray release. Then we are joined by special guest Susan Egan, original Belle on Broadway and voice of Megara in Hercules, to discuss her career and new Disney-inspired song called Nina Doesn't Care.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/349

A December of Christmas fun has begun on Inside the Magic! Following surprising news from Universal Orlando and a few announcements from Disney, Ricky reports on what's hot and what's not at the 2011 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, including a few songs from the always-entertaining Dapper Dans. And it all wraps up with your questions and comments in Listener Feedback.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/348

A holiday week yields little news, but we still have much to discuss as we enter the holiday season offering a Disney Christmas list for gift ideas. Then we take a trip to San Francisco to talk all about the amazing experience that is the Walt Disney Family Museum, highlighting favorite exhibits and sights within as well as a few other Disney connections around the Bay Area.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/347

After running through D23 announcements of its 2012 events, Ricky reviews The Muppets movie in a completely spoiler-free but still inspirational, sensational, and Muppetational fashion. And that's followed by a review of Kinect Disneyland Adventures for Xbox 360, with virtual theme park sounds from the game.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/346

Holiday coverage begins on Inside the Magic with the new Christmas version of The Magic, the Memories, and You projected on Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World. Then we take a trip to SeaWorld Orlando to learn all about their announced major expansion plans in an interview with creative director Brian Morrow. And Nathan returns with another installment of Living with Disney.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/345

In this week's now-award winning show, we round up all the Christmas time excitement that's coming to Walt Disney World and Disneyland this holiday season. Plus, we offer our first-ever quadruple DVD and movie review with a look at Toy Story 1, 2, and 3 in 3D as well as Cars 2. Then we catch up on your questions and comments in Listener Feedback.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/344

This 2011 Halloween edition of Inside the Magic brings another year of eerie entertainment! Following the news and a review of the Disney Universe video game, Jay and Mark return for a new installment of the Backstage Pass audio adventure, descending into the depths of the Animal Kingdom underworld. Then Ricky explores the creepier parts of Disney theme parks with a closer look at Snow White's Scary Adventures and the extinct ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter. Finally, as a spooky bonus, we share binaural audio from inside Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights 21 mazes. Plus, we share a few surprises along the way!

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/343

Disney's top ten holiday gift ideas are included in this week's news roundup. Winnie the Pooh hits home on Blu-ray and DVD this week and we review the new release. Then we take a trip back to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival for more cuisine critiques. Finally we answer some live questions from the chat room about Avatar, Pleasure Island, Cars Land, and trip planning.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/342

We start with surprising news from Disney resorts, restaurants, and Disney Cruise Line, then head out to Disneyland for an inside look at Halloween Time as Jeremiah interviews with Disneyland Entertainment Operations manager Jennifer Bellman and Disneyland Resort Enhancement manager Dave Caranci. Ricky reviews the Blu-ray 3-D release of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. Then we take a trip to the grand opening of LEGOLAND Florida for a full report of the all new theme park, including interviews with the park's designer Bill Vollbrecht and Lost Kingdom dark ride creator John Wood, chairman and CEO of Sally Corporation.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/341

A surprising news week brings us the sad news of the death of Apple and Pixar co-founder Steve Jobs, the planned replacement of Disney CEO Bob Iger and more animated 3D Disney classic releases. Then Ricky reviews new offerings at the 2011 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival as well as the new Blu-ray releases of The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast. Halloween time continues with a recap of two recent Haunted Mansion-themed happenings, the Disney Parks Blog Trick or Meet-Up and the Room For One More dinner event, concluding with an our-long special presentation by Walt Disney Imagineers.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/340

We celebrate the 40th anniversary of Walt Disney World not only with a trip to the Magic Kingdom for the official birthday presentation at Cinderella Castle but also with interviews with 40-year Disney cast members Epcot Show Director Forrest Bahruth, former Disney Public Relations and Disney Legend Charles Ridgway, and vice president of Resort Operations Kevin Myers. Plus we get an update about the New Fantasyland expansion from Walt Disney Imagineer Chris Beatty.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/339

A massive theme park week calls for a massive show with big news and big reviews from multiple theme parks. Avatar is coming to Walt Disney World and we hear the announcement directly from Disney CEO Bob Iger, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Tom Staggs, and writer/director James Cameron, followed by additional details and Ricky's thoughts on the new project. Then we take a brief trip to Hawaii for a performance at the grand opening of Disney's newest resort, Aulani. Finally, we descent into the madness of Central Florida's best Halloween events as Ricky reviews Halloween Horror Nights 21 at Universal Orlando and Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/338

Find out what's new for 2011 at the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party including tips for making the most out of the event. Plus enjoy the full Villains Mix and Mingle show, updated for this year to include Dr. Facilier and more. Finally, this week's show concludes with bonus audio from the first-ever official Halloween Horror Nights tweet-up at Universal Studios Orlando, including a presentation and Q and A session featuring three of the event's creators.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/337

For the 2011 version of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Walt Disney World reworked the Villains Mix and Mingle stage show to include a prominent song and dance routine featuring Dr. Facilier performing Friends on the Other Side from The Princess and the Frog, plus many other villains joining after.

Hear more about this video in Show 337 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/337

On this memorable anniversary date, we begin this week's show with a fitting tribute to the dreams and aspirations of America with a classic Epcot song. Then following the news, we lighten our spirits with a wonderfully entertaining, hilarious and unique first-of-its-kind presentation from the 2011 D23 Expo called Voices of the Parks, featuring familiar voice talents from Disney's theme parks.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/336

Disney news takes us around the world and Universal Studios dishes the details on Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando and Hollywood. Then Ricky chats with Imagineer Josh Gorin at the 2011 D23 Expo about The Amazing Destini research project in interactive autonomous Audio-Animatronics. Finally Jeremiah Daws joins the show just hours after completing the Disneyland Half Marathon to talk about the morning's RunDisney event. Plus, Ricky answers a few listener questions.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/335

At the 2011 D23 Expo, Disney tested a new research project called The Amazing Destini, allowing attending guests to interact with a fully automated Audio-Animatronics figure that had the ability to recognize faces, emotions, and converse fluidly without anyone controlling it behind the scenes. Imagineer Josh Gorin told us all about the technology behind it and what it means for theme parks in the future.

Hear more about this video in Show 335 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/335

We head back to the 2011 D23 Expo for two exclusive interviews with Imagineers at the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts pavilion. First, Imagineer Scott Mallwitz walks us through all that's new coming to the Magic Kingdom as part of the Fantasyland expansion, including details you haven't heard anywhere else. Then we elaborate on what's known about Shanghai Disney Resort, though Disney isn't revealing everything yet. Next we head to Hawaii as Disney opens their newest resort, Aulani. We talk with Imagineers Joe Rohde and Jeanette Lomboy along with Disney Vacation Club vice president Djuan Rivers about what it means for Disney to be in Hawaii as we elaborate on what guests can expect when stepping foot in Aulani.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/334

Ricky takes you to the 2011 D23 Expo and talks you through all of the exciting presentations, exhibits, and surprises throughout the three-day Disney fan gathering. Topics include a tour of the show floor, presentations featuring Disney Parks and Resorts, Walt Disney Studios, Pixar, Walt Disney Animation, Imagineers, celebrities, and much more. From the opening Disney Legends ceremony through the final day, there's no D23 Expo topic that goes untouched.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/333

After revealing the final announced details for the D23 Expo and a few bits of surprising news, we take you to the Magic Kingdom for the reopening of Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room in its classic form. Then we're joined by special guest Bruce Boxleitner, best known in the world of Disney for his roles in TRON and Tron: Legacy, to discuss his upcoming appearance at the D23 Expo, working on the TRON films, and much more.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/332

The 2011 D23 Expo is approaching fast and we're sharing the latest schedule changes and additions. Plus, we offer extensive tips to make the most out of your trip to the D23 Expo. We're also joined by Billy Dee Williams, best known for his role as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars series, to discuss his upcoming appearance at the D23 Expo, his new Disney artwork, Star Tours, and more. And we wrap up the show with answers to your Disney trip planning questions.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/331

As the new Aladdin musical ends its run at Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre, we're joined on the show by special guest Jonathan Freeman, voice of Jafar since the character's inception to discuss the new on-stage role as well as the origin of the voice. Then we visit Tinker Bell's Magical Nook, the new meet-and-greet in Adventureland at the Magic Kingdom and chat with a pair of fairies. And we finish the show with some Listener Feedback catch-up.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/330

After Tinker Bell and her fairy friends left the Magic Kingdom due to the closure of Mickey's Toontown Fair, they were temporarily relocated to Epcot. But now they're back in the Magic Kingdom in a new permanent Adventureland home called Tinker Bell's Magical Nook. Inside, guests can interact with a pair of Disney Fairies, including Vidia, Fawn, Iridessa, Silvermist, Rosetta, and (of course) Tinker Bell.

Hear more about this video in Show 330 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/330

We take you to the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con in search of Disney fun. This week's SDCC show includes interviews with Ashley Eckstein of Star Wars fame, Pirates of the Caribbean production designer John Myhre, a follow-up with Joe Maddalena from Profiles in History and SyFy, and a chat with the Giz Wiz himself Dick DeBartolo. We also take you inside one of Comic-Con's most popular booths this year promoting Disney's upcoming ABC TV show Pan Am. Pee-wee Herman aka Paul Reubens talks about his role as Captain Rex being mostly removed from Star Tours and Orlando Magic NBA star Dwight Howard makes a surprise appearance for the Disney XD show Kick Buttowski. Plus, a round-up of other fun Disney sights and costumes seen throughout the convention.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/329

One of the most popular booths at the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con was Disney ABC's Pan Am cabin, which let a limited number of attendees inside each day to watch a preview of the upcoming TV show and receive highly-desired handbags on the way out.

Hear more about this video in Show 329 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/329

During a big Hall H presentation at the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con, Pee-wee Herman answered fan questions surrounding the recent removal of his voice from Disney's Star Tours ride as well as his new road trip movie helmed by Judd Apatow.

Hear more about this video in Show 329 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/329

After sharing news from Downtown Disney and New Fantasyland, Ricky reviews Disney's new Winnie the Pooh film. Skipper Ben joins us with his experience at Splitsville, the bowling and billiards venue coming to Walt Disney World. Finally, we share listener questions, comments, and even an Aladdin stage show review.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/328

We look ahead to the D23 Expo and San Diego Comic Con, share fun Halloween updates, and much more theme park news. Then Skipper Ben and Princess Lisa stay cool during the hot summer months. Finally we catch up on listener feedback, questions, and comments including live interaction with the ITM chat room.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/327

This week's news takes us through many Disney movie rumors and reports plus changes to Walt Disney World and Disneyland and upcoming event details. Then Skipper Ben offers a goofy but amusing cast member story, Ricky answers listener questions, and we offer an Independence Day Weekend treat by sharing a full performance of the talented All-American College Band at Disneyland.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/326

Assorted Disney and theme park news is followed by an assorted group of features as we interview the soon-to-be-retiring Al Weiss, President of Worldwide Operations for Disney Parks and Resorts, take you to the new Pirates of the Caribbean sequence in World of Color, review Disney producer Don Hahn's new book Brain Storm, and enjoy a piano rendition of One Little Spark from musician Tom Ameen. Plus we answer your questions in Listener Feedback.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/325

After news from Disney parks, movies, and the D23 Expo, we learn more about the changes coming to the entrance of Disney California Adventure from Disneyland Resort President George Kalogridis. Then Ricky interviews Imagineer Bob Weis and Disney California Adventure Vice President Mary Niven to discuss the ongoing changes and improvements. And Skipper Ben joins us to share a pair of stories that'll make you shout I'm Going to Disney World!

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/324

In promotion of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, a new sequence was added to the nighttime World of Color show at the Disney California Adventure theme park. The sequence, which features Jack Sparrow, Blackbeard, mermaids, and more, replaced the Chernabog/Fantasia/Night on Bald Mountain sequence - but kept plenty of fire effects.
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Hear more about this video in Show 325 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/325

In a water-themed episode from the Disneyland Resort we dive deep into a review of the new Disneyland Hotel pool Monorail slides and then explore The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure with the full grand opening ceremony featuring songs from Jodi Benson and Sherie Rene Scott, a binaural ride-through, and several Imagineer interviews including one on the ride itself. Then we answer your questions and comments, including some in our live chat room.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/323

Take a trip down both of Disneyland Hotel's new monorail-themed water slides, with the blue offering a kid-friendly ride and the red sending guests swirling in circles before splashing down.

Hear more about this video in Show 323 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/323

On June 2, 2011, I rode through The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure with Walt Disney Imagineer and Audio-Animatronics programmer Ethan Reed to discuss how the ride was created. .

Hear more about this video in Show 323 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/323

After a busy trip to Disneyland, Ricky recaps two days of excitement from the Soundsational Summer media event encompassing The Little Mermaid ride, Star Tours 3D, Mickey's Soundsational Parade, Disneyland Hotel pool, and much more. This overview show is just the beginning of several weeks of reviews, in-park audio, and interviews from throughout all that's new at the Disneyland Resort! Plus, Skipper Ben makes his return to Inside the Magic with a new celebrity story.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/322

During a special VIP party on June 2, 2011, mermaids were swimming around one of Disneyland Hotel's new pools.

Hear more about this video in Show 322 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/322

On the evening of June 2, 2011, invited press and special guests attended a VIP party around the newly-renovated Disneyland Hotel area, with food, drinks, live music, decorations, and plenty of fun in honor of the opening of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure and Star Tours: The Adventures Continue. This video is a brief look at that party.

Hear more about this video in Show 322 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/322

Days before the upcoming grand openings at Disneyland, we take you to the grand opening of the new Cheetah Hunt roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to learn about what inspired its creation and to rave about the exciting ride. Then Ricky recaps all that was Destination D: Walt Disney World including summaries of each of its many interesting and entertaining presentations.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/321

We have a galaxy-sized show this week as we bring you news and excitement from this planet and beyond! First we dive into all the details revealed about Disney's newest cruise ship, the Disney Fantasy. Then Ricky reviews Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. Finally, we take you to grand opening day of Star Tours: The Adventures Continue at Disney's Hollywood Studios including the opening ceremony, two Imagineer Q and A sessions, and exclusive one-on-one interviews with Imagineers Eric Jacobson and Kathy Rogers as well as C-3PO himself Anthony Daniels.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/320

From an incredibly busy Disney weekend, we bring you news and excitement inside Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, the Great Disney Scavenger Hunt, and Destination D: Walt Disney World. First, get a news round-up that includes new details for Fantasyland and the Art of Animation Resort. Ricky then recounts his adventure through the Great Disney Scavenger Hunt achieving a third place finish. Finally we take you on a preview trip through the upgraded and enhanced Star Tours: The Adventures Continue including a spoiler-free review followed by a spoiler-filled description of the entire queue and attraction including binaural audio recordings throughout.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/319

This week's show is filled with excitement from Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, including a first-hand report from the Pirates 4 world premiere at Disneyland. Then we take a trip to the UK at Epcot to enjoy a full set from the new English Channel band.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/318

Star Tours 2 excitement continues with exclusive interviews with Bree Starliner, PR rep for the Star Tours company, and none other than C-3PO and R2-D2 as part of the ongoing Star Tours mall tour. Then in honor of the 22nd anniversary of Disney's Hollywood Studios we're joined by Profiles in History president Joe Maddalena to discuss the amazing and rare Disney collectibles they're auctioning off in their upcoming Hollywood Auction 44. Finally we share the full final performance of The British Invasion at Epcot, courtesy of MouseSteps.com and JeffLangeDVD.com.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/317

After a wide assortment of Disney and theme park news, Cast Corner returns to Inside the Magic featuring your Disney cast member stories. Also sprinkled throughout the show are a few magical moments that pop up when you least expect them. Plus Ricky shares your Disney tips and comments as well as answers a few questions.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/316

In our first live streamed show on YouTube, we dive into news about Star Tours, Fantasyland, and beyond. Skipper Ben joins us with a story of how he almost worked at Star Tours. Then we have an extensive and hunger-inducing review of Victoria and Albert's at the Grand Floridian Resort. Plus, Ricky answers emails and, for the first time ever, live listener feedback!

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/315

After exciting news from The Haunted Mansion, Star Tours, and Disney Cruise Line, we fill the show with Disney music, from new songs to fun and unique renditions. Included in our Disney music playlist are songs from Epcot, the new Winnie the Pooh film, it's a small world, Tron: Legacy, and Aladdin.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/314

Debuting today at the Magic Kingdom, Imagineers unveiled their most impressive addition to The Haunted Mansion to date, in the form of Hitchhiking Ghosts that now play pranks on guests riding in Doom Buggies. They no longer simply sit beside guests, but instead mess with them a bit, floating around them and even swapping heads.

Hear more about this video in Show 314 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/314

This week's show includes an excited preview review of Tron: Legacy and TRON on Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, and DVD. Then in honor of The Ellen DeGeneres Show taping at Universal Orlando earlier today, Ricky shares a complete binaural recording of Ellen's Energy Adventure at Epcot.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/313

Following the news, Ricky reviews the upcoming home release of Tangled, including Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, DVD, and bonus features. Then we're joined by the hilarious voices of Coaster Radio to discuss Theme Park Change. Skipper Ben rounds out the show with a tale of one long, fun day at Disneyland.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/312

Ricky takes you on an in-depth virtual tour of the new Haunted Mansion interactive queue including binaural audio clips of the haunted new crypts. Then we head to Epcot for the opening ceremony of Disney Magic of Healthy Living - The Weekend featuring an interview with Disney Chef Gary Jones about creating healthier food options in theme parks and a chat with Disney Channel star Alyson Stoner about how she lives a healthy lifestyle, staying smart on Twitter, The Hunger Games, and a few other fun topics. As an end-of-the-show bonus, hear the popular JAMMitors perform their unique style of music live as kitchen chefs.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/311

The interactive queue at The Haunted Mansion in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom opened today, offering guests a new introduction to the classic Disney dark ride. The queue features several new tombs, crypts, and ghosts, each with their own sights, sounds, and interactive elements.
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Hear more about this video in Show 311 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/311

We begin the show with coverage of the impact of the recent major earthquake on Tokyo Disneyland with an exclusive first-hand report from a Disney fan who was in the park at the time of the disaster. Following that report and more big Disney news taking us to the Haunted Mansion, Star Tours and beyond, Skipper Ben joins us with another fun Cast Member story.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/310

On display near Epcot's Germany pavilion is Rapunzel's tower from Tangled for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival 2011, promoting the upcoming home release of the animated film. The tower has windows that open and close and Rapunzel can be heard from within singing, making her hair glow, extended from a window. This video shows the display during the day and at night.

Hear more about this video in Show 310 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/310

Following another week of exciting Disney and theme park news, we are joined by former Walt Disney Imagineer and current freelance artist Don Carson to help answer the question: How do I become an Imagineer? If designing theme park attractions is your idea of a dream job, this conversation may help you achieve it.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/309

It's been yet another BIG Disney news week as we cover The Haunted Mansion, Mickey Mouse's new home, Disneyland attraction opening dates, and much more. Then we prepare for the Academy Awards with a fun new binaural recording of The Great Movie Ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Skipper Ben and Princess Lisa also join us with a trip report for their latest vacation to Walt Disney World including a big announcement.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/308

For National Engineers Week 2011, TV personality and engineer Bill Nye the Science Guy gave four presentations to fans inside Epcot's Innoventions at Walt Disney World. This is the first of the series.

Hear more about this video in Show 308 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/308

The Hitchhiking Ghosts have been (temporarily?) replaced in The Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom by projected, animated, computer-generated versions of themselves, floating by. It appears, at the moment, that these are temporary replacements while the Audio-Animatronic figures behind the black projection screens are enhanced.

Hear more about this video in Show 308 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/308

Following plenty of exciting and even some controversial Disney news, we are joined by special guest Phil Snyder, the latest voice to take on the role of Jiminy Cricket for Disney. And when we think of Jiminy Cricket, SpectroMagic comes to mind so we share the fun music and sounds from this nighttime parade.

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We begin the show by wrapping up Toontown's closing, Star Tours, and plenty more fun Disney news. Then musician Tom Ameen joins us once again with a piano rendition of another classic Disney theme park tune. Skipper Ben joins Ricky once again for another edition of TTA Talk to discuss ongoing Fantasyland changes. Finally, Nathan offers more amusing insight into what it's like Living with Disney.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/306

Mickey's Toontown Fair permanently closed on February 12, 2011 to make way for Storybook Circus. This video is a walking tour through the land, including glimpses at Mickey and Minnie's houses, Goofy's Barnstormer, Donald's Boat, Fairies meet-and-greet, and the Walt Disney World Railroad. Check out our other videos for more in-depth tours of Mickey and Minnie's houses as well as full rides on Goofy's Barnstormer!.

Hear more about this video in Show 306 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/306

Disney producer and director Don Hahn joins us this week to discuss the creation of the eye-opening documentary Waking Sleeping Beauty. Following that interview, Ricky hops aboard the Tomorrowland Transit Authority to chat with Skipper Ben in another installment of TTA Talk, covering Magic, Memories, and You, Space Mountain with Starry-O-Phonic sound, Via Napoli, and other fun Disney topics.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/305

Learn more about The Magic, the Memories, and You projection show at Walt Disney World and now Disneyland, with introductions by Disneyland Resort president George Kalogridis and show director Alan Bruun. Then hop aboard the new Disney Dream cruise ship as Ricky takes you on an extensive trip report from the Christening Cruise including dining, entertainment, tips, and plenty of live audio. It's everything you ever wanted to know about Disney's third and largest cruise ship in the world, all packed into one mega-episode.

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We dive into this week's huge Disney news including new details and attractions for the Fantasyland expansion, the full Let the Memories Begin presentation from a special Magic Kingdom event, the new Magic, Memories, and You! projection show on Cinderella Castle, and interviews with Walt Disney Imagineer Eric Jacobson and Disney Show Director Alan Bruun. Following all that, Ricky offers a few brief thoughts on the new Disney Dream cruise ship, which will be covered completely on next week's show.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/303

Ride the amazing Aqua Duck water slide with Inside the Magic's Ricky Brigante aboard the Disney Dream cruise ship!.

Hear more about this video in Show 303 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/303

On the evening of Jan. 18, 2011, Disney premiered the new "Magic, Memories, and You!" projection show on Cinderella Castle for attending media during a special event. The show combines guest photos with stunning, colorful, and animated projections that span the entire surface of the castle.

Hear more about this video in Show 303 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/303

Two new Disney experiences premiered this week and we begin with a review of the Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom including a brief interview with Animal Kingdom vice president Michael Michael Colglazier. Then we take you to Disney's Hollywood Studios to enjoy the comedy stylings of the Citizens of Hollywood streetmosphere performers followed by the new Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun parade along with Ricky's thoughts on it.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/302

The Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun parade premiered at Disney's Hollywood Studios on Jan. 16, 2011, replacing Block Party Bash. Pixar characters featured in the parade include Dug, Carl, and Russell from Up, Mike, Sully, and boo from Monsters Inc, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, Bullsye, and Lotso from Toy Story, Flik, Princess Ada, and Heimlich from A Bug's Life, Remy from Ratatouille and Mr. Incredible, Frozone, and Mrs. Incredible from The Incredibles.

Hear more about this video in Show 302 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/302

At Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park, guests can now step onto the "other side" of the safari as part of the Wild Africa Trek. Included in the 3-hour adventure are up-close encounters with hippos and crocodiles, shaky rope bridge walks, and relaxing time snacking in the middle of the Harambe Reserve savannah.

Hear more about this video in Show 302 of the Inside the Magic audio podcast at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/302

After a long, long 2010 Ear in Review last week, we return to a regular show where we catch up on all the latest Disney and theme park news, Skipper Ben returns with a Disneyland trip report, and we also catch up on listener questions and comments.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/301

Join Ricky Brigante and Paul Barrie in an exhaustively in-depth Ear in Review as we look back at the world of Disney in the year of 2010. In addition to these hours of entertainment, we're also celebrating the 300th episode of Inside the Magic with a contest filled with fabulous prizes!

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/300

It's the Inside the Magic post-Christmas show! After an extraordinarily brief bit of news, we bring you some bonus Christmas time audio in the form of Disney's long-extinct LuminAria show from Disney California Adventure. Nathan joins us for another installment of Living with Disney. Then we step back onto the Grid with a fun TRON narrated storybook reading followed by some listener feedback.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/299

Following Ricky's review of Tron Legacy, we bring you an Inside the Magic Christmas Extravaganza featuring binaural recordings from the Osborne Spectacle of Dancing lights at Disney's Hollywoood Studios, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party with ambient audio, the Dapper Dans, Holiday Wishes, and trips aboard a few Magic Kingdom rides, and a trip to Universal Studios Orlando as former a cappella Disney singers Toxic Audio perform their Sounds of the Holidays.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/298

After plenty of theme park and movie news, Ricky offers another trio of reviews, this time for three restaurant concepts in one location. This week's reviews feature Pollo Campero, Fresh A-Peel, and Babycakes NYC at Walt Disney World's Downtown Disney including interviews with Levy Restaurants chef di duisine Robin Rosenberg and Babycakes NYC founder Erin McKenna. Skipper Ben and Princess Lisa return with planning another fun trip to Walt Disney World.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/297

We hold the Christmas content this week in favor of three reviews. First, Ricky reviews the Nintendo Wii game Disney Epic Mickey. Then a two-part review begins with a discussion of the new Concession Stand of the Future at the Downtown Disney AMC followed by a spoiler-free look at what makes Tangled one of Disney's best animated films in recent years.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/296

Right before your very ears, Ricky turns 30 years old during the recording of this episode. Beyond that fairly obscure fact, Ricky also shares his Top 10 Disney Christmas Gift ideas. Nathan joins us once again for another installment of Living with Disney. We round out the show by catching up on your listener questions and comments.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/295

After some big and surprising news, our lengthy but entertaining main feature brings you to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo 2010 in Orlando for a presentation featuring Disney Legends Marty Sklar and Mickey Steinberg, moderated by former Imagineer Bob Rogers, to discuss Disney's creation of theme parks and involvement in cultures outside the United States from the perspectives of a creative leader and a project manager.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/294

It's another big Disney news week including interesting new movie information and analysis of Disney's Q4 financial results. Beyond the news, Skipper Ben and Princess Lisa reminisce about gone-but-not-forgotten elements of Disney's Animal Kingdom. Then we share an interesting old interview with Walt Disney himself about his involvement the 1964-65 World's Fair.

Read more at http://www.insidethemagic.net/podcasts/293