Category: Orange County

  • D23 Expo Arena Schedule

    The D23 Arena presentations are the biggest and, in my opinion, most important events on the D23 Expo Schedule. It’s these events where the top brass give the insider looks at what to expect in the next year or so and where most of the amazing special guests show up. They are not to be missed except in extraordinary circumstances.

    The D23 Expo 2011 is proud to announce the Arena schedule for The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Expo guests will have exclusive access to presentations from The Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Disney Channel, and Marvel Comics—plus they will be able to experience the 2011 Disney Legends Ceremony.

    In addition to the spotlight arena presentations, this year’s Expo will feature screenings, celebrity panels and autograph signings, eye-popping pavilions, exclusive insights into TV shows, theme parks, animation, Disney history, and more, to be announced in the coming weeks. Arena presentations will include:

    Friday, August 19:

    2011 Disney Legends Ceremony—11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    Hosted by Tom Bergeron. Honorees Regis Philbin; Jim Henson; Disney Princesses Jodi Benson, Paige O’Hara, Lea Salonga, Linda Larkin and Anika Noni Rose; Bo Boyd; Jack and Bonita Wrather; Guy Williams, and Ray Watson will be inducted as Disney Legends for their contribution to the creative legacy of The Walt Disney Company in a special presentation exclusively for D23 Expo guests.

    Walt Disney Parks and Resorts—3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    Join Tom Staggs, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, as he gives D23 guests a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into some of the exciting projects currently underway at Disney’s parks and resorts around the world.

    Saturday, August 20:

    The Walt Disney Studios —11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    A fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse at the exciting roster of projects on the horizon at The Walt Disney Studios. From exclusive video clips and live performances to filmmaker discussions and star appearances, this session will be hosted by Rich Ross, chairman, The Walt Disney Studios; Sean Bailey, president, Production, The Walt Disney Studios; John Lasseter, chief creative officer, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; and Kevin Feige, president, Production, Marvel Studios.

    The Lion King 3D Exclusive D23 Screening—6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
    Disney fans will have access to an exclusive advance screening of The Lion King in Disney Digital 3D™, ahead of the film’s highly anticipated theatrical and home entertainment releases. “The Circle of Life” takes on a new dimension as Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon, and Pumbaa grace the screen once again, this time in breathtaking 3D.

    Sunday, August 21:

    Marvel Comics —10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
    An exclusive and unprecedented experience that will take you through the evolution of Marvel from its first comic book in 1939 to its current position as one of the most important creative forces in the world. During this presentation, which will include interactive Q&A segments, you will not only get an inside glimpse of the history of Marvel and its iconic Super Heroes but also discover why Marvel truly is the House of Ideas. This session will be hosted by Joe Quesada, Marvel’s chief creative officer and one of the most respected and sought after writers and artists in the entertainment industry.

    Disney Channel —2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Fans are invited to experience the excitement of a spectacular live performance, featuring stars of Disney Channel’s hit series Shake It Up. From meeting the cast of television’s first dance-driven sitcom and learning moves from a Disney Channel dance master to a special panel, autograph session and more, this unforgettable experience awaits Disney fans of all ages.

    These presentations add to the already robust schedule of experiences, presentations and pavilions that will make up the D23 Expo 2011, including the Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament presented by Hasbro’s Trivial Pursuit, the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit—including the Fan Art Gallery, the D23 Expo Live Auction and the D23 Expo Dream Store. Additional schedule, pavilion, and talent announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

    – Original Article –

    Depending on which calender you use, these exact times may vary from the final schedule. And of course, everything is subject to change time and location up until it actually happens! Hopefully they’ll be more organized this time. Crowd control and overcrowding were major issues at the 2009 Expo.

  • Disney Channel stars at the D23 Expo

    Big news! Disney has announced not only a general overview of the Disney channel stars that will be at the expo, but they have also laid out the complete schedule for the signings!

    D23 Expo 2011

    In particular, I am excited to meet Hayley Kiyoko, Alyson Stoner, Olivia Holt, Stefanie Scott, and Caroline Sunshine. I have been trying to get Alyson’s autograph forever and Stefanie is just too cute.

    I also look forward to seeing Chelsea and the cast of So Random again. I just need Doug and Sterling’s autographs to finish my Sonny with a Chance cast picture…

    My Sonny with a Chance Autographs

    Disney’s official press release follows…

    STARS OF DISNEY CHANNEL, DISNEY XD AND DISNEY JUNIOR
    TO MEET FANS EVERY DAY AT DISNEY’S D23 EXPO

    Perry the Platy-bus Parks in Phineas and Ferb’s Backyard Booth on D23 Expo Floor; Fans Invited to Meet the Stars of “Phineas and Ferb,” “Lemonade Mouth,” “A.N.T. Farm,” “Fish Hooks,” “So Random!,” “Good Luck Charlie,” “Kickin’ It,” “Pair of Kings,” “Jake and the Never Land Pirates,”
    “Handy Manny” and “Special Agent Oso”

    Musical Performances by China Anne McClain, Coco Jones, Radio Disney’s Newest N.B.T. Artists and Disney Junior’s Never Land Pirate Band; Plus Martial Arts Showcase by Leo Howard

    — Stars of “Shake It Up” Arena Dance Performance and Q&A Session Sunday —

    BURBANK, Calif. (July 28, 2011) – Kids, tweens and families can meet their favorite stars of Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior, over three fun-filled days, FRIDAY, AUGUST 19–SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, at the ultimate event for Disney fans, Disney’s D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. The schedule includes a musical performance by actress and Hollywood Records recording artist China Anne McClain (Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm”), a martial arts performance by actor Leo Howard (Disney XD’s “Kickin’ It”), musical performances from Radio Disney’s newest N.B.T. Artists, Hollywood Records recording artist Coco Jones and a boisterous performance by Sharky and Bones of The Never Land Pirate Band (from Disney Junior’s “Jake and the Never Land Pirates”).

    On FRIDAY, AUGUST 19 in the Disney Channel booth, fans of all ages are invited to join Pulitzer Prize-winning humor columnist Dave Barry and noted New York Times best-selling author Ridley Pearson, Disney Publishing Worldwide co-authors of prequels to the classic Peter Pan, the “Peter and the Starcatchers” book series, along with beloved “Jake and the Never Land Pirates” characters Jake, Captain Hook and Mr. Smee, for a celebration of the power of imagination and the magic of Disney storytelling. This event also includes an appearance by actor David Arquette (the voice of Skully in the hit Disney Junior series “Jake and the Never Land Pirates”) and a special announcement from The Walt Disney Company Corporate Citizenship team.

    On SUNDAY, AUGUST 21 in the D23 Arena, the stars of Disney Channel’s hit series “Shake It Up,” will take the stage for a high-energy, live dance performance and Q&A session. The event will kick off with a Style Shake Up runway event, featuring fashions for the new school year from Disney Consumer Products. A special screening of an upcoming episode will be followed by a fan meeting with the “Shake It Up” cast in the Disney Channel booth.

    Perry the Platy-bus, a 4000 pound customized Airstream trailer in the likeness of the character Perry the Platypus of Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Phineas and Ferb,” gets a prime parking spot on the Disney D23 Expo Floor, in Disney Channel’s colorful booth, one transformed into Phineas and Ferb’s iconic backyard. Fans are invited to step inside the famous “Perry the Platy-bus” to play interactive games, enjoy live performances, meet the stars, get autographs and rock out to Radio Disney tunes.

    Popular radio personalities Ernie D, Jake, Candice, Blake and Hallie from Radio Disney, the 24-hour contemporary hits radio network and the only radio broadcaster for kids and families, will join in the fun along with special musical guest stars Coco Jones and the newest N.B.T. artists.

    Following is the schedule of stars making special appearances and signing autographs in the Disney Channel booth:

    Friday, August 19

    10:00-11:00 a.m. “Jake and the Never Land Pirates” character appearances by Jake, Captain Hook & Mr. Smee

    12:00 noon-1:00 p.m. The Never Land Pirate Band musical performance

    1:00-1:30 p.m. Special announcement and storytelling event from The Walt Disney Company Corporate Citizenship team with noted Disney Publishing Worldwide authors Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson (“Peter and the Starcatchers”), David Arquette, Jake, Captain Hook and Mr. Smee of “Jake and the Never Land Pirates”

    1:30-2:30 p.m. “Good Luck Charlie” stars Jason Dolley, Leigh-Allyn Baker and Bradley Steven Perry,

    3:00-4:00 p.m. Radio Disney’s N.B.T. artists Tay Barton, Zack Montana, Shealeigh, Ladina Spence and Hollywood Ending perform

    4:30-5:45 p.m. “Lemonade Mouth” stars – Adam Hicks, Hayley Kiyoko and Chris Brochu

    5:45-7:00 p.m. “So Random!” stars – Tiffany Thornton, Sterling Knight, Doug Brochu, Allisyn Ashley Arm, Damien Haas, Matthew Scott Montgomery and Shayne Topp

    Saturday, August 20

    10:00-11:00 a.m. “Phineas and Ferb” character appearances — Phineas, Ferb and Agent P

    11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon “Phineas and Ferb” creators and executive producers Dan Povenmire and Swampy Marsh and cast Vincent Martella, Alyson Stoner and Dee Bradley Baker

    12:30-1:30 p.m. “Kickin’ It” stars Leo Howard, Dylan Riley Snyder, Alex Christian Jones and Olivia Holt, plus a special martial arts performance by Leo Howard

    2:30-3:00 p.m. Performance by Radio Disney’s guest and Hollywood Records recording artist Coco Jones

    3:00-4:00 p.m. “Fish Hooks” creator/executive producer Noah Z. Jones and cast Chelsea Kane and Kyle Massey (both also of ABC-TV’s “Dancing with the Stars”)

    4:00-5:00 p.m. “A.N.T. Farm” stars — China Anne McClain, Jake Short, Sierra McCormick, Stefanie Scott and Carlon Jeffery, plus a musical performance by China Anne McClain

    Sunday, August 21

    10:00-11:15 a.m. Handy Manny character and appearance by the voice of Manny, Wilmer Valderrama

    11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Special Agent Oso character and appearance by the voice of Oso, Sean Astin

    12:30-1:30 p.m. “Pair of Kings” — Doc Shaw, Kelsey Chow and Geno Segers

    1:30-2:30 p.m. *** Photo Opportunity *** “Shake It Up” stars (Arena foyer)

    2:30-4:00 p.m. D23 Arena Showcase — “Shake It Up” featuring stars Bella Thorne, Zendaya, Davis Cleveland, Roshon Fegan, Adam Irigoyen, Kenton Duty and Caroline Sunshine and executive producer Rob Lotterstein plus Style Shake Up fashion runway event

    4:00-6:00 p.m. “Shake It Up” cast meet and greet in the Disney Channel booth

    Tickets to the D23 Expo are available at http://www.D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo, including the Disney Legends Ceremony, and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Admission is $47 for a one-day adult ticket and $37 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $136 for adults and $106 for children. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will receive a discount for up to four admissions, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests.

  • Selena Gomez Concert at the OC Fair

    So on Sunday I went to the Orange County Fair to see Selena. It wasn’t the best timing for me, but I had already paid for the ticket back in February so I figured I better take advantage. I had some time to explore the fair before the show and I saw the cutest baby cow. <3

    OC Fair Cow

    Also, prior to the actual show, I got word that Disney had invited some various actors to the show including Adam Irigoyen (Deuce, Shake It Up), Caroline Sunshine (Tinka, Shake It Up) Bella Thorne (CeCe, Shake It Up), and Stefanie Scott (Lexi, ANT Farm). I saw all of them, but Bella is the only one who come close to where I was. And I already met her so I didn’t try knocking people over to get to talk to her. xD

    Bella Thorne OC Fair

    So then it was actually time for the show! It was a huge amphitheater and I was in the 14th row back. Not too bad I think. Not as good as the last time I saw Selena, but then again, I didn’t have to stand in the sun for six hours either.

    Selena Gomez on Stage at the OC Fair

    Selena did a total of 18 songs! That’s the most I’ve ever seen her do at once, surpassing her LA County Fair show last year by a good six songs. Here’s the full list:

    A Year Without Rain
    Hit the Lights
    Summer’s Not Hot
    Round and round
    The Way I Loved You
    We Own the Night
    Love You Like a Love Song
    Spotlight
    Bang Bang Bang
    When the Sun Goes Down
    Intuition
    Falling Down
    Rock God
    My Dilemma
    Off the Chain
    Tell Me Something I Don’t Know
    Naturally
    Who Says

    I think that song “Hit the Lights” is my favorite off the new album. If not, then “We Own the Night” is.

    I was a bit disappointed she didn’t do “Outlaw” though. It would have been an interesting song to hear live. Although I must say that “My Dilemma” was pretty good too.

    And, I have to at least mention this I suppose, Selena’s little boy toy Justin Bieber was there too. Worse, he actually took the f-ing stage! I both tried to set him on fire using only the power of my mind (it didn’t work, darn!) and I also watched Selena watch him. And I have to say, she didn’t look very comfortable watching him perform. You can’t really see her in the video unfortunately, but there was just enough light to make her out in person.

    If you’re looking for the rest of the videos from the show, you can find them over on my youtube. =]

  • The 2011 D23 Expo

    Here’s a good summary of what to expect at the D23 expo in August.

    The 2011 D23 Expo

    Of course, they won’t tell us who will be making an appearance yet, though. “Look for special appearances from many of your favorite stars from our biggest shows” is all we get for now.

    After nearly two years, the D23 Expo will be returning to the Anaheim Convention Center this August 19 – 21st bringing “celebrity appearances, eye-popping pavilions, fascinating presentations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences”. Here are some of the highlights of the event.

    The Walt Disney Studios will give fans a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse at the exciting roster of projects on the horizon. From exclusive video clips and live performances to filmmaker discussions and star appearances, audiences will be treated to an up-close look at select movies from the Studio’s upcoming film slate.

    Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will be showcasing its “great big beautiful tomorrow” with a sneak peek at imaginative new experiences in the works for Disney Parks around the world, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney and Disney Vacation Club.

    Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit will offer a unique glimpse into the fantastic world of the Walt Disney Archives as we throw open the vaults and bring out the crown jewels of our amazing collections in an exciting, never-before-seen showcase boasting costumes and props from Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland and Pirates of the Caribbean to Tron and LOST.

    The Disney Living pavilion, presented by Disney Consumer Products, will inspire the Disney lifestyle through the worlds of Style, Play, Celebrations and more. From the nursery to the runway, from hot toys to cool book apps, favorite Disney characters will come to life in exclusive and never-before-seen products, collections and experiences for Disney fans. Meet the artists, designers, authors and innovators who create the magic and fun, and join in hands-on demos, activities and immersive environments.

    Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior will jump off the screen at this year’s D23 Expo! Look for special appearances from many of your favorite stars from our biggest shows—and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences sure to delight the whole family.

    Radio Disney invites you to join the party as we celebrate the ultimate Disney fan event with music, fun, games and the chance to meet some favorite Radio Disney stars!

    Disney Interactive Media Group pavilion will bring beloved Disney stories and characters to life digitally though exciting new interactive experiences. Guests will be able to try out new and upcoming games for videogame consoles, mobile and online, as well as fun creative activities from Disney.com.

    D23 Expo Dream Store will be filled to the brim and bursting with D23-themed merchandise and other specialty items from Disney Theme Park Merchandise. From souvenirs and upscale logo assortments to Disney-inspired art and collectibles, ear hats, pins, Vinylmation™ and more, it will be a Disney enthusiast’s dream come true.

    Disney Fan Art Gallerywill feature the creative talents of D23 Members at D23 Expo 2011, putting the “spot”-light on One Hundred and One Dalmatians. Disney lovers were previously invited to create work inspired by the beloved animated film, currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. Winners, selected by a panel of Disney’s creative executives, will see their work prominently showcased in the D23 Expo’s Fan Art Gallery, themed to the infamous House of de Vil, inside the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit.

    Collectors Forum will be the ultimate Disney marketplace for fans. Collectors, dealers and other vendors will have the opportunity to showcase their collections in this ultimate forum for buying, selling and trading Disney merchandise and memorabilia. This year, in addition to Disney, Pixar and ABC collectibles, the Forum will feature items from the amazing world of Marvel, the newest addition to the Disney family, and Star Wars, in celebration of the reimagined attraction Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort.

    Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament Presented by Hasbro’s Trivial Pursuit | Disney Edition is an exciting new addition to D23 Expo 2011. The eccentric, professorial quack-meister Ludwig Von Drake will preside over the festivities as competitors demonstrate their deep knowledge of all things Disney, including park attractions and shows and parades, past and present; films and TV shows through the years; consumer products, games, company history and, of course, Walt and his family. No corner of Disney’s magical kingdom will be left unexplored in this quest to find that uniquely talented individual who knows more about Disney than anyone else. Trials for the Tournament will take place on Thursday, August 18 at the Convention Center, the day before the Expo opens.

    D23 Expo2011 will also feature the Disney Legends Awards—a tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy, and a product showcase featuring Disney Pins and Vinylmation in a special area where collectors can swap stories, treasures and meet the artists.

    A membership is not required to attend the event (although you get a discount on admission if you are a member). Tickets purchased before June 30th are also discounted.

    You can purchase tickets at www.D23Expo.com

  • Upcoming D23 Expo Exhibits

    I for one am very excited about the upcoming 2011 D23 Expo. I had a lot of fun at the 2009 D23 Expo and with any hope the next one will be just as good.

    Here’s a preview of the event courtesy of Disney. If you’re gonna be there too, then be sure to say hi if you happen to see me! 😉

    Treasures Of The Walt Disney Archives Returns to the D23 Expo
    05.26.11 – From Jack Sparrow’s Black Pearl to Walt Disney’s limousine, a 12,000-square-foot exhibit will feature imagery, costumes, props, and more from beloved Disney movies, television shows and characters.

    D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and the Walt Disney Archives are proud to announce the return of the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit to the D23 Expo. During the D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center, August 19-21, 2011, the 12,000-square-foot exhibit, which has doubled in size since the 2009 Expo, will give fans unprecedented access and insight into more than eight decades of Disney history.

    The expansive exhibit will showcase the crown jewels of the Walt Disney Archives Collection, many of which will be displayed publicly for the first time. The most memorable props, set pieces, photos, costumes and memorabilia from beloved Disney films such as the Pirates of the Caribbean films, Alice in Wonderland, National Treasure, Tron (1982), The Rocketeer, Pinocchio and Who Framed Roger Rabbit will allow fans to enjoy and explore their favorite movies and characters like never before. In addition, the show floor will feature one-of-a-kind pieces including a 23-foot model of the Black Pearl, used in bothPirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, the Dharma Initiative Volkswagen van from the ABC television series LOST, and Walt Disney’s limousine.

    The D23 Expo 2011 will also feature the Disney Legends Awards — a tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy. It also marks the return of the D23 Live Auction, boasting extraordinary rarities and specially designed items for Disney fans; the all-new Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament Presented by Hasbro® Trivial Pursuit: Disney For All Edition, where Disney fans will match wits to win a cruise on the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship; plus amazing live events, special celebrity appearances, panels and presentations and unique experiences from every corner of Disney, from upcoming feature film and television sneak peeks to what’s new and what’s next from our theme parks around the world. “This is truly a one-of-a-kind display that showcases the enormous creativity and imagination of Walt Disney and the artists who have created unforgettable moments in entertainment history,” Steven Clark, head of D23, says. “From Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney to Pirates of the Caribbean and Wizards of Waverly Place, the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives will truly be something for Disney fans of all ages.”

    The D23 Expo 2011 will also feature the Disney Legends Awards — a tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy; the return of the D23 Live Auction, boasting extraordinary rarities and specially designed items for Disney fans; the all-new Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament Presented by Hasbro® Trivial Pursuit: Disney For All Edition, where Disney fans will match wits to win a cruise on the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship; plus amazing live events, special celebrity appearances, panels and presentations and unique experiences from every corner of Disney ® from upcoming feature film and television sneak peeks to what’s new and what’s next from our theme parks around the world.

  • Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    So yeah, I had a pretty good day yesterday.

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    I was second in line to see Debby at her Radio Disney meet and greet in Long Beach yesterday May 1st 2011.

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    How did I manage that you ask? Well, I got there waaaay earlier than I needed to. I know she’s not as big a name as Selena or Demi (yet) but I still expected more people.

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    She even remembered me! 😀 But enough about me and how about Debby? My God was she looking good!

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    She had a really nice top and her hair was perfect. I like it best dark, but the red works on her, and that’s exactly what I told her.

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    And that gold skirt looked great on her. She was showing a pretty good about of leg, and she has very nice legs, I must admit.

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    I was shooting most of these pictures after I met her from the far side of the rope. It was inside as well, so a lot of the shots that looked great on the camera screen came out kind of blurred. Sorry about that.

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    It’s not as good as being there, but at least I tried. I took some videos for my youtube too…

    … including this one of a guy who actually Proposed to her! Debby was quite shocked by this and she was literally questioning out loud “Um, what do I do? What do I say? Do I say yes?”

    Debby even mentioned it on her twitter: “today, a guy named Mark wrote me a song while he was in line to meet me, then proceeded to serenade me with it, ending in a proposal. #charm” … That bastard. He showed me his autograph after and she even wrote “my fiance” under his name!

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    Anyway… it was a fun day. She even posed with a giant sandwich!

    Debby Ryan Meet and Greet in Long Beach

    As always, click any photo to view the full gallery of my original, exclusive photos, and you can find more of my videos on my youtube.

  • A Magical Afternoon (at the D23 Expo)

    Now, if you remember I wrote a post about the Wizards Pannel at the D23 Expo last month. It was mostly an excuse to post a couple pics I took of Selena and a video or two from the event.

    D23 Expo Wizards of Waverly Place

    But now I’ve found a very good review of the event from the Official D23 website, and I wanted to share it with you all. 🙂

    The D23 Arena was THE place to be Sunday afternoon at the Expo for any Disney Channel fan. From the moment the cast of Wizards of Waverly Place entered the room for their panel, they instantly had the crowd under their spell!

    But before the main event began, there was a fashion show of the hot new clothing line inspired by the series (available soon in stores like Sears, Wal-Mart and JC Penny) and a screening of the upcoming Wizards season premiere. Then it was time for the real fun to begin. Fresh off their Emmy win the night before for Outstanding Children’s Program, Selena Gomez, David Henrie, Jake T. Austin, Jennifer Stone and Maria Canals-Barrera, along with executive producers Peter Murrieta and Todd Greenwald came on stage one by one, statues in hand, and were greeted with a long round of enthusiastic screams of excitement that seemed to echo throughout the entire convention center!

    The shouts of joy from the kids in the room never stopped throughout the entire Q and A session, as the gang told stories of their lives before the show, favorite memories from the set, meeting each other for the first time and when they realized the effect the show was making on fans. For Selena, that moment came when a young boy approached her and asked if the magic on the show was real. “I asked him, ‘Do you believe it’s real?’ He almost started crying and said, ‘Yes, I do think it’s real’ and I said, ‘Then that’s all that matters,’” Selena recalled. “That’s when I realized what an impact the show was having on people.”

    Then the audience got in on the act with their own questions for the cast — including a marriage proposal for David and Selena receiving a flower from a young male admirer! The Wizards gang also revealed that Harper would be moving in with the Russos this season, Justin would be taking up monster hunting, Max would be conjuring up more spells and Alex, well, she will still be single and causing trouble. As soon as the questions were done and the cast bid the audience adieu, the event was capped off by an amazing performance from Honor Society.

    An Emmy win plus one of the warmest and most energetic welcomes at the D23 Expo made for an afternoon even the Wizards group won’t soon forget. “When you win an Emmy, you can celebrate with your family and friends, but to have won this last night and to celebrate with the fans, it’s an unbelievable experience,” Todd tells D23. “To have four thousand people screaming in that room was surreal and it was the cherry on the cake of the whole weekend!”

  • Selena Gomez’s CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    Today (10/03/09) Selena Gomez had a CD signing at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, CA to promote her new album, “Kiss and Tell.”

    I got there four hours early, shortly before 9AM And there was already an epic line!

    Selena Gomez CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    In the photo above, the line stretches all the way to the building, across to the right, and into the Mall!

    They gave wrist bands to each group, and I was in the 400th – 500th group. By noon, the officials where estimating the line to be at least 200 people!

    Selena Gomez CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    She was scheduled to sign for three hours, and I finally got up to her two hours after she started signing. (Six hours total wait.)

    Selena Gomez CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    I wasn’t allowed to take a picture with her, but I do have some great shots from close up! (Click any of the photos to see the whole set)

    Selena Gomez CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    She hugged this one little girl, and lifted her clear off the ground!

    Selena Gomez CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    The thing I love most about Selena is that she really, honestly, cares about her fans.

    She wrote on her twitter: “After 5 hrs and 4,722 signed copies of the cd I got 50 handmade bracelets. This just proves I have the best fans!”

    And she posted this picture:

    Selena Gomez's CD Signing in Costa Mesa

    All I gave her was a card letting her know about Save Disney Shows and My Selena Gomez Fansite.

    I’ve done a lot of amazing things, many of them just in the past month, but actually meeting Selena tops them all. I’m not sure if I remembered to breathe. My heart was racing for at least an hour after wards. I’d have loved to have a picture with her, but it’s more important that her other fans got the chance to meet her. And I’m sure even with the extra two hours that she couldn’t get to everyone.

    Selena Gomez Signed CD

    If you see this Selena, I want to thank you on behalf of all your fans. It was a long and at times frustrating ordeal, but it was totally worth it. 🙂

  • D23 Expo Recap (Part 4)

    On the last day of the D23 Expo, we had by far the most amazing event of the entire event, the Wizards of Waverly Place Cast and Crew Panel. In attendance where Selena Gomez (Alex Russo), David Henrie (Justin Russo), Jake T. Austin (Max Russo), Jennifer Stone (Harper), Maria Canals-Barrera (Theresa Russo), Todd J. Greenwald (Creator), and Peter Murrieta (Executive Producer). David DeLuise (Jerry Russo) had been scheduled to appear, but had injured himself the night before when he got a little too exited about their Emmy win.

    The event opened with the screening of the first season three episode. In this episode, Justin creates a monster to keep Alex out of his room, but things don’t go as planned.

    Franken-girl

    Alex actually ends up trying out for cheer leading!

    Franken-girl

    And of course, Selena was as cute as ever. Even with her short hair.

    Franken-girl

    Anyway, after the video, they brought out the cast for an hour long Q&A. Most of the questions that Peter asked them where the usual sort of stuff, like “favorite memories” for example. There where more interesting questions from the audience, but most of those questions ened up being requests for hugs from Selena and David! The last question was actually a marriage proposal for David! They brought the girl up on stage and she got down one knee and everything! It was an insanely awesome event.

    D23 Expo Wizards of Waverly Place

    Check out the videos below to get a feel for it. 🙂

    After the panel ended, they closed the show with a performance by Honor Society.

    D23 Expo Wizards of Waverly Place

    Check out my youtube for a bunch more videos from Sunday and visit the DC Fans gallery for more event pictures.

  • D23 Expo Recap (Part 3)

    On day three of the Expo, I was able to meet my two favorite Disney blonds, Tiffany Thornton and Chelsea Staub!

    Tiffany Thornton at the D23 Expo

    I don’t know how I was able to breathe, let alone talk, while in Tiffany’s presence. She is just one of the most amazing people, well, ever. I was able to tell her about TiffanyThornton.us and Sonny-with-a-Chance.com!

    Chelsea Staub at the D23 Expo

    I can’t remember meeting Chelsea very well, as I was still stunned from meeting Tiffany only moments earlier. But I know I was able to tell her about ChelseaStaub.ws and that I loved her in Minute Men.

    Prior to the signing, Chelsea and Tiffany had an audience Q&A session at the Radio disney booth. The full Q&A was some 40 minutes, and I was able to sneak a little bit of video for you all. 🙂

    This first one is about what to expect on SWAC and JONAS.

    This one was what happened when a really little girl asked about promice rings – and why neither Tiffany or Chelsea have one.

    And this last one is about how each got her start in Hollywood. Watch for when Tiffany exclaims “What the Heck!?” 🙂

    You’ll find a lot more pictures from Saturday in the DC Fans gallery and be sure to visit my youtube for more videos.