LP Lotion: Disney California Adventure Officially Reopens
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Disney California Adventure was reopened in a ceremony held in the newly created Carthay Circle. The event looked forward for the renewed and expanded park, as well as backward, both to the foundation of the Walt Disney Company itself, and the more recent origins of Disney California Adventure. In his remarks, company CEO Bob Iger stated, “Although we opened Disney California Adventure eleven years ago, we believe the transformation over the last five years, culminating with the phenomenal Buena Vista Street and Cars Land has created a totally new experience and deserves a grand opening."
The crowd was treated to a lively performance by the newsboys, as well as an appearance by both Mickey and Minnie Mouse. They were joined for the ceremony by a group of their friends—cast members from all over Disney California Adventure.
Following the ceremony, the public was officially welcomed into the new DCA for the first time. Eager fans had begun lining up the previous afternoon, and cheered as they were led through the elegant new Buena Vista Street entrance, and on to their goal: Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land. There was a surprise in store for the first few hundreds in line. John Lasseter, the creator of Cars was on hand to welcome the ardent fans, and cheer on the riders for Radiator Springs Racers.
While much attention was focused on Cars Land, it was at the center of the new Carthay Circle that drew Bob Iger’s notice that morning. As he welcomed guests to this “rededication,” he acknowledged the foundation laid by the company founder, Walt Disney. The bronze Storytellers statue, placed facing the fountain in the Carthay Circle will remind all who enter Disney California Adventure of the power of dreams.
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Guests found Disney California Adventure closed the day preceding the ceremony
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Disney Studio Archives founder Dave Smith could be found on Buena Vista Street on June 14
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First-in-line guests were escorted to the esplanade at 11pm.
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