Disney Highlights — April 2017

Rogue One Blu-Ray (April 4):

Rogue One is coming to Blu-Ray and DVD on this day. You can read Alex’s review of the release.

The Toy Box Premiere (April 7):

The Toy Box is the ultimate toy-competition series, providing talented designers with the chance of a lifetime: an opportunity to bring their toy concept to life with industry-giant Mattel and to the shelves of Toys ”R” Us the day after the series finale. Hosted by Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family”), the toys – and their inventors – are put through a series of trials and tests before facing the ultimate judges – a panel of no-nonsense, toy-loving kids.

Aladdin Goes On Tour (April 11):

Disney Theatrical’s Aladdin begins its North American tour in Chicago tonight. It will run in the Windy City through September 10. The show will then move to Minneapolis and Seattle with more cities to be announced in the near future.

Thrawn (April 11):

The latest Star Wars novel brings a classic character for the worlds of Legends into the Star Wars Universe in the latest novel. One of the most cunning and ruthless warriors in the history of the Galactic Empire, Grand Admiral Thrawn is also one of the most captivating characters in the Star Wars universe, from his introduction in bestselling author Timothy Zahn’s classic Heir to the Empire through his continuing adventures in Dark Force Rising, The Last Command, and beyond. But Thrawn’s origins and the story of his rise in the Imperial ranks have remained mysterious. Timothy Zahn chronicles the fateful events that launched the blue-skinned, red-eyed master of military strategy and lethal warfare into the highest realms of power—and infamy.

Disney Illuminations

Disney Illuminations

Disneyland Paris 25th Anniversary (April 12):

Disneyland Paris officially turns 25 today. Follow along with LaughingPlace as we celebrate this milestone. As part of the celebration, the resort is debuting several new offerings including the Disney Stars on Parade, Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, new shows at Sleeping Beauty Castle, and their new Disney Illuminations nighttime show.

One and Not Done (April 13):

The next installment in ESPN Films’ award-winning 30 for 30 series will take an intimate look at University of Kentucky men’s basketball coach John Calipari’s successful yet controversial journey.

Star Wars Celebration

Star Wars Celebration

Star Wars Celebration Orlando (April 13-16):

The biggest event in the Star Wars Universe will take place at the Orange County Convention Center. If you can’t join the celebration, follow LaughingPlace.com for all the news, sights, and festivities.

Puppy Dog Pals (April 14)

An animated series about two fun-loving pug puppy brothers, Bingo and Rolly, whose thrill-seeking appetites take them on adventures around their neighborhood and beyond debuts on Disney Junior.

Famous in Love (April 18)

Based on the novel by Rebecca Serle published by Little, Brown and Company, Freeform’s newest series follows ordinary college student Paige (Bella Thorne) as she gets her big break after auditioning for the starring role in a Hollywood blockbuster. She must now navigate her new star-studded life and the highs and lows that come with being the new It Girl in town, as well as balancing her college workload. As her public profile continues to rise and the undeniable chemistry with her new co-star and Hollywood heartthrob Rainer Devon grows, the more her friendships are strained with her two best friends – particularly Jake who may be more than just her friend.

Born In China

Born In China

Born in China (April 21):

Disneynature’s latest film takes an epic journey into the wilds of China where few people have ever ventured. Following the stories of three animal families, the film transports audiences to some of the most extreme environments on Earth to witness some of the most intimate moments ever captured in a nature film. A doting panda bear mother guides her growing baby as she begins to explore and seek independence. A two-year-old golden snub-nosed monkey who feels displaced by his new baby sister joins up with a group of free-spirited outcasts. And a mother snow leopard—an elusive animal rarely caught on camera— faces the very real drama of raising her two cubs in one of the harshest and most unforgiving environments on the planet. Featuring stunning, never-before-seen imagery, the film navigates China’s vast terrain—from the frigid mountains to the heart of the bamboo forest—on the wings of red-crowned cranes, seamlessly tying the extraordinary tales together

Party for the Planet (April 21-23):

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Earth Day tradition continues. Throughout the day, guests will be encouraged to connect with nature by engaging in fun activities in every land of the park. Meet some of the park’s animal care experts, educators and conservation specialists to see first-hand how Disney cares for animals and works to save endangered species worldwide

The Rescuers at El Capitan Theatre (April 27):

The El Capitan Theatre is featuring a special “Throwback Thursday” screening of The Rescuers to celebrate the film’s 40th anniversary.

Radio Disney Music Awards (April 29):

Winners of the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards will be announced tonight at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, with performances by some of the biggest artists along with tomorrow’s rising stars in music. A special two-hour telecast, “Disney Channel Presents the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards,” will be presented April 30 in the U.S. across multiple Disney-branded platforms.

Disney Explorers Lodge

Disney Explorers Lodge

Disney Explorers Lodge (April 30):

Hong Kong Disney Resort opens their newest resort. Take a break from your exciting adventures and join fellow explorers in this respite surrounded by the wonders of nature and diverse cultures. Be awed by the exotic accommodations with rooms facing and furnished according to the four unique tropical climates of Asia, Oceania, South America and Africa Serving international cuisines from the five continents and a large outdoor pool, this hotel perfectly captures the lodge motto of “ad explorare et somniare” (“to explore and dream”).