There’s no place like New York City right before the holidays and it’s even better when the city plays host to another one of my favorite destinations- Walt Disney World! That’s what happened the weekend before Thanksgiving when Walt Disney World and all its’ magic took over Times Square. I was fortunate to be a part of the Magical invasion with my two daughters and several of my New York City friends, including Andi of MamaKnowsBreast and Rebecca Levy of Kidvui.
The day’s excitement started out with a backstage, first-of-its-kind tour of the historic Amsterdam Theatre where Mary Poppins plays on 42nd street. The tour was amazing to say the least. My girls loved the history lesson and the stories of ghosts that haunt the building. We even got a sneak peek at the costume storage area. Not only were there props from Mary Poppins but also Lion King, Beauty and the Beast and Little Mermaid.
After sweets and treats that were certain to make the medicine go down, our group walked the crowded streets to Times Square. Here we were able to take part in an interactive projection on to the front of the Disney Store. There we were, bigger than life on the screen that towered over Times Square. Best of all my girls interacted – virtually, of course, with Daisy Duck. It was all captured in digital images that were later projected on a lifestyle version of Cinderella’s Castle in Times Square. They loved seeing themselves on the big screen and, as with everything social media, it was posted on Facebook immediately!
The evening’s highlight was seats at the Mary Poppins show. The play was fabulous. I have always thought it was important to introduce theatre into the lives of my children and Disney never lets us down. The performance was wonderful and well worth seeing.
Remember, for all of your Disney World questions, you can visit the Mom’s Panel at http://disneyworldforum.disney.go.com/home.aspx. They are a great source of information for all things Disney, and always offering advice that parents can understand.
