Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
241
high-flying high-speed movie stunts full of pyrotechnic effects and more. Like the
Indi-
ana Jones Stunt Spectacular
(p. 239), the storyline has the audience following the film-
ing of an action-packed movie (in this case, a spy thriller set in a Mediterranean village).
More than 40 vehicles are used in the show including cars, motorcycles, and watercraft—
each modified to perform the rather spectacular stunts. It's entertaining and certainly
offers its share of thrills, but it's not as engaging as the Indiana Jones production unless
you're a car buff. Although the outdoor stadium seating is set back from the action, the
noise level is extremely high—and completely unavoidable, no matter where you sit. Very
young children may find it overwhelming. The show is part of the redevelopment of the
Studio's backlot area that's also seen the addition of cityscapes of San Francisco and Chi-
cago, among others. Check the entertainment schedule for showtimes.
Magic of Disney Animation
Frommer's Rating:
B
Recommended Ages:
8-adult
Once hosted by the late Walter Cronkite and Robin Williams, the current version of
Magic of Disney Animation
features Mushu, the dragon from Disney's
Mulan,
as he
co-hosts a theater presentation where some of Disney's animation secrets are revealed.
The Q&A session that follows allows guests to ask questions about the animation process
before attempting their own Disney character drawings while under the supervision of a
working animator (a big hit with adults—don't miss it!). Currently joining in on the fun
for a meet-and-greet opportunity are the stars of Bolt and The Incredibles—even Mickey
makes an occasional appearance; keep in mind, however, that the lineup has changed
several times in the past few years and will likely change again.
Playhouse Disney—Live on Stage!
Frommer's Rating:
B
Recommended Ages:
2-5
Younger audiences love this 20-minute show where they meet characters from the Little
Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny, and other popular preschool favor-
ites. The show encourages preschoolers to dance, sing, and play along with the cast. The
action happens several times a day. Check your show schedule.
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster
Moments
Frommer's Rating:
A+
Recommended Ages:
10-adult
Some say this is one of Disney's attempts to go head-to-head with Universal Orlando's
Islands of Adventure. True or not, this inverted roller coaster is one the best and definitely
the hippest of the thrill rides at WDW. It's a fast-and-furious indoor ride in semidarkness.
You sit in a 24-passenger “stretch limo” outfitted with 120 speakers that blare Aerosmith
at 32,000 watts! Flashing lights deliver a variety of messages and warnings, including
6
Water World
Fun Facts
The large moat surrounding the “Fantasmic!” stage at Disney's Hollywood Studios
contains 1.9 million gallons of water. More than 80,000 gallons of that are
needed every minute to create the three mist screens used to project video por-
tions of the show.
