Cast Drive Excitement Around Returning Magic at Disneyland Resort
Originally published at Disney Parks News
With the news of beloved nighttime spectaculars returning this spring and the relaunch of guest tram service from the parking structures, the phased reopening of the Disneyland Resort is gathering even more momentum, says resort President Ken Potrock.
“With 30,000 cast members now working, and more joining us every week, we are able to return more of our beloved entertainment and experiences. Along with brand new offerings,” Ken said. “After a tough couple of years, the future looks amazingly bright.”
Early Wednesday morning, Ken was on hand to mark the special cast moment. Just before the long-awaited tram service returned between the Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals parking structures to the Main Entrance esplanade. For weeks, cast members had been prepping for the big day, polishing door levers and testing headlights. Lead Sarah Gorman worked on the trams before the parks closed in 2020 and recall her favorite role was as the announcer in the back who delivers the iconic “Driver, you are clear” line.
“Feeling the wind in your hair — there is no other feeling like it,” she said. “You’re responsible for the safety of the guest, but you’re also in charge of making the magic. You’re the first person they see and the last when they go home.”
On Tuesday, Disneyland also announced that the “World of Color,” “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular, and the “Main Street Electrical Parade” will return April 22, with “Fantasmic!” following on May 28. (Featuring a new grand finale to celebrate its 50th anniversary!)
“We waited a long time to bring these amazing shows back to life for our guests,” said Entertainment Producer Vin Reilly. “We can’t wait to see their faces when those first notes of music fill the air.”
And that’s just the latest. Since the resort reopened last April. Guests have been able to rediscover returning entertainment like Jambalaya Jazz in New Orleans Square, “Disney Junior Dance Party!” and new experiences like the Raya encounter in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail and, this month, Celebrate Soulfully entertainment and artwork.
“We have had an incredible start to 2022. Beginning with Lunar New Year, Magic Key Celebration Month, the epic Super Bowl moment, and the successful kickoff of our Disneyland After Dark events,” Ken said. “And now we’re looking forward to the return of our popular Food & Wine Festival next week. It’s amazing how far we’ve come in less than a year. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our guests and the incredible dedication of each and every cast member.”
