Babes In Toyland

Babes in Toyland
Released 1961
Directed By Jack Donohue
Music By Victor Herbert

Happy Holidays Disney Fans!!  Christmas time is here and that means the bustle of gift buying, holiday parties, and celebrating in every corner of the earth is now happening.  I’ve always loved this time of year.  From as far back as I can remember December was the month of family, food, friends, playing with my cousins, anticipating Christmas morning, and the whirlwind of activity from Christmas Eve until New Years.  You see, not only did Christmas time mean opening presents with my family Christmas morning (normally with me, my sister, my parents, and my grandfather), having a special breakfast my mom made, normally cinnamon rolls, or a cinnamon pull apart, and sometimes a delicious cheddar sausage quiche, then cleaning up and relaxing for a few hours afterwards, and later dressing up and meeting my family.  And we’re talking my WHOLE extended family of cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, great aunts and uncles and … well you get the idea.  December was probably the most magical month out of the year, right behind June (my birthday month) and October (Halloween of course!). 

As I got older, I began singing in choruses from the community.  Christmas time meant learning all manner of music from around the world and performing in the early weeks of December.  This is a yearly occasion that would start from the age of nine up until the age of 31 (with maybe one year in that time frame that I didn’t sing in a chorus of some sort).  When music became a central force in my life, December meant a time to celebrate in song all the traditions of the seasons, from soloing in multiple performances of Handel’s Messiah to pops concerts, church cantata’s and even a world premiere composition with the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus (if you’re curious look up “Christmas By The Hearth” on YouTube).

Music being a corner stone in my life led up to many wonderful engagements during the “Christmas Cantata season.”  I’m sure many of you music scholars out there are not only familiar with Handel’s Messiah, but also the many works composed by other classical composers, such as Johann Sebastian Bach and Camille Saints-Saens Christmas Oratorio, Glorias  of John Rutter and Antonio Vivaldi just to name a few.  There are also many stage works that give a nod to Christmas as well.  Works such as Amahl and the Night Visitors by Gian-Carlo Menotti, and from the Broadway stage Annie, Mame, and even the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast has a Christmas scene.  On the Disney front at home, two movies played constantly on our tape players; a collection of Disney animated shorts simply titled A Disney Christmas Gift and this month’s movie Babes in Toyland.

Movie poster from the premiere

Adapted from the Victor Hugo operetta of the same name, Babes in Toyland takes us to Mother Goose Village where all your favorite nursery rhyme characters such as Little Boy Blue, Bo Peep, Wee Willie Winkie, and the two main characters Tom the Piper’s Son and Mary Quite Contrary.  As you would expect in every Disney film, casting of the perfect actors for each part shows itself here.  With the talents of Tommy Sands, Annette Funicello (who recorded the theme song for another movie in the works at the same time: The Parent Trap) as the leads, the villains Barnabas played by Ray Bolger and his two henchmen played by Henry Calvin and Gene Sheldon, the kooky Head Toymaker of Toyland of Ed Wynn, and his zany yet accident prone assistant Grumio played by Tommy Kirk.  Mary’s wards are played by the brothers Kevin and Brian Corcoran, Ann Jillian as Bo Peep (who would later go on to play in Gypsy, Mr. Mom, and the TV miniseries Alice In Wonderland).  Many of these characters would go on to play more with Disney from the small screen to the big screen. 

Ann Jillian as Bo Peep and Kevin Corcoran as Little Boy Blue

As mentioned before, Babes in Toyland held a special place in the month of December along with A Disney Christmas Gift.  Both movies heralded in the Christmas season with song and dance, playing constantly throughout the month.  Not only did we have a Christmas at home with the family, but often times my family would travel for New Year's Celebration, including many trips to Disneyland for my parent's anniversary (where they spent their honeymoon).  Which brings me to some exciting news!  Next year I will be traveling out to spend Christmas and New Year's with my family in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, meaning I'm sure there will be a trip to Disneyland and California Adventure parks!!  If any of you are out that way, leave a comment on my blog and I'll be sure to take multiple pictures to post!!!  

Title: Babes In Toyland 

Perfect For: The entire family at Christmas Time!!

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks: The magical Toy Soldiers during Christmas parades at the parks.  

Well everyone this year is about to close out with another bang.  I’ll be keeping you posted on my adventures in Disney films (Two more just came in today!!) and I hope you and your family have a 

Happy Holiday Season and an incredible New Year!!

Have a Magical Christmas!  -Pat A

Top 5 Disney Movie Picks

Happy Thanksgiving Disney movie fans!!

This month I’ve decided to do something a little differently.  In my searching around for the perfect Disney movie in it with a Thanksgiving theme I spend a lot of time in my living just staring at my collection and feeling thankful that I was introduced to Disney movies and Disney magic at such a young age.  Feeling thankful that Walt Disney taught through example that anything is possible.  One of the most inspiring things I have learned about Walt Disney throughout my life is that he had a dream of making something possible and he inspired those around him to make it happen.  Whether it was creating a movie magic for both animated and live-action films, making a theme park against that went against the grain of amusement parks of the day (my favorite Walt Disney story: When he sent some Imagineers to propose the idea of Disneyland at a theme park convention, everyone stated reasons it would never work and he said well good if they liked it I would have been worried.  I’m paraphrasing this of course).  To me this approach of letting the imagination take flight and finding ways to make it happen epitomizes the term Disney Magic.

On a more personal note, I’m also thankful for living in a time and age where I can be who I wish to be and achieve my own personal goals and dreams.  That means being able to express my feelings in the blog as a Disney Addict, being able to perform in many ways, and sharing those thoughts with all of you out in the world.  Thankful I have a loving partner that I am able to share my life and experiences with and that loves to travel to Disney as much as I do, even if he doesn’t understand as much (We plan on going for our five-year anniversary and celebrate like we did for our first anniversary!).  There are a lot of things I am thankful for in my life, and that have happened in my life to get me to this point.

Now, I’ve been mulling over the proper time to do this post and to be honest, November seemed like a good time to introduce what are my top five picks for Disney Movies.  This partially came from the lack of Thanksgiving movies put out by Disney (and if you know of any with a Thanksgiving like theme please comment below) and partially looking forward to the Christmas season.  Now as a general rule I don’t normally discuss Christmas before Thanksgiving as I prefer to take one holiday at a time and enjoy the warmth and love each give, but I’m willing to bend that rule this time around because this may help give some you readers ideas on what to give your Disney Addict friend or family member, or a jumping off point to starting your own Disney DVD collection. 

Now a quick disclaimer: I did not to a lot of researching, polling, interviewing and what have you to create this list; it is my own personal opinion.  If I left out a movie that you think should be on the list or have your own list, then I invite you to share it in the comments.  But any negative posts will be deleted.

I have divided the lists up into three different categories: 1. Disney Classic Animation, 2. Disney Pixar Films, and 3. Disney Live-Action.  So let’s dive in shall we?

Top 5 Picks for Disney Classic Animation Films:

1.        Snow White and The Seven Dwarves – May as well start at the beginning.  Originally released in 1937, this is the movie that started the full-length, animated feature films revolution that would became a hallmark of Disney Animation Studios
2.        Fantasia & Fantasia 2000 – There are going to be certain instances where I bend a little and rather than select a movie, choose the series it belongs to and this is one such instance.  Not only are you getting classic animation from these movies but also an exposure to great classical music pieces. 
3.        The Princess and the Frog – Disney success in animation stems from being able to take classic stories and rework them in new ways, and here we see that very situation.  Taking place in New Orleans during the height of the Jazz Era, this isn’t your typical frog needs the kiss of a princess to be back human.  But if you want the whole story, grab a copy for yourself (no spoilers here).
4.         Lilo and Stitch – There are very few movies in my collection that I am able to watch over and over again that provoke the same visceral reaction.  Lilo and Stitch happens to be one that holds this honor.  The story of a broken family putting the pieces together again and showing us that family is who we choose it to be.
5.        The Hunchback of Notre Dame – Now … while this is an example of a story from classica literature being “Disney-fied” I chose this movie because of the music written by the amazingly talented Alan Menken (Who also wrote music for Aladdin, Hercules, and The Little Mermaid just to name a few). 

Top 5 Picks for Disney Pixar Films:

1.         Finding Nemo – The pure artistry of this film and how they are able to create wonderfully unique characters while still retaining the element of realism in their movements makes this a true triumph for the Pixar studios.  And I must admit I have a soft spot for anything involving the ocean as I considered a degree in marine biology while in college. 
2.         The Incredibles – So what happens when superheroes have to conceal themselves full-time?  Take day jobs?  Raise families?  Gain a little weight?  Pick up this film and you can see for yourself and enjoy a day in the life of Mr. Incredible and family.
3.         Ratatouille – Okay I admit it … I love food and I love to cook.  This film gives us the imagination and aspiration of a rat that wishes to cook and enjoy food (voiced by Michael J. Fox).
4.         Wall-E – In line with the honor that is held by Lilo and Stitch, another movie that moves me to tears each time I see it.  Set in the future, it’s also a commentary on the future of our world and our uses of resources (as you can see around multiple projects at Disney World and the focus on conservation).
5.         Brave – I’m sure you’re surprised not to see Frozen on this list.  While Frozen is a great film, I love the adventures of Merida in Brave as she learns the perils of impulsiveness and the meaning of family.

Top 5 Picks for Disney Live-Action Films:

1.         Mary Poppins – Practically perfect in every way from the casting to the music and the story.  From Julie Andrews to Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson and Glynis Johns, this movie will delight any age group in your family.
2.         Bedknobs and Broomsticks – Taking place during World War 2 follow the adventures of apprentice witch Eglantine Price (played by the incomparable Angela Lansbury) as she does her part to serve England and the war effort.
3.         Enchanted – “Show me a person who can laugh at himself and I will show you a person that will never cease to be amused.”  This saying comes to mind with Enchanted as Disney pokes fun at the fairytale genre and what could happen if it comes crashing into our lives. Be sure to pay attention to many “hidden Mickey” moments.
4.         Apple Dumpling Gang – Come back out to the Old West and see what’s brewing with Don Knotts and Tim Conway as they blunder one heist after another.  Sure to delight any fan of the Western. 
5.         Pirates of the Caribbean Series – Again bending the rules just a little bit as taking the entire ilk of Pirates of the Caribbean is necessary.  The continuous story based on the popular ride at the parks shows that literature and books may not be the only inspiration for movies.

Well everyone there you have it.  My top picks for the Disney film collection.  There are many movies that I have left out and this list is by no means definitive or authoritative.  But having these movies I think will enrich your collection or give you a good place to start collecting.

Next month will be Christmas time and then getting ready to start a new year.  All of you I hope will have a happy Thanksgiving and until the next blog, I remain your fellow Disney movie addict.

Make it a Magical and Thankful Day – Pat A

The Haunted Mansion

The Haunted Mansion
Released 2003
Directed By Rob Minkoff
Music By Mark Mancina

Happy Halloween (or Samhain for my Pagan readers) Disney fans!!  So who among does not love dressing up for Halloween each year!!!  I can tell you I'm seeing a lot of American Horror Story clowns (kinda creepy if you ask me!!), Frozen inspired outfits, and in my neck of the woods a lot of young draglings coming out and trying their hands at drag for the first time.  Halloween is the time of haunted houses, haunted corn mazes, zombie runs, dressing up and things that go bump in the night.  

For those of you that are Halloween buffs, you'll know that the holiday is based around All Hallow's Eve and as mentioned earlier Samhain in the Pagan wheel of the year.  It's the time when it was believed that the veil that separates the physical world with the spiritual realm is at its thinnest and that occupants from either side can pass through.  We dress up to scare away or confuse the spirits as some are not as benevolent as others.  Disney hosts a Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Disney World and Disneyland, and even a celebration for our four-legged companions (Howl-O-Ween). 

The Haunted Hallway

But enough of the history lesson, this month presented me with a challenge of which movie to choose for the Halloween festivities.  How does one choose between Hocus Pocus, The Adventure of Ichabod and Mr. Toad, and Blackbeard’s Ghost; or possibly delve into the mystery shows like The Great Mouse Detective or Candleshoe, or even TV shows (Who else remember watching Disney’s Halloween Treat?)  But after much deliberation I’ve decided to review a rather new movie but an icon of the parks, The Haunted Mansion.  While it did not rise to the critical acclaim of its ride-inspired predecessor, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Haunted Mansion still gives us a taste of Disney Magic and homages the ride found in every Disney park (random fact, the attraction is one of the few rides that’s different in every park; Disneyland and Disney World has the Haunted Mansion, Disneyland Paris has The Phantom Manor, and Hong Kong Disney has Mystic Manor).  With a cast headed by Eddie Murphy, this light-hearted romp through Gracie Manor gives us one interpretation of how hauntings can occur (complete with broken hearts, unrequited love, intrigue and mystery).  And all of our favorite characters from the ride are present, Jennifer Tilly as the all-seeing Madame Leota (complete with crystal ball), Emma (played by Dina Waters) and Ezra (Wallace Shawn) the maid and footman, Ramsley the butler (Terence Stamp), and all the ghosts and ghoulies you’d expect to see in the graveyard scene of the ride, all the way down to the singing busts. 

Grim Grinning Ghosts Come Out To Socialize

When it comes to the many wonderful attractions at the Disney parks, the Haunted Mansion and I had one of those love/hate relationships for many years.  I remember first going on the ride at the age of 4 in Disneyland.  In Disneyland, the exit of the Haunted Mansion meets up to the entrance of Splash Mountain (which happened to be my favorite ride in Disneyland) on the border of New Orleans Square and Critter Country.  The funny contrast being that to get to my favorite ride normally meant having to go on my least favorite ride in the park.  I’m also not too proud to admit that up until I was in high school, I opted to hide my eyes or not go on the ride at all mainly because of how skittish I am at jump scares (coupled with severe arachnophobia … because let’s face it, where there are old houses and there is most likely spiders).  But when I finally did open my eyes on my senior year trip, it started my appreciation and eventual love for the ride.  As with every undertaking Disney does, I appreciate the detail and thought put into the ride.  I mentioned before that this is one of the few rides that has different incarnations: Disneyland, Magic Kingdom at Disneyworld, and Tokyo Disney are scenes moving from bumps in the night to outright ghosts in the cemetery; Disneyland Paris has the Phantom Manor that connects Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to the builder of the mansion; Hong Kong Disney has Mystic Manor, a completely new take following an eccentric collector of world artifacts and his companion.  If you wish to see more information or ride through of these attractions then check out YouTube!! 

The all-seeing Madame Leota

While the movie may not have been a smash hit, what I enjoy looking for in the movie is how many nods to the ride are in the movie.  Of course there are the iconic characters such as Madame Leota and the ghosts in the cemetery like the hitchhikers (random fact, three ghosts have names! The one carrying the bag the Eddie Murphy first talks to is Phineas, The skeleton is Ezra, and the prisoner is Gus); but there is also parts of mansion itself the give a nod to the ride.  When watching pay attention to the singing busts (one modeled after the original lead singer, Thurl Ravenscroft), the eyes in the wallpaper, the morphing paintings, and the “breathing” doors, all drawing on inspiration from the original ride. 

Title: The Haunted Mansion

Perfect For: The haunter in your family.

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks: What else but the haunted beauty herself.  In all of its forms the Haunted Mansion will delight you and your Disney family.

Well everyone another month has passed and another movie.  I hope you are all have a fun and safe Halloween and I will see you next month for another Disney movie.  

Have a Magical Day -- Pat A 

The Parent Trap

The Parent Trap
Released 1961
Directed By David Swift
Music By Paul J. Smith

Happy Fall time Disney Movie Fans!!  I love this time of year … The harvest, sweater weather, and yes … I admit I was that nerdy kid that looked forward to going back to school.  At this time last year, my partner Steven and I were making our way down to Florida to meet up with my parents.  For Christmas that year we had decided that a trip to Disney World would be perfect, especially since it would have been sixteen years since my last trip!  At this time of year, EPCOT came alive with the Food and Wine Festival and we all had a ball going to the different parks.  So much has changed since I was last there!!

Fall time normally meant traveling for my parents as well.  Being a part of the Produce Marketers Association meant going to conventions all over the country throughout the year.  From big name produce’s like Dole, Del Monte, Chiquita, and Dolci all the way down to smaller outfits like Thos. Iseri Produce (started by my grandpa and later run by my papa-san) the conventions took my parents to some of the most amazing places.  I even got to tag along as an unofficial mascot for the onion business and got to learn about the wonderful history of the country.  In October of 1992, one of these trips took us to the beautiful city of Boston.  Now … Going to an arts and cultural center in and of itself was reason enough to get excited about a week long stay in Boston; but picture Boston in late October and well … Need I really say more?  We walked the Freedom Trail, visited Cape Cod and Plymouth Rock, went to Old Sturbridge Village, and took the tour of Paul Revere’s Home, learning about America’s past. 

You may be asking what on earth this has to do with Disney movies.  Funny enough my fascination with Boston stemmed from this month’s movie, The Parent Trap.  The Parent Trap shows Disney’s magic in live film, starring a double dose of Hayley Mills, who would later return in the sequels as Sharon McKendrick and Susan Evers (though  I’m not entirely certain if Mills made a cameo appearance in the remake starring a young Lindsey Lohan).  For those of you familiar with the films the sisters were twins separated at birth by their parents; Sharon grew up with her mother and grandparents as a prim and proper soon-to-be lady of society, while Susan grew up in Monterey, CA with her ranching father, free-spirited and a little tom boyish.  The ladies meet up during summer camp and plot to get their parents back together by switching places.  Their father is played by Brian Keith, and mother by Maureen O’Hara.  Other cast members include Joanna Barnes as the gold-digging Vicky Robinson, Ruth McDevitt as the slightly scattered camp leader Miss Inch, and even a cameo appearance of Hayley’s father Sir John Mills as Brian Keith’s golf caddy!  While many people come to Disney movies expecting great and hummable musical tunes, The Parent Trap really only offers three songs but a very lush and beautiful score reminiscent of Hollywood dramas from the 60’s.  The first song plays during the opening credits and shares the same title as the movie.  For a bit of random trivia, “The Parent Trap” was sung by Annette Funicello and Tommy Sands, both of whom were at the Walt Disney Film Studios filming Babes In Toyland.  Annette would make another vocal cameo singing “Let’s Get Together” which would later be sung as a duet by Hayley as Sharon and Susan.  Then there is the short clip of Maureen O’Hara singing “For Now For Always” which underscores the orchestral music of the Paul Smith, though the songs were written by Richard and Robert Sherman (names I’m certain we’re all familiar with by now).

Really what can one say about The Parent Trap?  Here we see Disney magic in creating a new effect of using the same actress for dual roles at the same time.  In watching the bonus DVD you see this was created by filming the scene and literally splicing the film in half, then pasting the two together.  Considering the release of the film, pretty remarkable at the ingenuity of the Disney film makers on their technique; the twins were also created using a stunt double.  The directors had stated they wished to have an actress that Mills could respond to rather than relying solely on the actor’s imagination to play off each other.  This belonged in my collection right next to Mary Poppins … In fact it was probably played just as much.  With Disney’s eye for casting the right actor for the right part in both their live action and animated features, watching a Disney film will acquaint with performers at the top of their game.  Films being released today will show you the beginnings of actors going on to do more and become bigger in entertainment (think about Zac Efron and his up and coming career); but films from the past also give us legends of the business.  Parent Trap was my first exposure to the talents of three greats: Maureen O’Hara, Bryan Keith, and of course the incomparable Hayley Mills.  Parent Trap was the second film of Mills’ career (the first was also produced by Disney Studios, Pollyanna) and she would later return to play more with Disney, including Parent Trap 2 where she falls prey to the same trap set by her daughter. 

Parent Trap has always reminded me that Disney is synonymous with one word: Magic.  Whether it’s on screen, at the resorts, with the brush stroke or mouse click of animation, Disney teaches us magic.  Magic to say that things can and will be alright if we believe, and even approach with a little humor.   Parent Trap touches upon tough instances in life: Dealing with divorce of parents, finding family, reconciliation, and how knowing and doing what is right can only be complicated because we make it so.  As a child, I saw a family coming together through scheming and comedic antics of two long-lost sisters; now I see it as a heart-warming and somewhat tear jerking movie about reconciliation. 

Well everyone, September is going by quickly and school is starting back up and we’re gearing up for another winter here in Ohio.  I’m getting bundled up and ready to start hunkering down and awaiting for another year to draw to a close.  I have mentioned that in 3 years’ time, my partner and I shall be returning to Walt Disney World for our 5 year anniversary, and I am certain that if my mother has her way I’ll be going out to the west for a Disneyland and California Adventure.  In the meantime, I’m thinking about adding a new element to my blog in the coming months or year.  Please keep reading on after the final thoughts.  

Title: Parent Trap

Perfect For: I am going to venture out and say this is perfect for the Disney Adult.  Parent Trap teaches us to listen, to forgive, and remember to keep our families in the forefront of our minds.

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks: Alas you will not see a character nor an attraction inspired from this film, at least not in my research.  If you know differently then please, comment below.

As many of you know, I love to cook and experience culinary adventures.  If you've traveled to the parks in Florida, many of you know that not only are you getting a theme park experience unlike any other, but Walt Disney World is home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in the world.  That being said I am thinking about adding an element where not only am I reviewing a movie for your consideration, but also now adding a recipe to go along with that movie.  Could be inspired by the movie, or a recipe of food they are eating in the movie (maybe Lady and the Tramp’s Spaghetti and Meatballs or The White Queen’s Turkish Delight).  What do you all think?  Please feel free to leave a comment down below and as always, keep watching, dreaming and bringing magic to the world.  

Make it a Magical Day – Pat A. 

Lilo and Stitch

Lilo and Stitch
Released 2002
Directed By Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
Music By Alan Silvestri

Happy Summer Disney Fans!!  Well … Just like all of my seasons … Summer flew by.  I’m sure for many of you that meant traveling, fun, water parks, swimming, hiking … Well … all the things that make summer … Summer.  As I mentioned in my last post, this summer has been very busy.  June saw my third production show as Stella Boheme (appropriately titled “Fun In The Sun”) as we kicked off Pride month here on Columbus.  I had the pleasure of riding on a float as Stella as well for the Pride Parade.  It was a fun month of June.  Then July saw a two weeks of vacation out to Oregon with my family, celebrating my Papa-san’s 70 birthday, spending time with my extended family and cousins (many of whom I’ve never met until this summer!)  Oregon time also means spending time on the coast and swimming in the ocean, eating seafood, enjoying the beautiful weather (and it was amazing, little to no rain and 76 almost every day!)   Though I never got a chance to visit some of my favorite haunts like the Seaside Aquarium or the Oregon State Hatfield Marine Science Center, I spent time in new places and more importantly with family.  Or as they say in Hawaii … Ohana.

Growing up, family meant a lot to me.  You see my dad is pretty much Irish and German, and my mom is German and Japanese.  The Japanese side of my family is very close; birthdays, holidays, weddings, funerals … all of them meant gathering together in fellowship, comfort, and often times accompanied with food.  When I struck out on my own here to the Midwest and pursued my dream and education, I came with a wave of love and support, knowing that if things don’t turn out, I can always come back.  In a way, my performing as Stella has also brought me very close to a group of friends I’m proud to call my ohana … My family. 

These reflections on those we choose to call our Ohana naturally led me to this month’s film Lilo and Stitch.  Taking place on the beautiful islands of Hawaii, we see two stories and two lives converge: Stitch, the genetic creation of a mad space scientist programmed to do nothing more than destroy is trying to escape detection and capture from the Outer Galactic Grand Counsel, and Lilo, a young girl who has lost her parents and now trying to cope with life.  Two odd bodies in existence that have found each other and re-learn the meaning of family.  Adding more strands into this tapestry of family, Lilo’s older sister Nani is now trying to step up and become legal guardian and caretaker of her younger sister, including trying to find a job to support their family (with Stitch as their adopted “puppy”).  Add into the mix the two aliens, Jumba and Pleakley, sent on a mission to recover Stitch, with hilarious mishaps.  You can continue to add and add more characters into the mix, even characters with smaller roles and come to find this grand tapestry of interaction that creates this story. 

Hiiiiiiiii!!

Of course no Disney film with be Disney without immersive music to accompany the story and Alan Silvestri’s score to Lilo and Stitch brings life to the Hawaiian culture.  In the commentary to the film, the film’s directors, Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, tell of combining ancient chants from Hawaii and bringing them to a world stage.  One can definitely feel the emotional impact of this music in the opening song He Mele No Lilo and in my favorite from the film Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride that plays when after a long day of job searching with no positive results, Lilo, Nani, and David spend a day of surfing, swimming, and playing in the sand.  This heartfelt music is made even stronger with the addition of a children’s choir from Hawaii singing as well.  I love listening to both songs, as they stir in me a desire to go back to the beach, or to Hawaii, and honestly … remembering the fun times I spent at Disney World swimming and sliding at Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. 

Even though Lilo and Stitch was not meant to be a “blockbuster” in the sense of Cinderella or Frozen, that didn’t stop the Disney studios from getting some great voice talent for the characters.  Nani is voiced by the beautiful Tia Carrere; Ving Rames as the mysterious social worker Bubbles; Kevin McDonald of Kids In the Hall voiced the awkward Plunkley; and David Ogden Stiers voiced the character of Jumba.  If the name sounds familiar well ... it should be as Stiers also voiced Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast, Ratcliffe in Pocahontas, the Archdeacon in Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Kamajii in the Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away when it was brought to America by John Lasseter.  Even for a Disney “B-Movie” still casting the right talent for the right character shows through in this film.

Lilo and Stitch: Perfect for celebrating the family, chosen or biological, and the magic that fills our lives because of their existence.  While on the surface a light-hearted and beautifully colorful view of Hawaiian culture, this is one of those Disney films that truly appeals and speaks to everyone.

Perfect For: Anyone you call Ohana.

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks: The blue, loveable alien himself Stitch.

Well everyone I’m happy to be back to writing this movie blog.  In some related Disney news, I have joined the Disney Movie Club (and I encourage each of you Disney fans to check it out as the sign up offer is awesome!!) I’ll have no shortage of films coming up to write on!  Also for you readers out there, please check out The Kingdom Keepers series … It’s a pre-teen series of novels taking place at Walt Disney World resort.  Great and quick reads for any Disney fan.

My first order from the Disney Movie Club!!

Enjoy the rest of your summer Disney fans … The fall time is around the corner and I’ll see you back here for the September’s movie review.

Make it a Magical Day – Pat A

Summer times!!

Hello everyone out there in Blogland!

Well as you can see it's been a very silent summer for me.  Pride, vacation, drag pageants (yes I'm foraying into the pageantry realm) needless to say it's been busy and very little time for Disney Movie Blogging.  However that doesn't mean I haven't been watching and keeping up ideas for the future.  And believe me, I've got some wonderful shows I'm going to review!!  But in the meantime, let's blog about some Disney things and plans for the future ...

First off, I've been hitting up my local library and catching up on a lot of films I missed due to such a busy schedule!!  I got around to seeing Saving Mr. Banks and Wreck It Ralph as well as purchasing copies of Gnomeo and Juliet and Tales from Earthsea (a collaboration between Pixar and Studio Ghibli).  And my mom rounded out my Pirates of the Carribean collection for my birthday (Yay go Mom!!)  In the theaters, Maleficent (with the wonderfully talented and beautiful Angeline Jolie) piqued my curiousity with a retelling of Sleeping Beauty (and for those of you that saw the movie I hope you saw the preview with the glass slipper!) I know many people did not like it (Disney Fan and Non-fan alike) however, I feel that re-tellings and re-imaginings of stories takes just as much if not more creativity to give a story new life while keeping true to the original (admittedly Maleficent does stray from time to time, however I enjoyed the story from when she was young up to the days we meet her in the original animated film).  If you don't believe me then pick up almost anything written by Gregory Maguire (author of the acclaimed book Wicked that inspired the hit Broadway musical).  Maguire's imaginative re-tellings involve the land of Oz, Victorian England, and many other places and stories we grew up knowing ... Or at least thought we knew.  Anyways, if you get a chance to see Maleficent I highly recommend you do!

Maleficent says SEE MY MOVIE!

In other exciting news, my partner and I are celebrating our 2-year anniversary today!! Two years have just FLOWN by and how does a Disney kid celebrate?  By going to Disney of course!!  Well okay that's not entirely true.  For our first anniversary (in combination with my birthday and Christmas present from my family) we drove down to Orlando and spent a magical week at Walt Disney World (and maybe took a day trip to Orlando Studios).  It was my partner's first time to the resort and my first time back since high school (we're talking almost 18 years!!).  We happen to run into friends from Columbus as well (randomly their trip was the same time as ours, TOTALLY unplanned) and had a wonderful time riding, eating, swimming, eating, water sliding, eating ... Well you get the idea.  We decided that we want to return for our five year anniversary, and go all out (stay on the resort, get the food plan, ticket pass with park hopper, the whole shebang!!) After much discussion we decide week long stay at the Caribbean Resort (which has an AMAZING pool) most likely in September of 2017 (I'm going to try for a free dining plan as well ... Save a little in the meantime right?) and we'll be making the drive down again (it is a beautiful drive through 7 states).  So anyone who would like to save up and join us please do!! The more the merrier and I love sharing my Disney magic with friends and family.  Also I'll except gift cards for Disney as well to help pay for it.  

Here's where we plan on staying!

Anyways all I'll be back in August with the next movie (not sure what that will be just yet so stay tuned). 

Have a Magical Day everyone --Pat A 

UPDATE: June's movie

Hello Disney Fans!!

Well this June is going to be another crazy month, with Pride and vacation just around the corner.  That's right everyone ... Vacation time is just a short two weeks away.  I will be traveling out to Oregon and visiting my family for my dad's 70th birthday!! Both immediate and extended family will be there (many of whom I've not seen in several years) on the beautiful Oregon Coast.

Inspired by this, June's Disney movie will be ...

FINDING NEMO!!!

Soon I'll have pictures to share to go along with my posts of my vacation. 

Have a Magical Day Everyone!! --Pat A

The Three Caballeros

The Three Caballeros
Released 1945
Directed By Norman Fergusson, Clyde Geronimi, Jack Kinney, Bill Roberts, Harold Young
Music By Edward H Plumb, Paul J Smith, Charles Wolcott

Happy Cinco de Mayo or … really Fiesta de Mayo Disney fans!!  I apologize for my absence in April as my schedule for work, performing and all around life madness!!  But I’m back in full force and ready to jump into this month’s film: The Three Caballeros!

The Three Caballeros was created in 1945 and features the animated talents of Donald Duck and his two amigos, the parrot Joe Carioca and roustabout rooster Panchito.  Much like the manner of Make Mine Music and Melody Time, Three Caballeros is a montage of films featuring the cultures south of the border, including all around Mexico and areas of South America.  Set on Donald Duck’s birthday (Friday the 13^th appropriately enough) and Donald receives a film reel projector with films about his feathered cousins from all over the world.  Donald is then taken on a whirlwind tour on a magic serape all-around Mexico to learn the different regionalisms and folk dances and music.  The live performers come from all over Central and South America: the vocal talents of Aurora Miranda from Brazil and Dora Luz of Mexico, and the dancing talents Carmen Molina, and, along with a multitude of musicians playing various indigenous musical instruments.  This film marks one of the first times Disney animators mixed live actors interacting with animated characters, and set the groundwork for later films such as Mary Poppins.  The Three Caballeros was made to help improve relations between the US and South America as a result of the Good Neighbor Policies of Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  Within these shorts of music and stories, we are exposed to the cultures of Mexico, Central and South America from events and fiestas to language and folklore.  In the film we follow Donald and his feathered cousins through The South Pole, Brazil, and eventually all around Mexico. 

Really I find my blogs have a tendency to be research heavy … Like I’m writing a paper for film studies or musicology back in my Master’s days.  Oh yes, I do hold a Master’s in Music in Vocal Performance, which is why my focus on the Disney films I choose levitates towards the music.  This movie holds my favorite of all Disney songs, an honor that’s hard to bestow as I love most Disney songs.  But the section of “Quindin di Iaia” do this day makes me want to get up and dance.  The combination of fun Latin rhythms that later gets mixed into some big band sound and Aurora Miranda’s voice … Well that’s just a recipe for success right there.  A funny story I have about this film, growing up one of the few places in my little town of Ontario to rent movies was the local grocery store (Albertson’s just up the way from my house).  Well, movie or game rental was meant as a reward on Friday’s if the week had been especially busy or my sister and I had achieved something (good grades or passing that hard test).  Every time I saw The Three Caballeros I would pester my mom to rent it and inevitably the answer was “No you’ve already seen it!”  I knew this answer was coming but I asked anyways because … You never quite knew if she would turn around and say okay.  The areas visited in Mexico like Veracruz, or Patzcuaro, would later inspire me to travel to Mexico.  In fact, had I not seen this film from an early age and gotten a pique of curiosity about the world around me I probably wouldn’t be the traveler I am.  Disney’s ability to bring the world around you down to your television screen or even experience a slice of culture at his park Epcot in Florida, which was Disney’s vision for the Experimental Prototype City of Tomorrow, a place where countries are only a short trip away.  This I think started early with Disney’s love of literature that led to his amazing films … England gave us Mary Poppins, France gave us The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and from Australia we got Finding Nemo.  We have the world around us to inspire our imaginations to create what we wish to create.  Again the lesson of Disney in everything he created. 

The Three Caballeros: While a much older film, still a fun romp through cultures of our friends south of the border.  Fun music, folk dancing, and a little history on feather cousins as well.

Perfect For: The globe trekker

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks:  One of the rare instances you’ll see all three main characters at the Mexico pavilion in Epcot Center on the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros (formerly known as El Rio Del Tiempo).  And if you’re lucky you just may see Donald by the ramp up to the pyramid for a photo op. 

Well Disney friends … Normally this is where I announce my next film for review for the next month but to be honest, I haven’t decided what that shall be yet.  There are a great many films I’ve been watching and looking through.  You see Pride is around the corner and my alter-shego, Stella Boheme, will be making some appearances.  So when I have decided what film I shall be reviewing I’ll post an update from my phone!!  I want to wish you all a wonderful summer as I know many of you fellow Disney addicts will be traveling to Disneyland and Disney World alike and I also want to wish my LGBTQA readers a happy Pride month, be safe and love each other!!

Be safe, be happy, and as always Make it a Magical Day  --Pat A

The Princess and the Frog

The Princess and the Frog 

Released 2009

Directed By Ron Clements and Jon Musker

Music By Randy Newman

Happy March Madness/St Patrick's Day/Mardi Gras blog land!!!  I just love the month of March as it means the end of winter (and let's face it this has been one LOOOOOOOOOOOONG winter) and time to start celebrating the earth waking up and becoming green again.  For you sports fans you have March Madness to look forward to and St. Patrick's Day for a reason to party (like we really need much of one right?)  And this year Fat Tuesday happened to fall early in the month of March as well.  And you all know, where there's Fat Tuesday ... There's MARDI GRAS!!!  The party in New Orleans of outlandish proportions full of debauchery before the lenten season.  But then again ... Isn't that the purpose of Mardi Gras?  One last day of frivolity before going into the season of fasting and reflection.  

Years ago when I was in grade school, my family's business had the opportunity to attend a convention in New Orleans around the time of Mardi Gras.  It was an amazing experience ... Waking up during the morning and seeing the mist on the river, experiencing jazz, amazing food ... and even met a mule named Aretha Franklin!!  The people of New Orleans lived life with flair and gusto that is unrivaled to this day and for anyone who has an appreciation for good food, good music and a good time be sure to carve out a vacation for New Orleans.  You won't regret the choice! 

In honor of Mardi Gras this month's film is The Princess and the Frog.  That's right everyone ... the classic story of a princess who finds a frog begging for a kiss ... But with a little twist and new location.  Taking place in New Orleans during Jazz Age, we follow the adventures of Tiana and Naveen through the Louisiana Bayou and into the heart of New Orleans during Mardi Gras.  What I love most about this movie is how the Disney crew was able to capture the culture of New Orleans.  From the amazing dishes of Tiana's cooking to Big Daddy La Bouff being the king of Mardi Gras, Dr. Facilier and Mama Odie's hoodoo and voodoo, to the music of Randy Newman capturing all the different types of Jazz.  In the audio commentary of the movie the directors talk about spending several months in New Orleans to learn and capture the culture.  Much like previous films done by Disney, the voice acting was not overlooked.  Tiana is voiced by the very talented Anika Noni-Rose.  My first experience with Anika as an actress came from the movie Dreamgirls as she played the role of Lorelle.  The heartbreaker and happy-go-lucky Prince Naveen voiced by Bruno Campos, who has enjoyed a career in TV dramas such as The Closer and ER.  Dr. Facilier and future lackey Lawrence were voiced by Keith David and Peter Bartlett.  John Goodman gave life to Big Daddy La Bouff and Oprah Winfrey lent her vocal talents to Tianna’s mother Eudora.  There’s even a small “guest spot” for celebrity chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse!!  

The music of Princess and the Frog also gives us a taste of New Orleans.  Randy Newman’s score and songs give us a flavor of the many types of Jazz and Americana music.  Mama Odie gives us a taste of gospel with her song “Dig A Little Deeper” while Ray shows his Cajun roots with “Going Down The Bayou.”  Louis the Gator homages Louis Armstrong with his stylings on the trumpet and we’re introduced to Prince Naveen during a ragtime jam in the streets of the French Quarter.  We even get a visual styling of Jazz during the party scene where different party-goers showcase the dances of the time like the Charleston and Lindy Hop.  One remarkable feat of the cast was their ability to not only voice the characters but also sing them as well.  This hadn’t been done since Beauty and the Beast in 1991. 

Princess and the Frog.  I confess I’m unsure where to start with this film … The film takes me back to the movie-musicals like Beauty and the Beast, Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Aladdin, where there was little to no computer animation.  By blending those elements with a new twist on a classic children’s fairytale, Disney has managed to stay current while not forgetting its origins. 

In the audio commentary, Jon Musker comments on the “two obsessions” in New Orleans, food and music.  These two elements weaving throughout the film are what caught me as well.  My musical life started at the age of 9 when I started taking piano lessons and singing with a local children’s chorus, which then led me into playing the organ and taking up singing lessons and all the way to getting a Masters in Music.  Growing up family gatherings at my house involved the parents, grandparents, great grandparents at times, cousins, aunts, uncles, spouses … Needless to say they were big affairs.  Christmas, Easter, birthdays, weddings, even funerals were normally celebrated with food.  Thanksgiving always had at least two turkeys and so many sides that it took two or three long banquet tables to place everything.  Food became a means of celebrating and sharing with family, even some of whom we may not have seen for years.  In the movie, Tiana’s father tells a very young Tiana “You know the thing about good food? It brings folks together from all walks of life. It warms them right up and it puts little smiles on their faces” and that’s what we did; fellowship through food.  Food brings together Louis, Naveen, Ray, and Tiana and even helps melt a little of the ice between the two main characters.  I noticed that it seemed as though we had both elements characterized in the main characters, Tiana hardworking, passionate and dedicated to her cooking and her dream of owning her own restaurant while Naveen, fun-loving, playboy, and frivolous wanting nothing more than to play and enjoy jazz music.  The Yin/Yang of life in our two main characters, which brings us to the finals thoughts of this blog …

Princess and the Frog: A modern, Jazzy twist on a classic tale.  Not only do we see a new twist on a Disney film, but a blend old techniques and new takes on characters to create a fun family film. 

Perfect For: The dreamer that shies away from hard work … Or the hard worker that shies away from dreaming.  The princess in your life that knows the value of working towards your dream.

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks:  Being inducted into the pantheon of princesses, you’ll most likely run into Tiana herself ready to share her secret for some amazing beignets.

Well kids … another month blog has passed.  I am hoping you all will have a safe March and that spring is just around the corner for you (I know I’m ready for better weather!)  Next month’s film: Hunchback of Notre Dame.  And now it’s time for me to invest in the two newest films for my collection: Saving Mr. Banks and Frozen. They are now released on DVD and I can’t WAIT to get my copies!!!

Have a Magical Day all!! – Pat A

Cinderella

Cinderella
Released 1950
Directed By Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
Music By Paul J. Smith, Oliver Wallace with songs by Mack David, Al Hoffman, and Jerry Livingston

Happy Valentine’s Day fellow Disney fans!!!  I hope you have plans for this holiday, be it with your spouse, significant other, or friends and that you are staying safe in this extended winter weather.  I really don’t have much set up for this month’s film so … Let’s dive in!

Cinderella the classic story of a young girl treated badly by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, sneaking away to a royal ball, falling instantly in love with the Prince (and he with her) and ultimately the glass slipper fits and there’s a royal wedding.  Well … at least that’s the story in a nutshell.  In watching the special edition disc released, there’s so much that could be said about this wonderful film: the animation, the treatment of Cinderella and Lady Tremaine as people where the animals and stepsisters were truly “cartoony;” the perfect balance of comedic and magical elements with humanized and psychological depth in the character; a story that gets us to root for the underdog and rejoice and cheer when the she finds her happy ending; or the composition that gave us many memorable songs (who could resist humming “A Dream Is A Wish” or “Bibbidy Boppity Boo”).  I found myself struggling which direction to take this month’s blog until I realized: the Cinderella story parallels that of Walt Disney and many of the people involved with Walt Disney Studios. 

Walt Disney came from humble beginnings, the child of an Irish-Canadian immigrant father and German-American mother.  He and his brother Roy moved to California with basically a suitcase and the money in their pockets (which really wasn’t much). Over the course of the next few years, Walt and Roy built Walt Disney Studios, which then led to the creation of Disneyland, and the start of Disney World, which started with Walt’s idea of the Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow (affectionately termed EPCOT today). Walt Disney Animation Studios had seen success with the full length animated feature of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves when it was released in 1937 but hadn’t really had a successful movie since.  Without success in the film realm, the studio would soon have to close its doors.  Cinderella had provided that success needed to help bring the studio out of debt.  The voice of the heroine herself was portrayed by Ilene Woods had her Cinderella moment during the film as well.  Woods originally came in to record demo tracks of the music that would later be used in the film.  When Disney had heard the tracks he contacted Woods to play the role of Cinderella.  The music for the film was written by three Tin Pan Alley writers (the first song written for the film was “A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes”) … Certainly a Cinderella moment for them as well. 

The list could go on and on I’m sure of Cinderella moments connected with Disney and all the endeavors of the studios and theme parks.  Disney’s driving force was his dream and his love of drawing.  I must admit that of all the Disney Princess movies, Cinderella is perhaps that rare breed of movie that … well … That I didn’t get into as much as the others.  I know … Blasphemy of all Disney-philes here is a movie that has withstood the test of time cinematically and musically, and this reviewer saying “eh it’s okay.”  But while not my favorite of the animated features, having “Cinderella Moments” in life has drawn me to this film. 

So what you may be asking is my Cinderella moment?  Well … Truthfully … There are many to count.  Early in my singing career taking a few awards I never thought I would (like an incentive award for the Met), the new position in my workplace that as the “new guy” I thought I’d never get, my career as a drag performer … Many things. 

Forgive me for a shortened blog this time around everyone.  I undertook Cinderella as a challenge knowing I would have a difficult time writing on it.  However, that’s part of undertaking anything right?  If Walt Disney’s life and work teaches us anything, it’s that dreaming and achieving even when there are obstacles is still possible.  Much like the success of Cinderella came at a time the studio was close to financial peril and help turn the fortune of the studio around. 

Cinderella: The rags to riches story of a girl with a pure heart that finds love with her prince with the help of a little magic from her Fairy Godmother.  Taking a timeless story and adding Disney magic, this film gives us the right blend of fantasy and humanity creating a perfectly balance feature. 

Perfect For:  The dreamer in your family, whether young or young at heart.

Most likely character you’ll see in the parks: One of the few films you have a chance to see several characters.  Most likely you’ll see Cinderella herself dressed in her ball gown finery, but often times in Disneyland the Tremaines, Drizilla, Anastasia and Lady Tremaine herself, looking for a husbands and even *shudders* singing. 

Well everyone I’m going to give this new posting scheduled a try for a bit.  We’ll see how it happens but … in the meantime, what’s your Cinderella moment?  

In honor of Mardi Gras, the film for March will be: The Princess and the Frog 

Make it a Magical Day – Pat A 

UPDATE: Post dates

Hello everyone in the blogosphere!! As you may have seen I'm a couple days late on my blog. But have no fear, I will be posting, however I will now post on the third weekend of the month ... So stay tuned and this weekend my review of Cinderella will be up!! And as always ... Make it a magical day!!

-Pat

Mary Poppins --- A few days late

Mary Poppins

Released 1964

Directed By Robert Stevenson

Music By Richard and Robert Sherman

Hello fellow Disney Fans!!  As I promised last month and in honor of the release of Saving Mr. Banks by Disney Studios, I give you this month’s film: Mary Poppins!!  I am giddy to be reviewing this movie as the character of Mary Poppins holds a very special place in my heart (as I will tell you later on in the post).  But first … a little history:

Mary Poppins is a film of many firsts: For Julie Andrews it was a first foray into film; for Richard and Robert Sherman it was the first time they were under contract with Disney Studios; for Disney Studios the first Disney film with live action to be inducted into the National Film Registry; for me it was one of the first films I can recall watching (yes on Beta tape) at the tender age of three.  As with other Disney films, Disney spared no expense with casting of all the characters, from the major players such as Mary Poppins, Bert, Mr. and Mrs. Banks, all the way down to characters with only a few seconds of airtime and may have even been nameless.  Here are just a few of the actors and actresses that contributed to the film:

·         Mary Poppins was played by the amazing Julie Andrews.  This role followed soon after her success in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Camelot and the birth of her first child (though it was also considered to have Mary Martin, Bette Davis, and Angela Lansbury in the lead).

·         The jack-of-all-trades Bert was played by Dick Van Dyke.  Dick Van Dyke also made another appearance in the film as the elderly Mr. Dawes Sr. (under the name Navckic Keyd)

·         Mr. Banks was played by the British actor David Tomlinson, who would make several appearances in other Disney films such as Bedknobs and Broomsticks and The Love Bug. 

·         The suffragette Mrs. Banks played by Glynis Johns, who’s career spanned stage, screen and television.

·         The children Jane and Michael were played by Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber.  These two often appeared together on film sometimes as siblings (The Gnome Mobile) or just friends (The Three Lives of Thomasina released the same year as Mary Poppins).

·         Other names of the time included Hermione Baddeley and Reta Shaw (who played cook and Ellen), Elsa Lanchester (Katie Nanna), Arthur Treacher (The Constable), Jane Darwell (The Bird Woman), and Ed Wynn (Uncle Albert).

The music of Mary Poppins shows a timeless quality and really showcased the talent of the Sherman Brothers.  This would be the music that would eventually lead them to being under contract with Disney Studios.  Richard and Robert Sherman wrote around 30 songs for the film.  All in all 18 were used and many of the songs that didn’t make the final cut were used in later films (such as The Beautiful Briny in Bedknobs and Broomstick).  Each of the film’s songs are memorable and showcase the full range of music the Sherman Brothers could write, from ballads to waltzes to folk dance music.  In later interviews, Richard would mention Walt would say “Play it” or just get a certain look in his eye and he knew it meant playing “Feed the Birds” which is my personal favorite of the entire soundtrack.  In watching the movie with informational pop ups, each character had a theme (a technique used by the German composer Richard Wagner called leitmotif where each character in his operas had a specific passage of music that played when they were present or identified in the scene); the Disney studios have used this approach all the way back since Pinocchio. 

I don’t know where to begin with this film.  Mary Poppins holds such a special place in my heart and now is on the verge of turning 50!!  I mentioned reviewing this film in honor of the release of Saving Mr. Banks that shows the interaction of the author P.L. Travers and Walt Disney that led to the film.  But I find myself asking how Mary Poppins, made when my parents were kids, has captured audiences across all generations to become one of Disney’s most beloved films.  Is it the masterful music written by the Sherman Brothers?  Or the way the all-star cast gave life to the characters, including the incomparable Julie Andrews in the title role?  Or perhaps the brand of Disney magic that not only created London in the Disney Studios in Burbank, California but also melded cartoon and live actors on one screen and still made it believable?  Films like this are certainly not uncommon for Walt Disney Studios; it is however almost as if this movie was made by a stroke of serendipity; had the role of Eliza Doolittle gone to Julie Andrews (My Fair Lady was also in production and released in the same year) and the role gone to another actress under consideration (such as Mary Martin) would Mary Poppins have been memorable? 

What I find remarkable is Disney’s attention to every detail and character; even the more minor roles were played by established actors from both Britain and America (for example, Jane Darwell in the role of the Bird Woman, who had over 200 movies to her credit).  Disney’s ability to find the right person for the right job is spot on in his pictures.  Perhaps that is the enduring quality of Mary Poppins lies in this quality of the film: the right person in the right role at the right point in their lives.  This detail can be found in the music (I recommend listening to the interview done with the Sherman Brothers and how they arrived at the music of Mary Poppins to ensure it sounded British enough) and even its performers (Julie Andrews did several takes of Stay Awake to get the right sound out of her voice). 

Admittedly watching the film made me want to have a magical nanny of my very own … When not pretending to be the singing nanny herself (I admit it … I even had my own umbrella).  In watching the movie almost 30 years later, the music still gives me a tear.  As a child Mary Poppins showed me that life is about magic in everything; as an adult it’s about that little bit of kindness that can be shown to everyone and still believing magic exists, maybe not in popping in and out of chalk paintings or having tea parties on the ceiling, but in showing what a simple smile or wave or act of kindness can do for another person’s day.  On top of starting a lifelong love of music and falling in love with the voice of Julie Andrews, Mary Poppins also started my journey of becoming a Disney-phile.  And this is why Mary Poppins will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Mary Poppins: An incredible family movie with a little something for everyone.  Pulling from stories of P.L. Travers and Julie Andrews giving us her best performance that is “practically perfect in every way” augmented by Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns and the others in the all-star cast,

Perfect For: Really the ENTIRE family

Most Likely Character You’ll See In the Parks:  The title character herself, Mary Poppins, escorted by the gentlemanly sweep Bert, both dressed for a Jolly ‘Oliday.

Make it a Magical Day – Pat A