Hong Kong DisneylandPress Release

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort reveals creative concepts of castle transformation

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort reveals creative concepts of castle transformation

Grander park centerpiece to transform the experience at the Castle Hub, delighting and entertaining guests both day and night at Hong Kong Disneyland

Transformed castle pays tribute to Disney princesses and reflects the cosmopolitan character of Hong Kong

HONG KONG, December 8, 2017 – Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) today revealed creative details about the upcoming castle transformation—an important part of the park’s ongoing multi-year expansion plan. The transformed castle will feature a seamless blend of styles inspired by different times and cultures, while paying tribute to Disney Princess stories. The transformed castle will also take the park’s entertainment to new heights with both a new daytime show and nighttime spectacular.

“This is a completely reimagined take on a Disney castle and a first-of-its-kind transformation at a Disney Park,” said Samuel Lau, executive vice president and managing director of the resort. “Our castle will be transformed to emphasize the power of pursuing your dreams. We’re confident the majestic design, which will serve as an amazing backdrop for new entertainment, will resonate with our local and international guests. The castle transformation also signifies the continuous growth of the park, especially with the multi-year expansion happening over the next six years.”

Kelly Willis, Executive creative director of Walt Disney Imagineering Asia Amanda Chiu, Producer Walt Disney Imagineering Asia
Kelly Willis, Executive creative director of Walt Disney Imagineering Asia
Amanda Chiu, Producer Walt Disney Imagineering Asia

Kelly Willis, executive creative director of Walt Disney Imagineering Asia, said, “The design of the transformed castle will feature a variety of storybook influences in its thematic spires, domes and other architectural elements. The castle will be based in the present yet looking toward the future, with different colors, textures, designs and patterns both high and low. Our team of designers is hard at work so that the transformed castle will be a constant source of inspiration for our guests.”

While still being true to the classic Disney castle look, the transformed castle will have a fresh, uplifting design that reaches ever skyward. As HKDL’s iconic centerpiece, it will stand as an architectural achievement that is grander, more magnificent and entirely unique. Overall, it will be a shining symbol of hopes and aspirations.

With features inspired by different design styles and Disney Princess stories

The design of the transformed castle will take inspiration from different times and cultures, as well as a variety of storybook influences and styles.

The castle’s features will also be inspired by 13 much-loved Disney Princess stories based on Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, Moana and Anna and Elsa. Coming from the far reaches of Asia, Europe, the Middle East and beyond, the Disney Princesses are a diverse group unified by their big dreams and courageous hearts.

From the new castle moat and hub area, guests will be able to spot princess finial decorations on some spires, such as Snow White’s apple, Cinderella’s coach and Belle’s rose, as well as princess-inspired designs and decorations throughout the castle.

 

Celebrating the hopes and dreams of Hong Kong people

After its transformation, the castle will be much more than a regal sight for guests to enjoy and take photos of; it will also symbolize the aspirations and hopes of Hong Kong people and the city’s spirit of evergreen renewal, where there’s always something new to try.

“The skyward spires will echo how the Hong Kong spirit of courageously reaching for your dreams,” added Willis. “Just like our varied Disney Princesses, Hong Kong is a mosaic of different cultures and dreams.”

 

Reimagined with even more fantasy

To add even more magic and fantasy, the transformed castle area will include original artwork, unique sculptures and designs waiting for guests to find and enjoy. As part of the castle transformation, guests can visit the all-new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which is a magical salon where fairy-godmothers-in-training turn young guests into princesses with makeovers, hairstyling and special outfits. At the transformed castle, guests can also meet different Disney Princesses at different times.

There will also be a new outdoor stage where HKDL’s daytime show and nighttime spectacular will be held. Both of these new shows will feature awe-inspiring entertainment experiences, and be special moments for friends and loved ones to enjoy together.

 

Visit now to enjoy Christmas magic

It’s truly a new era here at HKDL! The multi-year expansion will bring new entertainment to the park almost every year from 2018 to 2023. Transformation work on the castle will begin after the finale of the “Disney in the Stars” Fireworks on January 1, 2018.

Before then, guests can enjoy an authentic Disney Christmas celebration as the park turns into a winter wonderland. At “A Disney Christmas,” guests are invited to join Mickey and friends in their festive new outfits at the Christmastime Ball held in front of the castle. There is also a stunning lineup of activities, festive dishes and seasonal items that are sure to create warm memories this special holiday season!

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