It was the year 1992, and Disneyland was preparing to showcase its magical transformation for the festive season. The anticipation in the air was palpable as visitors from all over the world eagerly awaited the enchanting Christmas experience that awaited them. As the day dawned on Disneyland, the park was bathed in a radiant glow of colorful lights. The iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle stood tall, adorned with shimmering decorations that glittered like stars in the night sky. It was a sight to behold, and for many, it signaled the start of the most magical time of the year. Visitors were greeted by a host of beloved Disney characters, dressed in their finest holiday attire.
Visitors were greeted by a host of beloved Disney characters, dressed in their finest holiday attire. Mickey Mouse and his friends, including Minnie, Donald, and Goofy, were all present to spread the festive cheer. Children and adults alike couldn't help but wear a smile as they interacted with these timeless characters, capturing precious memories that would last a lifetime.
Ariana Grande looks majestic in a pink gown while filming emotional scenes as Glinda The Good Witch in Wicked movie - as Buckinghamshire set is transformed into the magical Land of Oz
Ariana Grande filmed emotional scenes as Glinda The Good Witch in her full costume as production continued on the Buckinghamshire set of Wicked's highly-anticipated Hollywood adaptation. It comes just days after darkly-lit production stills were released of the singer, 29, and her co-star Cynthia Erivo, 36, who will playing the part of Elphaba, originated by star Idina Menzel in the musical. The 7 Rings songstress looked majestic in a stunning pink gown with a silver crown and iridescent scepter, as she glided into view atop a golden carriage - filming what appears to be one of the opening scenes from the movie. She was spotted throwing a flame into a furnace as the citizens of Oz sang and danced in the musical number, No One Mourns the Wicked, according to onlookers on Wednesday. Ariana joined the Ozians as they celebrated the death of the Wicked Witch of the West.
Spellbinding! Ariana Grande filmed emotional scenes as Glinda The Good Witch in her full costume as production continued on the Buckinghamshire set of Wicked's highly-anticipated Hollywood adaptation
Looking wicked! The 7 Rings songstress looked majestic in a stunning pink gown with a silver crown and iridescent scepter, as she glided into view atop a golden carriage - filming what appears to be one of the opening scenes from the movie
more videos
After lighting the fire, she then went back up the steps towards the large gold throne, which had brought her into the Land of Oz.
In the original 2003 musical - that won three Tony Awards - the role of Glinda was originated by Kristin Chenoweth.
Beneath Ariana's platform, numerous actors playing townspeople assembled, all dressed in costume.
The incredible village was exquisitely done up, with cottages containing colorful thatched roofs decorated with flowers.
Of course, the iconic yellow brick road spiraled across town, including the area where the villagers and Ariana had gathered.
A massive poster warning villagers of the Wicked Watch was plastered against one of the cottages.
Aerial photos of the set captured the scale of the massive production, with the tiny town constructed upon a farmland in Ivanhoe, a village in east Buckinghamshire.
Filming was done with the assistance of towering cranes and a huge team of crew members working behind-the-scenes.
Iconic role: In the original 2003 musical - that won three Tony Awards - the role of Glinda was originated by Kristin Chenoweth
A magical performance! Ariana was assisted by a crew member on set
Put a spell on you! The songstress wielded an iridescent scepter
Star treatment! Stylists made some finishing touches on Grande
Magical: Ariana looked stunning perched upon a majestic gold carriage
Throwing herself into character: She listened intently as she received guidance on her acting
Making friends: The former Voice coach appeared to have made a new pal in one production member
Yum! The BRIT Award winner looked delighted as she sipped from a coffee through a straw
According to eyewitnesses, villagers were celebrating the death of the Wicked Witch as they welcomed Glinda into their town.
As Ariana made her grand entrance, the townspeople clapped and cheered and even danced on the streets.
They all broke out into the song No One Mourns the Wicked once she began climbing down the staircase.
The film is based on Gregory Maguire’s best selling novel and the hit Broadway musical adaptation, which debuted in 2003 starring Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel.
It is a prequel to the The Wizard of Oz in which the storyline proceeds Dorothy and details the one-time friendship between the Elphaba and Glinda characters.
It also stars Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, as well as Bowen Yang, Adam James, Keala Settle and Bronwyn James.
Wicked, which is being adapted into a two-part series, has kept details of its shoot under wraps.
Wicked Part 1 was originally set for a Christmas Day, 2024 release but it has been moved up to November 27, 2024, with the second installment set to arrive December 25, 2025.
Welcome to the Land of Oz: The Buckinghamshire set was transformed into a splendid village
Lights, camera, action! Photos captured the massive production effort behind the upcoming adaptation
Beware! A massive poster warned townspeople of the Wicked Witch
Townspeople: Numerous actors were assembled, all dressed in costume
more videos
Last month, Jeff Goldblum let it slip that he had been cast in the film while appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
'I was just on the set of Wicked. I'm not supposed to talk about that. But it's been out and about,' he said. 'You should see our witches, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, very good.'
On Sunday, the stars of the film, Ariana and Cynthia, posted first look images from their upcoming movie.
Ariana posted an image of her character, the good witch Glinda, donning a pink gown while making her way up a long staircase.
Cynthia, 36, shared a shot of her character, wicked witch Elphaba pictured with her hat and broom.
The film's director Jon M. Chu posted both of shots with the caption, 'You weren't told the whole story. What happens when you veer off the Yellow Brick Road? FIRST LOOK of the #WickedMovie … currently in production in Oz.'
Cynthia responded in the comments, 'It’s been wonderful making magic with you.'
Chu also took to Twitter to praise his leading ladies and their performances in the upcoming movie.
'I’ve already been changed for good by these two women… #CynthiaErivo & #ArianaGrande as the Witches of Oz,' he said. 'They will lift ur spirits, break ur heart and leave you speechless with their voices. So excited to introduce you into our world… SO much more to come…'
First look! Grande, Erivo, and director Jon M. Chu shared first look images from the film on Sunday
After lighting the fire, she then went back up the steps towards the large gold throne, which had brought her into the Land of Oz.
As visitors made their way through the park, they were serenaded by carolers belting out classic Christmas tunes. The melodies floated through the air, filling hearts with warmth and joy. The scent of freshly baked gingerbread and hot cocoa wafted through the air, enticing visitors to indulge in the delightful treats on offer. One of the highlights of the Christmas celebration at Disneyland was the awe-inspiring parade. As it made its way through Main Street, spectators were treated to a spectacle of elaborate floats, dazzling costumes, and mesmerizing performances. The streets echoed with laughter and applause as favorite Disney characters came to life, spreading holiday magic along the way. Of course, no visit to Disneyland during Christmas would be complete without a trip to Santa's Village. Nestled in a cozy corner of the park, Santa's Village was a haven of holiday bliss. Children could whisper their wishes to Santa Claus himself, marvel at his jolly presence, and receive a small gift as a token of his generosity. As the sun set and the stars emerged in the sky, Disneyland transformed into a luminescent wonderland. The nightly fireworks display captivated audiences, lighting up the night with a breathtaking symphony of colors and sounds. It was a magical end to a day filled with wonder and enchantment. The Christmas holiday season at Disneyland in 1992 was a remarkable experience that left a lasting impression on all those who were fortunate enough to be a part of it. Disneyland took the spirit of Christmas and amplified it, creating a world where dreams came true and memories were made. The magic came alive, enveloping guests in a momentary escape from reality and reminding them of the joy and wonder that this time of year brings..
Reviews for "Recreating the Magic: DIY Disneyland-inspired Christmas Crafts from 1992"
1. Jane - 1 star
I was so disappointed with "The Magic of Christmas at Disneyland 1992". The show was advertised as being a magical and unforgettable experience, but it fell short on every level. The costumes were lackluster, the songs were forgettable, and the performances lacked energy. It felt like the cast was just going through the motions and there was no real sense of holiday cheer. Overall, I would not recommend this show to anyone looking for a magical Christmas experience.
2. Mark - 2 stars
I had high expectations for "The Magic of Christmas at Disneyland 1992", but unfortunately, it did not live up to them. While the set design and visuals were impressive, the overall experience fell short. The choreography seemed disjointed and there was a lack of cohesion in the storyline. Additionally, the pacing of the show was off, with some parts dragging on while others felt rushed. Overall, I was left feeling underwhelmed and wishing I had chosen a different holiday show to attend at Disneyland.
3. Laura - 2.5 stars
"The Magic of Christmas at Disneyland 1992" had its moments, but overall it failed to deliver the holiday magic I was hoping for. The performances were hit or miss, with some of the cast members clearly lacking enthusiasm. The show lacked a strong narrative and felt like a series of disjointed performances rather than a cohesive production. Additionally, the lack of memorable songs left me feeling underwhelmed. While there were some enjoyable aspects, I would not highly recommend this show. There are better options available for a magical Christmas experience at Disneyland.