Disney News: Nemo On Ice starts this fall

Nemo found on ice
No, it's not what it may sound like. Beloved clown fish Nemo has not been caught by an Australian fisherman and sold on the ice at a supermarket. The news is much different than that.

This year, Disney-Pixar's Finding Nemo will be transformed into a stunning new Disney on Ice touring production.

Starting September 2004 in Lakeland, Florida, this extremely promising production will criss-cross the states, trying to "reel audiences" into an aquatic world. Nemo, overprotective father Marlin, absent-minded Dory, the cool sea turtles, the vegetarian sharks, and the Tank Gang all star in this new adaptation of Marlin's quest to reunite with his son.

"Disney On Ice presents Disney-Pixar's Finding Nemo is our most innovative show ever," said Disney On Ice producer Kenneth Feld.  "Audiences will be amazed by our depiction of the underwater world, as we bring all of the humor and adventure underneath the Great Barrier Reef to life in a visual masterpiece that will 'wow' everyone in the entire family."

The show's producers are claiming that "[c]olorful scenic elements and creative lighting effects will enhance the audiences' feeling of submersion by giving the illusion of depth as well as the perspective of a vibrant and expansive ocean." Some highlights of the show include a jellyfish ballet, and a precision skating school of moonfish.

Disney on Ice has amazing credentials; just focusing on awards, the lighting director has won an Emmy, the scenic director has won a Tony, and the skating choreographer has choreographed for an Olympic medal winning performance.

This production is actually the 25th annual produced by Feld Entertainment, who produce for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey.

Check out www.disneyonice.com for more news.

Mickey, Donald and Goofy's The Three Musketeers
In contrast, the traditionally animated title The Three Musketeers is much better than the trailers for it make it look like. The story revolves around a mission by Pete, head of the Musketeers, to eliminate Princess Minnie and take the throne of France. After his henchmen botch an attempt to do so, Minnie tells Pete she wants guards. Aspiring-but-extremely-bumbling musketeers Mickey, Donald, and Goofy are chosen by Pete, as they won't get in the way of his plans.

A great turn by under-used 1930s character Clarabelle the Cow, as Pete's right hand woman. Though I didn't know it was supposed to be them until the credits roled, it was nice to see the Beagle Boys from the TV series Ducktales back in the limelight, as Pete's henchmen.

All in all, it was a fun,