ºoº "Epcot's Candlelight Processional 2005 F.A.Q. & Information,let's share our info.

RaySharpton

Retired and going to Disney.
Joined
Oct 28, 2000
47b4cc30b3127cce9dcff00a494800000026108AZOGTFq4ZtJ

Candlelight Processional "In memory of ShirleyB, 1934-2005" photo on December 9, 2004, Thursday with Marlee Matlin and Jack Jason is the certified sign language interpreter courtesy of DebbieB.


ºoº 2005 Epcot Candlelight Processional Information ºoº



ºoº August 4, 2005 from disneyworld.com at: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEventsDetail?id=HolidaysAroundTheWorldCandlelightSpecialEventPage and first posted by Panthergirl, special thank you.

UPDATES:

*ºoº Gary Sinise CANCELLED on August 11, 2005 for - Dec 22-27

ºoº On September 20, 2005 WDW posted two narrator replacements for Gary Sinise, and moved one narrator:

ºoº *Jaci Velasquez on Dec 7-9 replaces Jim Caviezel who is moving to replace three days for Gary Sinise.
ºoº *Jim Caviezel on Dec 22-24 moves and replaces Gary Sinise for three days.
ºoº *John Stamos on Dec 25-27 replaces Gary Sinise for three days.





2005 Epcot Candlelight Processional & Dinner Packages

Candlelight Processional, one of the most beloved and joyous Disney traditions since 1958, the Candlelight Processional enthralls you as a Celebrity Guest narrates the Christmas story, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir. Guest choirs travel from as far away as the UK to sing with over 400 performers each evening. The Candlelight Processional takes place in the American Gardens Theatre and is included with Park admission.

ºoº Showtimes: 5:00 P.M., 6:45 P.M. & 8:15 P.M.

2005 Schedule of Narrators:

(biographies are from last years 2004 Festival Guide. Those without biographies were not narrators last year.)

ºoº Rita Moreno - Nov 25-27

Ms. Moreno is the only female perfomer it have won all four prestigious show business awards - the Oscar, the Emmy, the Tony, and the Grammy. She is widely known for her award winning performances in "West Side Story", "The Ritz", and "The Electric Company album".

ºoº Phil Donahue - Nov 28-30

ºoº Haley Joel Osment - Dec 1-3

ºoº Cicely Tyson - Dec 4-6

ºoº *Jaci Velasquez on Dec 7-9 replaces Jim Caviezel who is moving to replace three days for Gary Sinise was added on September 20, 2005 by WDW.

ºoº Eartha Kitt - Dec 10-12

ºoº Lou Diamond Phillips - Dec 13-15

ºoº Harry Hamlin - Dec 16-18

ºoº Marlee Matlin - Dec 19-21

Marlee Matlin first received worldwide acclaim for her motion picture debut in "Children of a Lesser God", rewarding her with both an Oscar and a Golden Globe award. Since then she has appeared in numerous screen and television productions, including NBC's "West Wing". In addition to authoring a novel for children, and is a spokesperson for closed captioning.


*ºoº Gary Sinise CANCELLED on December 11, 2005 for - Dec 22-27
*ºoº Jim Caviezel - Dec 22-24, moved from Dec 7-9 to replace three days for Gary Sinise was added on September 20, 2005 by WDW.

*Television and film actor Jim Caviezel had been making a name for himself in films like "The Thin Red Line", "Angel Eyes", "The Count of Monte Cristo", and " High Crimes". But perhaps best known for his most demanding role both physically and emotionally, portraying Jesus Christ in Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ".


*ºoº Gary Sinise CANCELLED on December 11, 2005 for - Dec 22-27
*ºoº John Stamos - Dec 25-27, to replace three days for Gary Sinise was added on September 20, 2005 by WDW.


*ºoº Gary Sinise CANCELLED on December 11, 2005 for - Dec 22-27

*Sinise's portrayal of Lt. Dan in "Forrest Gump" made him a mainstream movie star. Just a few of his most memorable performances include roles in "Apollo 13", "Ransom", "Mission to Mars", and "The Green Mile". Mr. Sinise can be seen in the "The Forgotten" as well as the CBS' show "CSI:NY".

ºoº Steven Curtis Chapman - Dec 28-30

Steven Curtis Chapman is one of the most prominent performers of contemporary Christian music. He has sold more than 7 million records and his passion has rewarded him with 4 Grammy awards, 36 number one singles, and 45 Dove Awards.


Candlelight Dinner Packages

The best way to enjoy the Candlelight Processional is with the Dinner Package, which includes preferred seating for the Candlelight Processional and dinner at select Epcot restaurants.

Dinner Package Prices

ºoº Tier 1 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $30.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

The Garden Grill Restaurant - The Land
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_gg.htm

Biergarten Restaurant - Germany
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_ger.htm

ºoº Tier 2 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $38.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

San Angel Inn - Mexico
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_mex.htm

Restaurant Marrakesh - Morocco
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_mor.htm

Nine Dragons Restaurant - China
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_9dd.htm

Rose & Crown Dining Room - United Kingdom
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_rc.htm

ºoº Tier 3 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $45.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

Chefs de France - France
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_cdfd.htm

Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante - Italy
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_itd.htm

Le Cellier Steakhouse - Canada
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_lcd.htm

Mitsukoshi Teppanyaki Dining Room - Japan
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_tepd.htm

Coral Reef Restaurant - The Living Seas
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_cr.htm


Call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463); to make reservations.

ºoº Dinner packages go on sale August 15, 2005.

ºoº Dates: Friday, November 25 - Friday, December 30, 2005

ºoº Location: Epcot® World Showcase, America Gardens Theatre

Additional Information:

ºoº Concert is included in regular Epcot admission.

ºoº Narrators subject to change without notice.

ºoº Packages contain dinner vouchers that must be presented at the restaurant prior to seating.

ºoº Please arrive at least 30 minutes early to obtain packages at Candlelight Dinner Package

ºoº Pick Up at the Main Entrance.

ºoº Candlelight Dinner Packages not available on December 4, 2005 for the 5:00 p.m. show.

ºoº Dinner packages do not include lobster entrées.

ºoº Dinner packages do not include Park admission. Gratuity is included. Non-alcoholic beverage is included.


ºoº Frequently Asked Questions ºoº


ºoº What is the Epcot Candlelight Processional? ºoº

The Candlelight Processional and Massed Choir Program began in 1958 at the Disneyland Resort in California. Thirteen years later, the Walt Disney World Resort presented its first Candlelight Processional in the Magic Kingdom Park. In 1994, the event was moved to Epcot where thousands of Guests continue to share in each of the performances that are presented throughout the holiday season. Each evening, over 400 performers fill the stage to create this mainstay of Disney's holiday festivities.

ºoº Our orchestra consists of 50 professional musicians from the Central Florida area. The choir members dressed in gold represent participating guest choirs from across the United States and as far away as the United Kingdom. A total of nearly 24,000 amateur vocalists will participate in this massed choir during the five weeks and and 105 Candlelight performances.

ºoº The performers dressed in green (the "tree") are Walt Disney World Cast Members from all areas of the Company. They volunteer their services as vocalists in order to be a part of this special Disney tradition.

ºoº The singers in red and black (the base of the "tree") are the nationally acclaimed Voices of Liberty a cappella ensemble, part of the daily entertainment you can enjoy at Epcot.

ºoº True to the Disneyland tradition, the centerpiece of the cast is a guest celebrity who narrates the story of the Nativity.
(from "WDW Festival Guide...November 26 to December 30, 2004)



ºoº Where is the Candlelight Processional held? ºoº

ºoº In the Epcot World Showcase American Garden Theater located directly accross the walkway from the American Pavilion in Epcot.

ºoº What date was the 2005 Candlelight Processional Package and List of Narrators officially announced? ºoº

ºoº August 4, 2005, Thursday

ºoº Where was the Official WDW Candlelight Processional information obtained? ºoº

ºoº The information was obtained from the Official Walt Disney World website at this link: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEventsDetail?id=HolidaysAroundTheWorldCandlelightSpecialEventPage

ºoº What days will the 2005 Candlelight Processional be held ºoº

ºoº Friday, November 25, 2005 through Friday, December 30, 2005.

ºoº What are the show times of the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº Three shows will be held each day at 5:00 P.M., 6:45 P.M., and 8:15 P.M. each day except for one 5:00 P.M. show on Sunday, December 4, 2005.

ºoº How long does the show last? ºoº

ºoº Approximately 40 minutes, and the show starts at the designated times.

ºoº How much does the Candlelight Processional cost? ºoº

ºoº The Candlelight Processional is included with your admission price to Epcot that day. ºoº

ºoº Where do I enter the American Garden Theater? ºoº

ºoº If you are facing the American Garden Theater, on the far right entrance, along a row of scrub bushes, a "Standby" line will be set up for you to enter about ten minutes before the start of the Candlelight Processional. You can sit anywhere in the theater except in the areas marked near the front of the theater which are for those that paid for the Candlelight Processional package which entitles the guest a guaranteed "preferred" space to sit on a first come, first serve basis, and a dinner at designated restaurants. The cast members will allow you in the theater until capacity is met. As the theater fills up, the cast members will start asking you how many are in your party and try to fill in the empty seat spaces until capacity is met.

ºoº Does the theater every fill up to capacity? ºoº

ºoº Sometimes it does fill to capacity, and sometimes there are plenty of seats. It depends on how many people decide to attend the Candlelight Processional that day. Rarely do you not get to make it through the Standby line, but it happens sometimes.

ºoº What are the "Program Songs" and music of the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº Candlelight Processional Song/Music Program

ºoº Processional
ºoº Shout for Joy
ºoº O Come all Ye Faithful
ºoº Il Est Ne'
ºoº O Holy Night
ºoº Angels From The Realms Of Glory
ºoº Gesu' Bambino
ºoº Rejoice With Exceeding Great Joy
ºoº What Child Is This
ºoº Do You Hear What I Hear
ºoº Silent Night
ºoº Joy To The World
ºoº The Hallelujah Chorus
ºoº Recessional


ºoº What is this "package" for the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº The best way to enjoy the Candlelight Processional is with the Dinner Package, which includes "preferred". "first come, first serve" seating for the Candlelight Processional and dinner at select Epcot restaurants with three different tier price levels.

ºoº How much does the "package" for the Candlelight Processional cost? ºoº

ºoº Tier 1 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $30.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

ºoº Tier 2 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $38.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

ºoº Tier 3 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $45.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)ºoº


ºoº What restaurants do we get to chose from if we purchase the "package" for the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº Here are the different restaurants with a link to their dinner menus from Deb Wills' www.AllEarsNet.com website listed under each of the three price tiers:

ºoº Tier 1 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $30.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

The Garden Grill Restaurant - The Land
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_gg.htm

Biergarten Restaurant - Germany
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_ger.htm

ºoº Tier 2 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $38.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

San Angel Inn - Mexico
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_mex.htm

Restaurant Marrakesh - Morocco
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_mor.htm

Nine Dragons Restaurant - China
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_9dd.htm

Rose & Crown Dining Room - United Kingdom
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_rc.htm

ºoº Tier 3 ºoº
Guests Ages 10 & Up: $45.99 / Guests Ages 3-9: $12.99 (Plus Tax)

Chefs de France - France
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_cdfd.htm

Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante - Italy
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_itd.htm

Le Cellier Steakhouse - Canada
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_lcd.htm

Mitsukoshi Teppanyaki Dining Room - Japan
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_tepd.htm

Coral Reef Restaurant - The Living Seas
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_cr.htm
ºoº


ºoº What do I get to chose from the menu if I buy the "package" for the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº This is what is usually included from any of the Dinner menus, which also includes buffets, unless specified otherwise:

ºoº One Appetizer
ºoº One Entree
ºoº One Dessert
ºoº One Drink (non-alcoholic)


ºoº What is not included in the "package" for the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº Alcohoic beverages.

ºoº Lobster entree.

ºoº Special Drinks that come with special cups or electric ice cube. (unless the CM includes it by mistake)

ºoº Menu items meant for two persons specifically listed, but listed under one price.


ºoº Is the "Gratuity" included with the "package" for the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº Yes. ºoº

ºoº Does the Candlelight Processional "package" include admission to Epcot for the day? ºoº

ºoº No. You need a Epcot admission ticket. ºoº

ºoº When can I order a Candlelight Processional "package" ? ºoº

ºoº Walt Disney World says on August 15, 2005, Monday.

ºoº What number do I call to order a Candlelight Processional "package"? ºoº

ºoº Call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463); to make reservations.

ºoº What do I need to tell the WDW Cast Member when I call to order a Candlelight Processional "package"? ºoº

ºoº Date of the Candlelight Processional.

ºoº One of the three designated times for the Candlelight Processional.

ºoº One of the three tier levels.

ºoº One of the restaurants under the specific tier level that you chose.

ºoº The time of the Advanced Dinner Reservation (they can help you coordinate a ADR time).

ºoº Copy the confirmation number for your Candlelight Processional "package".


ºoº Why won't they give me the Advanced Dinner Reservation time that I ask for? ºoº

ºoº WDW has blocks of dinner seating times set by the Candlelight Processional "package" showtimes. Sometimes if you have a 8:15 P.M. showtime, they won't have available the time that you want to have because they they sell out for that day. Like I prefer a 4:00 P.M. ADR for a 8:15 P.M. showtime. This can be very frustrating at times when trying to make plans.


ºoº What is the cancellation policy for Candlelight Processional Package? ºoº

ºoº Full refund 48 hours before the day of the Candlelight Processional show.

ºoº Where do I pick up my Candlelight Processional "package" ticket? ºoº

ºoº Walt Disney World only officially says, "Pick them up at the Main Entrance."

ºoº How early can I pick up my Candlelight Processional tickets? ºoº

ºoº You can pick up your Candlelight Processional Package up to seven days in advance.

ºoº Can I pick up my Candlelight Processional Package tickets at my WDW Resort? ºoº

ºoº Yes, up to seven days in advance. You can pick up your Candlelight Processional Package tickets from the following places:

WDW Resort Guest Services.

Epcot's Guest Services outside the park, located to the far right of all the turnstiles, where you renew annual passes.

Epcot's Guest Services inside the park, located in a building to the immediate left of the Spaceship Earth attraction.

Epcots Ticket booth outside the park at the International Gateway for guests at the Boardwalk resort, Beach and Yacht Club resorts, Swan and Dolphin resorts, and all those coming from the MGM park via the WDW boat launches. You can also renew you annual passes here, too.

Epcot's special Candlelight Processional "package" tent booth, located outside the American Pavilion, against the far right wall, near the Santa area.

Any Walt Disney World Guest Services if requested. Some Cast Members may be aware, and other may not be aware of how to print the tickets.


ºoº Do all of the Candlelight Processional Package restaurants open at 4:00 P.M.? ºoº

ºoº No, Le Cellier opens at 4:00 P.M. for dinner. Most restaurants open at 5:00 P.M. for dinner, and a few at 5:30 P.M.. Call your specific restaurant for opening times.

ºoº What do I do if I can't get the restaurant that I want because WDW says that particular restaurant is sold out for the Candlelight Processional Package? ºoº

ºoº Keep calling up until 48 hours before the date and showtime that you want in case there are any cancellations.


ºoº Is there any other options to try and get another ADR if WDW won't give me the ADR time that I would like to have? ºoº

ºoº You could accept the Advanced Dining Reservation that the Candlelight Processional Package gives you by chosing a time as close to the ADR that you really want. Then you can call and talk to another Cast Member and make a separate ADR for the time that you really want as if you were just making an everyday ADR. When you get to Epcot that day, just hand the server your Candlelight Processional "package" "voucher" for your dinner. The server will not know whether you were supposed to be there at that time or not.

ºoº What would a meal at the Canadian Le Cellier restaurant be worth if I did not have a Candlelight Processional "package" ? ºoº

ºoº As an example, this is what could be chosen at the Canadian Le Cellier restaurant for an adult:

Appetizer: Vine-Ripe Tomato Stack - shiitake mushrooms, wilted spinach, balsamic reduction $7.99.

Entree: Le Cellier Mushroom Filet Mignon - wild mushroom risotto, white truffle and herb beurre blanc, topped with fried parsnips $27.99.

Dessert: Chef's Signature Dessert Plate - featuring a sampler of our best desserts, including creme brulee, Canadian Club cake and our house-made sorbet $11.99.

Drink: A smoothee for about $6.00. (non alcoholic).

For example, the regular price of a Candlelight Processional package is $44.99 plus Florida tax of $2.92. The restaurant bill would have been about $56.00, not including the 15% tip of about $8.40 and Florida tax of about 6.5% for about $3.64 for a estimated total of $68.04.


ºoº How do I know if I will like the food at one of these restaurants? ºoº

ºoº Just check the menu links at each one of the restaurants listed earlier to see what they serve.

ºoº Does WDW mail me a Candlelight Processional ticket like the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party ticket? ºoº

ºoº No. ºoº

ºoº Do I pay for the Candlelight Processional "package" when I get to WDW that day? ºoº

ºoº No, you pay for the Candlelight Processional "package" when you place you order on the phone.

ºoº What does the Candlelight Processional "package" ticket look like? ºoº

ºoº The Candlelight Processional "package" tickets are about twice the size of a credit card, but is only made of very thin paper. Much like printer paper. The ticket is blank except for some color and decoration until printed from the computer with your information of dates and times.

ºoº Do we give our restaurant server this ticket? ºoº

ºoº No. You will also receive a small restaurant voucher made of the same paper to hand to your server a proof of purhasing a dinner with the proper "tier" level and restaurant name.

ºoº I thought that we got some kind of pin to put the ticket in, what is everything that we are supposed to receive when we pick up our Candlelight Processional "package" tickets? ºoº

ºoº You will receive a printed ticket with all of the information printed on it.

You will receive a clear, convention-type pin to slide your Candlelight Processional "package" ticket into so that you can wear it on your shirt for identification.

You will receive a similar piece of thin paper with printed information to be used to give to your server called a "dinner voucher" with all of the proper information printed on it.
You will also receive a receipt made of the same piece of thin paper.



ºoº Is there a special line for the Candlelight Processional "package" ticket holders to get in to enter the American Garden Theater? ºoº

ºoº Yes. The Candlelight Processional "package" ticket holders will line up on the far "left" side of the entrance to the American Garden Theater, located along an iron fence. This line is usually marked off with tape or rope with several WDW Cast Members extending the line as guest show up. Some times the line may extend to Japan or close to Morocco if there is an unusually large crowd that show.

ºoº When do they let the line into the American Garden Theater? ºoº

ºoº Sometimes it is very close to showtime or about 15 minutes belore the show starts depending on Cast Members.

ºoº Are the seats reserved with numbers? ºoº

ºoº No. The seats are raised, aluminum, beacher style seats with backs. WDW calls this "preferred" seating, which is first come first serve.


ºoº Where is this "preferred" seating? ºoº

ºoº You can actually sit anywhere in the American Garden Theater that you would like to sit. There are some sections roped off for a few VIP's. The "preferred" seating section is located on rows one through about seven. This particular area is covered along with the stage. It is separated by a larger second tier by a walkway and this area has no covering. Sometimes, depending of the number of people purchasing the Candlelight Processional "PACKAGE", the "preferred" seating extends into the second tier.

ºoº Where do most of the people like to sit in the preferred seating area? ºoº

ºoº There is a break in the middle of the preferred seating where there is a raised podium for the conductor. Most people like to sit near the middle of the stage. Some people do not prefer the front row because the stage is raised and you might be to close to see everything. Others prefer not to sit on the far left or far right side because of the sharp angle and being next to the trumpets. Still others prefer to wait in the standby line without packages and sit further back to get a wider view of everything. It is a personal decision of likes.

ºoº Will I still be able to see the Illuminations Fireworks if I attend the the last 40 minute show at 8:15 P.M.? ºoº

ºoº Yes. Illuminations is shown a half hour later in December at 9:30 P.M..

ºoº How do I determine the time to get from my dinner to the Candlelight Processional? ºoº

ºoº This depends on personal preferences and the ability to get from point A to point B. If you are dining first and seeing the show afterwards then you decide what time the show you are going to. Then you decide how early that you want to get in line. If you prefer to sit near the center, then you should get in line early. How early? It depends. How early do you save a spot on Magic Kingdom's Main Street to watch the Spectromagic parade? How early do you try and save a space on the lake to watch Illuminations? Sometimes people get in line 45 minutes to an hour before the show time. Then you have to decide how far you will have to walk from your restaurant to the American Garden Theater. If you are eating at Canada's Le Cellier, then you will have to walk through Canada, through England, over a long bridge to France, through Morocco, through Japan, and then finally to the American section. Then you have to decide how long will it take you to dine from beginning to end. Adding all of these times will help you to decide what time to chose your ADR for your restaurant and how long it will take you to get to the show.

ºoº Is it better to dine before or after the show?

ºoº This is another personal preference. But most families with younger childen prefer to dine earlier before the show. Some adults prefer to dine after the show so that won't feel rushed trying to finish their meal in order to get somewhere.



ºoº Would using the DDE or Disney Dining Experience card save just as much money as for dinner as buying the Candlelight Processional package? ºoº

ºoº The DDE card gives you 20% off your meal. Usually, most people pay at least 15% Gratuity, so that would leave you 5% savings. Then you pay about 6.5% Florida tax. But to buy the CP package you pay the Florida tax up front. I guess you would have to make the calculations to see if it would benefit your particular situation.


ºoº Does WDW ever change narrators?ºoº

ºoº Yes. WDW annouced Gary Sinise as a narrator on August 4, 2005 and removed his name on August 11, 2005 and made it an OPEN date. ºoº


ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Rita Moreno. ºoº

ºoº Birth name: Rosita Dolores Alverio
Height: 5' 2½" (1.59 m)
Spouse: Lenny Gordon (18 June 1965 - present) 1 child
Lists Citizen Kane (1941), as her all time favourite Film

She is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the first performer to win an Oscar, a Tony, an Emmy and a Grammy.

She made a guest appearance on "Father Knows Best" (1954) as an exchange student from India who attends school with Betty. Bud teaches her how to play football.

Appeared in the pilot for the TV series "Empty Nest" (1988), which was an episode of "The Golden Girls" (1985). The premise was changed in the final version of "Empty Nest" (1988), in which she did not appear.

When her star was unveiled on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, she fell on top of it, openly and uncontrollably weeping. She later commented, "I had been dreaming of this day since I was six!"

Is a key spokesperson in raising the awareness of osteoporosis and in 2000, was presented with an award from the National Osteoporosis Foundation for her work.

Won a Tony in 1975 for Supporting or Featured Actress in a Drama for "The Ritz.

Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W. Bush [June 2004].

In the first season of "The Electric Company" (1971), she was in a sketch where she would repeatedly yell "Hey You Guys!" It became so popular with the producers, that they decided to use it as the catchphrase in their opening, starting in season two.

In 1977, she became the ninth performer to win the Triple Crown of Acting: (Oscar: Best Supporting Actress in West Side Story (1961), Tony, Best Featured Actress, The Ritz (1975) and Emmy 1977 ("The Muppet Show" (1976)) and 1978 ("The Rockford Files"(1974)).

Daughter, Fernanda Luisa, born in 1967. She has two children named Justin and Cameron.

Won Broadway's 1975 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actress (Dramatic) for "The Ritz," a part she recreated in the film version of the same name, The Ritz (1976).




ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Phil Donahue. ºoº

ºoº Spouse: Marlo Thomas (21 May 1980 - present)
Marge Cooney (1957 - 1975) (divorced) 5 children

First met Marlo Thomas when she was a guest on his show during the seventies. Children with his first wife: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Jim and Mary Rose.

In 1994 he succeeded in getting permission from a convicted murderer to film the murderer's legal execution in the gas chamber. The courts, however, refused to give the FCC permission to air the event.

1953 graduate of St. Edward High School, located in Lakewood, Ohio Graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

His talk show on MSNBC "Donahue" 2002 has been cancelled [March 2003].

Son-in-law of actor/producer Danny Thomas.
Brother-in-law of producer Tony Thomas.



ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Haley Joel Osment ºoº

ºoºName : Haley Joel Osment
Birth Name: Haley Joel Osment
Height: 5'-5"
Birthday: April 10, 1988
Birth Place: Los Angeles, California, USA
Father: Michael Eugene Osment (actor)
Mother: Theresa Osment (teacher)
Sister: Emily Jordan Osment (born in 1992)
Claim to frame: as Cole Sear in The Sixth Sense (1999)

Will star in the forthcoming indie film HOME OF THE GIANTS. (August 2, 2005)

Following his Oscar-nominated role in the 1999 blockbuster THE SIXTH SENSE, the unbearably sentimental PAY IT FORWARD, and the difficult-to-digest A.I. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, Osment is now in a movie that may never see the light of day: EDGES OF THE LORD, featuring Osment as a blond, blue-eyed Jew passing for Gentile during the Nazi invasion of Poland. (October 16, 2002)

Suggested to Steven Spielberg that his character in “Artificial Intelligence: AI” (2001) (David) should not blink. Spielberg agreed and so none of the androids in the movie blinks.

He was 9 years old when he made HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME II, THE (2002) (V) and turned 14 years old when the movie was released.

Steven Spielberg was offered the position as director for HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE, but was later refused when he couldn't agree with JK Rowling's insistence on an all-British cast. He wanted to use Osment for the part of Harry.

The overhead shot in PAY IT FORWARD (2000) of the wounded Trevor is almost identical to the overhead shot of the wounded Dr. Crowe at the beginning of THE SIXTH SENSE (1999) , even down to the position of the injury. Both films star Osment.

He is a vegetarian but he likes chicken, fish, and strawberry pop tarts.
Haley goes to a private school in La Canada.
Did the cup of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.
Was nominated Oscar for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in 2000 for THE SIXTH SENSE.
Sometimes Credited As: Haley Osment
His entertainment career began on a Pizza Hut commercial.
Was scouted by an agent when he was shopping with his parents at a furniture store.
Loves lizards and has two Leopard Ghekos from Pakistan as pets.
Has a dog named Asuki.



ºoº Tell me about the narrator Cicily Tyson. ºoº

ºoº Born: 19-Dec-1933
Birthplace: Harlem, NY
Gender: Female
Ethnicity: Black
Occupation: Actor
Executive summary: Sounder


Cicely Tyson owes her career to a good haircut. In a beauty salon, her hairdresser asked Tyson to model at a hairstyle show. At the hair show, she was spotted by a photographer from Ebony magazine, and began her successful career as a model. Within a few years, she was among the most successful black models in America.

Tyson made her stage debut in a mid-1950s YMCA production of Dark of the Moon, and her first film was an uncredited role in Carib Gold with Ethel Waters in 1957.

In 1963 she played George C. Scott's secretary in a gritty drama about social workers in Harlem, East Side/West Side. The show had abysmal ratings, and was canceled midway through its first and only season, but Tyson's character was the first black female character in an American TV series who wasn't written as a mammy, maid, or menial worker.

In 1966, she joined The Guiding Light, becoming one of the first black actresses to win a regular role on a soap opera. In 1972, she starred with Paul Winfield in Sounder, and was nominated for an Oscar. She won Emmys for The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman and Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All. She has also played Coretta Scott King and Harriet Tubman

In the camp classic The Concorde: Airport '79 with Robert Wagner, George Kennedy, and Charo, Tyson played a mother rushing a heart to her ailing son.

In 1983, Tyson appeared on Broadway in a production of The Corn Is Green which was poorly reviewed and closed after only two weeks. She was fired when she took a night off to attend a tribute to her then-husband, jazzman Miles Davis. Tyson sued the producers, maintaining that she was entitled to payment in full as stipulated in her contract, about $750,000. The case and appeals took 15 years, but Tyson won.

Husband: Miles Davis (musician, m. 26-Nov-1981, div. 1988)

American Film Institute board of directors
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
UNICEF
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
Emmy 1974 for The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman
Emmy 1994 for Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All
Hollywood Walk of Fame 21-Aug-1997 at 7080 Hollywood Blvd.

TELEVISION
East Side/West Side Jane Foster
The Guiding Light Martha Frazier (1966)
Sweet Justice Carrie Battle

FILMOGRAPHY AS ACTOR
Because of Winn-Dixie (26-Jan-2005)
Diary of a Mad Black Woman (25-Feb-2005)
A Lesson Before Dying (22-May-1999)
Aftershock: Earthquake in New York (14-Nov-1999)
Always Outnumbered (21-Mar-1998)
Hoodlum (27-Aug-1997)
Fried Green Tomatoes (27-Dec-1991)
Bustin' Loose (27-May-1981)
The Concorde: Airport '79 (17-Aug-1979)
Roots (23-Jan-1977)
The Blue Bird (5-Apr-1976)
The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman (31-Jan-1974)
Sounder (24-Sep-1972)
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter (31-Jul-1968)
The Comedians (31-Oct-1967)


ºoº Tell me about the narrator James Caviezel. ºoº

ºoº Name: James Caviezel
Birth Name: James Patrick Caviezel
Height: 6'-2"
Birth Date: September 26, 1968
Birth Place: Mount Vernon, Washington, USA
Wife: Kerri Caviezel (high school English teacher; married in 1997)
Claim to fame: as Jesus Christ in The Passion of the Christ (2004)

Is battling his desire to cash in on THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST by advertising blasphemous religious products. (October 28, 2004)

Turned down a series of TV commercial deals, worth an estimated $75 million because he wants to stay true to his strict Catholic beliefs. (May 28, 2004)

Played basketball in college, but took up acting after injuring his foot.

Is being protected by a security team from attack by religious fanatics following his performance as Jesus Christ in THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST. (March 8, 2004)

Dislocated his shoulder, battled hypothermia, suffered a lung infection and pneumonia, endured eight-hour makeup sessions that left him with severe headaches and skin infections, and was struck by lightning during the shooting of THE PASSION OF CHRIST. (February 19, 2004)

Jokes that Hollywood might learn a language lesson from THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST, largely shot in Aramaic and Latin. (February 16, 2004)

Was struck by lightning while shooting THE PASSION OF CHRIST.

Was considered for the role of Rafe McCawley in PEARL HARBOR (2001).

Sometimes credited as: Jim Caviezel, or James Caviezel

Grew up in a tight-knit Catholic family.

Landed guest appearance on The Rosie O'Donnell Show 24 April, 2000

His surname is Romansch (Rhaeto-Romanic), from Switzerland.

Met his wife, Kerri, on a blind date in 1993. She is a high school English teacher.

Played basketball in college, but took up acting after injuring his foot.

Drove the pace car in the Indy 500 Race in May of 2002


ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Lou Diamond Phillips ºoº

ºoº Name: Lou Diamond Phillips
Birth Name: Lou Upchurch
Height: 5'-9"
Nationality: Filipino
Birth Date: February 17, 1962
Birth Place: Subic Bay Naval Station, Phillipines
Wife: Kelly Phillips (model; married on April 24, 1994), Julie Cypher (assistant director; born in 1964; married in 1986; divorced in 1990)
Daughters: Lili Jordan (born on September 26, 1999), Isabella Patricia Phillips (born on October 5, 1997; twin of Grace), Grace Moorea Phillips (born on October 5, 1997)
Claim to fame: as Ritchie Valens in La Bamba (1987)

Filipino, Hawaiian, Japanese, Spanish, Scotch Irish, and eighth Cherokee Indian origins gave him his unusual good looks and brought him main leads in movies.

The scene in YOUNG GUNS II (1990) where Dave puts a knife through Chavez's arm was added to the original script to cover the fact that he broke his arm while riding the horses.

The name Phillips is from his step father.

Plays with the group, The Pipefitters with Lou Diamond Phillips.

Is named for Gunnery Sergeant Lou Diamond, USMC.

Has been criticized for portraying Native American roles since he is only 1/8 Cherokee.

Was considered for the role of Agent John Dogget on THE X-FILES (1993).

First wife, Julie Cypher, left him for rocker Melissa Etheridge.

Nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture at Golden Globe Awards for STAND AND DELIVER (1989)



ºoº Tell me about narrator, Harry Hamlin. ºoº

ºoº Name: Harry Robinson Hamlin
Born: 30-Oct-1951
Birthplace: Pasadena, CA
Gender: Male
Ethnicity: White
Occupation: Actor
Executive summary: Lawyer on L.A. Law
Wife: Laura Johnson (m. 9-Mar-1985, div. 1989)
Wife: Nicolette Sheridan(m. 7-Sep-1991, divorced)
Wife: Lisa Rinna (m. 29-Mar-1997)
Girlfriend: Ursula Andress (1978-82)
Son: Dimitri Alexandre Hamlin (with Ursula, b. 19-May-1980)
Daughter: Delilah Belle Hamlin (with Lisa, 10-Jun-1998)
Daughter: Amelia Gray (with Lisa, 13-Jun-2001)
Girlfriend: Cynthia Sikes

High School: Hill School, Pottstown, PA
University: UC Berkeley (1970)
University: BA Theater and Psychology, Yale University (1974)
Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity

TELEVISION
L.A. Law

FILMOGRAPHY AS ACTOR
Disappearance (21-Apr-2002)
Perfume (26-Jan-2001)
Silent Predators (13-Jun-1999)
Frogs for Snakes (20-Feb-1998)
OP Center (26-Feb-1995)
The Celluloid Closet (13-Sep-1995
Himself Making Love (12-Feb-1982)
Clash of the Titans (12-Jun-1981)
Movie Movie (Nov-1978)



ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Marlee Matlin. ºoº

ºoº Lots of people suffer hearing loss. Perhaps as many as 10 percent of the population don’t hear well or at all; therefore, it’s important to see that it’s a circumstance, not excuse in our lives. To that end, we offer examples of famous deaf people who have made the grade, examples of people who have met the challenge of their hearing difficulties and surmounted them.

The information comes from various sources, in this case mostly from fellow Midwesterner Marlee Matlin’s own website, http://www.marleematlinsite.com.

Notable Moments: Won 1987 Academny Award for Best Actress for film Children of a Lesser God. Recent publication of her book, Caution: Deaf Child Crossing. Films include Kiss My Act (2001), Gideon’s Crossing (2001 - TV), Where the Truth Lies (1999).

Matlin is likely the best known actress who is Deaf in Hollywood. Born Deaf, she grew up in Chicago, then hit it big early, receiving world-wide acclaim for her motion picture debut in Children of a Lesser God, a performance the film community recognized in 1987 with its highest honor — the Academy Award for Best Actress. At age 21, she became the youngest recipient of the Best Actress Oscar and one of only four actresses to receive that honor for a film debut. In addition to the Oscar, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association honored Marlee with the 1986 Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Drama.

Born and raised in Morton Grove, Illinois, Marlee started acting at the age of seven in the role of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz at a children’s theatre company in Chicago. After several years of performing on stage throughout Chicago and the Midwest, Marlee was discovered in a Chicago stage production of Mark Medoff’s Tony Award-winning play, Children of a Lesser God. Following an extensive international search for the lead role of Sarah Norman, the producers of the film version selected her to star opposite William Hurt.

Since that time, Marlee has appeared in a dozen more films, and has starred or guest-starred in a number of television shows, including Spin City, ER, Gideon’s Crossing, Judging Amy, and The West Wing. She was twice nominated for a Golden Globe Award as Best Actress in a Dramatic Television Series; she has also been nominated for a People’s Choice Awards for her performance in the NBC series Reasonable Doubts, opposite Mark Harmon. Likewise, she has been nominated for a number of Emmy awards for her guest performances on NBC’s Seinfeld, CBS’s Picket Fences, and ABC’s The Practice. And Marlee has ventured into children’s television on Nickelodeon’s Blues Clues, in which she teaches sign language and has a recurring role as “Marlee the librarian.”

In addition to acting, Marlee has been busy with a number of other pursuits. She was the Executive Producer for the Lifetime Television thriller Where the Truth Lies, was appointed by President Bill Clinton and confirmed by the Senate in 1994 to the Board of Directors for the Corporation for National Service, and in 1995 served as Chairperson for National Volunteer Week. Marlee was instrumental in getting federal legislation passed to require all televisions be equipped with close captioning technology; she currently serves as the national spokesperson for VITAC, the largest provider of television closed captioning for the hearing impaired. Matlin serves on the boards of a number of charitable organizations including VSA Arts, the Starlight Foundation, and Victory Over Violence. In addition, she has just completed a children’s novel, Caution: Deaf Child Crossing, which will be published by Simon and Schuster in 2002.

Marlee makes her home in the greater Los Angeles area. She and her husband, law enforcement officer Kevin Grandalski, welcomed their first child, Sarah Rose, in 1996, their second child, Brandon Joseph, in 2000 and thier third child, Tyler Daniel, in 2002.



ºoº OPEN - Dec 22-27
ºoº Gary Sinise CANCELLED on December 11, 2005 for - Dec 22-27
ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Gary Sinise. ºoº


ºoº Gary Sinise was born in Blue Island, Illinois. His family later moved to Highland Park, where he attended high school. He was something of a rebel, playing in bands but paying little attention to school. Gary and some friends tried out for "West Side Story" as a lark, but Gary was hooked on acting for life by closing night. Gary credits his love for theatre to his drama teacher, Barbara Patterson. In 1974, Gary, Terry Kinney, and Jeff Perry founded the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago. Initially performing in a church basement, the company grew and gained stature in the Chicago area. In addition to acting in many plays, Gary also directed some of Steppenwolf's most notable productions, including Sam Shepard's "True West". The company made its Broadway debut with that production, starring Gary and John Malkovich. Gary's Hollywood career also started in the director's chair with two episodes of the stylish TV series "Crime Story" (1986) followed in 1988 by the feature Miles from Home (1988) starring Richard Gere. Gary's first feature film as an actor was the World War II fable A Midnight Clear (1992) in 1992. That year also found Gary combining his acting and directing talents with the critically acclaimed Of Mice and Men (1992). His first real notice by the public came in 1994, however. He starred in the blockbuster miniseries "The Stand" (1994) (mini), rapidly followed by his bravura performance as Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump (1994). His portrayal of the disabled, emotionally tortured veteran earned Gary numerous awards and an Oscar nomination. Busy 1994 was followed by busy 1995, first reuniting with Tom Hanks in Apollo 13(1995) and then starring in the HBO film Truman(1995) (TV) which earned him the Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards and an Emmy nomination. Gary is married to Moira Harris, an actress and original member of the Steppenwolf company. They have three children, Sophie, McCanna, and Ella. Gary's father is the film editor Robert L. Sinise, A.C.E.
Wife: Moira Harris (1981- present) 3 children

His Steppenwolf theater company, started by high-school grads in a Catholic-school basement, is now an institution housed in an $8 million theater.

Nominated for a Tony Award for directing a new version of Sam Shepard's "Buried Child". [1996] Gary appeared on screen with spouse Moira Harris in "Crime Story" (1986), portraying a married couple. Moira had a small role in Miles from Home (1988), the first feature Gary directed, but Moira's role was left on the cutting-room floor. Moira appeared as the Girl in the Red Dress in Of Mice and Men (1992).Son of Robert L. Sinise.

Children: Sophie (b. 1988), McCanna (b. 1990), Ella (b. 1992).

Won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a mini-series or dramatic special for portraying George Wallace the very night the real George Wallace died.

Gary Sinise was born March 17, 1955. In the movie Apollo 13 (1995), Gary Sinise played original Apollo 13 pilot, Ken Mattingly. Ken Mattingly was born March 17, 1936.

Received his first college degree in 2003 - an honorary degree from Amherst College.

Plays the Mission Control Commander in Walt Disney World's new Mission: Space attraction.

Was considered for the starring role in To Live and Die in L.A.(1985). When he didn't get the part, he recommended that the producers hire William L. Petersen, which they did. Ironically, he is currently the star of "C.S.I.: NY"(2004), the spin-off of Petersen's successful TV series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation"(2000).

In 1997, played George Wallace in George Wallace(1997) (TV). He reprised the role, uncredited, in Path to War (2002) (TV).

Has been nominated for Tony Awards three times: in 1990, as Best Actor (Featured Role - Play), for portraying Tom Joad in "The Grapes of Wrath," a role he recreated in the television version of the same title,The Grapes of Wrath(1991) (TV); in 1996, as Best Director for a revival of Sam Shepard's "Buried Child;" and in 2001 as Best Actor (Play), for portraying Randle McMurphy in a revival of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest."


ºoº Tell me about the narrator, Steven Curtis Chapman. ºoº

ºoº There are a ton of songs about falling in love and about break-ups, but in my opinion, there aren’t enough songs that dive deep into what happens in relationships on a day-to-day basis,” observes Steven Curtis Chapman. “That’s something that I really felt I wanted to explore with this project.”

With his wife Mary Beth providing inspiration, Steven’s crafted the musically diverse and lyrically profound All About Love, a disarmingly honest album that is clearly not a collection of traditional love songs.

“Mary Beth and I are drastically different people. It’s Eeyore marries Tigger,” he explains. “Is the glass half empty or half full? It depends on the way you look at it. You bring those different perspectives and life experiences together in a relationship and find yourself asking, ‘Hmm, how do we make this work?’” And therein lies the mystery that Steven finds irresistible.

The ups and downs, the joys and frustrations of relationships are examined musica lly leading to a single conclusion: we love God best when we love each other well. It’s a universal message that he hopes will connect with people of all ages.

Because the album is a surprisingly revealing family portrait, Steven and the record label wanted Mary Beth to be more involved than she usually is. “I’m what he calls ‘the ultimate sounding board,’ she explains. “I don’t listen with music industry ears. I just respond to what affects me. Steven will play a song for me and say, ‘What do you think?’ I’m brutally honest whether it’s good or bad, in my opinion. We’ve always had that kind of relationship.”

Those who know him as the winner of 4 Grammy Awards and 47 Dove Awards may be surprised that many of the songs bear little resemblance to his tender ballad “I Will Be Here,” a perennial favorite at weddings.

“I want the same kids who love ‘Live Out Loud’ or ‘Dive’ to listen to this record and hear me asking ‘what is it about a kiss?’ or ‘what is it about a touch?’ or ‘why does love have this power to drive us crazy or to transform us?’” I have discovered and believe that there is in fact something profoundly spiritual going on in these human experiences that reveal much about God’s love for us.”

Although Steven rarely writes while on tour, most of these songs “just fell into my heart.” Then, in breaking with his penchant for meticulous production involvement, he recorded the rhythm tracks for All About Love in a four-day marathon with a who’s who of LA studio musicians and engineer extraordinaire Jack Joseph Puig (Sheryl Crow, John Mayer, No Doubt), who also mixed the album.

In between tour dates, Steven flew back to Nashville to work alongside his friend and co-producer Brown Bannister to complete the recording process. “It was important to capture the passion of the moment. I wanted it to be just a little bit ragged,” he observes.

Ragged may even be an apt description of the Chapman’s fast-paced lives. In addition to his demanding schedule, they are raising four children ages 3 to 16, the youngest of whom is a daughter they adopted from China in 2000. To add to the fast pace, the Chapman family is heading to China next summer to adopt another baby girl. Their passion for adoption is clear, and is behind the reason Steven chose to include “When Love Takes You In” on this new project, the song which Steven wrote for their first adopted daughter.

Although he’s recorded thirteen albums, has appeared on TV shows and contributed to numerous movie soundtracks, he and Mary Beth insist that they could easily return to their roots.

“We started out with $50 to our name and a green Ford Pinto,” Mary Beth confides. “I was 19 and Steven was 21. It’s not that we’ve gotten so comfortable with the way it is now that we’ve forgotten where we came from.”



ºoº ºoº

ºoº ºoº

Waiting for more 2005 information to be annouced to post.
 
Let's start planning for the 2005 CP by sharing our dining experiences, and the times the shows that we saw, and what we might do different this year. Does anyone want to share their pictures of CP or their pictures of their dining experiences?


Historical 2004 Candlelight Processional Information to help with planning for 2005

from "Festival Guide...November 26 to December 30, 2004"

The Candlelight Processional and Massed Choir Program began in 1958 at the Disneyland Resort in California. Thirteen years later, the Walt Disney World Resort presented its first Candlelight Processional in the Magic Kingdom Park. In 1994, the event was moved to Epcot where thousands of Guests continue to share in each of the performances that are presented throughout the holiday season. Each evening, over 400 performers fill the stage to create this mainstay of Disney's holiday festivities.

ºoº Our orchestra consists of 50 professional musicians from the Central Florida area. The choir members dressed in gold represent participating guest choirs from across the United States and as far away as the United Kingdom. A total of nearly 24,000 amateur vocalists will participate in this massed choir during the five weeks and and 105 Candlelight performances.

ºoº The performers dressed in green (the "tree") are Walt Disney World Cast Members from all areas of the Company. They volunteer their services as vocalists in order to be a part of this special Disney tradition.

ºoº The singers in red and black (the base of the "tree") are the nationally acclaimed Voices of Liberty a cappella ensemble, part of the daily entertainment you can enjoy at Epcot.

ºoº True to the Disneyland tradition, the centerpiece of the cast is a guest celebrity who narrates the story of the Nativity.

Program

ºoº Processional
ºoº Shout for Joy
ºoº O Come all Ye Faithful
ºoº Il Est Ne'
ºoº O Holy Night
ºoº Angels From The Realms Of Glory
ºoº Gesu' Bambino
ºoº Rejoice With Exceeding Great Joy
ºoº What Child Is This
ºoº Do You Hear What I Hear
ºoº Silent Night
ºoº Joy To The World
ºoº The Hallelujah Chorus
ºoº Recessional

Guest Conductors: Derric Johnson, Rick Mizell, and Dr. John Sinclair.

The Cast: The Voices of Liberty, The Walt Disney World Orchestra, The Walt Disney World Cast Choir, and Participating Guest Choirs.


More planning help at Deb Wills' FAQ for Candlelight Processional below at:

http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/h_cpfaq.htm

And then look at the Epcot menus to see if everyone would like the foods at:

http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menus.htm

Last year these were the restaurants available with links to current menus by Deb Wills, but the menu may or could change. But this is for planning purposes only. Sometimes, you can save money with the CP package, since the CP package includes tip and taxes:

For 2004 there were three different levels of pricing for the Candlelight Processional Package:

Tier 1
Adults - $28.99 / Child (3-11) - $11.99

The Garden Grill Restaurant - The Land
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_gg.htm

Biergarten - Germany
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_ger.htm

Restaurant Akershus - Norway
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_nor.htm

Tier 2
Adults - $37.99 / Child (3-11) - $11.99

San Angel Inn - Mexico
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_mex.htm

Restaurant Marrakesh - Morocco
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_mor.htm

Nine Dragons - China
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_9dd.htm

Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room - United Kingdom
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_rc.htm

Tier 3
Adults - $44.99 / Child (3-11) - $11.99

Chefs de France - France
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_cdfd.htm

Coral Reef - Living Seas
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_cr.htm

L'Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante - Italy
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_itd.htm

Le Cellier Steakhouse - Canada
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_lcd.htm

Mitsukoshi Teppanyaki Dining Room - Japan
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/men_tepd.htm

Here are the historical, previous narrators by Deb Wills' at:

List of 2004 Narrators:
Rita Moreno (Nov 26-28)
Heather Headley (Nov 29 - Dec 1)
Kirk Franklin (Dec 2-4)
Jim Caviezel (Dec 5-7)
Marlee Matlin/Jack Jason (Dec 8-10)
Joshua Morrow (Dec 11-13)
Eartha Kitt (Dec 14-16)
Steven Curtis Chapman (Dec 17-19)
Edward James Olmos (Dec 20-22)
Gary Sinise (Dec 23-28)
LeVar Burton (Dec 29-30)

The 2003 Narrators were: Andy Garcia, Ben Vereen, Rita Moreno, Ericka Dunlap, David Ogden Stiers, Steven Curtis Chapman, Edward James Olmos, Sandi Patty, Robby Benson, Gary Sinise

The 2002 Narrators included: Edward James Olmos, John Tesh, Marlee Matlin, James Avery, Yolanda Adams, David Hartman, Collin Raye, Blair Underwood, Gary Sinise, Jodi Benson

The 2001 Narrators included: James Avery, Marlee Matlin (with interpreter), Robby Benson, Wayne Brady, Phylicia Rashad, Story Musgrave, Alfre Woodard, Blair Underwood, Gary Sinise, and LeVar Burton.

The 2000 Narrators included: Jodi Benson, Angela Bassett, John Secada, James Avery, Joe Mantegna, Ben Vereen, Phylicia Rashad, Robby Benson, Leeza Gibbons, Gary Sinise, and LeVar Burton

The 1999 Narrators included: Alfre Woodard, Charles Kimbrough, Angela Bassett, Brian Dennehy, Maria Conchita Alonso, James Avery, Edward James Olmos, James McDaniel, Andy Garcia, Sandi Patty, David Ogden Stiers, and LeVar Burton.

Have fun planning.

Sincerely, Ray


 
I'm patiently waiting too. Roughly when will the info be announced and when will we be able to book? I'm not fussed about who is the narator (I'm English and last year had only heard of one of them :blush: !) but do know what date and restaurant I want to book.
 
I really like Canada's Le Cellier restaurant because of the great steaks, and pretzel bread sticks and the castle-type interior atmoshere. I have never been disappointed here.

I like Japan also because of the food and the entertainment of the chef cooking the food. And it is real close to the entrance line for the CP line.

I like Morroco because of the couscous and the steamed vegetables and chicken. The way that they prepare the food with spices and the presentation is wonderful. Plenty of room here. Great atmosphere.

If I had a chance to see Illuminations on the patio, I would choose the Rose and Crown, but everyone else is hoping the same thing.

So many choices.

I do know that if I buy a CP package this year that it will be very early so that I could get the restaurant advanced reservation and time that I want.

Sometimes if you wait to long to order and place ADR, either the restaurant is sold out or the times become the less desirable times to dine.

I discovered the "Epcot Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony" at 6:00 P.M. that follows with the music and lighting of the "Lights of Wonder" arch. I love this show with Mickey and his gang, followed with the lighting of the christmas tree and archway.

Sometimes if I didn't plan just right with my CP time and dining time, I couldn't find the time to make the 6:00 P.M. lighting of the christmas tree.

The CP is included in the price of the Epcot admission, and there is a standby line that sometimes gets very long. But I have usually been able to get in.

When you are facing the theater, the CP packages line enter on the left, and the standby line on the right.

Sometimes the CP package line goes past the American pavilion, past the Japan pavilion, and even to the Morocco Pavilion...wow. I guess you can never tell what day or show that most people want to go see the CP show. I'm sure the narrator makes a difference. But so may the weekends when the local Floridians are off work or those that travel from outside Florida for just a weekend getaway.

And sometimes the standby line seems very long with que line going back and forth until you get to the bushes flanking the American pavilion. And then I sometimes wonder if I will be cut off as the theater is full. But I always seem to make it in.

As a matter of fact, if I don't buy the CP package, I watch the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 P.M., then try to catch the boat launch to Germany. Here, I am very close to the CP standby line for the 6:45 P.M. show. I have usually been able to make it in the show even thought I am pretty far back in line.

If I missed getting in the line, I could still hear and see the CP from outside the front of the theater.

So...what restaurant do you like to dine at for CP?

What is your strategy for CP times and dining times?

Do you have any photos to share of the CP, or the restaurant, or even of your food...yummm?

If you see the 2005 CP announcement before I do, let me know and I'll post it on the first post of this thread for everyone to see.

Sincerely, Ray
 


Danauk said:
I'm patiently waiting too. Roughly when will the info be announced and when will we be able to book? I'm not fussed about who is the narator (I'm English and last year had only heard of one of them :blush: !) but do know what date and restaurant I want to book.

Hi, Danauk. It shouldn't be long for the CP packages to be annouced. Hopefully by September 2nd like last year. The Narrators seem to be annouced much later near October, except for last year, and then continously updated to fill in empty spots or changed when a narrator can't make it.

I remember one year I planned to see Mr. Disney as a narrator, but he was cancelled about three weeks before he was to narrate.

I hope that they announce them both much earlier.

I sort of know which restaurant that I want to go to also.

Sincerely, Ray
 
Well, my trip is rapidly filling up!!! With MVMCP on the 1st, Jellyrolls on the 2nd, it doesn't leave me a big choice for CP...either the 30th or the 3rd. Waiting to see what TLinden has in mind. I think we'll be doing a dinner pkg though...haven't decided where yet.
So far.....I have seen/heard David Ogden Stiers, and Heather Headly as narrators. Heather Headly was incredible last year. Her reading was really moving. Wonder who I'll get this year. Will check back when we figure out what, where, and when!!
Thanks for the thread Ray. You sure do put a lot of time and effort in. And I, for one, really appreciate it!!
 
Are the menues for the CP dining limited or full? I was hoping to get to Le Cellier this year and this might be a good time.

Thanks!
 


goofy4tink said:
Well, my trip is rapidly filling up!!! With MVMCP on the 1st, Jellyrolls on the 2nd, it doesn't leave me a big choice for CP...either the 30th or the 3rd. Waiting to see what TLinden has in mind. I think we'll be doing a dinner pkg though...haven't decided where yet.
Thanks for the thread Ray. You sure do put a lot of time and effort in. And I, for one, really appreciate it!!

Hi, goody4tink. Isn't that the truth. So many things to do and not enough time to do everything. I haven't decided which day that I am going, yet.

And you are welcome.

Sincerely, Ray.
 
ES0412 said:
Are the menues for the CP dining limited or full? I was hoping to get to Le Cellier this year and this might be a good time.

Thanks!

Hi, ES0412. That is a good question. I can't speak for this 2005 year, yet. But historically, from the past years and from the adult menu, this is what I have found that they did not allow:

Alcohoic beverages
Special Drinks that come with special cups or electric ice cube thingies (unless the CM does it by mistake)
Items meant for two persons specifically listed, but I haven't seen to many of these lisited.

This is what is usually included from any of the Dinner menus, including buffets, unless specified otherwise:

ºoº One Appetizer
ºoº One Entree
ºoº One Dessert
ºoº One Drink (non-alcoholic)

I love the Canadian Le Cellier restaurant. This is what I got one year:

Appetizer: Vine-Ripe Tomato Stack - shiitake mushrooms, wilted spinach, balsamic reduction $7.99. I loved this appetizer, because I love tomatos. It was large enough to be used as a side item, too. I think last year that they included cheese with this plate.

Entree: Le Cellier Mushroom Filet Mignon - wild mushroom risotto, white truffle and herb beurre blanc, topped with fried parsnips $27.99. I really loved this entree. I was full by now...lol. I'm glad that I didn't get the 20 ounce Prime Rib...lol.

Dessert: Chef's Signature Dessert Plate - featuring a sampler of our best desserts, including creme brulee, Canadian Club cake and our house-made sorbet $11.99. I couldn't finish this, but I tried.

Drink: A smoothee, but I don't remember the price, maybe about $6.00. This was non alcoholic.

So for the price of a CP package of $44.99 plus tax, I my bill would have been about $56.00, not including the 15% tip of about $8.40 and tax of about $6.00 for a estimated total of $70.40. Plus I get a guaranteed CP seat.

Have a great time.

Does anyone know of any restrictions, or what they were able to chose from the menu? I'm sorry, but I don't know much about the children's menu. But you could look at the link to the children's menu.
 
Jim Caviezel was an incredible narrator last year. His enthusiasm was fun to watch and his heartfelt tears were moving. It was a great experience.

In years past I've also seen Gary Sinise, David Harman... I've never seen a bad CP performance! This event is a highlight for me!

I've also been a Derric Johnson fan for more than 20 years. So getting to shake his hand was a lifetime thrill! :bounce:
 
Oh, RaySharpton! You are da man! :worship: I was so happy to see this thread since it will be our first trip to WDW for Christmas. We were there for Thanksgiving in 2003, but this time we'll get to go to MVMCP and CP. I've read your great suggestions from the "planning your December trip" thread and know you can help with our CP planning. :grouphug:

I would love to see Marlee Matlin because I'm a sign language interpreter but I know she typically does the CP earlier than our trip is planned (12/18 - 12/25). Because we use the DDE, Christmas Eve and Christmas day are excluded I'm planning to do CP for Christmas Eve and we're planning to eat at Chefs de France...DH can't stop laughing about that "very non-French name" as he puts it. :rotfl: I don't care...I just want to eat there! It's not the best place for DS, who's 13, but I did read the menu and they do offer a steak (not sure how good) but DS will be okay with that choice. :earboy2: I'm just hoping that when I call for the 90 days...which is actually the first day of our trip with that new add on 10 thing...that I can get the ADR for the CP at Chefs de France. Maybe a little pixie dust wouldn't hurt though... :wizard:

I'm subscribing to this thread so I can catch any tidbits that will help me plan...yes, I am obssesive in that which is a love-hate relationship. DH and DS hate it while I am planning, but love it when our trips are smoother...I still remember my first trip...just bought tickets and went...not a clue about anything :earseek:

Have a magical weekend!
 
ES0412 said:
Are the menues for the CP dining limited or full? I was hoping to get to Le Cellier this year and this might be a good time.

Thanks!

I believe the lobster dishes are excluded at LeCellier and Coral Reef.
 
I'll share . . . my sis and I took our nephew (6) last year - tons of trips between us, but our first time for CP and we LOVED it ! We did the dinner package on Mon the 6th (?) - dinner at Coral Reef (another first). I made PS for opening (4:30) and requested a table by the tank - we had a FABULOUS dinner, fun, awesome service - the diving tour even came through as we were eating dessert (chocolate wave, yuummmm! - make your own sundae for DNeph) and they came right to our 'window' and did some fancy 'footwork' and waved - an extra little bit of fun! We finished dinner a little before 6 - watched the tree lighting from the far side walkway on our way to line up for CP. The line was HUGE and, even though we were in line 1/2 hour prior to the 6:45 show, the theater was almost filled by the time we got in - I'm pretty sure that very few (if any) standby (non package) people were able to be seated. We sat on the far right a few rows behind the reserved seating in the front - still got a good view, but we should have skipped the tree lighting and gotten in line earlier. Jim Caviezel was the narrator and he gave a very powerful and moving reading - we were so full of Christmas spirit ! - can't wait to do WDW in early Dec again one year !
Personally, I liked eating prior to the show as we like to eat early and at first seating you are most likely to get your requests if you have any - I enjoyed seeing the show after dark as we liked the effects of all the lights - I would definitely line up earlier to get a seat further into the center of the theater. Enjoy - it's a beautiful experience !!!
Almost forgot ! - after the show we spent about an hour visiting the countries while DNeph talked to the CMs and had them sign his passport book (and adding trinkets to his mask at the Kid stops) - then we grabbed a perfect spot on the bridge for Illuminations (before the masses got out from the last CP!) It was the perfect ending to a perfect day !!!
 
I posted this question a while ago, but it seems it can't be done...or can it?
Has anyone ever done the CP Dinner package and Illuminations cruise on the same evening?
 
I usually wait until I find out who is narrating so I can see Marlee Matlin if possible. It is usually just a weekend trip for us and I take two days off work. Wish I had a schedule of the interpreters because I do have favorites. Angela and Tara are my favorites. Tony is good also.
 
We went last year on our first evening (December 27) and Gary Sinise was the narrator. He was great! Our tickets were for the 2nd show. We stood in a line which felt like it never moved - we started almost at Morocco. Most likely no standbys got in.

Dinner was at the Rose & Crown - mushroom ragout, prawn cocktail, and salad for appetizers -- all yummy. 2 steak & prawns and 1 fish & chips -- even yummier, only DH finished his. We did a "sampler" for dessert - the toffee pudding, creme brulee, and apple crumble (I think, I was so full I don't really remember the 3rd - but DD & I fought over the creme brulee). :goodvibes

Can't decide if we will repeat or go for Le Cellier (may repeat if we can get LC on the dining plan). Then again, since the Processional is probably not available for dining planholders, then we'll probably do LC and sit on the patio at America with some kind of wonderful coffee til it's time to find a spot near Japan for Illuminations.
 
Through the years we've seen Louis Gossett Jr., James Avery, Brian Dennehy, Gary Sinise, Robby Benson, Marlee Matlin, Steven Curtis Chapman (a few of them we have seen more than once)........Our favorite has always been James Avery ----- for the sheer enthusiasm he brings to his performances!! I can hear him now....."Every Army that has ever marched...."

We always get the package now ----- once, 6 years ago, we didn't - I was pregnant, and even though we waited in line for an hour, we still weren't able to get seated.....We watched from just outside the pavillion (Near the turkey legs as I recall)....My son really liked the Christmas music- it was the first time my Husband felt him kick!

We used to go to Le Cellier - but now our group is larger, and we go to Biergarten - always time it for during the OoomPahPah band - they do a Christmas show - and my son loves them - Very festive.

This is the one event during the WDW calendar that I will not miss.........Jill
 
Just subscribing to this thread - we're going to the World for the first time around the holidays this year, and am so excited about all the offerings! CP will be a definite must - I'd like to go back to Le Cellier, but have a feeling I'm going to be out-voted by my family to do an old fave, Alfredo's. We'll see!

Does anyone have advice for a newbie to CP? I'm thinking we might want to try for the 6:45 show (want to see the show when it's dark), and also want to do IllumiNations that night. Should we eat before, or after? (And what time would you recommend?) Will likely try to do this more than once - but likely at least 11/30. TIA!
 
Tinkaroo said:
Does anyone have advice for a newbie to CP? I'm thinking we might want to try for the 6:45 show (want to see the show when it's dark), and also want to do IllumiNations that night. Should we eat before, or after? (And what time would you recommend?) Will likely try to do this more than once - but likely at least 11/30. TIA!

Hi, Tinkeroo. I like seeing the 6:45 P.M show also. But this is usually when I don't do the CP package. I'll go watch the Lighting of the Tree and the Lights of Wonder at 6:00 P.M., take a boat launch to Germany, then get in the standby line.

I need to think about this too. Some people with kids like to eat earlier.

I do know that if you want Le Cellier and you want your special time to dine that you should place your CP order and ADR when they first come out. I usually make the mistake and wait to long and the Le Cellier day that I picked was almost sold out.

I need to try and figure out how to plaa when to dine, to see the lighting of the christmas tree and to see the CP show without worrying about being rushed.

I enjoy reading everyones reviews.

Sincerely, Ray
 

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