Disney Parks Blog has released dates and some overview information for “Star Wars” Weekends 2013. Walt Disney World's annual event celebrates the ever-expanding “Star Wars” universe created by George Lucas.
This year's “Star Wars” Weekends will again take place at Disney's Hollywood Studios over four consecutive weekends, Friday through Sunday, from May 17 – June 9, 2013. These dates match the pattern Disney has established with its previous “Star Wars” Weekends (SWW).
Also in keeping with previous years, “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” voice actors James Arnold Taylor and Ashley Eckstein will return to serve as event hosts. Taylor will act as the Official Celebrity Host for SWW 2013. Eckstein will act at the Celebrity Host of “Behind the Force,” a live show offering behind-the-scenes looks at various elements of the “Star Wars” universe.
Fans of the animated television show and past SWW attendees will be familiar with Taylor and Eckstein. A respected voice actor with a diverse boy of work in film, television and commercials, Taylor voices Obi-Wan Kenobi in the popular TV series. Ashley, whose career started at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as parade dancer, voices Ahsoka Tano; the character is Anakin’s Padawan in the animated series.
“Star Wars” Weekends 2013 so far feels very familiar to those who have attended previous events. That said, Disney and “Star Wars” fans are likely to pay extra attention to see what, if any, new changes to this year's event.
After all, this year’s SWW will mark the first event held following The Walt Disney Co.’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, an acquisition that includes the “Star Wars” franchise. Although no plans have been announced for expanding “Star Wars” in the theme parks, Disney has already begun a new feature film; it is slated for a 2015 release.
For Disney guests who have never attended “Star Wars” Weekends, the event takes place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on the three-day weekends. The "Star Wars" fun happens in addition to the park’s regular offerings and activities.
SWW features celebrity appearances and special presentations, “Star Wars” character meet-and-greets, themed shows, and opportunities for “Star Wars” fans to collect autograph and to buy special merchandise. Among the SWW highlights are the Hyperspace Hoopla, “Star Wars” talk shows, behind-the-scenes presentations, and the “Legends of the Force” parade.
"Star Wars" Weekends 2013 will also take advantage of the “Star Wars” presence available year-round at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, including the Star Tours - The Adventures Continue attraction and the Jedi Training Academy for children.
“Star Wars” Weekends is included with Walt Disney World theme-park admission. There are separate charges for things such as merchandise and themed food.
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