Disney’s D23 Expo is taking place Aug. 23-25 in Anaheim, California, and the details on what fans can expect this year are taking shape.
The big cinematic panels are always a highlight of Hall D23, and this year Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios are joining forces with the Disney live-action team for one epic slate presentation that will bring new announcements, surprise talent appearances, and sneak-previews of new films together on one stage.
The animation divisions will also feature a ton of exhibits and activations on the show floor, and the Pop Insider has all the details on where you’ll need to be!
Go Behind the Scenes with the Walt Disney Studios
Saturday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m., Hall D23
As a part of the Walt Disney Studios presentation, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee and Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter will present never-before-seen footage, surprise announcements, musical performances, and appearances by all-star voice talent from the studios’ upcoming slate of animated films.
Directors Chris Buck, Lee, and producer Peter Del Vecho will reveal new details about Frozen 2. Director Dan Scanlon and producer Kori Rae will introduce fans to the characters in Pixar’s upcoming original feature film Onward, and Docter and producer Dana Murray share details about next summer’s original feature Soul.
Cell phones, cameras, and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.
D23 Show Floor
Aug. 23-25, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
Disney Animation and Pixar will once again team up for an immersive animation experience on the D23 Expo show floor. The studios’ upcoming slate of films will be highlighted, including opportunities to meet the teams behind the movies, fans will have the opportunity to get autographs of exclusive art, and there will be giveaways of promotional items.
Pixar Animation Studios will also introduce fans to a real-life version of Guinevere, the van from its upcoming film Onward. Decked out with crescent moon windows and a “Pegacorn” (part Pegasus, part unicorn) painted on her sides, Guinevere will offer guests a taste of the adventure that two teenage elf brothers will embark upon in the movie.
Animation Panels
Sunday, Aug. 25, 10 a.m., D23 Expo Arena
Fans of the classic film are invited to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of The Little Mermaid during “The Little Mermaid: The 30th Anniversary Celebration!,” presented by H2O+. Hosted by the voice of Ariel herself, Jodi Benson, it will be an unforgettable “Under the Sea” celebration.
Sunday, Aug. 25, noon, Walt Disney Archives Stage
Fans will discover what it’s like to hold Disney history in their hands during the informative “Hidden Gems of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library: Preserving and Inspiring the Disney Legacy” panel. The team at Walt Disney Animation Research Library (ARL) preserves millions of pieces of original Disney Animation art from Steamboat Willie to the films of today. Attendees will learn how the ARL shares these hidden gems, inspiring artists and audiences alike.
Sunday, Aug. 25, 4 p.m., Stage 28
Walt Disney Animation Studios will debut Short Circuit, an experimental short film program that will debut next spring on Disney+. Talented artists and filmmakers will share their films for the first time anywhere and give behind-the-scenes insights.
Photos: Disney
