Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit returns to the D23 Expo!

BURBANK, Calif. – May 26, 2011 – D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and the Walt Disney Archives are proud to announce the return of the “Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives” exhibit to the D23 Expo. During the D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center, August 19-21, 2011, the 12,000-square-foot exhibit, which has doubled in size since the 2009 Expo, will give fans unprecedented access and insight into more than eight decades of Disney history.

The expansive exhibit will showcase the crown jewels of the Walt Disney Archives Collection, many of which will be displayed publicly for the first time. The most memorable props, set pieces, photos, costumes and memorabilia from beloved Disney films such as the Pirates of the Caribbean films, Alice in Wonderland, National Treasure, Tron (1982), The Rocketeer, Pinocchio and Who Framed Roger Rabbit will allow fans to enjoy and explore their favorite movies and characters like never before.

In addition, the show floor will feature one-of-a-kind pieces including a 23-foot model of The Black Pearl, used in both Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, the Dharma Initiative Volkswagen van from the ABC television series LOST, and Walt Disney’s limousine.

“Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives,” located on the second floor of the convention center, will feature numerous special exhibits including: an exhaustive collection of props, costumes and set pieces from ABC’s groundbreaking series LOST; a Mickey Mouse exhibit featuring the original Mickey Mouse doll, Mousegetar, and a retrospective of memorabilia; a House of de Vil exhibit commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the animated film 101 Dalmatians, featuring a Fan Art Gallery as well as costumes and props from the live action film, which is celebrating its 15th Anniversary; and a tribute to Zorro, the first ever episodic television series, featuring the largest collection of costumes and vintage memorabilia ever exhibited.

“This is truly a one-of-a-kind display that showcases the enormous creativity and imagination of Walt Disney and the artists who have created unforgettable moments in entertainment history,” said Steven Clark, head of D23. “From Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney to Pirates of the Caribbean and Wizards of Waverly Place, the ‘Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives’ will truly be something for Disney fans of all ages.”

The D23 EXPO 2011 will also feature the Disney Legends Awards – a tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy; the return of the D23 Live Auction, boasting extraordinary rarities and specially designed items for Disney fans; the all-new Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament Presented by Hasbro® TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Disney For All Edition, where Disney fans will match wits to win a cruise on the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship; plus amazing live events, special celebrity appearances, panels and presentations and unique experiences from every corner of Disney – from upcoming feature film and television sneak peeks to what’s new and what’s next from our theme parks around the world.

About D23 Expo 2011

The D23 Expo-The Ultimate Disney Fan Event-brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks as never before. Tickets for the D23 Expo 2011 fall into different pricing tiers, based on purchase date (visit www.D23Expo.com for details), and D23 Members can enjoy additional savings plus members-only benefits. Multiday money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official community for fans in Disney’s 88-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at www.disney.com/D23; a collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 19-21, 2011.

Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort and www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us “DisneyD23” on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook.