Tonight, to promote the upcoming release of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Disney Parks transformed Epcot’s iconic Spaceship Earth into the Death Star for one night only. They also took this opportunity to announce new Star Wars experiences coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The evening began with some Star Wars trivia before the main event began. Following some clips of Rogue One, the master of ceremonies introduced Disney Creative Entertainment’s Michael Roddy who came on stage to discuss the new Star Wars offerings.
As we covered, the Star Wars Launch Bay has been updated with authentic replicas from Rogue One. In addition, making-of footage from the film has been added to the “Meet the Makers” film in the Launch Bay.
Starting December 16, guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be able to see AWR Troopers from Rogue One when they join the daytime stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.” Outfitted in their specialized Stormtrooper armor with a dark, ominous gleam, these soldiers serve as bodyguards and enforcers for Director Krennic, a highly-placed officer within the Advance Weapons Research (AWR) division of the Empire.
The Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks show will return on December 16. This means that from December 16 through 31, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will feature two nighttime shows as Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM will run for the remainder of 2016 as well.
Star Tours: The Adventures Continue will return to random experiences. This feature was paused with the introduction of The Force Awakens scenes to ensure all guests got to experience the new mission. As was previously announced, Star Tours will feature content based on Episode VIII sometime in 2017.
Also coming in 2017 is the Ultimate Star Tours Day tour. The seven hour tour includes access to Star Tours, a tour of Launch Bay, meeting Kylo Ren and Chewbacca, Jedi Training Academy participation for those of the allowed age, a quick service meal at Backlot Express, and the Star Wars Dessert Party with fireworks viewing. Priced at $129 per person, the tours begin January 2 and will be offered on Mondays and Saturdays throughout 2017. Reservations for January tours can be made soon.
With the updated offerings being announced, Mads Mikkelsen was revealed as a special guest. He portrays Galen Erso in Rogue One and you may remember him as the villain of Marvel’s Doctor Strange. He introduced a new clip of Rogue One and shared his enthusiasm of being included in the Star Wars Galaxy.
But shortly thereafter the Empire took control to demonstrate the full power of their ultimate weapon. The Death Star attacked intruding spacecraft in a hope of restoring order to the galaxy.
Rogue One will be released December 16, 2017.