Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo finally -- though only briefly -- lifted the veil of secrecy around the rumored project in a grand Star Wars style -- flanked by the white armored clone and stormtroopers of the 501st Legion fan group while on stage at first-ever D23 Expo convention in Anaheim, California today. As part of a presentation concerning the future of the parks and attractions, Rasulo talked about a variety of additions and brand new experiences arriving in the years to come. He saved the Star Tours news for last.
"I'm sorry to tell you that as of October 2010, Star Tours will be closing," said Rasulo, a statement immediately followed by the marching of stormtroopers on-stage accompanied by the ominous "Imperial March." Darth Vader appeared via video to question Rasulo about his plans, and bring the Disney crew "back on schedule."
"You didn't let me finish! We're closing Star Tours in order to create a spectacular new adventure. We're going to do things with Star Tours that have never been done in any theme park attraction, at any theme park anywhere," added Rasulo.
The new experience will be in 3-D, an all new ride that includes many of the new worlds and elements from the more recent Star Wars movies. Rasulo introduced a Disney Real-D 3-D clip that threw the Starspeeder 3000 into the thick of the Boonta Eve Podrace. Disney fans in attendance were also given an exclusive numbered Star Tours II preview poster, some featuring the iconic mask of Darth Vader topped with the title, "JOIN ME," others with Yoda and the title "The Force is Strong in This One," and a third with C-3PO lamenting, "Here We Go Again."
