Imagination Unclear

WDWNT Author on April 4, 2008

Another permit has been filed to perform construction on the Imagination pavilion at Epcot, however, it is unclear as to what area it is for. The permit states that work will be done to “build new partition walls and install metal doors” somewhere in the area, most likely either for the new character meet and greet area to replace Figment’s Place or to update the old Imageworks that lay dormant in the upstairs of the current attraction. To see the permit that was filed, go HERE. Be sure to stay tuned to WDW News Today for more information on this as it becomes available.

Thanks to Adam Roth of WDWCelebrations for the update!!!

Wonders of Life Now “Future World Event Center”

WDWNT Author on January 22, 2008

The Wonders of Life was finally removed from seasonal activity on DisneyWorld.com, but the reason will only be for it’s demise. From February 1, 2008 forward, the pavilion will no longer be officially referred to as the Wonders of Life. In addition, control of the pavilion has been handed over to Walt Disney World Special Events. During the 2008 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, the following events will now take place in the pavilion: 

  • March 19 & 20: Roger Swain, “Gardening Bright From the Start” – Host of PBS’ ‘The Victory Garden’ kicks off the Festival with
  • March 21 – 23: Joe Lamp’l (joe the gardener) , Green Gardening – Environment friendly tips for today’s gardener
  • March 28 – 30: Ellen Zachos , Prehistoric Planting – Learn how ancient species of ‘dinosaur’ plants create a fun garden
  • April 4 – 6: Shirley Bovshow, This TV host will instruct you how to bring a touch of artistry to your garden
  • April 11 – 13 : Jeffrey Rustuccio, Get Fit Through Gardening – Learn how to garden without the usual calluses, muscle and back aches. Turn your time on your garden into a fitness routine
  • April 18 – 20: Tovah Martin, – This respected author and guest on PBS’ ‘Cultivating Life’ will discuss Garden Stewardship and how historic gardens can transition to current trends. Ms. Martin will also give tips from top ‘green’ pros.
  • April 25 – 27: Felder Rushing ,Author of ‘Passalong Plants’, acclaimed horticulturist and NPR host, Felder Rushing will discuss SLOW – Slow Gardening. Learn about resilient shrubs, herbs and flowers and learn how to grow ‘designer’ veggies in containers and your flower beds.
  • May 2 – 4: Tom MacCubbin , Extension Agent Emeritus with the University of Florida, writer and local media personality, Tom MacCubbin will instruct you in converting your landscaping into a bountiful harvest of foods your family will enjoy.
  • May 9 – 11: Raymond Western, Guerlain perfume specialist will discuss how you can plant a fragrant garden and what blooms become part of their fragrances
  • May 16 – 18: Robert Bowden,director of Orlando’s renowned “Harry P. Leu Gardens” will give tips for weekend gardeners as well as talk about plants of different textures, colors and habits
  • May 23 – 25: Melinda Myers, TV Host and author, this gardening expert will share tips in creating gardens in small spaces as well as maintaining gardens with year round interest
  • May 31 – June 1: Jon Carloftis, author of “First A Garden” and “Beyond the Windowsill” shares his expertise in bringing nature into all of your surroundings

It looks like our assessment of the now extinct Future World pavilion was correct, but the idea of a replacement now may be further off than once thought. Other projects at Epcot, such as the addition of new pavilions to World Showcase, fixing the Imagination Pavilion, and upgrading Test Track’s ride system and technology is most likely where Epcot’s budget goes to work next.

Wonders of Death

WDWNT Author on January 17, 2008

I have been receiving a lot of emails lately about the Wonders of Life pavilion at Epcot. Many readers have brought to my attention that it is no longer listed as a closed attraction after January 31, 2008. Let me sadly state that the reason for this is that the attractions inside the pavilion will be gutted over the next few months. The pavilion may once again open as a home to events for the Food and Wine Festival in 2008, but the attractions inside will be gone by then. The pavilion has been in seasonal operation for years now and the attractions haven’t seen use since the 2006 Holiday Season. Walt Disney Imagineering has a few ideas on the table for the pavilion, but the current building will not be demolished until a plan is finalized.Â