November 2020 was a special month for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, not only because it celebrated its 15-year anniversary, but also because it launched the highly anticipated Castle of Magical Dreams.
The architectural design of the castle was the work of Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative force behind the experience. In their words: “Never in Disney history has an existing castle undergone a transformation as grand as this, and guests who have witnessed the change from a distance can now step into the iconic structure and learn all about the magic behind-the-scenes.” Inspired by 13 stories of Disney Princesses and Queens, these famous stories are represented in the design through the interpretation of colours, icons, symbols, patterns and cultural features.
Hong Kong itself served as an inspiration, too. The castle is said to represent the “verticality and diversity” of the city, which is created by its glamorous skyscrapers and mix of different cultures.
A closer look
So you can better appreciate how the new castle has come to life, there’s a new in-depth exhibition to view. “Building a Dream: The Magic Behind a Disney Castle” takes guests on a visual journey through the process of designing and delivering the Castle of Magical Dreams. It’s divided into four areas with multimedia exhibits that cover everything from the development of the initial concept to innovative building techniques and the completed castle’s entertainment offerings.
Also brand new is “Glimpse into the Magic”, a free-flow, self-guided audio tour that combines visual elements and allows guests to venture through the castle while being guided by an audio narration from local celebrity (and Disney fan!) Karena Lam. You’ll be able to identify each Disney Princess and Queen in elements of the design that are distinctly associated with their stories or hobbies, or the environments from which they come.
Interactive experiences
Inside the castle is “The Royal Reception Hall”, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet your favourite Princesses and Queens in the regally appointed castle interior. There’s also “Enchanted Treasures”, the castle’s first jewelry store; artisans from Chow Tai Fook have been officially appointed as “Royal Jewelers” for all the kingdom’s keepsakes and treasures. The Castle of Magical Dreams will also serve as an idyllic backdrop for brand-new Daytime and Night-time shows that are coming soon.
To take a look of the making of a castle from its ideation to its completion, simply scan the QR code or visit youtu.be/kdNCAJPvSZ8 to view
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
hongkongdisneyland.com
This article first appeared in the Winter 2020 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
