Latest news with #MichaelMoriarty
RTHK
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- RTHK
HK Disneyland donates for child patients' experiences
HK Disneyland donates for child patients' experiences Tuen Mun Hospital pioneered the initiative in early July with immersive Disney murals and a mobile movie theatre. Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Disneyland Hong Kong Disneyland has pledged over HK$5 million to support young patients and youth development initiatives across the city. More than half of the proceeds will fund the transformation of certain areas in eight public hospitals, while the remainder supports broader youth development programmes. At Tuen Mun Hospital, a beneficiary, Managing Director Michael Moriarty said on Saturday the multi-phase project would elevate the in-hospital experience for child patients. Tuen Mun Hospital pioneered the initiative in early July with immersive Disney murals and a mobile movie theatre. "This marks a meaningful new chapter in our journey, growing our legacy of care, bringing comfort to young patients and creating moments of joy where they're needed the most," Moriarty said. "I'd like to thank the committed staff here at Tuen Mun Hospital, our passionate volunteers and cast members, and everyone who supports being behind the scenes to make a dream like this come true." "Every small act counts and when you see the smiles on the faces of these children it's worth all the effort that goes into bringing these ideas to life." Hospital Authority Chairman Henry Fan highlighted the initiative's alignment with patient-centred care, stating that the revitalised environments would ease anxiety for young patients and their families during waiting times, enhancing their overall experience. The impact resonated with 12-year-old anemia patient, An Yu, who expressed excitement after seeing the brand-new hospital environment for the first time. "I visited the hospital every few months for follow-up since I was a child. I used to be nervous while waiting. The refurbished waiting area is now totally different. The whole place is so colourful with murals of many Disney characters. It made me so happy and relaxed," she said.
RTHK
5 days ago
- Business
- RTHK
HK Disneyland 'to be debt-free by end-2025'
HK Disneyland 'to be debt-free by end-2025' Michael Moriarty said the upcoming two expansions will be "game-changers" for Hong Kong Disneyland. Photo: RTHK Hong Kong Disneyland will be debt-free by the end of this year, its managing director declared, after fully paying off loan terms from the SAR government and its parent Walt Disney Company. After a record year which saw both park attendance and revenue soar to new highs, the resort is looking to lure more visitors by building two more attractions and rolling out discount bundle packages. Disneyland revealed in its 2024 business review that it had repaid 40 percent of the term loans at the end of the fiscal year ending 28 September. In a media interview, managing director Michael Moriarty confirmed the rest will be settled within this year. "We're going to be debt-free and our cash balance is continuing to grow, which is going to afford us the opportunity to invest in new expansion through the joint venture, with no need for additional cash injections from either shareholder," he said, referring to the SAR government and the Walt Disney Company. "We're going to take a look at all of those things as we continue to grow and do it prudently and do it in a way that's going to provide consistent year-over-year growth." Meanwhile, two new projects have broken ground, marking the first time the resort is building a pair of attractions simultaneously since 2011. A Pixar Entertainment experience will open to the public first, followed by a Marvel-themed expansion. Moriarty described the expansions as "game-changers", but said he was not ready yet to reveal the launch date. "The Marvel expansion is going to be very, very exciting. The creative is almost complete and we are working with the studios at Marvel to make it even more special for Hong Kong," he said. Moriarty also said the park is hoping on ride on the success of Kai Tak Sports Park. Disneyland is partnering with travel companies to roll out packages for visitors to visit the theme park and attend upcoming concerts by South Korean pop star G-Dragon and girl group Blackpink. He said park attendance has been strong from fly-in markets such as South Korea, Japan and Taiwan, adding figures would be revealed later. Moriarty said another focus is the Greater Bay Area market, citing the multiple-entry permits for Shenzhen residents and the upcoming Southbound Travel Scheme for Guangdong motorists. "What is really happening is that Hong Kong and maybe an hour or two's drive is really becoming a larger living circle for the region," he said. "These parking spaces that are being proposed for Lantau are very interesting and a way of making it more friction-free for travellers to come to Hong Kong. We are actively working with the government on this project."
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
OneHolyoke to host event on community challenges amid federal cutbacks
HOLYOKE — OneHolyoke Community Development Corp. will host a lunch event — 'Building & Sustaining Livable Communities' — on June 16 that will address challenges and opportunities for Gateway Cities amid federal cutbacks and economic uncertainty. Speakers at the event at the Wyckoff Country Club include U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who will headline the event, Michael Moriarty, executive director of OneHolyoke, who will serve as moderator, Richard Sullivan, president and CEO of the Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts, and Elise Rapoza, senior research associate at MassINC Policy Center. Topics will cover the role of resources, innovation, advocacy and how working together can addressing the current economic challenges. Rapoza will present her report on fostering mixed-income neighborhoods. The event begins at 12 p.m. with a suggested donation of $50, which includes lunch. Registration is available at Read the original article on MassLive.
Nylon
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Nylon
Hong Kong Disneyland Turns 20: A Magical Milestone Worth Celebrating
As the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle twinkles under the Hong Kong sky, there's an extra spark in the air. The beloved Hong Kong Disneyland isn't just celebrating another year; it's marking a spectacular 20th anniversary! For two decades, this compact yet utterly charming Disney park has been on the travel list for those in the region — especially Singaporeans, considering we're just a short flight away. From its humble beginnings, Hong Kong Disneyland has grown into a vibrant tapestry of beloved stories and thrilling adventures. We've seen it evolve, adding new lands, exhilarating rides, and dazzling entertainment that keeps raising the bar. And for its 20th birthday, the celebration has gotten bigger than ever. Toy Story Land at Hong Kong Disneyland. NEW SHOWS, MERCHANDISE AND F&B The official celebration will kick-off on 28 June 2025, and there will be so much going on, starting with the all-new 'Friendtastic' Parade, which will be the largest-ever parade at Hong Kong Disneyland, and features a whopping 11 party floats. Here's a sneak peek at 3 parade floats from Mickey and Friends, Encanto, and Turning Red. You'll see your favourite characters, including Mickey who will be performing live drumming during the parade. Then there's the Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle! This is an all-new anniversary-only Castle Stage show that will be presented for a limited time. It brings together beloved Disney Friends and Princesses for a high-energy, fun-filled party experience. At the famous Pavilion, Hong Kong Disneyland will present, Momentous: Party in the Night Sky, a light and drone show that's upgraded with additional stories, projections, and drone choreography. This immersive experience extends with mapped projections from the castle down the entire length of Main Street U.S.A. And of course you can also bet on special anniversary merchandise that collectors will absolutely love, plus unique food and beverage offerings created just for this anniversary. Special edition Hong Kong Disneyland 20th anniversary pins. We spoke with Michael Moriarty, the Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and he shares that the park is a top tourist destination in Southeast Asia, with one out of every three visitors from Singapore to Hong Kong planning to visit the park. And to manage demand at this popular attraction, there will be a focus on Disney's premier access, VIP tours, and multi-tier pricing. The multi-tier pricing structure, which varies based on calendar dates, helps manage demand and ensures a great guest experience. Despite price adjustments, the lowest price has been maintained for five years. Additionally, a reservation system has been introduced to prevent overcrowding and enhance the experience, especially on busy days. The World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland. FOR SINGAPOREANS But beyond the newness, what truly makes Hong Kong Disneyland special for us Singaporeans, is that it's the perfect blend of familiar Disney charm with a distinctly Hong Kong flavour. It's the manageable size that allows you to truly soak in the entire atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed — perfect for a long weekend getaway. Furthermore, there's the impeccable service, the delicious local food options mixed with classic theme park fare (like the Turkey Leg!), and the incredible efficiency that makes navigating the park a breeze. At the 20th anniversary celebrations at Hong Kong Disneyland. As we look forward to the celebratory year ahead, it's the perfect excuse to plan that magical escape. Whether you're a seasoned park-hopper or planning your very first visit, Hong Kong Disneyland's 20th anniversary promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags (keep them empty for all the souvenirs!), get ready for some dazzling fireworks, and prepare to make new cherished memories. Here's to 20 years of dreams coming true! BOOK YOUR TRIP Booking tickets for Hong Kong Disneyland on the app. You can book your Hong Kong Disneyland experience through and collect Trip coins, find the best deals, and book flights, hotels and other activities through the platform. You can check out some of our recommendations here: Keep an eye on direct flight deals to Hong Kong. And for the best experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to enjoy pleasant weather and potentially smaller crowds. Happy anniversary, Hong Kong Disneyland!
Forbes
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's 20th Anniversary Starts June 28
Mickey Mouse kicks off Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's 20th anniversary Since Hong Kong Disneyland Resort opened on September 12, 2005, guests have enjoyed the park's unique way of telling Disney stories. Now, the Disney park in Hong Kong, China, is set for a big year in 2025, and it all starts with the kickoff of its 20th anniversary celebrations on June 28. Highlights of the year-long celebration include new entertainment and the largest parade in the park's history. Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, said in a press release, 'We're thrilled to kick off The Most Magical Party of All on June 28. Our incredible cast members are putting their all into getting everything ready for the year-long party. This milestone celebration will be filled with immersive entertainment, extraordinary moments, and boundless Disney magic and surprises — we cannot wait to welcome everyone from around the globe to [Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's] most unforgettable celebration yet.' A General view showing Hong Kong Disneyland on April 28, 2023 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Vernon ... More Yuen/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Over the past few years, the park has undergone plenty of expansions and refurbishments, but one moment that has set up Hong Kong Disneyland Resort for its next chapter is its new castle. For the park's 15th anniversary, Sleeping Beauty Castle got a major upgrade, becoming the Castle of Magical Dreams, which is inspired by 13 Disney princess stories. The Castle of Magical Dreams marked the first time any Disney castle has been transformed from representing one princess to highlighting multiple. In fiscal year 2024, the resort welcomed a historic 7.7 million guests to the park, increasing park attendance by 21% over the previous year. That led to a cumulative attendance of over 106 million people since the park opened in 2005. 2024 also led to a historic level of net profit, HK$838 million (about $108 million in US dollars), which represents a 54% increase year-over-year. This high profit was partly due to the opening of the park's Frozen-themed area, World of Frozen, in November 2023. A new nighttime spectacular will debut at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort as part of the resort's 20th ... More anniversary. As the 20th anniversary looms near, the Castle of Magical Dreams is set to be the backdrop for much of the entertainment during the celebration. 'Guests will embark on a day-to-night magical party that builds excitement as the day unfolds,' shared Paul Rivet, executive Director of Entertainment at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, in a press release. 'Our 20th anniversary celebration also showcases how Disney entertainment has evolved to new heights. Get ready for three unmissable entertainment experiences, from our brand-new anniversary-only castle stage show, largest-ever parade to the grandest nighttime spectacular in [Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's] The biggest entertainment offering during the 20th anniversary is going to be the new 'Friendtastic! Parade.' This all-new parade is the largest in park history, at around 30 minutes with 11 floats themed to Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films like Zootopia, Big Hero 6, Up, and Toy Story. The parade will also feature over 100 performers, including more than 30 Disney characters like Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends, and Disney Princesses. Throughout the day, Hong Kong Disneyland Park visitors can see the anniversary-exclusive show, 'Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!' The 15-minute show will feature pop music, dancing, interactive moments with characters, giant balloons and more. At night, guests can catch 'Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!' The nearly 30-minute nighttime spectacular takes place from the Castle of Magical Dreams all the way down Main Street, U.S.A. The show will feature eight highly technical elements, including large-scale 3D projection mapping, drones and water projections. Duffy and Friends-themed afternoon tea sets will be available during Hong Kong Disneyland's 20th ... More anniversary. No Disney party is complete without themed food and drink. At Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's 20th anniversary, the park will debut more than 80 new food and beverage items, including a Duffy and Friends-themed afternoon tea and themed family feasts with flatbreads and drinks. The kickoff of the anniversary will also bring six new anniversary-specific merchandise collections to the park. These exclusive initial collections will feature more than 300 new items. Both of these are easy ways for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort to make more money in a market that keeps growing. In fiscal 24, per capita guest spending grew by 28% over the previous year. With these new offerings, guest spending should continue to increase. With everything coming to the 20th anniversary celebration, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's momentum is strong going into the next 20 years of storytelling.
