Princess dresses, making of Mary Poppins, and ‘lost’ songs announced for 2013 D23 Expo

A display of dresses inspired by Disney’s iconic Princesses will make their U.S. debut and be available for viewing Aug. 9–11 at the D23 Expo in Anaheim Calif. Fans will also hear the true story of how Disney’s Mary Poppins movie was made and hear some “lost” songs.

Included are works inspired by the individual stories of the Disney Princesses by Ralph & Russo (Tiana), Versace (Cinderella), Elie Saab (Aurora), Marchesa (Ariel), Escada (Jasmine), Missoni (Mulan), Roberto Cavalli (Pocahontas), Jenny Packham (Rapunzel), Valentino (Belle), and Oscar de la Renta (Snow White). The dresses were first showcased in a set of window displays at Harrods, the luxury store in Knightsbridge, London, during the 2012 holiday season.

Also at the expo, Disney Legend and Walt Disney Archives Chief Archivist Emeritus Dave Smith will host “Behind the Scenes of Walt Disney’s Mary Poppins.” Guests will learn the complete story of how Walt Disney first discovered the book, worked on the script with author P.L. Travers, brought in the Sherman Brothers to write a memorable score, selected a cast, oversaw filming and celebrated at a gala Hollywood premiere.

During “Secrets of ‘The Lost Chords,’” Grammy Award-winning producer and resident Disney Music historian, Randy Thornton will reveal some of the secrets behind Disney’s “lost” songs written for classic Disney films by legendary Disney composers (such as the Sherman Brothers) that were essentially lost for decades — until now. Plus, as a special part of this exclusive D23 event, guests will be among the very first to hear songs currently in production from a significant upcoming “Lost Chords” release.

For more information about attending the D23 Expo, visit D23Expo.com.