The Not-so-Royal Court

Once again, 21 Royal Street (aka the Royal Court) at Disneyland is open again to guests.



Rumors swirled around the forums that it was closed to either be a private event space for Club 33 or a special Club 33 annex available to regular guests like you and me willing to pay for an Andrew Sutton meal. So far, nothing has been officially announced.



When I was at the Park, it was interesting to see guests buzz in and out of the Royal Court with their cameras. I heard a few mention the closing, look around, and then leave. Very few photos were taken, and you could almost see the disappointment on people's faces at what they saw. It might be called the Royal Court, but it doesn't look very royal.



The current color scheme is a bit garish and most of the interesting decor has been removed. It looks like this space is in transition.



It is certainly no substitute for the former Court of Angels that has now been sealed off.



How it looked before the remodel, when at least sported some plants and props:



And a genuine ©FauxD image from July 17, 1968:



If you're not happy with what you see, take it up with Fortune Red.



See more Daveland Royal Court photos at my main website.

Club 33 and New Orleans Square

I finally got the chance to see the changes to New Orleans Square for myself. The current view (above) of Club 33 from Café Orleans vs. the previous view (below). While it's all a matter of personal taste, this particular blogger is really not crazy about this version.



The original assortment of shops, restaurants, and façades seemed well executed and tastefully decorated. Due to space constraints, the additions to Club 33 have caused Imagineers to shoehorn a number of elements in that look…well, shoehorned in. This is what people often refer to as a "re-muddle."



I can't help but think even with a lack of real estate that there couldn't have been a much more tasteful solution. One that still took you to a different place and time. Not one that looks like it had been decorated by a salesperson at Home Depot or Michael's Craft Store.



One of the worst offenses is this ostentatious entrance to Club 33.



What was once a not-so-secret secret that casually blended into the background is now visible to all who walk by.



Here's what was there previously:



I believe this little grate on the door is an actual antique or a recasting of one, as I own one myself.



The doorbell doesn't quite mesh with the antique grate. It is a somewhat modern take on Art Nouveau:



These poorly executed stained "glass" (aka acrylic) doors also hurt. Nothing vintage or charming about them. Again…I am expressing a matter of taste. I am sure there are those out there who love these (BESIDES the people who designed them).





Meanwhile, changes to the Royal Court are occurring. Not enough progress to know what the Imagineers have in mind here.



What it formerly looked like:



What do you think of the "new" New Orleans Square?

See more Daveland vintage & current Disneyland New Orleans Square photos at my main website.