Heroes of the Halcyon

We've known Mars, one of the founding members of the Droidsmiths Union, for the past couple of years as an avid Star Wars cosplayer and Galactic Starcruiser superfan. In this episode, Mars introduces us to Randi, one of the group's East Coast admins and their "unofficially official" HR Manager. The Droidsmiths Union recently achieved something incredible—official recognition from Lucasfilm as an acknowledged costuming group. Mars and Randi share the story of how this milestone came to be, what it means for the community, and the exciting opportunities ahead for current and future droidsmiths. The Droidsmiths Union InstagramClark & Dagger EtsyClark & Dagger InstagramHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Many thanks to listener Joshua for this brilliant episode idea - what was the Halcyon like for non-humans? We immediately thought of Twi'leks, thanks to our own Captain Ma'Li Ficent. As one of Star Wars' most beloved alien species, Twi'leks brought unique magic to the Galactic Starcruiser experience. We tracked down three renowned Twi'lek cosplayers who sailed the Halcyon in full cosplay, and their stories are extraordinary. From surprising cast member interactions to behind-the-scenes moments you won't believe, discover how becoming a Twi'lek transformed their voyage into something truly special. Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Welcome back to the second installment of our captivating conversation with Kara DJ, publisher of the acclaimed Star Wars fanzine "Into a Larger World" and host of the podcast of the same name.In this episode, we transport you to the bustling halls of Star Wars Celebration Japan, exploring the event's highlights and unpacking Disney's latest revelations about the future of the galaxy far, far away. Join us as we analyze the announcements that have fans buzzing with excitement about that galaxy so far, far away.Into a Larger World Podcast - get it wherever you find your podcasts!Into A Larger World InstagramHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Kick off Season Six with us as we welcome special guest Kara DJ, publisher of the acclaimed Star Wars fanzine "Into a Larger World" and host of the podcast bearing the same name. In this first of two content-rich episodes with Kara, we delve into the fascinating history of Star Wars Celebration and uncover the untold story behind how the very first fan event came to life. Join us for this fun-filled journey through Star Wars fandom history! Into a Larger World Podcast - get it wherever you find your podcasts!Into A Larger World InstagramStudy with the Saja in Disneyland ParisPossible Interactive Adventure aboard the Disney Destiny?Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Think you've experienced immersive entertainment with 'Sleep No More' or Meow Wolf? Prepare to have your mind completely blown.This week, adventure seekers David Butler & Alex Cho pull back the curtain on London's thriving underground scene of interactive experiences that most Americans have never heard of. They take us deep inside the adrenaline-pumping command center of "Bridge Command" and the Victorian steampunk dreamscape of "Phantom Peak" – where the line between audience and performer becomes deliciously blurred.WARNING: This episode should come with a travel advisory. Your passport will be burning a hole in your pocket before we reach the closing credits. London is calling... will you answer?Phantom PeakBridge CommandHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Remember July 2023? That's when the galaxy held its breath as Instagram lit up with images of Tesh-Ka of Dathomir squaring off against Atin Kal before their legendary showdown on Batuu during the Ultimate Lightsaber Fighting Championship. The intensity in their eyes said it all—this wasn't just another duel; this was destiny.Fast forward to this week, when we scored the interview every Star Wars combat enthusiast dreams of—sitting down with their human counterparts, Jeff & Tesh Norton, the force-wielding couple behind these fabulous characters!The Nortons aren't casual enthusiasts—they're true lightsaber masters with hundreds of grueling training hours etched into their muscle memory. Our conversation took us through their transformative journey aboard the Galactic Starcruiser and into the disciplined world of lightsaber martial artistry.GearsaberCosplay InstagramHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

The Saja stand as the spiritual cornerstone of Disney's Galactic Starcruiser experience. While we've shared countless tales of these mystical Force-sensitive guardians touching guests' hearts in profound ways, one aspect remains underexplored: how the Saja inspire travelers to embrace mindfulness through meditation.In an era where mindfulness practices are gaining recognition for their benefits, the Saja offer a unique gateway into this ancient art. Their presence aboard the Starcruiser creates a rare opportunity for guests to connect with something deeper amid their galactic adventure.In this episode, we speak with Diana and Beth, beloved figures in the Starcruiser community, who are guiding others to follow the Saja's example. They teach fellow travelers to quiet what we playfully call our "Kowakian monkey minds" – those restless thoughts that constantly jump from branch to branch. Through the Saja's teachings, guests learn to slow down, turn inward, and simply exist in the moment – a powerful skill that extends far beyond their journey among the stars.Their work reminds us that sometimes, the most meaningful souvenirs are the practices that transform our daily lives long after we've returned home.Star Wars The Jedi MindDiana's Upcoming Mediation Zoom  - via the HalcAnon community on FacebookHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We all know that the character interactions, our fellow passengers, and the community that has resulted from Galactic Starcruiser are the things that we all cherish the most about the experience. But there was more too - - - the tangible aspects of the voyage such as the scent of the Atrium or the tastes of the food or even the sounds that the door to the Engineering room mad. These memories are what we look back on in this episode in honor of the 3rd anniversary of the first voyage. We were surprised at how much we viscerally remembered.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Every been to a place where a cowboy walks into a bar in heaven? How about a store that stocks cans of Mammoth Chunks? Perhaps you've visited a transit station to worlds unknown??? Welcome to the artistic amazements of Meow Wolf!This episode, we dove into the interactive art spaces created by Meow Wolf in Las Vegas, Denver, and Houston. Mike Celestino (from LaughingPlace.com) & Patrick Radecker - alongside Martin & Kristine - join us as guides to these creative masterpieces.Meow Wolf - Origin StoryHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Many of our listeners and fellow Starcruiser Superfans were disappointed to hear that Disney is repurposing the building for this magnificent experience into office space for Disney Imagineering.In this episode, we discuss this and dissect what else we think this decision means.Disney's ‘Star Wars' Hotel to Be Converted to Offices for Future Walt Disney World ProjectsHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We all had an amazing time aboard the Halcyon but what other immersive IP adventures could be possible? What if we could spend time as Starfleet trainees/officers aboard Deep Space Nine space station or citizens of Hyrule attending Princess Zelda's coronation or chasing down Mr. Boddy's killer? In this episode, we explore other possible entertainment intellectual properties that might lend themselves to this immersive format.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Great stories - like the events we all experienced on the Halcyon - always inspire thoughts about what happened to these characters after the author writes 'The End'. In this episode, we dig into what happens for all of our friends aboard the Halcyon the "next day" after the 275th anniversary cruise. Does Raithe accompany Sandro and Ouannii on a multi-planet tour? Does Lt. Croy write a tidy report and go on to bother other Resistance members? What do we think happened?He's a Bit of a Fixer-Upper - Fun Fan Fiction about Lt. Croy & Captain KeevanHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Did you know that there is more to Batuu than just Black Spire Outpost?ILM Immersive - formerly ILMxLAB - has created Virtual Reality experience called 'Tales from the Galaxy's Edge' and it is absolutely the most immersive way to plant yourself in Batuu (outside of Orlando or Anaheim!) Meet and go on missions with both new and beloved existing characters such as Mubo from Mubo's Droid Depot, Dok Ondar from his famous Den of Antiquities, and of course everyone's favorite droids C-3PO and R2-D2!Find out more about Tales from Galaxy's Edge on the Star Wars site.The standard version of the game is available on Meta Quest | Quest VR Games.Tales from the Galaxy's Edge (Enhanced Edition) is now available for free for PlayStation PSVR 2 owners who are also members of PlayStation Plus Premium or can be purchased on the PlayStation store. This episode, Martin regales us with tales of the glories, new lore and incredible fun of this amazing VR experience. Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Winner, Winner, Starcruiser Dinner! Before Beth Revis' Galactic Starcruiser tie-in novel “The Princess and the Scoundrel” was released, the publisher held a promotional contest - the winner would honeymoon on the Halcyon just like Leia and Han!On a whim, Julie entered the contest and almost five months later, was shocked to learn she'd won! Not as shocked as her partner Abi who had no clue about the contest, but...Listen in as we hear about the amazing adventure (and proposal) that Julie & Abi had in the Happiest Place on Earth (Galactic Starcruiser)!Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

IT FINALLY HAPPENED! The Kaiburr Crystal package Jen DiGiacomo gifted Heroes of the Halcyon during the Disney Wish cruise in March 2024 ... we all finally got to Skywalker Vineyards!  But the four of us made a whole Star Wars weekend out of it - ILM Campus! Rancho Obi-Wan! Life Day at Disneyland!Come along with us as we reminisce about our epic weekend!Jen DiGiacomo's InstagramSkywalker VineyardsHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

If you think all travel videos are created equal, think again. John Jennings, with his background in filmmaking, artistically documented his one and only voyage on Galactic Starcruiser... and what a voyage it was!  Follow his story arc - from unlikely traveler to diehard fan for life. Journey back with us to Lady H and relive the time you became canon!Check out his video on Youtube - the link is below - and enjoy our chat!Disney's Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser Was SpectacularDouble Crit Fail YouTube ChannelHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

This was such a fun conversation for multiple reasons. First, we were able to speak with Len Testa of the Disney Dish Podcast and Touringplans.com! Len is a legend among Disney podcast aficionados and his experience creating and leading the team at Touringplans.com & mastering the science of navigating the theme park world is literally second to none. Second, we were able to hear first hand and share with you about some of the fun he had on the inaugural voyage of the Halcyon.Touringplans.comLen's Review of the Galactic StarcruiserThe Disney Dish with Jim Hill PodcastHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

In case you have been trapped in the Climate Simulator too long, Martin & Kristine have been working with a team of Galactic Starcruiser superfan rockstars for the past year to plan and hold Halcy-Con 2024, the first convention completely dedicated to this amazing experience. The event was held in Kissimmee, FL a week before this episode's release and Martin & Kristine share all about this spectacular gathering.Culture House Immersive "Imagine Together" Immersive Transmission Link: https://culture.house/immersive-transmissionsHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

One year ago as this episode is released, we were onboard the Halcyon for our last voyage. In this episode, we look back on the experience, discuss what it meant to us, and share memories of that trip. We also look ahead to the future of the Starcruiser Superfans Community and its incredible creativity that continues to flourish!Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

While the Galactic Starcruiser experience was essentially a live action video game, what would it be like as an ACTUAL video game?We invited our good friend Patty Rattay to chat with us about what sorts of video games we could imagine in the Halcyon universe.Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

This is the second part of our extended conversation with Ben Crane and boy, did we have a fun chat. We covered D23 Park Announcements, Epic Universe, our favorite monsters, and even Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida.Many of you will know Ben from his performances in the Orlando area including the theme parks and concerts in local venues throughout the city. He's a vital member of the Starcruiser community that we're all very familiar with. If you know - - you know!!!Also, don't forget about  the upcoming series of events Ben is hosting at Sun on the Beach in Kissimmee called Rad Retreat. Rad Retreat is a weekly pop culture party with themed events, cosplay, vendors, fans, and most importantly - fun!Ben Crane's InstagramRad Retreat InstagramSun on the Beach InstagramIf I'm Lucky InstagramSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Many of you will know Ben Crane from his performances in the Orlando area including the theme parks and concerts in local venues throughout the city. He's a vital member of the Starcruiser community that we're all very familiar with. If you know - - you know!!!Ben joined us to chat about an upcoming series of events he is hosting at Sun on the Beach in Kissimmee called Rad Retreat. Rad Retreat is a weekly pop culture party with themed events, cosplay, vendors, fans, and most importantly - fun!We also spoke with Ben about his growth as a performer, actor, and musician. Ben Crane's InstagramRad Retreat InstagramSun on the Beach InstagramIf I'm Lucky InstagramSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Sheri & Stuart Clifford run the HalcAnon Facebook group. They host both in-person Orlando meetups as well as frequent Zoom calls for fans of the Galactic Starcruiser experience. We also spend a couple of minutes chatting about our feelings around the recent D23 park announcements about Smuggler's Run.Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

After a lovely break spent with family and friends, we return to talk not only about the fun we had over the last few weeks but also to chat about recent adventures at San Diego Comic-Con & Knott's Berry Farm's annual interactive summer event - Ghost Town Alive!Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

What would a cruise in the Star Wars universe be without a little sabacc? In this rebroadcast episode, we sat down with Stephen and Jeremy, the former leaders of the Outer Rim Sabacc League Facebook group. This group of nearly 2000 members enjoys all things sabacc and have come together over this fun game pulled straight from the page and silver screen.In March of 2024, Stephen and Jeremy passed leadership of the group to Mike & Emily over at Hyperspace Props. The group is still going strong and is a lot of fun to visit.Outer Rim Sabacc League on FacebookHyperspace PropsHyperspace Props on InstagramHyperspace Props on PatreonSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

The heroes are on vacation this week so we're rebroadcasting one of our favorite episodes.We've chatted about the concept of LARP drop before but we've never explored what leads up to that drop . . . until now! We were joined by Dr. Lisa Moses, a clinical psychologist, who taught us a little bit about how our experiences aboard the Halcyon affect us at a deeper level than we might be aware of. It turns out that Disney magic sprinkled with immersive story telling pixie dust can be a potent combination to affect not only our emotions but our brain chemistry as well!Dr. Lisa MosesPersonalized PsychologySupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

This week, the heroes are on an extended vacation. We will be re-releasing episodes over the next 3 weeks.We are joined in this episode by La'beth, a former cast member at WDW who was one of our favorite chemists in the Sublight Lounge!La'beth shares some stories of her time on the Halcyon, how she learned about this opportunity, and the fun she had slinging drinks and enjoying her time aboard the ship.  Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Lots of speculation is out there about what Disney might do with the Galactic Starcruiser show building someday. In this episode, we chat about the possibilities of having a one day experience - how might this work?Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Kathryn Yu is  a co-founder of The Immersive Experience Institute, a non-profit dedicated to the development and discovery of immersive & experiential artists and audiences, which produces The Next Stage Immersive Summit, as well as the former Executive Editor of No Proscenium.In this episode, we had a blast talking with Kathryn. We chatted about not only her time on the Halycon but also about the wide world of immersive entertainment from VR to escape rooms to Netflix's upcoming efforts in the space.No ProsceniumThe Immersive Experience InstituteWasteland Weekend 2024Kathryn's Review of the Galactic StarcruiserSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Folks, we like to be that cool teacher in school . . . you know, the one who schedules fun field trips, lets you hang out in the classroom during lunch, and most importantly, never gives you homework. Well, that changes today. You must - - MUST - - go to YouTube and watch the video series created by our guest this week, Paige Borders.Paige - along with her fiancee Pierre - shot and edited together a simply incredible point of view video series of their voyage on the Halcyon. The series consists of 10 one hour long videos. This sounds daunting but trust us when we tell you, the videos are shot in such a way that you feel like you are there on the Lady H alongside Paige and Pierre - perhaps more than any other media we have seen on YouTube.Paige joined us to talk about the series and how it was made. Such a fun chat about a fun show. Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Full Walkthrough The International Spy MuseumSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Allison Eddy - also known as 'tiptoeingthrujuleps' on Instagram - is an amateur mixologist who spotlights the most amazing cocktails - some Star Wars inspired -yay! - and some not - still yay!!!In this chat, we talk about not only Allison's adventures with her mother-in-law and a notable Jedi who boards the Halcyon, but all our favorite cocktails from the Sublight Lounge. We guarantee you'll leave this episode with a hankering for a tasty beverage . . . Tiptoeing Thru Juleps - Allison's Instagram PageSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

What a blast! Have you ever had one of those conversations with folks that you've just met & everyone just hits it off? That is very much what happened in this episode!Kumar & Shikha and Danny & Jess are two couples that we've met or seen online who have fabulous pictures as traveling companions. We wanted to know what it was like to cosplay as a couple and what that brought to their time on the Lady H.We also talk about one or two or twelve other things. The conversation was way too fun and we enjoyed following where it took us.Kumar & Shikha's InstagramDanny's InstagramJess' InstagramGalactic Dinner Silent Auction for Halcy-Con Tickets!Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Discussing things that we love online can be a risk. It is a bit like the Wild West out there with bandits and trolls ready to pounce and steal your fun. Luckily - also like the Wild West - there are sheriffs in some places ready to steer conversations away from danger and back to safer & more calm territory.This week, we talk with two of these "sheriffs" - Autumn & Victor. They volunteer as two of the moderators on the Galactic Starcruiser subreddit on Reddit.com. This normally quiet part of the Galactic Starcruiser fandom was shaken quite a bit recently by that little video that made its rounds a couple of weeks back. We wanted to see what the experience was like for them, what drew them to volunteer as mods, and what makes the Galactic Starcruiser subreddit on Reddit a great place to hang out and chat about the Lady H. We hope to see you there and share stories and things we love about this amazing voyage!The Galactic Starcruiser SubredditSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Our episode  this week is the second part of our conversation with immersive experiences designer Dave Cobb.For almost thirty years Dave has worked on numerous world-famous attractions at locations as varied as Universal Studios Florida, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Paramount Parks across North America at Kings Island, Kings Dominion, California's Great Adventure and Canada's Wonderland. This week, the conversation expands in new and exciting directions...including many other immersive experiences that we didn't even know existed!  So strap in for adventure, fun and some heartfelt emotion...BEST JOURNEY! Dave's LinktreeBatuu PrideThe Arkham Asylum FilesThe Kyberpunks - "Yes, Disintegrations"Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

This week we were whisked away on a magical trip aboard the Halcyon along with Immersive Experiences Designer Dave Cobb.  For almost thirty years Dave has worked on numerous world-famous attractions at locations as varied as Universal Studios Florida, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Paramount Parks across North America at Kings Island, Kings Dominion, California's Great Adventure and Canada's Wonderland. Revisting the Halcyon (and beyond!) along with Dave was a wonderful trip that was too much fun for just one episode!  This week we present Part 1 which focuses primarily on Galactic Starcruiser, while Part 2 next week expands the conversation in new and exciting directions...including many other immersive experiences that we didn't even know existed!  So strap in for adventure, fun and some heartfelt emotion...BEST JOURNEY!Dave's LinktreeBatuu PrideThe Arkham Asylum FilesSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

There were many awesome spaces aboard the Halcyon - - the Atrium, the Climate Simulator, the Bridge - - and each added some fun elements to the voyage. In this episode, we took inspiration from a suggestion by Nick Tierce to imagine what other spaces we could think of to add to the Lady H and what experiences these could inspire.We also hear about the recent fun that was had by Martin & Kristine on a trip to Disneyland for Star Wars Nite  after-hours event & May The 4th (Be With You).Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We were thrilled to be joined for this episode by Dan Amrich,  Katrin "B3-4T" Auch and Jude Kelley AKA The Kyberpunks.If you haven't heard their music yet, you are in for a treat. Their flootah music is straight out of a hip unubunko club in Coruscant or a see'ybark lounge on Jakku. There are echoes of many influences in their music but among them is the time that they spent on a little starcruiser that we all know.We chat about the origins of their band, their music, and of course, all about their time on the Halcyon.They were also kind enough to allow us to debut their upcoming new single "Yes Disintegrations" at the end of this episode! We dare you to try to listen along and not bob your head by end of the song.  Watch for the debut live performance of The Kyberpunks at Halcy-Con 2024 on October 4th in Orlando, FL!The Kyberpunks on BandcampThe KyberpunksSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We spoke with Cameo Wood about her amazing adventures aboard the Galactic Starcruiser as a guest, an honorary crew member, an experience sherpa, and many shades in between!Cameo is truly a Renaissance woman - a director, producer, writer, maker - and soon, a Harvard graduate! Our conversation was so interesting and it was great to get her perspective on this amazing voyage - - made even more amazing by folks like her!Cameo WoodNo Proscenium Podcast Episode about the Galactic StarcruiserSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

This episode we were joined by TJ Marino, known for both her spectacular Asajj Ventress cosplay - now 501st approved - as well as her skills with a lightsaber. We spoke with her about the history of the lightsaber training pod and speculated on a Saja's journey before and on the Halcyon.TJ Marino on InstagramDrop It Like It's Hoth websiteSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Back when we first had the idea to launch a podcast to talk about this experience we all cherish so much, we truly never imagined that we'd be here 100 episodes later!In honor of this auspicious occasion, we invited several past guests - now "space family" - to celebrate  with us LIVE on Facebook & Instagram . It was a fun night and we're excited to share it with you here.Thank you all  so much from the bottom of our hearts for taking this journey with us - - - to talk about ALL our adventures aboard the magnificent Lady H!Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We chatted with Adam Schickling, Annette & Kevin Shoemaker, and Brian J Anderson to talk about how their Halcyon journeys inspired them to create art. From spectacular images & illustrations to 3-D designs that folks can download and print at home, the work that these artists have created is truly amazing. We talked about their inspiration, some favorite projects, and upcoming work.Shoemaker ArtAdam's Instagram PageBrian's Work on ThingiverseSupport the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We were joined by Beth FitzGibbon, Paul & Amy Carrington, and Jen DiGiacomo who all sailed aboard the Disney Wish with Martin & Kristine on the first of what will hopefully be many annual Starcruiser community voyages.Many adventures & good drinks, food, and fun were shared by the dozens of Starcruiser superfans who took the trip recently in honor of what would have been the second anniversary of the Halcyon. Our guests shared tales of the cruise and will certainly inspire you to join the adventure next year!Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

One of the most delicious aspects of Disney's Galactic Starcruiser was the amazing food served. This episode, we chatted with Chef Andrew Vogel and his wife Wendy about not only the food but also their upcoming Starcruiser-inspired charity dinner in Covington, Kentucky.Chef Andrew will be serving two dinners to benefit Make-A-Wish and who know what space shenanigans will ensue!We guarantee that you'll devour this episode but don't listen on an empty stomach!A Galactic DinnerDisney Food Blog - Lunch - Day 1Disney Food Blog - Dinner - Day 1Disney Food Blog - Breakfast - Day 2 & 3Disney Food Blog - Dinner - Day 2Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We LOVED talking with Dr. Lisa on our episode Hypnotized by the Halcyon back in August and when we were discussing episode topics, we knew we had to reach out to her for this episode!One of the many best things about the Galactic Starcruiser - even now, 5 months after the Lady H. went into dry dock - is the amazing community of fans. We wanted to explore why we wacky humans gather and grow in these communities and what exactly about the Starcruiser inspires such a passionate following. So who better to chat with about psychology than a clinical psychologist? Such a fun conversation.Dr. Lisa MosesPersonalized PsychologySupport the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Many people don't know that there were several achievements that one could . . . achieve in the Play Disney App. This was the same application used for both the Galactic Starcruiser mission application as well as the many interactive experiences around Batuu.In this episode, we go over the achievements that players could pursue and in most cases, how these achievements were awarded.Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

For us, there was something spiritually fulfilling about spending time in the Climate Simulator - taking in the ambient noise and perhaps stacking a stone or two. We also felt this special something - oneness? connection with the universe? - when talking with the Saja or even just stepping into the  Atrium.This is what we wanted to talk about with Cece Beyer, a fellow traveler on the May 4th voyage, and a friend in the Force to be sure. What is it about this voyage that created this feeling within each of us - - - and perhaps within you?Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Our episode from two weeks ago regarding a Galactic Starcruiser Cinematic Universe inspired us to think about who we would cast in a motion picture version of our voyage aboard the Halcyon's 275th Anniversary Cruise. Now, of course, our first choices would be the actors we've already seen in these roles so to make things interesting, we decided we could only cast current screen actresses and actors for this little game. We think you'll find some of our choices pretty fun!Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

As discussed last week, we are debuting the first episode of a new podcast called 'Pop Culture Explorers Club' that Drew has started with Mike Celestino of LaughingPlace.com & Who's The Bossk.This podcast debuts tomorrow in podcast directories everywhere but as a treat for our listeners, we're debuting it here first. Drew & Mike hope that you'll subscribe to Pop Culture Explorers Club wherever you get your podcasts.Drew - and the regular podcast for that matter! - are not going anywhere so no worries. This is just another way for Drew to scratch the creativity itch and talk about things that he loves with Mike & future guests of their show.We hope that you enjoy this bonus episode!Pop Culture Explorers Club on InstagramWho's The Bossk PodcastSupport the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

We sat down with Carrie Coaplen, Ben Daughtrey, and Carly Kocurek, three members of the crew working on "Halcyon Daze" a full-fledged real deal documentary about the Galactic Starcruiser!We chatted about what inspired them to explore this voyage and what made them want to dig in to learn all that they could and share it in a documentary film about the experience.Halcyon Daze WebsiteLouisville Film SocietySupport the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

Picture this - the Galactic Starcruiser experience is a movie. Let's say it's like 'The Avengers' where characters we've grown to love and enjoy all come together in a combined amazing story. If that is the case, what would the standalone movies be that introduce us to these characters?That's what we explore here today in a fun little alternate universe of dramatic, comedic, and action packed stories. Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

This is the second part of an incredible conversation with Mikhael Tara Garver. If you haven't listened to part 1 yet, go back and give it a listen!!!Mikhael is currently Head of Immersive Entertainment for Culture House Media but from July 2021 to March 2022, she served as the Director of Immersive Experience for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World. In this role, she helped write the show, choreographed galactic superstar Gaya, and trained & directed the opening cast. In this second portion of our conversation, she chatted with us about how many folks on the team knew that this experience would stick with us, several tricks of the immersive entertainment trade, and other bits of magic.Support the showHeroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!