In 2007, Walt Disney International continued to build on the Company's commitment to global growth, creativity and technology, strengthening its presence in key emerging markets, including Russia, China and India, as well as enhancing local relevance of the Disney brand around the world. To accelerate growth, Walt Disney International focused on creating greater cross-Company integration in Europe and Japan, improving efficiencies and aligning international business efforts behind sustainable, long-term growth initiatives.
From Russia to the Far East to Latin America, Walt Disney International has capitalized on localized versions of great Disney family entertainment. Winnie the Pooh made his debut in Moscow to celebrate the start of the Year of Children, while Mickey Mouse surprised everyone when he showed up to help celebrate the premiere of Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End at the biggest multiplex in the center of Moscow, helping the film become the largest foreign release in Russian history.
In Hong Kong, an event featuring Disney Fairy Tale Wedding gowns by Kirstie Kelly helped broaden the appeal of the Princess franchise among local consumers. In India, My School Rocks was a highly successful interschool dance competition used to promote High School Musical awareness locally. The first-ever Disney-branded, Chinese-language movie, The Magic Gourd, achieved great critical and commercial success in that country. In Egypt, Mickey and Minnie Mouse paid a visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza to promote the engagement of Disney on Ice in Cairo. In Taipei, Finding Nemo, a live stage-show version of the popular Disney•Pixar film, produced by Feld Entertainment, was enjoyed by more than 1.5 million people. The show went on to play to sold-out theaters in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei and Australia.
Top: Disney On Ice - Finding Nemo launched in Taipei in February 2007, and then toured throughout Asia.
Bottom: The South African production of The Lion King made its debut in June 2007.
