Fans of the beloved 2001 film The Princess Diaries will soon have an exciting opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Genovia. To mark the movie’s 25th anniversary, Disney’s official fan club, D23, is organising a unique pop-up experience at the Doheny Mansion in Los Angeles, the very location used for the film’s Genovian Royal Consulate scenes.
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This special event invites attendees to explore the historic mansion, which features rooms adorned with decor and furnishings showcased in the film. Among the highlights will be a selection of tiaras, costumes, and props from the Walt Disney Archives, offering fans a chance to relive iconic moments from the movie.
D23’s website describes the experience as a rare chance to capture photographs in places where key scenes were filmed. Guests will be able to visit the parlor where Mia Thermopolis, portrayed by Anne Hathaway, first meets Queen Clarisse Renaldi, played by Julie Andrews. They can also step into the dining room where Mia experiences her maiden royal dinner, as well as the exquisite ballroom where she ultimately embraces her role as the Princess of Genovia.
Upon entry, guests will receive a one-hour tour of the mansion, starting with a photo opportunity in front of the estate, which dates back to 1899. Following the introductory photo, attendees can freely wander through the mansion’s various rooms before concluding their visit in the iconic ballroom.
In addition to the mansion tour, each ticketed guest will receive a themed journaling kit. This kit includes a soft-covered journal reminiscent of Mia’s diary, along with themed sticker sheets and die-cut stickers, allowing fans to bring a piece of Genovia home with them.
Scheduled for Saturday, June 13, the pop-up event will see tickets go on sale on Friday, May 15. Pricing is set at £65 for gold members of D23 and £75 for general members. Note that attendees must be aged 12 and above, in accordance with the mansion’s tour policy.
The Princess Diaries, which debuted in 2001, follows the journey of teenager Mia Thermopolis as her ordinary life is thrust into chaos when she discovers that she is the heir to the throne of Genovia. The film was well received, leading to a sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, which was released in 2004.
Excitingly, there are discussions of a potential third instalment in the franchise. Earlier this year, Kathleen Marshall, daughter of the late director Garry Marshall, confirmed to PEOPLE that development of The Princess Diaries 3 is underway. She expressed her enthusiasm about being involved in the sequel, noting that she remains in contact with producer Debra Martin Chase about the project.
Kathleen revealed that they are actively progressing with the sequel, highlighting the exceptional team working on it and their hopes that Anne Hathaway will reprise her role as Mia in what they envision as “the next thing.”
As the 25th anniversary approaches, excitement for both the pop-up experience and the potential new film is palpable among fans. This celebration not only marks a milestone for The Princess Diaries but also reignites interest in the enchanting story that captures the hearts of audiences around the globe.
With the pop-up experience at the Doheny Mansion, fans now have a rare opportunity to step directly into the whimsical world of Genovia, celebrating the impact of The Princess Diaries and its memorable characters.