Disney’s “Moana” ROCKS The D23 Expo!
“MOANA†ROCKS D23 EXPO 2015 – Dwayne Johnson (“San Andreas,†“Furious 7,†HBO’s “Ballersâ€), who lends his voice to the mighty demi-god Maui in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana,†hit the stage at D23 EXPO 2015 this afternoon. Renowned directors John Musker and Ron Clements (“The Little Mermaid,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Aladdinâ€), and producer Osnat Shurer (Oscar®-nominated Pixar shorts “One Man Band,†“Boundin’”) shared dazzling early test footage and revealed plans for the film’s inspired music and the extraordinary team behind it. Tony®-winner Lin-Manuel Miranda (Broadway’s hottest new hit “Hamilton,†Tony-winning “In the Heightsâ€), Grammy®-winning composer Mark Mancina (“Speedâ€, “Tarzan†“The Lion Kingâ€) and Opetaia Foa’i (founder and lead singer of the world music award-winning band Te Vaka) blend their diverse and dynamic talents to help tell the tale of a spirited teenager who sets out to prove herself a master wayfinder.
Johnson said he is “deeply connected to this film,†given his half-black, half-Samoan heritage. “To tell a story about the South Pacific is truly an honor,†Mr. Johnson said to a cheering audience.
“Moana†sails into U.S. theaters on Nov. 23, 2016.