Disney's Aulani Resort Grand Opening Celebration lights up the sky

Reported by: Brianne Randle
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Updated: 9/23/2011 10:37 am

Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa officially opened to guests August 29th, but that was nothing compared to the grand opening celebration Thursday night on the beach of Ko Olina.

"This is the first time I've opened one of our properties without shoes on, anyway it is great to be here and se all of you," said Walt Disney Company CEO Robert Iger.

Disney was sure to make the night a fairy tale evening with a Hawaiian twist.

Then it was time to get the party started, as Hawaiian recording artist and award-winning Kumu Hula Keali'i Reichel lit up the stage.

With a few words from Walt Disney company's CEO Robert Iger and Chairman Thomas Staggs they then welcomed one of the most anticipated guests of the evening - none other than Mickey and Minnie.

It's a celebration like this that has tourism officials excited.

"What Disney brings to the table for Hawaii is their global, world wide brand and exposure.  The fact that they branded Hawaii and talked about a unique Hawaii experience is even more special," says Mike McCartney, Hawaii Tourism Authority.

The Aulani is also helping to add dozens of new jobs into the workforce.

"I fortunatley moved to Makaha, so my drive is literally about 10-15 minutes," says Romeo Butihi, Aulani Front Desk Agent.

"The majority of us are from here so we can get really out that Hawaiian authenticity of who we are and what we stand for," says Tracey Shimabukuro, Aulani Labor Recording Assistant.

It's that mix of Hawaiian tradition and the magic of Disney that when blended together can stir up a spectacular light show to remind everyone that dreams really do come true.

Friday wraps up the end of Disney's 4-day week long Aulani celebration.

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