Disneynature's CHIMPANZEE Screens at Hollywood's El Capitan Theatre, 4/20-5/3

On Friday, April 20, 2012, Hollywood's legendary El Capitan Theatre kicks off Earth Day weekend with the debut of "Chimpanzee," a triumphant new feature film from Disneynature, the studio behind the films "African Cats," "Oceans" and "Earth." Set deep in the forests of Africa, "Chimpanzee" introduces a loveable young chimpanzee named Oscar whose playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. The El Capitan engagement will run from April 20 through May 3.

With every showing of "Chimpanzee," at the El Capitan Theatre, the Wildlife Learning Center (WLC) will present a special showcase of "Animals from Around the World" live on the El Capitan Stage. Inspired by the captivating story of an adult male chimpanzee who raises a young chimp in "Chimpanzee," the Center's biologists will teach audiences about the fascinating ways animals raise their young. The "Animal Guys" from WLC care for more than 50 species of rescued and zoo-born wild animals and make it their mission to inspire people to explore the wonders of life science through interactive learning.

Lylle Breier, senior vice president of worldwide special events for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures said, "We are delighted to continue our tradition of honoring Earth Day and providing El Capitan guests with an unforgettable visit at the same time. It's a thrill to welcome back the Wildlife Learning Center and their eye-opening live animals. It's our way of making the El Capitan the perfect place to experience 'Chimpanzee' and go on this incredible adventure."

Disneynature joined forces with the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) for a special "See 'Chimpanzee,' Save Chimpanzees" program. For every moviegoer who sees "Chimpanzee" during the film's opening week (April 20-26, 2012), Disneynature will make a donation to JGI through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund in order to protect chimpanzees today and tomorrow.

Information about the Jane Goodall Institute is available at www.janegoodall.org. For more information about the movie and the "See 'Chimpanzee,' Save Chimpanzees" initiative, visit Disney.com/Chimpanzee.

Disneynature is expanding educational opportunities outside of the theatre, too, with a 135-page "Chimpanzee" Educator's Guide that includes activities and interactive materials that are aligned to National Science Education Standards available for FREE at Disney.com/chimpanzee. The "Chimpanzee" Educator's Guide provides ready-to-go PowerPoint presentations to engage kids and additional educational resources, including audio and video clips from the film.

Daily showtimes are 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:45 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:35 p.m. Tickets are available at the El Capitan Theatre box office (6838 Hollywood Blvd.), online at www.elcapitantickets.com, or by calling 800-DISNEY6. Special group rates for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 818-845-3110.

The El Capitan Theatre will have a special "Tiny Tot Tuesday" on Tuesday, April 24, at 10 a.m. only. During this special screening of "Chimpanzee," parents and small children can enjoy the movie in a tot-friendly way – complete with lights dimmed rather than out and reduced sound levels.

Disneynature takes moviegoers deep into the forests of Africa with "Chimpanzee," a new True Life Adventure introducing an adorable young chimpanzee named Oscar and his entertaining approach to life in a remarkable story of family bonds and individual triumph. Oscar's playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Working together, Oscar's chimpanzee family-including his mom, Isha, and the group's savvy leader, Freddy - navigates the complex territory of the forest. The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimpanzees, who'd rather make mayhem than join their parents for an afternoon nap. But when Oscar's family is confronted by a rival band of chimpanzees, he is left to fend for himself until a surprising ally steps in and changes his life forever. Directed by Alastair Fothergill ("African Cats" and "Earth") and Mark Linfield ("Earth"), and narrated by Tim Allen (Disney•Pixar's "Toy Story 3," ABC's "Last Man Standing"), "Chimpanzee" swings into theaters on April 20, 2012, just in time for Earth Day.

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