Storytime Latest News

April 3, 2002

Open House at Olszewski Studios a Big Success

Bob Olszewski held an open house at his Studios in Camarillo, California March 3. Expecting 50 to 100 attend, over 200 fans attended the Open House.

Collectors saw and ordered the new Storytime releases for the Spring, including a cameo from the Wizard of Oz, viewed sketches of Olszewski new Disneyland Village, had pieces sign by Bob, and speak with lead sculptors Tom and Paul Larson and directors Travis and Paul Osnain.

I knew the event would be special when I came to the Studios 15 minutes early and 50 fans had arrived before me. The Studios had set up a room for viewing the old Olszewski miniatures and another room for his new Storytime pieces. A third room was used for ordering the new pieces and signing by Bob. All the rooms were filled from 1 to 3 pm as collectors dotted the cases with nose prints and pressed closer to see the miniatures.

Some of the pre-Gobel pieces worth thousands of dollars were on display. Olszewski very limited edition Bugs Life jewelry box was on display. This piece was a commission by Disney in 1998 for the top 50 executives involved with Bugs Life animated feature. One sold last year for $7,500.

Everyone had lots to see and enjoyed the event.

New Releases for Spring

At the Open House, Bob previewed the 5 pieces that will be released in May and June, including a cameo from Wizard of Oz. Pictures will come later.

Straight Till Morning shows Peter Pan and the children flying over Neverland. This elaborate and gorgeous figurine depicts Peter flying in the clouds with Wendy, the 2 boys, and Tinkerbell. Captain Hook's ship can be seen far below as a small speck. Hidden in the back are Indians dancing in their village. Retail price is $195, and release date is May.

April Shower Mouse depicts the Field Mouse under a mushroom in the rain. Retail price is $55, and release date is May.

The Magical Feather shows Timothy Mouse with feather and crow. Retail price is $65, and release date is May.

Anytime You Whistle depicts Jiminy Cricket dancing on a large violin. Jiminy's shadow is shown on a wall in the background. There is an overall red hue to this piece. Price is $145, and release date is June.

More on Disneyland Village

At the Open House, Olszewski showed a sketch of the Sleeping Beauty Castle with a Z-scale train. Castle is about 6 to 7 inches high and very elaborate. Bob is now working on the molt, giving light to the castle, and making it magical. Also, shown were pictures of aerial views of Disneyland. The Olszewski Studios will be making all the pieces, including people, trees, and transportation except the Z-scale train and track that will go around the Disneyland Village.

Each piece will be unlimited, priced under $200, and aim at honoring the work of Walt Disney during his 100th birthday.

Winter Releases Delayed

Well Save Ya! and Wee Bit South arrived in stores as scheduled in February. Once Upon a Dream and My Hero release has been delayed to April. Celebration of Chinese New Year at the Chinese factory delayed the schedule.

Once Upon A Dream - Briar Rose finishes dancing with the birds holding up a coat, turns around, and meets Prince Phillip. The green forest in the background acts as a backdrop to the cameo and adds to the spring like mood of the scene. Retail price is $195.

My Hero - Lumiere rescues Feather Duster from being plucked by a villager. SRP is $95.

New Base on Cameos

Olszewski has introduced a new base on the cameos. Previously he had a dome base. The dome base has only a small area to hold the figurines in place. As the cameos become more elaborate, he need a thicker base. So now he using the thick resin base with rubber feet.

Olszewski Event Schedule

Robert will be at the following shows in Spring and Summer months.