Walt Disney Co

Walt Disney Co. agreed to sell DIC Entertainment to the unit's chief executive, Andy Heyward, and Boston-based investment firm Bain Capital Inc., letting the animation studio go independent. Terms weren't disclosed. DIC, known for such characters as Inspector Gadget, Madeline and Sonic the Hedgehog, will continue to have a relationship with Disney.

No More Eo at Epcot: Capt. Eo's days of saving the world with song and dance are numbered at Walt Disney World's Epcot Center. Walt Disney Co. is dropping Michael Jackson's 3-D spectacular at the Florida park. Officials said the decision had nothing to do with allegations that the performer sexually molested a teen-age boy. "We have to keep offering something new," said David Herbst, a Disney spokesman. The attraction is sponsored by Eastman Kodak Co.

Disney Store Growth: The Walt Disney Gallery will open Nov. 4 in MainPlace Santa Ana. The new store will "celebrate the history, creativity and inspiration of the Walt Disney Co.," according to the company. The gallery will sell Disney animation art, collectibles, fashions and home accessories. Disney Chairman and Chief Executive Michael D. Eisner described the new retail venture as an extension of its existing Disney Store chain, which already has a location at MainPlace.

Walt Disney Co. said Friday that it will close its DisneyQuest arcade-theme park in Chicago at the end of the summer after two years of poor financial results. About 270 jobs will be eliminated when the venue closes Sept. 4, said Disney spokeswoman Leslie Ferraro. More than 70% of the employees are part-time workers, she said, and some of the park's staff may be hired by other Disney operations. Disney said last year that it wouldn't build any more of the brand-name indoor theme parks.