Celebrating Walt’s Dream 55 Years Later
posted on July 17th, 2010 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations
“To all who come to this happy place … Welcome!”
July 17, 1955 – That’s the day Walt Disney opened the gates to Disneyland park. Now, here we are, 55 years later still celebrating his amazing dream. I remember celebrating the 50th Anniversary. I had just began my job a few months before in public relations and was assigned to produce some podcasts for the celebration. My all-time favorite in my 18-year career as a producer is the historical piece you are about to see. I love the vintage footage with Art Linkletter hosting a live broadcast with Ronald Regan at the grand opening – the official opening day for guests was the next day. A-listers like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., can be seen taking a drive in the Autopia cars. Only 15,000 guests were invited to the “invitation only” event, but 28,000 showed up! The lines were long and the day was hot, and not everyone thought this new Park would be a success, but it didn’t matter. The guests loved it and Disneyland park forever changed how Americans vacationed.
I hope you enjoy this video. It was originally released on Disneyland.com in 2005. It not only entertains you with clips from opening day, but shows construction of Disneyland park and some old footage of some pretty important people who visited. Watch how Disneyland park evolved from Walt’s dream of a place “where the parents and children could have fun together” to an additional four Resorts around the world and a world-famous cruise line.
Happy 55th Anniversary, Disneyland!
More ‘World of Color’ Coming Your Way This Summer Plus More News!
posted on July 16th, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company
As we celebrate the 55th anniversary of Disneyland this weekend, we’re giving guests, cast members and “World of Color” fans one more thing to celebrate.
We are adding a third “World of Color” show at 11:15 p.m. every night through Labor Day. The show has been extremely popular, and we’re hoping our guests will be thrilled with more opportunities to see this amazing display of water, music and Disney storytelling. (Please note: The time for all shows are subject to change. Please check Disneyland.com for the most up-to-date schedule and tips to reserve viewing).
We also will extend Disney California Adventure park hours until 11 p.m. through Sept. 6, 2010. This will give guests even more time to experience all of the exciting nighttime entertainment at the Disneyland Resort.
And if that’s not enough, we are also thrilled to announce that Toy Story Mania and Mulholland Madness will remain open during performances of “World of Color” while the park is still open to guests.
Moms Panelist Travels The World with The Mouse
posted on July 16th, 2010 by Laura Spencer, Social Media Manager, Walt Disney World Resort
Of course as a member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel, Kay B from Valparaiso, Indiana is known as the go-to lady for all things Walt Disney World. But Kay is also a seasoned world traveler and her vacations take her not only to Disney Parks, but to places all over the globe. As any self-described Disneyphile would, she takes her international treks with Adventures By Disney! It’s no wonder that when she was asked to be the Adventures By Disney Mom she jumped at the chance!
An Adventures by Disney vacation is a planned, guided vacation to some of the most intriguing and beloved destinations around the world. Adventures By Disney planners create experiences and cultural immersion events and activities only Disney can bring you.
In Kay’s own words, “My husband and I decided to travel on an Adventures By Disney trip without children and wondered what kind of experience it would be for us. It far exceeded any expectations we had. I can honestly say that our Adventures By Disney trip to Italy was one of the best vacations we have ever had together!”
Adventures by Disney offers worldwide vacations to such wondrous places as Europe, Asia and South America – ranging in length from 6 to 13 days. You can also explore more of the United States visiting the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Parks. Kay is the Adventures by Disney’s superstar Mom on the Walt Disney World Moms Panel and can help provide helpful planning tips if you are thinking about an Adventures by Disney vacation for your family.
You can ask Kay questions about Adventures by Disney vacations at www.disneyworldmoms.com.
New Exhibit at Epcot Explores History Behind ‘Anime’ Characters
posted on July 16th, 2010 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
Perhaps you heard, there’s a new exhibit in the Japan Pavilion at Epcot and today we’re taking a quick peek inside on The Disney Parks Blog. It’s called Spirited Beasts: From Ancient Stories to Anime Stars and as you can see from the image above, it features some pretty mysterious creatures from traditional Japanese myths and artwork. Those creatures and their stories inspired some of the most popular modern-day characters of Japan’s manga comics and anime.
And that’s what the exhibit is all about — showing the connection between the historic and the contemporary. When I popped in this week, I immediately recognized some of the Japanese characters from video games and TV shows that my children still enjoy. I think you’ll spot them too.
You’ve got plenty of time to see it. Project Manager and Show Producer Wyatt Winter expects the exhibit to be on display for several years. Just walk to the back of the Pavilion and hang a left. Oh, and please let us know what you think.
Jungle Cruise? King Arthur Carrousel? Autopia? Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride? What is Your Favorite Attraction from Opening Day, July 17, 1955?
posted on July 16th, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company
The 55th anniversary of Disneyland park is tomorrow! Today’s post concludes our 11-week countdown as we look back to the very beginning of this magical place – the first five years.
A lot of great attractions opened in this five-year period, but the original attractions from opening day certainly stand apart from the rest.
On opening day, there were 18 ticketed adventures and five free attractions or exhibits in four themed lands and on Main Street, U.S.A. Many of these original attractions remain in the Park today, including King Arthur Carrousel, Snow White’s Scary Adventures, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Jungle Cruise, Mad Tea Party, Peter Pan’s Flight, Autopia, Disneyland Railroad, Horse-Drawn Streetcars, Mark Twain Riverboat and Main Street Cinema.
We went into the Park and asked guests, “What is your favorite attraction from opening day, July 17, 1955?” Here’s what they had to say:
Let us know in the comments what your favorite attraction is from opening day, but before you do, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the early years that made Disneyland park what it is today.
1960 – Just five years after opening its gates, Disneyland park continued to add new experiences. Nature’s Wonderland, based on Walt Disney’s film series ”True-Life Adventures,” opened in Frontierland, allowing passengers to travel by mine train or pack mule through Beaver Valley and the Living Desert. A new production in Circarama debuted, called “America the Beautiful.” Nine screens surrounded the audience with scenes from across the nation. “Dixieland at Disneyland” staged its inaugural performance with six Disneyland bands for a musical procession of boats and rafts on the Rivers of America, followed by concerts throughout the park.
1959 – Let the expansion begin! Three of the most famous Disneyland park icons made their debuts in 1959. Vice President Richard Nixon and his family were on hand to dedicate the Disneyland-Alweg Monorail System and were among the first to experience Walt Disney’s “highway in the sky.” The Matterhorn Bobsleds, considered the world’s first steel roller coaster, opened as the first coaster to allow multiple cars to run simultaneously on the same track. The eight original Disneyland submarines began their voyage in 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea in Tomorrowland. The “E-ticket” is introduced, entitling admission to select attractions. The tradition of Rose Bowl football teams visiting Disneyland park prior to the Pasadena New Year’s Day Game begins, with University of Washington and the University of Wisconsin.
1958 – The first Candlelight Procession took place on Main Street, U.S.A., and Dennis Morgan received the honor of being the first narrator. The special holiday event took place on two separate nights telling the story of Christmas with a full orchestra and mass choir. Guests could now take a trip down the rabbit hole with the introduction of the Fantasyland classic attraction Alice in Wonderland. The Sailing Ship Columbia, a full-size replica of an 18th-century sailing ship, began to navigate the Rivers of America. The 96-year-old Hopi Indian Chief Nevangnewa blessed the trains of the Santa Fe and Disneyland Railroad during dedication ceremonies for the Grand Canyon Diorama, the world’s longest diorama depicting the chief’s homeland.
1957 – Legendary film star Shirley Temple Black and Walt Disney were on hand to open Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough. Guests climbed a staircase through the castle and walked by miniature dioramas that told the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty. A section of the park was added called Holidayland. In the new area, guests could hold a company picnic, group events or conventions and dances. Date Nite at Disneyland park became the hot spot on Friday and Saturday nights from June to September with four Big Bands performing. The first celebration of New Year’s Eve took place on Dec. 31 with 7,500 guests.
1956 – In the same year Disneyland park welcomed its 5-millionth guest, an expansion opened in Frontierland, including Tom Sawyer’s Island and Rafts, Rainbow Caverns Mine Train, Rainbow Mountain Stage Coaches, Rainbow Ridge Pack Mules, Indian Village and Indian War Canoes. The official Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher came from Hannibal, Missouri, to dedicate Tom Sawyer Island. In the Indian Village, an authentic tribe performed hourly dances for guests. The first Easter parade was held on April 1, and in the same year the first Disneyland park fireworks display debuted high in the sky.
1955 – This was the year! It only took a year to construct Walt Disney’s grand vision of “The Happiest Place on Earth.” On July 17, 1955, the first guests descended upon Anaheim for their chance to step into the movies at the Magic Kingdom. A 90-minute live broadcast on ABC network TV introduced the park to the world. There were 15,000 invited guests (more than 28,000 showed up through a mix-up in tickets), including dozens of Hollywood movie and TV celebrities. Co-hosts during the live broadcast were actors Ronald Reagan and Bob Cummings, TV’s Art Linkletter and network anchor Hank Weaver.
The opening day dedication speech presented by Walt Disney can be found on a plaque in Town Square:
I hope you’ve enjoyed this series. I know I’ve had fun putting it together. If you’d like to review posts that cover other years in Disneyland park’s history, click the “Countdown to 55” link below.
Get the Disney Look for Less
posted on July 16th, 2010 by Dara Trujillo, Manager, Merchandise Synergy, Events, and Communication
When you’re looking to show off your love for Disney and your eye for fashion, what’s better than a Disney Parks Dooney & Bourke Bag? How about a Disney Parks Dooney & Bourke bag for 25 percent off?
For a limited time, DisneyParks.com/Store is offering the Dooney & Bourke Minnie & Mickey Faces Collection for 25 percent off.
You won’t find this special price in the Parks – it is only available online! If you’ve been toying with the idea of adding the Mickey Faces Satchel Bag or the Minnie Faces Pouchette to your arm – now is the perfect chance to get your bag at a price that won’t last long.
To get a closer look at Minnie & Mickey Faces Collection, visit DisneyParks.com/Store.
Disney Dream Ship Closer to Reality
posted on July 16th, 2010 by Jason Lasecki, Public Relations Director, Disney Cruise Line
It’s hard to believe that the maiden voyage for the Disney Dream is a little more than 6-months away! The ship is really starting to take shape. We put together this short video showing the construction progress to date with some amazing renderings of what the end product will look like – it’s truly going to be an incredible ship. Hope you enjoy!
New Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will have Guests Trekking into the Savannah
posted on July 15th, 2010 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
If you’ve ever wanted to venture off the beaten path and farther into the Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition savannah, you’ll have a chance later this year. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will be offering a new, immersive experience that’ll take a small group of Guests on personalized, guided treks along some unexplored areas of the Harambe Reserve.
During the excursions, you’ll be able to spend more time observing the wildlife on the savannah and have a chance to learn about the animals and their behaviors from one of our Disney guides. Adventurers will also trek through an undeveloped forest area of the Harambe Reserve and then board a unique vehicle specially designed for the rest of the quest.
Walt Disney Imagineers are still working on many of the details but we wanted to share the news with you first. Reservations for this specially priced tour won’t begin until later this year, so keep checking back for more details.
It’s About ‘Time’ …
posted on July 15th, 2010 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
Have you ever seen an artist drawing in the window at the Fortuosity Shop on Main Street, U.S.A.? Have you ever wondered what they do with that artwork? Luckily I was able to set up some time with Disneyland Guest Service Manager, Yvette Mendez, who gave me a little insight into the current Artisan Watch program and also told me about the artists on staff and what we can look forward to seeing in honor of the 55th Anniversary of Disneyland park.
Michelle: Yvette, can you tell us a little bit about artisan watches and the process that the artists go through to create these unique masterpieces?
Yvette: We have two different styles of watches. The first is our limited edition series that typically represents a scene from a film, cartoon, animated short or experience in the park. Each is accompanied by a reproduction of the original artwork. The second style is the Original Watch series. Here’s a step by step process of what it takes to create an original watch.
- First, choose a character and the background from one of our artists books.
- Next, have the artwork personalized with a special date, name or phrase, all subject to approval of course.
- Then, the art is scaled down to the size of a watch face and hand-assembled after you choose the band color and bezel.
- Finally, see the art come to life and a magical memory created. Each original watch comes with the original artwork.
Michelle: How many different artists are there to choose from? And can the artists only be found at the Fortuosity Shop or can we expect to see them anywhere else?
Yvette: Currently we have five watch artists: Charles Landholm, Eric Scales, David Scott Smith, June Valentine-Ruppe and Todd Wiesenhutter. All have been with us for many years and have created hundreds of watches. Their schedules often vary, so sometimes it’s the luck of the draw on who you’ll see in the window, but it’s amazing to watch them at work. I’m really excited to share that some of our artists will be appearing soon at The Disney Gallery. For those of you who have visited the new gallery location, you might have noticed the “art studio” in the second room. Our artists will be hard at work in the studio, coming up with new designs and putting the finishing touches on original artwork for our Guests. Right now you can find them in The Gallery every Tuesday and Thursday so stop by and say “hello.”
Michelle: I can remember several special watches that were made for some of our past park anniversaries, what can we expect to see for the 55th Anniversary?
Yvette: With the 55th Anniversary of Disneyland park fast approaching, our artists have been hard at work, creating a series of limited edition watches titled the “My 55th Collection.” Each image reflects their interpretation of the 55th Anniversary and what it means to them, with every concept built around our beloved Sleeping Beauty Castle. I wanted to make sure to give our Disney Blog fans the first sneak peek at this commemorative collection, so today we’re sharing some concept sketches from our artists.
The 55th Anniversary limited edition watches will retail for $250 each. Each watch comes complete with a reproduction of the actual artwork. The first watch in the series will debut at shop opening on July 17. For a list of release dates visit www.ArtofDisneyParks.com for more details.
I guess you could say … Time’s up … so next chance you have, stop in and check out some of our artisan watches, and see how art comes to life.
Walt Disney World entered into a successful promotion with Major League Baseball in 1985, and the very first event took place in Yankee Stadium during a sold-out series between the Yankees and the Tigers. Prior to the actual events, which involved a “team” of properly costumed characters performing on the field before the games, marching bands, balloons and fireworks, we filmed a television commercial inside the Yankees dressing room with Mr. Steinbrenner and Billy Martin. The commercial featured the two superstars and I was delighted to have a front row seat.
