Wednesday 4 June 2008

A Magical Experience

Continuing our look around the Walt Disney Studios, I thought we should have a look at an attraction that is very similar to one at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Florida and California Adventure in Anaheim: The Art of Disney Animation.
Located on the edge of the new Toon Studio in Animation Courtyard (below picture), the exterior of the building encompasses a giant Sorcerer's Hat - although, not as large, grand or 'in your face' as the one in Orlando. Around the top of the hat you can see Peter Pan and Wendy flying, reminding us of some of the Disney Classics. There are also 12 golden statues around the building, similar to those around the Castle Hub in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, featuring Disney characters such as Chip and Dale (or Tic n' Tac, in French) and Pinocchio.


When you enter the building you are greeted with walls full of Disney classic films, drawings, pictures and photos. You can also look at some of the early stages of animation, including the fantastic Zoetrope which helps create an illusion of movement from a series of static pictures.

The main attraction of this show is the 'Drawn to Animation' show, featuring Mushu from Mulan (as you have probably seen at the Disney's Hollywood Studios version). The true treasures, however, are the shows beforehand. The first small feature you are introduced to is Walt Disney, the man himself, paying tribute to some of the European animators that influenced him. Roy Disney soon takes over, talking about the relevance of history in animation. Straight after this, you enter a large theatre in which we are taken on a whirlwind tour of Disney animation, with clips of famous Disney Classics and music to accompany. The second feature never fails to bring a lump in my throat and a tear to my eye. Yes, I'm a sap, but I am a Princess - I believe in Prince Charming and Happily Ever Afters!

After you have seen the 'Drawn to Animation' show, you enter an area where you can voice your own Disney characters, find out which Disney character you are, and even have a go at drawing your own character! Can't you see how much fun mum and I are having?
You can also browse the beautiful Disney Gallery, and figure out how much you could spend on Disney animation merchandise!

2 comments:

CheriBibi said...

Going to DLRP tomorrow ! Thanks for that piece, I never paid much attention to the Animation Building ! Will do tomorrow !

Ryan P. Wilson said...

So, what Disney character did you turn out to be Princess?

The exhibits in the Art of Disney Animation always fascinate me. Of course, and I am sure Doc would agree with me, nothing beats the courtyard with the animators fingerprints at Disney Hollywood Studios.