Walt Disney Tribute: New Audio-Animatronics figure Coming to Carousel of Progress
Table of Contents
- 1. Walt Disney Tribute: New Audio-Animatronics figure Coming to Carousel of Progress
- 2. A New Introduction to a Classic Attraction
- 3. Celebrating a Lasting Legacy
- 4. The Enduring Appeal of Audio-Animatronics
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions about the New Walt Disney Figure
- 6. how does the introduction of the Santiago family reflect Disney’s commitment to inclusivity and diverse depiction?
- 7. Disney’s New Audio-Animatronic Marvel Enlivens the Carousel of Progress at Disney World
- 8. A Modern Family Joins a Classic Attraction
- 9. Understanding the New Family & Their Role
- 10. The Technology Behind the New Audio-Animatronic Figures
- 11. Why This Update Matters: Preserving Disney History
- 12. Guest Reactions & Initial Impressions
- 13. Practical Tips for Experiencing the Carousel of Progress
- 14. The Future of the Carousel of Progress
Orlando, Florida – Walt Disney is slated to receive a meaningful new tribute at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. A new Audio-Animatronics figure of the iconic creator will be added to the Carousel of Progress attraction, officials revealed during Destination D23.
A New Introduction to a Classic Attraction
The addition will precede the attraction’s current four scenes, which follow the fictional John, sarah, adn Rover family as they experience life across different decades. This new introductory scene will feature Walt Disney himself, setting the stage for the journey through time and technological advancements.
carousel of Progress holds a special place in Disney history, debuting originally at the 1964 New York World’s Fair before moving to Magic Kingdom in 1975.It has since become the most performed stage show in American theater history.
Celebrating a Lasting Legacy
Kirsten Komoroske, Executive director of The Walt Disney family Museum, expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration between The Walt Disney Company, Walt Disney Imagineering, and the Museum. She emphasized that the new Audio-Animatronics figure represents a crucial milestone in honoring walt’s innovations and inspiring future generations.
This announcement follows the recent unveiling of “walt Disney – A Magical Life” at Disneyland, which has been lauded for its powerful and authentic portrayal of Walt’s life and work. Imagineering’s dedication to bringing Walt back to life as an Audio-Animatronic,first showcased at Disneyland’s 70th anniversary,was described as a project imbued with respect,detail,and Disney magic.
| Attraction | Location | Original Debut | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carousel of Progress | Disney World’s Magic Kingdom | 1964 (New York World’s Fair) | New Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic Figure |
| Walt Disney – A Magical Life | Disneyland | 2024 | Audio-Animatronic Walt Disney |
Did You Know? The Carousel of Progress was Walt Disney’s last major project that he directly oversaw before his passing in 1966.
Pro Tip: Destination D23 is an annual event exclusive to Disney fans and Disney Vacation Club members, offering sneak peeks at upcoming projects and celebrating Disney’s heritage.
For more data on all the announcements coming out of Destination D23’s Walt Disney Studios Showcase, click here.
The Enduring Appeal of Audio-Animatronics
Audio-Animatronics technology, pioneered by Disney, continues to evolve and remains a cornerstone of the Disney Parks experience. From the lifelike figures in Pirates of the Caribbean to the expressive characters in “it’s a small world,” these figures create immersive and unforgettable moments for guests. Recent advancements include more fluid movements, realistic facial expressions, and elegant programming, allowing for even more nuanced performances.
The use of Audio-Animatronics isn’t limited to Disney parks. The technology has applications in museums, entertainment venues, and even educational settings, demonstrating its versatility and enduring impact.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Walt Disney Figure
What are your thoughts on Disney continuing to honor Walt Disney’s legacy through these immersive experiences? Do you think Audio-Animatronics technology will continue to play an significant role in future Disney attractions?
Share your opinions in the comments below!
how does the introduction of the Santiago family reflect Disney’s commitment to inclusivity and diverse depiction?
Disney’s New Audio-Animatronic Marvel Enlivens the Carousel of Progress at Disney World
A Modern Family Joins a Classic Attraction
The Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom has welcomed a brand-new audio-animatronic family, marking a significant update to the beloved attraction.Debuting in late august 2025, the addition aims to resonate with contemporary audiences while preserving the core message of technological advancement and the American family. This update represents Disney’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the charm of classic attractions while incorporating modern storytelling techniques.
Understanding the New Family & Their Role
The new family, the “Santiago” family, replaces the previous “Robbins” family in the attraction’s final act, representing a 21st-century household. This change isn’t simply cosmetic; its a deliberate effort to showcase how technology integrates into modern life.
Representation Matters: The Santiago family is a multi-generational Hispanic family, reflecting disney’s dedication to inclusivity and diverse representation within its parks.
Technological Integration: The scene highlights advancements in home entertainment, communication, and convenience, showcasing smart home technology, video conferencing, and modern appliances.
Maintaining the Core Message: Despite the updated setting, the scene still emphasizes the benefits of progress and how technology can enhance family life – a central theme of the Carousel of Progress since its 1964 World’s Fair debut.
The Technology Behind the New Audio-Animatronic Figures
disney Imagineering utilized cutting-edge audio-animatronic technology to bring the Santiago family to life. This isn’t your grandfather’s animatronic!
Enhanced Facial Expressions: The new figures boast significantly improved facial articulation, allowing for more nuanced and realistic expressions. This is achieved through advancements in robotics and control systems.
Realistic Movement: Imagineering employed advanced motion-capture techniques to create fluid and natural movements for the figures, making them appear more lifelike.
Seamless Integration: The new figures are designed to seamlessly blend with the existing scenes, maintaining the overall aesthetic and charm of the attraction.
Skin and Texture: New materials and painting techniques were used to create more realistic skin tones and textures for the audio-animatronics.
Why This Update Matters: Preserving Disney History
The Carousel of Progress is a cornerstone of Disney history, originally created for the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Its enduring popularity stems from its optimistic message and innovative use of audio-animatronics.
A Walt Disney Original: The attraction was personally overseen by Walt Disney himself, making it a especially significant piece of Disney heritage.
The First Use of audio-Animatronics: The Carousel of Progress was groundbreaking for its time, showcasing the first fully orchestrated scenes using audio-animatronic figures.
Maintaining relevance: Updates like the Santiago family are crucial for keeping the attraction relevant to new generations of Disney guests. Without these updates, the attraction risks feeling dated and losing its appeal.
Alex Reed Reactions & Initial Impressions
Early guest reactions to the updated scene have been overwhelmingly positive. many visitors have praised Disney for its commitment to inclusivity and for creating a family that feels relatable and authentic. Social media platforms have been buzzing with excitement, with guests sharing photos and videos of the new figures.
Positive Feedback on Representation: A common theme in guest feedback is appreciation for the representation of a Hispanic family in a prominent Disney attraction.
Nostalgia & Modernity: Alex Reeds appreciate how the update honors the attraction’s history while simultaneously bringing it into the 21st century.
Continued Appeal: The core message of progress and family remains resonant with audiences, ensuring the Carousel of Progress continues to be a beloved attraction for years to come.
Practical Tips for Experiencing the Carousel of Progress
plan Ahead: The Carousel of Progress is a popular attraction, especially during peak season. Consider using the My Disney Experience app to check wait times and potentially utilize Disney Genie+ to secure a Lightning Lane pass.
Take Your Time: The attraction is a leisurely 17-minute experience. Relax and enjoy the show!
Pay Attention to the Details: The scenes are filled with intricate details and hidden gems. Take the time to observe the props, costumes, and audio-animatronic movements.
Consider the History: Before riding, learn about the attraction’s history and its significance to Walt Disney and the Disney Parks. This will enhance your appreciation for the experience.
Accessibility: The Carousel of Progress is fully accessible to guests with disabilities. Assistive listening devices are available.
The Future of the Carousel of Progress
Disney’s investment in the Carousel of Progress signals a continued commitment to preserving this iconic attraction. While no further updates have been announced, it’s likely that Imagineering will continue to explore ways to enhance the experience and keep it relevant for future generations. The addition of the Santiago family is a testament to Disney’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring that the Carousel of Progress remains a timeless classic.
