Follow an American family over 4 generations of progress and watch technology transform their lives and see how the technological advances made life more comfortable.
The story is told via an Audio-Animatronic family as seen at the turn of the twentieth century, in the 1920’s, the 1940’s and present day. Walt Disney himself personally conceived of the nostalgic ride for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, and rumor has it that it was his favorite ride.
The ride claimed its footprint at the Magic Kingdom in 1975, moving to Florida from Disneyland after General Electric expressed concern over dwindling attendance and the predominately California-based audience at Disneyland. General Electric hoped a move to Florida would introduce its products to a wider cross section of people.
There are 4 key scenes during this attraction:
- Valentine’s Day at the turn of the 20th century
- The 4th of July during the 1920s
- Halloween during the 1940s
- Christmas in the 21st century
Fun Facts:
- The Sherman brothers wrote, “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” but when the attraction was moved to the Magic Kingdom it started with, “The Best Time in Your Life” until 1994 when they went back to the original theme song.
- Originally it was sponsored by General Electric.
- At the World’s Fair, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress was entitled “Progressland.” Six rotating theatres transported guests through four generational segments: the turn of the 20th century; the 1920s; the 1940s; and the present day, then the 1960s.
- Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress is considered a stage show and has garnered more performances than any other show in the history of American theater.
- Jean Shepherd is the voice of the main character. This is the same actor who voiced “A Christmas Story”.
- A Hidden Mickey is included as cloth on a mirror in the opening scene of Carousel of Progress as the daughter is getting ready to go out for a Valentine’s Day dance. Additionally, a Sorcerer Mickey hat appears adjacent to the daughter in the third act as she exercises.