Watching the Walt Disney World 25th Anniversary

[Anakin]

that was shown on ABC, I was wondering what happened to the Disney Institute? Was the program shuttered after lack of turnout? It was hyped so much in 1996-1997 before the cruise line debuted.

The special also made me ask, "How come Disney doesn't do any more ABC promotional shows debuting new attractions/celebrations at the theme parks?"

There wasn't a one hour special set aside on ABC for Disneyland's Happiest Homecoming on Earth or even, Disney Parks's Happiest Celebration on Earth.

If you get the chance, take the time to watch the Walt Disney World 25th Anniversary Special hosted by some stars of ABC's TGIF lineup. There was such strong pride in preserving Walt Disney's vision and building on his dream.

Wha' happened?


*And this was before Disney's Animal Kingdom and Disney's California Adventure...

**By the way, how come Disney's Animal Kingdom was such a thematic success with Paul Pressler and Michael Eisner at the helm and Disney's California Adventure was mediocre at best?

Just always, Remember the Magic.

[MJMcB]

that was shown on ABC, I was wondering what happened to the Disney Institute? Was the program shuttered after lack of turnout? It was hyped so much in 1996-1997 before the cruise line debuted.

Its gone and yes. The area is now Saratoga Springs I believe. They eventually figured out that people did not want to spend their WDW vacation time in a cooking class

[aimster]

Heh. I still have the 15th birthday special that was hosted by Bea Arthur & Betty White on video somewhere. It was so bad it was good.

[Maverick]

Oh god, put that cake away!

But its mostly gone, there are some tree houses still around though.

[tayakaleb]

Oh god, put that cake away!

But its mostly gone, there are some tree houses still around though.

All my life I had dreamed of going to WDW and seeing the castle and the first time I went I saw a giant Birthday cake. I was so disappointed. But, I have severely made up for it, no worries

[ti2gr]

Many of the Disney Institute programs are still aloive and well. They are now primarily conducted to convention groups, but the Disney Institute is still alive. They just don't have a physical property anymore.

[danyoung]

I really enjoy the 25th special. I'm not a big Drew Carey fan, but I think his segments worked really well. I also liked the kids who came from all over for the first time. Very nicely done!

[Monkey joe]

Heh. I still have the 15th birthday special that was hosted by Bea Arthur & Betty White on video somewhere. It was so bad it was good.

I have that and a ton of Christmas, 4th of July, and Easter specials.

[Jozymouse]

I have that and a ton of Christmas, 4th of July, and Easter specials.

Me too! I've been taping all the Disney shows, parades,specials and openings since 1984 and also bought (bad) copies of WDW and EPCOT's opening shows. Most of these shows are quite corny but good. Its also nice to see what was going on back then.