When former CEO Michael Eisner joined Walt Disney Productions in 1984, he brought with him a background in film and television. Just two years after the opening of EPCOT Center, he realized that a representation of entertainment business was lacking in Future World. With the help of Frank Wells and Jeffrey Katzenberg, Eisner suggested that Imagineers explore the entertainment industry as an element for the park.
The Imagineer’s proposal included a three-part experience:
- Film
- Television
- Radio
It would also include a ride through moments in movies (The Great Movie Ride), a radio show highlighting the importance of storytelling (Superstar Television), and a TV studio stage show (Monster Sound Show).
Realizing it would not fit into one building, the concept of a half-day experience park was developed.
Ultimately, the broad appeal of the inner workings of movie magic, as well as the theming of old time Hollywood, proved that the park could stand on it’s own alongside Magic Kingdom and Epcot. So on May 1, 1989, the 3rd Florida Theme Park opened!
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