Much of the world of theme parks has stopped during the past year due to the pandemic. Exciting projects have been delayed or even shelved, and many parks remain closed. All the news isn’t sad, however. A remarkable trackless dark ride opened in September 2020 and wowed both guests and online fans. The Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast was the centerpiece of Tokyo Disneyland’s largest expansion. Former Disney Imagineer Jim Clark was senior creative producer on this project and led the creative team of talented individuals that made it happen.
Jim is [Dan Heaton's] guest on the latest episode of The Tomorrow Society Podcast to talk about this expansion and much more. He worked at Walt Disney Imagineering for more than 20 years beginning in 2000. [They] begin the conversation talking about Jim’s background and interest in Disney. After joining WDI, he worked with the museum community on developing exhibits with Disney. Jim also worked directly with Marty Sklar as an ambassador representative for three years. [Dan talks] with Jim about what he learned from Marty and what it was like to work with the Disney legend.
The second half focuses on the Tokyo Disneyland expansion. Jim describes the evolution of the project during the seven years needed to complete the 12-acre development. His descriptions of the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast help explain why it works so well. The ride vehicles essentially dance through memorable scenes from the film. Jim was also involved with Minnie’s Style Studio, which goes well beyond a typical meet-and-greet. Beyond Tokyo, Jim also discusses his work on the Disney Kingdoms with Marvel, Disneyland Adventures game, and Memento Mori Spirit Photos. […]
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