It has been rumored for years that Disney was in talks to sell the Carousel of Progress to the Smithsonian museum in Washington, D.C. The Carousel of Progress brings historical value. As it has the most performances in the history of American theater. Plus the attraction was personally touched by Walt Disney himself who is a historical figure in American history.
Now getting down to real question. Bob Chapek, Chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts, said at D23 2017 that “none of Disney will remain untouched.” For some this was received with excitement that attractions like Stitch’s Great Escape, Tomorrowland Speedway, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios would be updated. However, the other half received shivers down their spines. Thinking of the haunting possibilities that could happen. Would The Walt Disney Company try to erase a attraction by Walt himself? I certainly would hope not. That’s where the debate of Carousel of Progress begins.
Beloved by the Disney community. Normal, casual fans may not understand the importance or significance of Carousel of Progress. Hardcore Disney fans do. The attraction was pioneered by Walt Disney. Walt Disney said that the attraction should never end and that it was his favorite. The Sherman Brothers gave us the catchy song “A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow.” The relatable narrator John takes us through history a decade at the time. John ages gracefully throughout the attraction. Carousel of Progress is a phenomenal, historical story. Yet it symbolizes the hope for tomorrow and the progress we need to continue to make which is why it’s in Tomorrowland.
Disney Parks Twitter account earlier this year posted some fan art of the 2007 film Meet the Robinsons inside Carousel of Progress. Fans included myself were threatened by the picture. Main reason is that I don’t want anything touching the Carousel of Progress.
I believe and feel that I’m in the majority that an attraction that was touched and championed by Walt Disney himself should stay put. The only exception is if the attraction needs minor updates or upgrades. I mean honor the man who’s name is on the door.
So will Disney ever sell out and give this beloved attraction away? It’s a possibility. We will be living in the darkest timeline if Carousel of Progress ever leaves Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom. Even if the attraction came to my hometown museum of the Henry Ford, I would still be devastated that a piece of true Disney history exited the parks.
As Disney continues to update and modernize older attractions. The company should keep in mind the legacy of Walt Disney. Don’t just quote that “Disneyland will never be complete.” whenever you want to remove or radically update an attraction in the parks. Walt Disney’s favorite attraction deserves to stay in the Magic Kingdom. Even if the Smithsonian is calling.
Now that’s what I call progress.
Boardwalk Times Presents Tomorrowland Week: Honoring the greatness of the future that never was.
Zach Perilstein is the Editor-in-Chief at the Boardwalk Times.
