When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable.
-Walt Disney
I truly believe that so much of Walt Disney’s renowned success can be attributed to his steadfast commitment to telling stories. This man, who began his career at the age of 19, was an innovator in the realm of film and animation. Just a few of his noteworthy achievements include the production of the first film that successfully synchronized sound and animation and the use of story boards, multiplane cameras, and optical printers.
When I learned that our Monsters University “field trip” would be a visit to the Walt Disney Family Museum, I was thrilled at the opportunity to delve a bit deeper into Walt Disney’s life and story. The museum opened nearly 3 1/2 years ago and was co-founded by Walt’s daughter and grandson as a way to honor and celebrate Walt Disney’s achievements and life story.
The museum is located in the scenic, historic Presidio of San Francisco and sprawls across 40,000s square feet. Walt Disney’s story is told through interactive galleries, some of which feature his voice, and include historic materials and artifacts, early drawings and animation, state-of-the-art technologies, listening stations, more than 200 video screens, and a 14-foot model of Disneyland.
In addition to the museum’s permanent collections, a different Disney classic film is screened each month and visitors can enjoy lively programs and concerts featuring Disney Legends, actors, animators, musicians, historians, and even members of the Walt Disney family. While much of the museum has a definite appeal to older audiences, even my kids would enjoy the weekly Disney Discovery classes and workshops that teach animation, painting, stop-motion cinematography, voice-acting, and more. Children can also participate in a one or two week summer camp where they will explore onstage acting, get a behind-the-scenes look at special effects, and create an animated short.
The tour is set up so that visitors can chronologically walk through Walt Disney’s life. As you walk through the museum, I felt a range of emotions…inspiration…awe…and even sadness. By nature I am a museum lover, so I could spend hours reading through each exhibit, reflecting on Walt’s visions and achievements.
The Walt Disney Family Museum is open 6 days/week and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Here are a few of my favorite photos from my latest visit, and you can read about the first time I was inspired at the museum here.
No compensation was received for this post. I was invited on a press trip to cover the film’s release and travel was provided. #MonstersUEvent
Images: Rockin’ Mama
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