Behind the Scenes with Disney's Audio-Animatronics Technology
Did you know that Walt Disney Imagineering has launched a new YouTube series? It’s called "We Call It Imagineering," and they are offering viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and technology that make Disney's Audio-Animatronics figures possible. If you haven't watched it yet, let us tell you that the first episode explores how these amazing figures bring characters to life, so you can appreciate the evolution of the technology and where it's headed now.
It’s important to remember that the journey of Audio-Animatronics began about 80 years ago, inspired by Walt Disney's discovery of an antique mechanical singing bird. After that, it led to the creation of figures like the early "Project Little Man" with miniatures and the first generation of figures, known as the A-1, at Disneyland in the 1960s.
There are notable milestones in Audio-Animatronics history include the debut of President Abraham Lincoln at the 1964-65 New York World's Fair, the introduction of the A-100 figures in 1989, and advancements in hydraulic and electric figures seen in attractions like The Little Mermaid and Cars Land, which are pretty popular rides in Disney.
In recent years, Pandora in Animal Kingdom introduced the impressive Shaman of Songs, where we can now experience how advanced technologies work with storytelling to create these amazing figures. Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge also pushed the limits with the A-1000 platform, offering an incredible performance.
And we can’t forget that the latest advancements can be seen in the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort, where the most sophisticated Audio-Animatronics figures yet will bring the story to life. We can't wait for it!
Do you enjoy the animatronics in Disney? They look more and more real each time! I'm excited to see what Disney does with Tiana, and hope that the animatronics make the attraction better and offer something that goes beyond the visuals. Imagine if the animatronics react to something you do! Like, if you wave at them, they wave back. Would that actually be too creepy? Well, maybe. Now I'm not sure!
Either way, see you soon, friend!
