The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Library has always been known for its immersive exhibits. But for its latest retrospective, the library has truly outdone itself.
Collaborating with the Reagan Library, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club unearthed more than 500 artifacts from nearly nine decades of Disney history, over half of which have never been seen by the public. Titled "D23 Presents Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives," the exhibit runs through April 2013 and occupies over 12,000 square feet, making it the largest temporary exhibit ever housed at the Reagan Library. From models and props to set pieces and original artwork, Disney fans can expect a fully curated world of Disney collectables on display.
Highlights include:
- The original script, written by Walt Disney, for Mickey Mouse’s first cartoon, "Steamboat Willie."
- A faithful recreation of Walt’s formal office from the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, Calif., including original furnishings and many of his personal items.
- Hand-drawn artwork and hand-sculpted models used in the production of some of the most beloved Disney animated film classics ever created, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Bambi and Sleeping Beauty.
- Props from classic Disney live-action productions, including Mary Poppins, 20,0000 Leagues Under the Sea, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Shaggy Dog, Babes in Toyland and Bedknobs and Broomsticks.
- Intricately sculptured busts of all 44 U.S. presidents created for Audio-Animatronics® figures seen in the Hall of Presidents attraction at the Magic Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort.
For this unprecedented exhibit, D23 couldn't have found a better partner given President Reagan's history with the iconic theme park and movie studio. On July 17, 1955, Ronald Reagan was one of the co-hosts of ABC-TV’s live coverage of the opening of Disneyland, and as Governor of California, he frequently visited Disney’s first theme park. After leaving the Oval Office, one of his first public events was a return to Disneyland, where he officiated at the park’s January 1990 35th-anniversary celebration, proclaiming it “one of America’s national treasures.”
To purchase tickets for "D23 Presents Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives," click here.
