Last time, the "Behind the scenes series" was dedicated to the Pirates of Caribbean attraction, an Audio-Animatronics delight. So, it's a perfect transition with this new Behind the scenes topic where we will have a closer look to the history of the Audio-Animatronics and how they are built and programmed. And i have found really great videos for you, so stay to the end!
The above and following pictures show the Imagineers at work on the AA programming at Disneyland Paris version of "Pirates"
As you can see, there is no water filled yet inside the attraction.
The next big AA show at the end of the 60's was of course the Country Bear Jamboree.
And it was time for the Imagineers to go back behind their console to program these wonderful bears.
Then, in 1976, came the "America sings" attraction, and there was really a lot of Audio-Animatronics to program on this one!
The following pictures are related to the Disneyland Paris Phantom Manor's Audio-Animatronics programming whether it's the skeleton's of the graveyard...
Or one ghost of the grand ballroom
It's time now to have a look at some videos , and let's begin by the beginning.
But, by the way, how did the story of the Audio-Animatronics begin...oh, yes, with a bird...
This next video will tell you more about the history of the Audio-Animatronics, introduce by WDI Imagineer Marty Sklar. But you will see, too, the former Imagineer and master programmer Dave Feiten. You may don't know it, but it thanks to him that we have some of the most realistic movements in Disney's Audio-Animatronics.
Here, he is at work on programming the bears of the Country Bear Jamboree
And don't miss this last and fantastic video who will take you inside WDI secrets in the making of the Audio-Animatronics!
Photos and videos: copyright Disney
All my thanks to the different people who have posted these videos on youtube!
I have to say, this site is like a freakin' candy store! Great pictures, great reports. Brings back many memories of Disney parks in the 1970s and 1980s.
ReplyDeleteThank you for all of your efforts!
Wonderful behind the scenes info! Thanks!!!
ReplyDeleteNice pictures. But you forgot to tell the story about what it was really like animating the figures.
ReplyDeleteDavy Crockett Feiten
wow, was that post really made by the David Feiten? i have always wondered what happened to you, when did you leave imagineering, etc... and when did you start doing CGI stuff, i had no idea you worked on Toy Story, Bugs Life, etc... you need to start a blog! :) i doubt you would remember this, but my best friend and i met you at the adventurers club back in the late 80's when you were in florida working on Cranium Command i think. ed
ReplyDelete