Carousel of Progress: A Hidden Gem

            With the anniversary of the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair on the horizon, I thought that I should make a visit to one of the attractions that debuted at this event.  Everyone seems to know that It’s a Small World was a brand new attraction during the World’s Fair, but people sometimes forget about the Carousel of Progress.  This attraction truly is a hidden gem that can be found amidst the hustle and bustle of a crowded Magic Kingdom. Usually, there is a very short wait to experience this stage show, and you get to enter an air conditioned building as well as enjoy wonderful music that was written by the Sherman brothers in order to promote General Electric, which was the original sponsor of this attraction when it was in its infancy.  This music includes the original theme song called “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” as well as another song that played for several years, which is called, “Now is the Time.”  Both songs promote an optimistic outlook on life, and they are both quite catchy. 

            In addition to watching the show inside of the theater, guests are also treated to a look at Walt Disney’s creative process.  Before guests board the attraction, they can view Walt working with the Sherman brothers in order to create the music for the attraction.  I love watching this original video of Walt doing what he really enjoyed: being creative and having fun with his work. 

If you have never experienced the Carousel of Progress, the basic idea of the attraction involves the audience following members of a family as they grow and change throughout the 20^th century.  Every scene is filled with period specific props as well as references to what was going on in the world during the time period in which the scene is set.  Each scene takes place during a different holiday including Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Christmas, and the 4^th of July. The overarching theme of the attraction is that times and things may change, but the bonds that we have created with our families remain the same no matter the decade.  This attraction brims with positivity and optimism, and you can’t help but feel a little more hopeful when you re-enter Tomorrowland. 

I love the Carousel of Progress so much that we dressed as the husband and wife for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party this past year!  So, if you are looking to escape all of the crowds in the Magic Kingdom, take a spin on the rotating theater that houses the Carousel of Progress, which can only be found at Walt Disney World.  It is amazing to think that this attraction started its life in New York, then went to Disneyland, and finally ended up in Walt Disney World.  People of all ages can enjoy this show, and you will definitely learn something about history as well as the value of family.  Until next time, have a magical day, and keep moving forward!