Today was the 50th anniversary of Space Mountain. A magical moment was shared by Walt Disney World earlier and the legacy of this attraction has been celebrated all week. Today also happens to be the anniversary of the Carousel of Progress opening at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Originally created for the 1964 World’s Fair and called Progressland, this attraction moved to Disneyland in 1967 before finally making its home in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom on this date in 1975.
The Carousel of Progress follows an American family through four generations and also four seasons. This is done in a rotating theater that takes the audience to one era and season at a time. The attraction is hosted by John, the father of the family. It also has the memorable song There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow throughout the show between each scene. The full show can be seen here:
Carousel of Progress Official Description
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
Travel through the 20th century and marvel at the evolution of technology during this classic Audio-Animatronics show.
From the Gramophone to the Smartphone
Follow an American family over 4 generations of progress and watch technology transform their lives.
During each era, learn how the technological marvels of the day made life more comfortable—and paved the way for unimaginable innovations.
Discover how gas lamps, the hand-cranked washing machine and gramophone made the pre-electric era a breeze.
Watch the advent of electricity give rise to modern conveniences like the electric iron, the radio—and the simple, revolutionary light bulb.
See how the automatic dishwasher and television set transformed the American household.
Today’s high-tech marvels include virtual-reality games, high-definition televisions and voice-activated household appliances. Imagine the wonders the next hundred years may bring!
A “Revolution”ary Theatrical Experience
Presented inside a revolving theater, the show includes an innovative audience seating area that moves around a stationary central stage for each act.
A Classic Walt Disney Attraction
Walt Disney originally conceived the show as part of a new area at Disneyland Park called Edison Square. When the concept was abandoned, the idea was reimagined, eventually opening under the name “Progressland” at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair.
With the classic song “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” by the Academy Award®-winning team of brothers Richard and Robert Sherman, the show was an instant hit. Following its success, the show moved to Disneyland Park and was renamed “The Carousel of Progress.”
In 1975, the attraction moved to Magic Kingdom park where it was rewritten and restaged with a new theme song, “The Best Time of Your Life.”
In the true spirit of progress, the show was reworked in 1994 to its initial incarnation with the original theme song intact—as a tribute to nostalgia.
What do you think of the Carousel of Progress? Have you experienced it in person? What is your favorite part of the show? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
