On this day in 1930, the ‘Silly Symphony’ short “Night” was released. “Night” reveals the moonlit frolicking of the flora and fauna of a mill pond, like owls, fireflies, and frogs. The joyous exploits are set to Beethoven’s “Piano Sonata No. 14.” Walt Disney directed the short, which was the first cartoon released after the departure of primary animator Ub Iwerks. Iwerks returned to Disney in 1940, but traded animation in favor of cameras and special effects. [95 years ago in 2025]
