Step into the magic of Disney storytelling with a special D23 Book Talk featuring Walt Disney Animation Studios director Ron Clements—an unforgettable opportunity to hear firsthand from one of the creative minds behind some of Disney’s most beloved animated adventures. Clements is also the author of Making Disney Magic…From a Mermaid to Moana.

Join fellow fans for an enlightening moderated discussion with Clements, the director who partnered with fellow director John Musker to bring to life timeless classics including The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Hercules, The Princess and the Frog, Moana, and more! Dive into the art of Disney animation as he shares fascinating stories from his extraordinary career and opens the floor for a Q&A session.

Clements began his career as an animator for Hanna-Barbera. After a few months there, he was accepted into Disney’s Talent Development Program, an animator training ground and workshop. After that, he served a two-year apprenticeship with famed animator Frank Thomas, a supervising animator of Disney films such as Peter Pan, Lady and the Tramp, and The Aristocats. Clements made his feature debut as a character animator on The Rescuers and Pete’s Dragon. In 1981, he became the supervising animator on The Fox and the Hound. 

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the magic of Disney Animation with one of its legendary storytellers at D23 Book Talk with Ron Clements at the Grand Central Air Terminal in Glendale, CA on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Tickets for D23 Gold Members are $79 (+$3 Processing Fee) per ticket. Tickets for D23 General Members are $89 (+$3 Processing Fee) per ticket. Tickets for this event go on sale on Monday, August 31 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET here.

Here’s what’s included with the event ticket:

• A pre-signed copy of Disney animation director Ron Clements’ book: Making Disney Magic…From a Mermaid to Moana (retail value $50)
• Moderated discussion and Q&A with Clements
• Official event credential

Note:
Ron Clements will not be able to sign any items other than the book provided. Books will be pre-signed.

Itinerary:

1:30pm: Check-in begins. Guests will receive their signed books upon check-in.

2pm – approx. 3:30pm: D23 Book Talk with Clements, plus Q&A.

Please note the following:

Ticketing Terms and Conditions:

• D23 Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and up to one (1) guest(s) for this event.
• Each attendee, including the D23 Member and their guest(s), must possess a valid, individual event ticket to be admitted.
• Ticket quantities are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• To reserve tickets, D23 Members must log in using their valid D23 Member account credentials and assign a legal first and last name for each guest’s ticket.
  • Tickets are non-transferable and must be used by the individual(s) named at the time of purchase. D23 Members and each of their guests over the age of 18 may be required to show a valid government-issued ID matching the name on their ticket.

Age Requirements:

• All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must also possess a valid event ticket.
• Children under the age of 3 may attend without a ticket but must be accompanied at all times by a parent or legal guardian with a valid event ticket.
• Children under the age of 3 may attend without a ticket, but must lap-sit due to limited capacity and be accompanied at all times by a parent or legal guardian with a valid event ticket. Only children with a valid event ticket will receive event gifts and giveaways.

Entry Requirements:

• All D23 Members must present a valid D23 Membership card (physical or digital via the D23 App) along with a valid event ticket at check-in.
• D23 Members and each of their guests over the age of 18 may be required to show a valid government-issued ID matching the name on their ticket.
• Failure to present a valid membership card, a corresponding ticket, and a valid government-issued ID matching the name on their ticket may result in denial of admission without refund or further obligation by D23.

Event Conduct and Restrictions:

• Unauthorized video or audio recording of any kind during the presentation and/or screening is strictly prohibited.
• D23 reserves the right to deny admission or remove any individual who fails to comply with event rules, disrupts the event, or violates the terms and conditions of participation.
• To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, all D23 Members and guests attending this D23 event are expected to adhere to the stated Disney rules (as applicable, and, including without limitation, with respect to Guest Courtesy Policies) found here.

What do you think of this D23 event with Ron Clements? Are you interested in this event? Let us know in the comments.