Ep. 728: Ted Thomas on El Grupo, D23 Fan Event expectations and tips
Mousetalgia! - Your Disneyland Podcast
Deep Dive
What is the significance of the Disney 'Goodwill Tour' discussed in the podcast?
The Disney 'Goodwill Tour' was a 1941 trip to Latin America aimed at fostering cultural exchange and goodwill. It had a profound impact on both the Disney artists who participated and the people they met, leading to lifelong friendships and influencing Disney's artistic output. The trip was extensively documented, and its legacy is explored in the book 'Walt Disney and El Grupo in Latin America' by Ted Thomas, JB Kaufman, and Didier Ghez.
Why was Frank Thomas referred to as the 'Laurence Olivier of animation'?
Frank Thomas was called the 'Laurence Olivier of animation' by John Canemaker due to his exceptional ability to convey emotion through animation. His performances were unique to each character, showcasing his deep understanding of pantomime and acting. This skill, combined with his partnership with Milt Kahl, made him one of Disney's most influential animators.
What is the focus of the new book 'Walt Disney and El Grupo in Latin America'?
The book 'Walt Disney and El Grupo in Latin America' provides a detailed, day-by-day account of Disney's 1941 Goodwill Tour to Latin America. It includes photographs, journals, and letters, offering a comprehensive look at the trip's geopolitical, artistic, and personal impacts. The authors, Ted Thomas, JB Kaufman, and Didier Ghez, pooled their research to create what they describe as the definitive account of the tour.
What are some challenges attendees might face at the D23 Ultimate Fan Event?
Attendees of the D23 Ultimate Fan Event may face challenges such as transportation logistics, especially with shuttles between venues like the Honda Center. Long lines, crowded panels, and limited food options are also common issues. Additionally, the event's popularity and high demand for exclusive merchandise and panels can make navigating the expo overwhelming.
What tips were shared for surviving the D23 Ultimate Fan Event?
Tips for surviving the D23 Ultimate Fan Event include wearing comfortable shoes with good arch support, prioritizing booths with the largest giveaway bags (like Loungefly and Funko), and packing protein-rich snacks to avoid relying on limited food options. Attendees were also advised to plan for transportation challenges and consider alternative parking options near venues like the Honda Center.
What is the historical significance of the Firehouse 5 plus 2 band?
The Firehouse 5 plus 2 was a Dixieland jazz band formed by Disney animators, including Frank Thomas, as a creative outlet. Initially starting as jam sessions to relieve the stress of animation work, the band gained significant popularity in the late 1940s and early 1950s, appearing on radio shows and early television. Despite their success, the members ultimately chose to remain animators, using music as a release rather than a full-time career.
Shownotes Transcript