Hey Disney Vacationers! Walt Disney Imagineering is all about reimagining experiences, and this summer, they’ve done it again with the debut of the first-ever Disney Storytelling Window. This new concept comes to life through none other than Ichabod Crane, adding a touch of whimsical storytelling to Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square. Here’s the scoop on how it came to be and what makes it an unforgettable addition.
The Birth of the Disney Storytelling Window
Imagine this: years ago, Alex Caruthers, an Art Director with Walt Disney Imagineering, was strolling down Main Street, USA, gazing up at the iconic second-story windows. In that moment, an idea sparked—what if those windows could tell stories, too? Fast forward to today, and we see the culmination of that thought in the Disney Storytelling Window, finally realized with Ichabod Crane.
Caruthers shared, “The idea for a Storytelling Window came about many years ago when I was on Main Street, USA looking up at the second-story windows, wondering if Imagineers could infuse some life into the windows by adding characters.”
Testing and Technology: How It All Came Together
Joe Knapp, who leads A/V engineering at Walt Disney Imagineering, revealed that this project wasn’t a simple one-and-done. In true Imagineering fashion, the team experimented with various concepts and technologies to find the perfect fit for the Disney Storytelling Window. Ultimately, they landed on showcasing Ichabod Crane in Liberty Square. The goal? To enhance the area subtly, without overpowering the existing aesthetic and storyline.
Knapp noted, “We wanted something that would add to the space, something that would be playful but wouldn’t feel like it’s taking over. Ichabod’s silhouette became the perfect match.”
The Ichabod Crane Window: Where and What to Look For
If you’re wandering through Liberty Square, keep your eyes peeled for the second floor of the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe. There, in the Disney Storytelling Window, you’ll spot a playful silhouette of Ichabod Crane, fully immersed in his world. Watch as he munches on a turkey leg, sips tea, and dives into a book. It’s a subtle but captivating addition that brings an unexpected story to life above the bustling paths of Magic Kingdom.
This unique touch is the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, bringing a piece of storytelling magic to a place already brimming with history and character.