WORLD SHOWCASE - GERMANY PAVILION
(October 1, 1982 - Present)
Walt Disney has had deep German roots - Walt's own mother, Flora Call Disney, was a stanch little woman of German-American descent.
German Americans have supported the Disneyland show since 1955.
A German stein manufactured expressly for Disneyland.
Back on April 27, 1960, Walt Disney’s People and Places released the short film (directed by Ben Sharpsteen) introducing audiences of the world to “The Danube” River. Subsequently, an educational color, short film reel was released for sale to the public (at $12), at a run time of 30 minutes. To quote one catalogue: “these films depict the human family in its infinite variety of habits, effectively emphasizing their human relationships, customs and traditions. You'll learn about the land. These are only a sampling of the fascination you’ll encounter in all of these award-winning subjects.”
On December 15, 1966, Roy Disney addressed the employees of Walt Disney Productions: “Walt Disney's preparation for the future has a solid, creative foundation. All of the plans for the future that Walt had begun - new motion pictures, the expansion of Disneyland, television production and our Florida and Mineral King projects will continue to move ahead. That is the way Walt wanted it to be… Last October when he accepted the ‘showman of the World’ award in New York, Walt said, ‘The Disney organization now has more than four thousand employees. Many have been with us for over thirty years. They take great pride in the organization which they helped to build. Only through the talent, labor and dedication of this staff could any Disney project get off the ground. We all think alike in the ultimate pattern.’”
Special bearings for the Dumbo ride, bellows for the monorail and hotel kitchen equipment, all have arrived from Germany.
An excerpt from an EPCOT Center World Showcase prospectus depict semi-circular buildings Imagineered during a “Blue Sky” phase.
“Unlike a world's fair, EPCOT's World Showcase will be a permanent international exhibition. No nation's exhibit or restaurant or product displays will be ‘torn down’ after one year or less-the standard requirement at world's fairs. Instead the one-time construction costs will go on working for a country for many years at Walt Disney World. Here the nations of the world will stand side by side in two semicircular buildings. This semicircular design not only will offer equal exposure and public access for each nation...but will also function as an interrelated series of experiences for every guest. for the entire complex of attractions and exhibits will be tied together by a Disney people-moving system that will also offer visitors a ‘preview look’ into each country's pavilion.”
The cover of one Walt Disney World Showcase Prospectus which gave a preview of international pavilions during 1975.
By 1975, “the need for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow… was[sic] even greater than when Walt Disney first began talking about it in 1965.” The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow was to feature a living community where American Industry would always be introducing, testing and demonstrating new techniques and systems designed to enhance the quality of urban life. EPCOT was always to be a showcase to the world community. And so the author of one c.1975 prospectus stated: “Now, more than ever, our world needs a focal point a forum where creative men and women of science, industry, government and the arts from around the world can present new ideas and technologies... stimulating new concepts that will enable both the leaders of the world and the general citizenry to better understand the great challenges facing people around the world…and the possible solutions to these great challenges.”
Soon the second Phase of Walt Disney World was being planned - EPCOT Center. According to one EPCOT Center’s instructor’s orientation guide, one objective set out for EPCOT was “to be a ‘permanent international people-to-people exchange’. . . advancing the course of world understanding among its citizens. What we are doing now is creating a public focus. . . a ‘center’ for the communication of what is being done. . . made directly to the public in ways they will both understand and enjoy. Our goal through EPCOT Center is to inspire our guests who come here, so that they will be turned on to the positive potential of the future and will want to participate in making the choices that will shape it. In short, we believe that EPCOT Center will establish a new level of entertainment and equally important, education for families and people of all ages from all lands. . . and that EPCOT Center will give people hope that there are solutions to all the problems that exist in the world today. . . and that there truly can be understanding among nations.”
One Walt Disney World Showcase prospectus added: “Here the nations of the world will meet on a coequal basis to communicate on a ‘people to people’ exchange with the more than 12 million visitors to Walt Disney World. Here young people from all over the earth will come to operate the attractions of their native lands… to serve the distinctive foods and to demonstrate and sell the unique merchandise of their home countries. Unlike a world's fair, EPCOT's World Showcase will be a permanent international exhibition. No nation's exhibit or restaurant or product displays will be ’torn down’ after one year or less-the standard requirement at world's fairs. Instead the one-time construction costs will go on working for a country for many years at Walt Disney World.”
A prospectus (entitled “EPCOT Center… People Bring It To Life”) opens by describing how the World Showcase was one of two principle themes of EPCOT Center, as it “be a ‘Community of Nations,’ the only permanent international exposition of its kind anywhere, focusing on the cultures, traditions, tourism, and accomplishments of people around the world.” Initial show planning and conceptual development resulted in EPCOT Center World Showcase presentations that were “80 per cent World Showcase and 20 per cent EPCOT. Since then, we’ve evolved to the place where there’s maybe 80 per cent EPCOT and 20 per cent World Showcase. I think now we feel we’re at a point where we know what EPCOT and World Showcase are going to be. The two projects will work together and compliment each other,” according to a statement by Jack Lindquist, in which he discussed EPCOT Center plans. Herb Ryman created c.1965 suggestions for Walt Disney’s Progress City and “enclosed shopping areas… representing countries of the world.” According to another prospectus, “The World Showcase comprises the southern half of EPCOT Center where at least ten participating countries will stand side-by-side in friendship along the banks of a broad lagoon… The participants in this first phase of World Showcase include United Mexican States, Japan, Federal Republic of Germany, United Kingdom, French Republic, United Arab Emirates, Italian Republic, Canada, State of Israel and Morocco. Disney Imagineers are now working with government or business interests from these countries to achieve a unique and meaningful showcase for each nation.” Surely any wanderlust was sure to be satiated through the Epcot Center World Showcase.
An Epcot Center Site Plan reveals the realm of World Showcase as previously viewed in an exhibit.
“The Story of the Germany World Showcase”
The German culture resonated with Walt whose mother Flora Call Disney, was of German-American descent. Walt’s greatest success was that of retelling the 19th-century folk tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Among the World Showcase, Germany (for its rich story and culture) was always accounted as a certainly to be among the EPCOT Center World Showcase Phase One. An early prospectus mentioned the following elements that come to mind when one thinks of Germany.
First, there is much history (or, story to tell) that comes to mind when one thinks of the country of Germany - the rule of the great Emperor Charlemagne in 800, the Austrian Hapsburg family which ruled Bavaria (from 1493-1543), the Reformation (of 1517), and the Catholic Counter Reformation (of 1545). These events had impact on the culture of arts and sciences of Germany.
Next, there is the culture. Germany has been described as a “land of fantasy, folklore, and festivity.” This is with good reason, considering the varied cultural contributions - composers (like Bach, Beethoven, Schumann, Brahms, and Mahler), artists (like Albrecht Durer and Hans Holbein who painted religious themes, Lucas Cranach who painted Reformation Leaders, and many modern expressionist painters), and thinkers (like German monk Martin Luther who translated the Bible into the common German tongue, Johannes Gensfleisch zum Gutenberg who invented the moveable type system for printing in 1450, Ernst Nolde and George Grosz of the German Expressionist school). Many profound novels and plays are owing to writers as Brecht, Goethe, Kafka, and Mann. Many “fairytales” that have become associated with the Disney name also have their origin in Bavaria, like Hansel and Gretel, the Pied Piper of Hamlin, Little Red Riding Hood, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Then there are the settings - storybook-like Middle Age palaces dating even to the rule of Charlemagne, the romantic castles (like Eltz Castle on the Mosel, and Stahleck Castle on the Rhine), the historic and picturesque villages along the Romantic Road of the Austrian border (like Rothenburg ob der Tauber), historic cities (like Fręiburg Im Breisgau, founded in the 12th century), and the exquisite 106-mile Black Forest of spruce trees and spring waters, and the rivers (like the West German Mosel flanked by vineyards, or the lengthy 850-mile Rhine decorated with ancient castles). All of these were recognized in early Epcot Center Germany World Showcase prospectus documents, and these would be compacted into (or at least influence) the microcosm that is the Germany World Showcase Pavilion.
"I don't want the public to see the world they live in while they're in the park. I want them to feel they're in another world.” - Walt Disney. Everything in the EPCOT Center Germany World Showcase would be to this theme and atmosphere from this particular time, place and subject. A themed motif would be incorporated into every aspect of operation (e.g., room décor, menus, attractions and costumes).
“The Rhine River Cruise”
Site plans depicted the pavilion nestled between a stretch (of more than 40 miles) of canal, a perimeter road, a service road, and the shores of the World Showcase Lagoon Promenade. The Federal Republic of Germany Pavilion Current Preliminary Design Concept for the Federal Republic of Germany was soon prepared and described:
”Guests entering the German Pavilion of world Showcase will find themselves in a spacious plaza surrounded by ornately decorated buildings representing traditional as well as contemporary German architecture. Inside these buildings guests will find themed shops selling the finest in German goods.
A glockenspeil with life-sized animated figures adorns the plaza clock tower and a sculptural fountain depicts the well known story of St. George and the Dragon. The plaza ramps down to a sunken courtyard where guests can enjoy a snack and a view of the boarding area of the German Rivers ride.
The ride is a simulated cruise down Germany’s most famous and picturesque rivers, the Rhine, the Tauber, the Ruhr, and the Isar. Guests will ride past intricately detailed miniatures of famous landmarks including Neuschwanstein Castle, the Garmish Ski Area, Rothenburg, and the Cologne Cathedral. The miniatures will be scaled so that they appear to be full-sized scenes viewed from a distance. In addition to the miniatures the ride will feature several life-sized tableaus which will appear as animated visions in the sky. These tableaus depict milestones in German history and culture. The ride debarks at an authentic beer garden where guests can enjoy food, drink and music in this most festive of German settings.
The upper level of the pavilion is devoted to shops and display areas featuring many of the produets which people the world over associate with Germany. Bavarian cuckoo clocks, porcelain figurines, hand-carved music boxes, toys and cameras are among the items which will be available to guests. working artists and craftsmen as well as displays highlighting the unique character of the merchandise will enhance guests enjoyment of the shops. The upper level also offers quests a view down into the beer garden below. The pavilion also features a wine cellar, tasting room and Rathskellar restaurant.”
The 1976 Walt Disney Productions Annual Shareholders Report, page 2, teased the World Showcase with concepts presented to potential German sponsors including the German Rivers Cruise. Walt Disney Imagineer Concept Designer John Stone developed overall concept models, dimensional design, including facades and Show Buildings for the Germany Pavilion and the Rhine River Ride under the direction of Harper Goff.
An excerpt from the Walt Disney Productions Annual Report 1978.
Soon, the “Walt Disney Productions Annual Report 1978“ briefly described the Federal Republic of Germany Pavilion for shareholders and employees: “German architecture highlights the pavilion filled with themed shops. There will be a cruise down German's most famous rivers -the Rhine, the Tauber, the Ruhr and the Isar. Detailed miniatures of famous landmarks will also be seen, including one of the Cologne Cathedral. Also planned is an authentic beer garden. Working artists and craftsmen will demonstrate their crafts.”
Marty Sklar recollected (in “One Little Spark! Mickey’s Ten Commandments and The Road to Imagineering”: “I had spent eight of my eventual fifty-four years at Disney leading the Imagineers in developing the concepts, playing a key role in convincing the major corporate sponsors to make Epcot a reality, and producing the myriad of shows and stories that attracted more than ten million visitors to visit Epcot in its first year.” According to one c.1982 “Germany” prospectus prepared by Walt Disney Productions : “Germany was chosen for Phase One [of Epcot Center] for two important reasons. First, the Oktoberfest theme provided perfect context for a large food facility, something vital to World Showcase. Second, Epcot Center planners knew they could count on enthusiastic German manufacturers and exporters to help get it off the ground.”
“Wilkommen - Germany World Showcase Participants”
“Jack Lindquist, Vice President of Marketing for Disneyland and Walt Disney World… [headed] up our team responsible for lining up participants for EPCOT and World Showcase,” according to Disneyland LINE Magazine. By 1978, at least six companies had expressed an intention to participate in the Germany World Showcase - Brauerie Beck & Co., Goebel Art GmbH., Hutschenreuther AG, adidas, E. Leitz Inc., and Goldener Oktober. Soon, several German sponsors were officially “vital contributors to this authentic atmosphere, presenting the best of German products to our guests. Their products were chosen because of their history of fine quality and excellent service.” Among these was Goebel Art GmbH. (manufacturer of Hummel figures, china and cookware since 1871), H. Schmitt Sohne (a 200 year-old Longuich winery, on the Mosel River, and manufacturer of over 900 wines), Hutschenreuther AG (a approximately 150-year-old porcelain manufacturer), Brauerie Beck and Company (the largest privately owned German brewery, since 1553), and H. Bahlsens (a 90-year old manufacturer of biscuits and confectionaries). The aforementioned publication impresses the fact, that by sponsoring Germany, “these companies have the opportunity to expand their horizons by reaching millions of World Showcase guests.” Owing to these, seven specialty shops spotlighting quality German craftsmanship would comprise Germany, the land of castles and rivers.
•Germany Art/ Book Store (Der Bücher-wurm) -oil paintings, art reproductions, books, original art work, and memorabilia.
•Clock/ Craft Shop (Volks-kunst)- Clocks range from the traditional cuckoo clock to anniversary, mantle and wall clocks. There were music boxes, intricate and root wood carvings and wood crafts, pewterware, and hand carved candles. Pewterware, a traditional German craft, featured goblets and steins ranging in price from $40 to $100.
•Toy Shop (Der Teddybär) - Across the Platz, or town square, was Der Teddybär. The display area for this shop was specially designed to accommodate the animated scene, inviting us into the shop. Such is the philosophy of display. All the figures for the display, except for the nutcrackers, are authentic merchandise items which have been animated. Similar unani-mated items are available in the shop for purchase. Inside were German dolls dressed in costumes native to the regions of Germany, stuffed animals, trains, an array of traditional wooden toys, and games.
•Wine Shop (Weinkeller), featuring Schmitt Söhne - over 100 German wine labels (with 120 Schmitt Söhne labels, primarily white), and periodic wine tastings throughout the year. The setting is an old wine cellar where guests can browse amid some everyday and special occasion wines as well as old vintage varieties which retail in the thousands of dollars. These exclusive estate wines are primarily displayed as show-pieces, but are also available for purchase. In addition, various wines are also featured from the Biergarten restaurant.
•Cookie Shop (Sussigkeiten), featuring chocolates from Bahlsen - assorted crackers, cookies, snacks and confections.
•Ceramic Shop (Glas und Por-zellan), featuring Goebel - Hummel figurines, glass products and a complete distinguished Goebel line. Founded in 1871, and world renowned for their Hummel figurines, Goebel also features glass, stoneware and ceramic giftware, some of which is featured here. To add to the atmosphere, a special artisan area was designed to accommodate a Goebel craftsman. About five to six times a year, our guests can catch a glimpse of Goebel craftsmanship at its best. The most expensive item in World Showcase is a Hummel figurine retailing for $14,000.
•Porcelain Shop (Porzellanhaus), featuring Hutschenreuther - Figurines, porcelain products. This shop was sponsored by Hutschenreuther, a very high quality porcelain producer in Germany, with a history of producing fine dinnerware, figurines. plates, giftware and crystal since 1814. This line featured retail items with prices ranging from no lower than $15.00 to most over $50.00.
Epcot Center Germany World Showcase taking form.
Walt’s people and company were now embarking on “imagineering” a new, grander “theme show” for Florida audiences. The latter expression (“theme show”) was once defined as: “A controlled, usually man-made environment where as many as possible elements pertain to a single fictional or non-fictional motif. Thus, an individual placed within that environment may consciously or subliminally experience it.” But even more (as one sanctioned statement elaborated): “We are talking about all the things a guest may experience and be entertained by - colors, sounds, lights, detail - timing, taste and texture. Through art and animation, our imagination, creativity and talent blend together to make our ’show.’”
Walt Disney once said: “The whole thing here is the organization. Whatever we accomplish belongs to our entire group, a tribute to our combined effort.” In step with Walt’s philosophies, what was described as a “complex and highly diversified team” of individuals (among the Project Management and the Project Team) would coordinate and translate the concept of EPCOT Center into a reality. The Federal Republic of Germany World Showcase pavilion would be Imagineered (in part) by the a team.
Imagineers traveled to Bavaria to search for architectural features (like thatched roof farmhouses) that would “convey that Old World ambiance.” Even the design of the Backstage sides of Germany would wrap around “as far as the sightlines,” so that the “story doesn’t stop abruptly.”
These character elements were Imagineered by the collaborative contributions of writers, designers, artists, film makers, engineers, sculptors, and builders, in addition to committees of foreign nationals, representatives of corporations and governments. These contributions were overseen by Project Director Jim Nagy, EPCOT Center World Showcase Canada Project Manager Bruce Dunford, Bill Tyson (Resident Engineer), Bruce MacDonald (BVCC Project Manager), Ron Stahlhut (Tishman Project Manager), Pete Rahill (Pico Coordinator), and Don Golde (Project Business Administrator), with the help of General Contractors Inland Constriction, Inc. Bob Scifo was brought in to Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Development to create early concepts for the EPCOT Center Germany World Showcase during 1979.
Walt Disney World Shops would employ disciplines found at MAPO, supporting MAPO with in construction manufacturing.
The Showcase Area Development Landscaping Team was comprised of Don Hughes (Project Manager), Bill Coan(Resident Engineer), Jim Franklin (BVCC Project Manager), John Payne (PICO Coordinator), Joanne Fernholz (Project Business Administrator), and Dave Yanchar (Project Planner). [“Epcot Center - People Bring it to Life,” prepared by WED/MAPO, c.1980]
“We Did It” by Charles Boyer.
The hard work and dedication of many individuals is what made Walt Disney’s EPCOT Center a reality. On September 16, 1981, Jack Lindquist firmly announced the official EPCOT Center Grand Opening date for EPCOT Center World Showcase Germany Pavilion - Friday, October 15, 1982. Soon, The $1.2 Billion EPCOT Center covering 300 acres opened with two main lands - Future World and World Showcase, and so many of these individuals (and their family members) were invited to join in the World Showcase Reception and Festival Program.
“Germany is Represented at the International Festival of Festivals”
Epcot Center World Showcase Festival Program Reception celebrated a unique Community of Nations on Saturday, October 23, 1982. The grand finale the evening's festivities, Le Carna-val de Lumière proudly proclaimed the Official Opening with the presentation of the world premiere of its International Festival of Festivals, a celebration of celebrations. Epcot Center's nighttime extravaganza of illuminations, water, sound, and fire was viewed from Showcase Plaza. This show, was to be an ongoing feature of World Showcase, using the new medium of computerized “magic-lantern” illumination to transport audiences to other times and cultures, inviting their imagination to engage in moments of festivity around the world.
Every society rejoices in what it feels most deeply about, inventing vivid rituals to celebrate important events in the cycle of life. Throughout the ages, the family of man has marked these joyous occasions with impressive public feasts and fêtes, dancing and music, parades and processions, pageants and exhibitions, spectacles and fireworks. These celebrations march from the past, through our lives today, and into the heritage of future generations. Through kaleidoscopic tapestries of light and sound, Le Carnaval de Lumière took audiences across the entire world and through twenty centuries to experience the rich diversity - and the commonality - of human celebration.
The roster of international entertainers is still impressive. The following groups were featured: All-American College Marching Band, West Point Glee Club, the Royal Irish Rangers (the last Irish infantry regiment in the British Army), Koleda (a highly professional group of dancers and musicians from Valenje, Yugoslavia), the Folkloric Dancers of Madrid (Spain), the Folklore Group Fribourg (Switzerland), Leyte Kalipayan Dance Company (Philippines), Areyto (The National Folkloric Ballet of Puerto Rico), Kelaa M'Gouna and Imintanout Folk Dancers and Musicians (Morocco), Ballet Folklórico Nacional de Mexico, The Boys Band of Meersburg (Germany), National Korean Folk Dance Company, Historic Standard Bearers of the District of Cori (Italy), "Lous Pastous Seignossais" Folk Ensemble (France), Finnish Folk Dance and Music Ensemble, "Katrilli" (Finland), Tivoli Boys Guard Band (Denmark), The National Folklore Troupe of Egypt, Universidad del Valle Folk Dance Group (Columbia), Lucnica (Czechoslovakia), The Shanghai City Song and Dance Ensemble (China), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride, The Royal Barbados Police Band, The Hunting Horns of Hoffalize and The Hunting Horns of St. Hubert (Belgium), COSAAN African Dance Company, and Odori Festival of Japan.
The 1982 program introduced The Boys Band of Meersburg:
“This group of about 55 superb young musicians averages 12 years of age. Meersburg is a small town situated on the shore of Lake Constance in West Germany. The excellent quality of performance is maintained by having a feeder group of some 45 younger boys who are con-finally being trained so that they are prepared to join the group when vacancies occur. Reminiscent of Germanys historic past, the boys' uni-forms, adapted from the Baroque period of the 18th century, are designed to evoke the coun-trys cultural and musical heritage. Recognized as being one of the finest musical groups in all of Germany, this band of expert wind instrument performers plays typical German music and a wide range of other musical selections. Their director is Werner Asmacher.”
The Disney concept of theming is evident throughout Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Our shops complement the themed area and the merchandise. This is also carried over to Epcot Center World Showcase where we find souvenir shops that create tangible memories for Guests through Show and traditional merchandise of national origin.
It is notable to mention that during these early years, it was commonplace for merchandise locations to stock General Merchandise - non-character and/or decorative items, including film and sundries. In all, about 30% of merchandise had the Epcot Center logo, while the other 70% was general.
Some 2,000 years of architectural history - picturesque medieval Baroque "gingerbread" village structures, romantic castles, and lively Beer Garden comprise the Platz.
The Germany Pavilion like some village with structures constructed centuries apart, opened with:
•The opulent Porzellanhaus, where guests would discover hand-painted and gilded china of Hutschenreuther, the historic Hohenberg an der Eger porcelain business founded in 1814. It is notable to mention that during these early years, it was commonplace for merchandise locations to stock General Merchandise - non -character and/or decorative items, including film and sundries.
•The Glas und Porzellan shop, where atop deep pile carpets and under the glass chandeliers guests discover a merchant of fine porcelain dinnerware, glassware, and Hummel figures of plump, cherubic children, similar to those once crafted by German nun Berta Hummel. One early prospectus also suggested that artists from Goebel Art GmbH visit the shop “five or six times a year,” molding and painting Hummels for two-week periods.
•The Biergarten restaurant.
•The Sussigkeiten shop, offering a “sweet surprise including cookies, crackers and confections” like those of Bahlsen, supported by a historic slide show and exhibit featuring century-old antique Bahlsen tins.
•The Volkskunst, offering an alluring array of cuckoo clocks, music boxes, hand-dipped candles, carved wooden objects, and pewter ware.
•Der Bücherwurm shop modeled after some 16th century building, where guests would discover both “classic and contemporary books,” sheet music from great German composers, reproductions of German paintings, and original contemporary German paintings).
•The Weinkeller shop, featuring more than 250 varieties white wine produced by historic vintner H. Schmitt Sohne. Occasional wine tastings were to be performed, accessories sold, and rare bottles put on exhibition.
•The Der Teddybär shop, would showcase “splendidly crafted toys” like Steiff stuffed animals, finely crafted wood miniatures, models, games, and sturdy teddy bears. The animated displays for the toy shop provides a charm and craftsmanship that appeals to everyone. The Germany display consists of a nutcracker oompah band playing as their hats pop up and down with the music, and toy dolls dance to the tune. This lively scene incorporates real merchandise dolls which can be found in the store, except these dolls have been animated. The nutcrackers in the scene are not authentic due to the fact that, in their original size, they tended to disappear into the scene. To remedy this, larger nutcrackers were made by the design staff, using the authentic ones as models. Display design also encompasses the fixtures and props which exhibit merchandise within the shop.
Der Bücherwurm with Hapsburg Emperors is modeled after Das Kaufhaus merchant hall in Freiburg.
Embellished baroque style architecture (which appeared in Germany around the 17th century) is mingled with the plainer types of architecture.
The small-scale Der Bücherwurm with Hapsburg Emperors is modeled after Das Kaufhaus merchant hall in Freiburg.
The Platz
The Platz
The entryways were intended to open to “The Romantic Rivers of Germany,” currently leading to the Beer Garden.
“‘The West Clock’ of World Showcase”
I’m not referring to the old bus stop at Magic Kingdom Cast Member parking where you park and catch the bus into the tunnel entrance. On the West side of World Showcase, you’ll see and hear the Glockenspiel over the Platz. While the rooster pops out overhead, the children hammer out the hour in the Glockenspiel. The song is a unique melody that was specially designed for Epcot Center World Showcase.
St. George and the Dragon in the Platz
A statue of St. George (patron saint of soldiers) Slaying the legendary Dragon (while on his Middle East pilgrimage) similar to that of a fountain in Rothenburg rests on the cobblestone Platz, as the children’s ringing of the carillon in the clock tower is heard. In the distance, beyond the towering walls, a castle leads the way to the Bavarian (or, Southeastern German) Biergarten Restaurant! You can almost hear the sound of the festive oom-pah band.
Oktoberfest is celebrated every day of the month with the seven-piece band, fest hall dancers, and Black Forest Hosts and Hostesses of Germany's Biergarten at the Germany World Showcase.
In Theresienwiese of Munich, Germany, Oktoberfest is celebrated once a year, continuing the party established during the engagement of Prince Ludwig and Princess Theresa in 1810. Two oxen are roasted on a fire each day of the festival. “Carnival rides, brass bands, and folk dancers further enliven this jubilant, exuberant holiday,” according to one source. In addition to this, some 4 million liters of beer are produced. Now, owing to the German ambassadors, the spirit of Oktoberfest lives on near Lake Buena Vista, about 4,900 miles southwest from Theresienwiese ("Theresa's Meadow") of Munich, Germany. Through the autumn trees and near two waterwheel come the scents of sauerbraten, roast pork and sausages and the sounds of the seven piece brass band.
Originally the pavilion was to feature a “Rathskellar restaurant,” according to some early prospectus documents. According to one c.1982 “Germany” prospectus prepared by Walt Disney Productions : “The village design which gives the interior of the Biergarten the look and feel of an exterior, was inspired by the town of Rothenberg.” The walls modeled after Rothenburg walls of the 14th and 15th centuries. “But, as Epcot Center architects say with justifiable pride, nowhere is there a beer garden like this one.
As elsewhere in the World Showcase, the designers have rearranged elements of architecture from various places in order to serve their needs, in this case, for a spacious facility where hundreds of visitors can eat, drink, and watch live performances, all the while feeling that they are in another country at another time. A precise replica of an authentic German beer hall would have been inadequate. Because few are designed to accommodate as many people or as much activity as the one in World Showcase, three stories of tables and chairs ensure that visitors will have ample room to enjoy their meals and the show.
To help celebrate ‘Oktoberfest year ‘round,’ and authentic seven-piece band and a corps of fest hall dancers perform a 30-to 40-minute show five times each night. In addition to traditional folk music, the show features performances on specialty instruments, including an Alpine Horn (a 15-foot wooden horn originally used for communication in the mountains, but adapted for musical purposes) and the melodic cowbells. In the spirit of ‘Gemutlichkeit,’ which, roughly, means ‘Good food and drink, good friends, and good times,’ our guests are encouraged to dance as the band strikes up waltzes and polkas. Likewise, a chorus of yodelers and folksingers invite our guests to follow the words on projected animation and join them in song.”
Biergarten Menu.
“EPCOT World Showcase Dining”
Epcot Center offered a sampling of delicious cuisine - a wide variety of dining experiences available for guests to savor in an international setting. Beer, wine and spirits were available at all table-service locations. Refreshing ice cream, beverages and snack carts could be found throughout Epcot Center.
“The Spirit of Gemütlichkeit - ‘Good Food and Drink, Good Friends, and Good Times’”
The menu would feature “such traditional fare as sauerbraten, roast pork, sausages and, of course, beer - served in full-litre steins.” [according to Epcot Center Souvenir guides, October 1, 1982] In addition to traditional food like vienerschintzel, there was made available, a good selection of superior H. Schmitt Sohne white wines, while a few were available for purchase at Weinkeller.
Of course, the most important drink is the national beverage of Germany - Beer! In Germany, beer comes from a process where the barley is soaked, allowed to germinate, and is then baked to form a malt. The malt is added to a hops, and fermented. According to one prospectus, “light beers are brewed from malt which has simply been dried and baked , while dark beers are made from darkly roasted malt which is fermented over a longer period. Dark beers, containing more malt, are sweeter than light beers.” The same prospectus adds, “Germans consume approximately 46 1/2 gallons of beer per person each year.” Around 1980, it was calculated that about 4 million liters of beer alone, were produced exclusively to support Oktoberfest.
Biergarten Menu.
The “World Showcase” souvenir (prepared for the “World Showcase Festival, Reception, and Le Carnaval De Lumiere”, October 23, 1982) : “The soft pretzels on dowels that greet you are authentic and not to be missed. Of course, food and drink are a traditional part of the festivities in the Biergarten, where you are invited to savor a hearty cold plate of typical German fare and steins of Beck’s beer. In the courtyard our chefs grill bratwurst, and in the Weinkeller you can taste assorted Rhine and Mosel wines.”
About 4,900 miles from Theresienwiese ("Theresa's Meadow") in Munich, the spirit of Oktoberfest lives on.
Fest Hall Dancers.
Fest Hall Dancers.
Worldfest at "The Platz"
Bavarians of Munich are renown for their celebration of Oktoberfest (a 16-day autumn period of feasting, drinking, and folksong on the Theresienwiese, or “Theresa’s Meadow”) celebrating the engagement of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Theresa in 1810. While there is no German celebration considered as lively or exhilarating, another type of festival brings similar tone to “The Platz” (a recreation of St. Georgsplatz at Epcot Center World Showcase). EPCOT Center opened in 1982, and 1984 saw the beginning of Worldfest (a celebration of entertainment, traditions, and foods of various cultures around the world! The cultures of the present pavilions in the World Showcase (like Germany) especially celebrated their country’s heritage!
“EPCOT CENTER-Illumi-Nations”
EPCOT CENTER-Illumi-Nations, the most dazzling, high-tech spectacle ever produced by Disney opened January 30, 1981 at Epcot Center. IllumiNations took place every evening just before closing around World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations actually transformed World Showcase into a totally new sensory experience as it enveloped 8 international courtyards that surrounded World Showcase Lagoon. The electrifying display blended a lush orchestral score with spotlights, lasers, fountains, fireworks and projected images to create an event of unparalleled visual impact.
25 computer systems synchronized the following to create the special effects that made IllumiNations so electrifying:
13 special effects projectors
6 lasers
11 giant searchlights
12 wire mesh screens (each as big as the side of a warehouse!) on which light-designs are projected
108 dazzling fountains that create the lagoon's dancing waters
783 fireworks rockets—a 4th of July celebration every night!
550 theatrical and 680 strobe lights
5 miles of building-outlining rim lighting
More than 50,000 lightbulbs!
IllumiNations' theme was international travel, and as the show began pictures were drawn in light over the lagoon, setting the stage for the journey that followed. The classical music selections-recorded by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra delighted the ear as much as the fantasy of lights delighted the eyes.
Then, one by one, the nations around World Showcase changed in appearance through the magic of Disney as the musical score changed with them. Some buildings even appeared to undergo architectural transformations before the audience’s eyes.
The Canadian chateau became a stand of giant fir trees. Germany's Bavarian castle turned into a whimsical gingerbread Gasthaus. France became a cabaret. Kites appeared over Japan, and a dragon travelled across China. The rousing finale combined all the global tour's elements of sight and sound. Even then the colorful lighting effects remained on to offer guests a totally new nighttime adventure at Epcot Center.
If you thought you’d seen it all, the amazing new light of IllumiNations was the experience of a lighttime, nightly at Epcot Center.
In 1978, Card Walker (at the World Congress of the International Chamber of Commerce) announced: “The World Showcase will be a community of nations, the only permanent international exposition of its kind anywhere, focusing on the culture, traditions, tourism and accomplishments of people around the world… a model for true people-to-people exchange, the World Showcase will offer participating nations an opportunity to send their outstanding young adults to operate the attractions, shops, restaurants and exhibits of their pavilions. And these young people who will work, play and learn together for a period of up to one year will help to generate greater international understanding.” The Epcot World Showcase would truly be “a showcase of the world…and a showcase to the world.” Here ”the nations of the world will stand side by side…” and “meet on a coequal basis to communicate on a ‘people to people’ exchange with the more than 12 million visitors.”
EPCOT Center Cast Members would be referred to as the ambassadors of “the spirit of EPCOT Center,” since that very namesake orientation class. Without them, EPCOT Center would just be one magnificent stage. This ambassadorial Cast (in understanding the Epcot dream) would become “the link between the shows and the guest.” According to a souvenir guide, the EPCOT Center Hosts and Hostesses were ambassadors “of happiness, hope, optimism and goodwill.”
According to one prospectus: “In this true people-to-people concept, sponsoring nations will be invited to send their outstanding young adults to operate the attractions, shops, restaurants and exhibits of their pavilion.” Proving this were the Boys Band of Meersburg, authentic Tyrolian yodelers, and strolling troubadours that helped open the World Showcase on October 1, 1982. Through the World Showcase Festival Program, Epcot Center guests were entertained by performers from all over the world. These “cultural ambassadors” included entertainers representing Greece, Africa, Cambodia, the Dominican Republic, Yugoslavia, Israel and Norway.
The international guests would soon find that the Germany World Showcase Cast Members were knowledgeable and prepared to answer questions about the pavilion and the country itself, and would even provide foreign language assistance, and guest literature in many languages. As early as June of 1980, it was divulged: “Young people will be brought over from their native country on a combination work and education program. Courses with college credit will be conducted at Walt Disney World University.” [“Orlando-Land!” published for June of 1980] All of these would contribute to a community of nations standing side by side. As preserved in “The Spirit of EPCOT Center,” Ken Anderson once noted, “I see people getting to know one another better on a scale, and in an environment that makes our similarities more important than our differences… a tremendous way of shrinking the world even further.”
Germany (through the "binding spirit of Epcot Center") was also culturally represented outside its Pavilion, at the American Garden Theater by the Shore.
Great care was taken to represent the native clothing in this regard. For instance, “Originally, Hosts were to wear lederhosen, or short pants. But a German young man who came to model the lederhosen outfit informed the costume designers that the short pants were characteristic of Austria, not his country. To attain authenticity, trousers were lengthened to the knee.” [“Walt Disney World Epcot Center - Germany,” prepared by Walt Disney Productions, 1982] The traditional fabrics (the fine cottons and wools of the dirndl skirts, and soft leather knee pants) would not send up to the rigorous laundering. So, the Germany World Showcase Cast would be dressed in synthetic blended recreations of traditional Bavarian clothing - dirndl skirts (for Hostesses) and knee pants (for Hosts).
“When Phase Two of World Showcase is complete, visitors will enjoy two additional features: a German Rivers attraction and a Tourism Center.” As to “The Romantic Rivers of Germany,” it was published that “guests will learn about German history and culture as they cruise down a course which simulates Germany’s most picturesque rivers, and takes them past castles, industrial centers, and recreational sites. With Medieval relics, an impressive show, and travel agents ready to make all the arrangements, the Tourism Center will entice our guests to visit the real Germany.” [“Walt Disney World Epcot Center - Germany,” prepared by Walt Disney Productions, 1982]
Show documentation of a “People of the World” Dutch Doll that inhabits the areas neighboring the Germany World Showcase Pavilion.
At the Walt Disney Company, Show Documentation is a “collection of photographic and physical information that captures the creative intent of Disney Parks, Resorts, and Cruise Ships and provides support to Disney teams around the world. Opening day documentation, working drawings, fur and feather swatches, paint draw downs, and many other items are included in this.”
According to one Pre-Opening Day c.1982 orientation instructor’s guide : “The familiar faces of the Disney Characters won’t be there.” Neighboring People of the World wandered near the Pavilion’s representing neighboring countries and cultures. Back in 1978, Backstage Disneyland divulged: “The Costuming Division is actively involved in all future Company projects. The ‘People of America’ costume heads from ‘America on Parade’ are being considered for possible use in Florida's World Showcase Project.” Now among the 82 World Showcase Dolls, there was a representative of Germany.
Walt Disney Entertainment department developed new shows and parades for all of Walt Disney World. Character and Equity groups performed in this area of World Showcase East, with Characters overseen by the WSC East Captain.
World Showcase Parade.
Mickey’s Express near Canada World Showcase.
Ultimately, the Disney Characters would make appearances at Epcot Center. By c.2007, Guests May recall “Disney Characters on Holiday” (DCOH), a group of Characters that performed in several locations in Epcot, entering and exiting on a European double-decker bus. One of their Set Locations was near the Germany pavilion. However, the Characters would never fill the important role of the international Cast.
Ever wonder what became of those buses? We spotted a World Showcase Bus along a California highway in 2023.
Germany World Showcase from the other side of World Showcase Lagoon.
The World Showcase was designed to accommodate future growth within its own pavilion and flanked by plenty of World Showcase real estate on each side of the Germany World Showcase. This was important, for “when Phase Two of World Showcase is complete, visitors will enjoy two additional features: a German Rivers attraction and a Tourism Center. On the German Rivers ride-through, guests will learn about German history and culture as they cruise down a course which simulates Germany’s most picturesque rivers, and takes them past castles, industrial centers, and recreational sites. With Medieval relics, an impressive show, and travel agents ready to make all the arrangements, the Tourism Center will entice our guests to visit the real Germany.” [“Walt Disney World Epcot Center - Germany,” prepared by Walt Disney Productions, 1982] According to another early prospectus publication, “The plaza ramps down to a sunken courtyard where guests can enjoy a snack and a view of the boarding area of the German Rivers ride. The ride is a simulated cruise down Germany’s most famous and picturesque rivers - the Rhine, the Tauber, the Ruhr, and the Isar. Guests will ride past intricately detailed miniatures of famous landmarks, including Neuschwanstein Castle, the Garmish Ski Area, Rothenburg and the Cologne Cathedral. The miniatures will be scaled so they appear to full-sized scenes viewed from a distance. In addition to the miniatures, the ride will feature several life-sized tableaus which will appear as animated visions in the sky. These tableaus depict milestones in German history and culture. The ride debarks at an authentic beer garden where guests can enjoy food, drink and music in this most festive of German settings.”
Germany World Showcase from the other side of World Showcase Lagoon.
Nearby, the Friendship Boats transport guests from Dock #3 across the World Showcase.
Obviously, the fastest way to move people over the extended areas of a Park is with moving vehicles. "FriendShip" launches crossed the World Showcase Lagoon and readily accommodated guests in wheelchairs and strollers. Buses regularly circled the World Showcase promenade. By 1982, getting around the World Showcase area was made easier with additional transportation, in the form of seven more busses and two new boats with a third under construction.
EPCOT Center Friendship Boats Watercraft Hat by Creative Costuming at the Disney-MGM Studios.
World Showcase Lagoon & Island #3, from the World Showcase Germany Pavilion
Note the future attractions among the details of this EPCOT Center map, c.1982.
“The Spirit of EPCOT Center” c.1982 instructor’s orientation guide introduces the Germany World Showcase Pavilion the following way :
“Inspired in part by towns in the Rhine region and Bavaria and in part by communities in the north, the Germany pavilion boasts structure reminiscent of these in Frankfurt, Freidburg, and Rothenburg.
The huge Biergarten is the largest table service restaurant in the World Showcase. Here, it’s Oktoberfest year ‘round. German fare like smoked pork loin, roasted half chickens, grilled Bratwurst, Beck’s Beer, sauerkraut and sturdy pumpernickel bread served.
Seven unique shops also bring a little of Germany to World Showcase.
The glass and porcelain shop features items made by the German firm of Goebel, manufacturer fo Hummel figurines.
The porcelain shop also stocks the products fo the German firm of Hutschenreuther - mainly elaborately sculpted birds, horses, fish and other figurines.
The tiny, tile-floored confectionary shop sells cookies made by the German firm of Bahlsen.
The German pavilion’s wine shop, offers a good selection of Scmitt-Sohne wines and wine accessories.
Plush keepsakes from Steiff, wooden toys, dolls, and wonderfully detailed miniature trains are among the wares that are sold in Der Teddybear.
The Clocks & Crafts shop sells ticking, rocking, continuously, cuckooing clocks.
And finally, the Bookworm Shop offers books about Germany.”
“World Showcase” souvenir (prepared for the “World Showcase Festival, Reception, and Le Carnaval De Lumiere”, October 23, 1982) :
“Dance the polka, raise a stein to toast life, and join in singing a folksong in the traditional Oktoberfest setting of the Biergarten in Germany. (The interior design, which looks like a village, was inspired by the town of Rothenburg.) Here the merriment and the atmosphere will captivate your fancy, and the show is lots of fun.
The platz outside offers its own discoveries - the medieval spires and half-timbered shops that lend a fairy-tale charm to the Bavarian setting, a statue of St. George slaying the dragon, and an animated clock that sounds the hour with a glockenspiel.
German products and craftsmanship abound in the shops, everything from cuckoo clocks to toys, from hand-carved wood to pewter ware. You may even encounter a Hummel artist painting the famous figurines.”
When Epcot Center opened in 1982, there were 34 merchandise locations.
Would a World Showcase Swiss Pavilion have found a home next to Germany?
Germany was nearly flanked by a World Showcase Swiss Pavilion and Equatorial Africa.
International Land depicted on the cover of the Feasibility Analysis and Executive Study for Oriental Disneyland (later named Tokyo Disneyland).
By August of 1975, the Feasibility Analysis Economic Study was completed for (what was first billed as “Oriental Disneyland”), an area called “International Land” was mentioned. It seems that (much like the original concept for EPCOT Center), Guests of International Land would also have “an opportunity to experience the endless variety of today's community of nations… discover the culture, traditions, tourism, and accomplishments of the participating countries through a wide variety of exciting shows and attractions, restaurants, and shopping streets unique to the individual nations.”
“It Looks Like We Started Something - Epcot Center Legacy”
The EPCOT Center World Showcase nearly had a legacy in WESTCOT Center - “a West Coast version of EPCOT Center, with a Spacestation Earth as its centerpiece, and a World Showcase. It was initially announced in March 1991, to be built where Disney California Adventure was eventually situated.” [Disney Facts Revealed by Dave Smith, 2016]
World Showcase nearly had a legacy in WESTCOT Center. Guests would have been transported to the Wonders of WESTCOT themed pavilions. At World Showcase, located around the island, visitors would have explored every corner of the globe at dramatic pavilions of foreign lands. WESTCOT was to include a whole new World Showcase of culture, traditions, tourism, and accomplishments of participating nations. Like EPCOT Center, these would be experienced through a wide variety of exciting shows and attractions, restaurants, and shopping streets unique to the individual nations.