Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Celebrates 100 Years of Disney with Unveiling of ‘Dream Makers’ Statue
Publish Date
Download DetailsHONG KONG, October 15, 2023 – Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) is proud to announce the debut of the Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse Statue, “Dream Makers” in celebration of 100 years of Disney and the resort’s 18th anniversary. Today, “Dream Makers” was revealed against the picturesque backdrop of the Castle of Magical Dreams.
The statue depicts Walt and Mickey returning to the park decades after he had the inspiration for Disneyland, reflecting on the past 100 years of success of The Walt Disney Company and looking forward to what comes next. In the statue, Walt and Mickey are depicted as they would have appeared in Walt’s late fifties. The park bench Walt is sitting on is modelled after a Griffith Park bench on displayed in Disneyland in California, USA.
The unveiling moment on the eve of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary was officiated by Michael Moriarty, Managing Director, HKDL; Ali Rubinstein, Senior Vice President, Executive Global Management of Creative Development at Walt Disney Imagineering; and Edward Ovalle, Archives Manager at Walt Disney Archives, along with senior executives, representatives from non-profit organizations, community friends, devoted fans, students and alumni from Disney Imaginations Hong Kong and local youth program Project Melo, and distinguished guests from Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong.
Along with Mickey, they unveiled the statue and two plaques beside it – on the left is an open sketchbook, symbolizing Disney’s legacy so far, while on the right is a sketchbook yet to be opened, symbolizing that plans for the future are still unknown, with endless possibilities waiting to be discovered.
The celebration featured a “Dream Makers Fireside Chat” for around 900 guests moderated by 2022-2023 Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Ambassadors Lily Chan and Tony Dick, featuring Moriarty and guest speakers Rubinstein and Ovalle, who spoke about Walt Disney as a person, entrepreneur, innovator and storyteller.
Moriarty shared, “Walt’s impact can be felt throughout our organization. His spirit of innovation and ability to think outside the box inspire and encourage me and our leadership team every day. We’re always coming up with new ways to surprise and delight guests, making each visit more memorable than the last.”
Ovalle shared insights on Walt’s early life and inspiration, while Rubinstein shared how Disney continues to carry forward his legacy.
Ovalle said, “Walt was a family man. It was during time spent watching his daughters ride the Merry-Go-Round again and again that ignited his dream of what would become Disneyland.”
Rubinstein said, “Walt never stopped Imagineering, we will never stop Imagineering. Through storytelling, technology, placemaking, ride development and experiences, we are dreaming bigger than ever before, across all our portfolios, and in everything we do.”
The event also showcased videos of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong’s creative team talking about the making of the statue from concept to production, and historical footage of Disney Ambassadors sharing firsthand insights on Walt’s spirit and legacy.
Brand new food and merchandise pay tribute to Walt Disney
Walt’s Cafe and Grand Salon at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel are serving Walt’s favorite foods and themed dishes as part of “Eat like Walt Disney” through late November. The menu evokes memories of Walt’s impact on the world of entertainment and the enduring legacy he left behind. As guests enjoy these delicious dishes, some of which Walt himself savored, they can take a moment to reflect on his incredible vision and imagination, and the countless dreams he inspired.
Guests can also purchase exclusive “Dream Makers" themed merchandise at HKDL, including a figurine, to celebrate the launch of the one-of-a-kind statue and Disney’s incredible legacy on this milestone anniversary.
HKDL has also collaborated with its corporate alliance sponsor, Chow Tai Fook, which will launch the highly collectible “Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse” commemorative gold coin in early November featuring the legendary pair engraved on the front. This coin shows Walt and Mickey’s lively postures in pursuing dreams, designed using the "Dream Makers" statue as its blueprint. On the back side of
the coin, the Castle of Magical Dreams that shimmers with an enchanting, iridescent luster is set against a backdrop.
Guests are welcome to take photos with the “Dream Makers” statue. Disney PhotoPass photographers will be available to take pictures, which guests can purchase with a "Dream Makers" themed photo border and take home as magical memories.
Spreading the spirit of “Dream Makers”
Dream Makers shows how within every individual is a dream maker. With HKDL’s sponsorship and support, the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong (ADAHK) is launching the Disney Dream Makers Youth Development Program: Empowering Young Talents with Disabilities, a youth training program. This program aims to fund and support local budding artists with disabilities aged under 19, encouraging them to explore their artistic talents and creativity. Each recipient has the opportunity to receive up to HK$50,000 in support of their development in the field of art and is encouraged to showcase their artistic growth upon program completion. For further information, visit the official ADAHK website at https://www.adahk.org.hk/?a=doc&id=5302 and join the efforts in empowering young talent and spreading the dream-making spirit!
In conjunction with Disney's 100th Anniversary, HKDL will also aim to launch a new Values Education Series as part of the Disney Youth Programs in late-October. This series will feature the story of Walt’s life and legacy as well as the challenges and experiences of different Disney characters, enabling both primary and secondary school students to better understand the values behind each story and how it can relate to their everyday lives.
As HKDL commemorates the remarkable journey of Disney’s first 100 years, “Dream Makers” stands as a powerful reminder and promise that every individual is a dream maker.
About Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort offers unforgettable, culturally distinctive Disney experiences for guests of all ages and nationalities. Filled with your favorite Disney stories and characters, Hong Kong Disneyland offers guests the opportunity to explore seven diverse themed lands that are home to award-winning, unique attractions and entertainment. Complete your adventure with stays at the resort’s luxurious Disney hotels. The magic doesn’t end at our doorstep; as a dedicated member of the local community that cares deeply about societal wellbeing, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort spreads its magic through community service programs that help families in need, boost creativity among children and families, encourage the protection of the environment and inspire healthier living.
Mobile app gives the latest updates & helps plan your visit
The Hong Kong Disneyland mobile app keeps guests informed of all the excitement at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, from operating hours to entertainment schedules. Reserve your park visit and get Disney Standby Pass to meet Disney friends inside the park. Use the GPS-enabled map to find your way around the park or make reservations for park and hotel restaurants, and make every moment count with wait times for each attraction. Magic Access members can also view block-out calendars and membership privileges, designed to make your visit even more magical.
Download the Hong Kong Disneyland mobile app for free:
iOS users: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1077550649
Android users: https://goo.gl/ZbHHbP
Media Enquiry
Media Relations, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort