Fire-breathing dragons rampage through the wilds of Walt Disney World. (Photo: Scott Girard)
Long-time listeners to the podcast might remember a really wonderful two–part interview we did several years ago with horticulturalist and Disney landscaper Scott Girard. During our talk, Scott mentioned how, back when Walt Disney World was being originally landscaped, topiaries were famously placed along the road between the Transportation and Ticket Center and the Magic Kingdom. These topiaries became an iconic sight for several generations of Guests.
Unfortunately, the area was also the site of some unsightly exposed steam vents. To cloak this necessary infrastructure, two dragon topiaries were placed over the vents, with piping re-routed to let the steam escape through the dragons’ mouths. Thus, Walt Disney World became the home of two fire-breathing dragons.
Some time ago, Scott contacted me to say he’d actually found a photo of these fierce creatures. I’ve been long overdue in posting them here. I love that it looks like the monorail is driving into a Godzilla film…
To honor the recent passing of Disney Legend Richard Sherman, this special episode of the Radio Hour is a tribute to the iconic and unforgettable Sherman Brothers. We’ll take a look at some of their lesser-known work, from their time before Disney to projects such as Tinpanorama and Summer Magic, to, yes, even SMASH FLOPS! History, music, and more – bring your tuppence, it’s the Progress City Radio Hour!
Ahoy! We continue our nautical theme on the Radio Hour with the return of former Imagineering and Disney Development Company exec Bob Holland! Bob joins us to talk about the early days of the Disney Cruise Line, from the shipyards of Italy to Castaway Cay. Set sail for new magic – it’s the Progress City Radio Hour!
The Progress City Radio Hour sets sail for a nautical exploration of one of Disney’s best features – its boats! Our salty tales include the life of Disney Legend Admiral Joe Fowler, the origin of Disney boat attractions at Arrow Development, a glimpse of life aboard a FriendShip launch, the creation of Disneyland’s Submarine Voyage, and a tribute to Miss Tilly! History, music, and more – cast off the bow line and gun it Mr. Baxter, it’s the Progress City Radio Hour!
Prentis Hale, Walt Disney, John Hench, and Tommy Walker
The Progress City Radio Hour returns to the slopes for more snowbound adventure! We have a wintry mix of tales including a trip to Switzerland with Walt to film on the slopes of the Matterhorn, a look at Disney’s involvement in the 1960 Winter Olympics, and a conversation with Greg Glasgow and Kathryn Mayer about their book, Disneyland On The Mountain, about the never-built resort at Mineral King. History, music, and more – fire up the fondue and grab that tow rope, it’s the Progress City Radio Hour!
From the Progress City archives comes this collection of 33 tall tales and true from Disney history. Available in paperback, hardback, and ebook formats.
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