Hall of Presidents

Regina Hinrichs

dvcreg@wdwinfo.com

Year Opened: 1971
Show Length:22:48 minutes

I'll be the first to admit, its been years since I've visited this attraction. (I think Hoover was President at the time.)  It became the perennial threat if the kid's were misbehaving, "if you don't knock it off, we're going to the Hall of Presidents."  They were angels from that point on.

On the serious side, Disney does know how to do promote patriotism. This attraction will not disappoint those who might enjoy a bit of Americana with that Disney touch.

The show begins with a film featuring images of specially produced paintings. The accompanying narration details the creation of the Constitution and the formation of the Presidency.

As the film comes to an end, the stage is lit and there they are, the 42 incredibly life like audio-animatronic figures of all of the American presidents.

When the Presidents are named, you'll see a lot of realistic gestures such as nodding, a bit of fidgeting and the occassional whisper (do you think that Taft is making fun of the tourists?)

All of the clothing on the figures is an authentic reproduction of their respective eras, including the braces on Franklin Delano Roosevelt's legs.

George W. Bush personally recorded his figure's speech. The other speaking part belongs to Abraham Lincoln. Not only does Honest Abe talk, he rises from his chair and accompanies his address with intricate hand gestures and arm movement.

The Hall of Presidents is best suited for adults. Unless your child is a real history buff, chances are they're going to be bored. Still, if the park is busy and/or hot, sinking into one of the 700 comfy theater seats for a bit is a nice break.

The theatre is wheelchair accessible. For hearing impaired guests, reflective captioning is available (ask a Cast Member at the entrance for assistance), and Assistive Listening devices can be used here (check at Guest Services for details).

Fun Fact: 

The legendary Disney Sculptor Blaine Gibson is responsible for the creation of the presidential figures. He's come out of retirement to sculpt Reagan and each of the presidents who followed him.

The White House was consulted when preparing to add George W. Bush. To make his figure as accurate as possible, they provided his height, weight, clothing sizes, etc. The wrist watch on the figure is identical to the Timex Indiglo he wears, including the "George W. Bush President January 20, 2001" inscription. The signature red tie was provided by Bush's designer.

Hillary Clinton had the final say over how her husbands likeness was to be depicted in the Hall of Presidents.  This included telling the Imagineers how the President combed his hair.