LP Lotion: Disneyland's 55th Anniversary Rededication
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55 years after Walt Disney’ original dedication on a live television broadcast, Disneyland was rededicated in a moving ceremony on Town Square. The July 17 event included the President of the Disneyland Resort, a guest who was there on opening day, and a local children’s choir. Disneyland Ambassador Danielle DuBois welcomed the crowd at noon. Standing in front of the Main Street Station, she introduced Disneyland Resort President George Kalogridis, who spoke of the significance of the 55th birthday. He then brought out a current Disneyland cast member who had a special memory of July 17, 1955.

Robb Fischle was part of the crowd of children who ran across the lowered drawbridge of Sleeping Beauty Castle on that day. In making his remarks, he pointed out his younger self in the vintage photograph that made up part of the backdrop. He recalled entering his first attraction in Fantasyland.

Following Fischle’s remarks, George Kalogridis returned, and spoke of Walt Disney’s vision for Disneyland. He pointed out that today, 55 years later, the sun never sets on a Disney theme park. To emphasize this, an ensemble of children took the stage and sang When You Wish Upon a Star in multiple languages. The ceremony climaxed with the entrance of the Disney characters, and a release of doves, as the original recording of Walt Disney’s dedication speech was broadcast
throughout Town Square.

Later in the afternoon, at the time the speech was actually delivered, a Happy Birthday Sing-a-long was held for guests of Disneyland. Following the song, the streets filled with cast members and dancing characters who shared their own moment, to celebrate 55 years of the happiest place on earth.

Videos

Stage is set for the 2010 rededication of Disneyland
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Conductor leads Disneyland Band
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