Disneyland's Haunted Mansion Event - Part II, Wrap-Up

Disneyland's Haunted Mansion Event - Part II
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Tim asks the panelists, “We all know Leota Toombs was the face of Madame Leota, she was one of the Imagineers. Are there any other Imagineers represented in the Haunted Mansion. Any faces we might recognize?"

X answers, ”My voice is in the coffin, “Let me out of here, let me out of here.”

Tim O'Day continues, "As the Mansion was nearing completion, to promote the attractions here at the Park in 1970 they did a TV special. Kurt Russell narrates as viewers get a sneak peek at the ghosts and ghouls of the Haunted Mansion including a segment illustrating the magic of audio-animatronics. Bill Justice is seen cutting the various disks that are part of this special animation process. (Note: You can view screen captures of this video at Jason Schultz's Happiest Page on Earth)

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Clip from the TV special

Two original radio spots by Paul Frees were played following the video.  These radio spots can be heard on the new Haunted Mansion CD currently available at Disneyland.

After receiving the 5 minute warning from Thing, O'Day continues, "The Haunted Mansion went on to be a terrific attraction here at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, moved onto Tokyo Disneyland and then became Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris.  How does it feel to be associated with such a legendary Disney attraction?  What's your favorite memory in being a part of this?"

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Panelists Rolly Crump, Buddy Baker
and Moderator Tim O'Day

Buddy Baker replies, "My favorite memory was having the opportunity to work with great talent like this." The panelists all nod in agreement.

Rolly Crump begins, "Yale Gracey was the genius behind the illusion...working with Yale was marvelous experience."

Sam's happiest memory is "when they finally opened it." X reflects on his "conversation piece" - he, along with the others had each been presented with a gravestone. X Atencio keeps his on display in the backyard.

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Panelists Marc Davis,
X Atencio and Sam McKim

Finally Marc Davis remarks, "Looking here at some of these things I'm reminded that these are my drawings. I enjoyed it. I think it is an outstanding attraction. I recommend everyone go in and be careful. Those are hitchhiking ghosts."

The moderator, Tim O'Day wraps up the evening, "Thank you for being a part of one of our favorite Haunted Mansion memories." The Haunted Mansion is "truly a theme park masterpiece."

The chimes begin to ring again and thick fog covers the stage.  Madame Leota appears, "Hurry Back! Hurry Back!"  And the curtains close on an incredible evening with a group of very amazing individuals.