INTERVIEW: Legendary Animators Eric Goldberg and Dan Abraham Discuss The Magic of Disney Animation
If you were reading along here at MickeyBlog yesterday, you know we had the opportunity to preview The Magic of Disney Animation.
Set to officially open on September 14, the new attraction invites guests inside a recreation of the Walt Disney Animation building for a series of interconnected experiences that bring the magic of Disney storytelling to life, including Drawn to Wonderland, Off the Page!, and Olaf Draws!
Overall, the attraction is an incredible celebration of Walt Disney Animation.
After experiencing The Magic of Disney Animation, we got the opportunity to interview animators Eric Goldberg and Dan Abraham about the new attraction.
Two Titans of Disney Animation
For those who don’t know, Eric Goldberg is a Disney Legend who has made his mark on the studio’s animated canon.
Photo: Disney
His credits include Aladdin, Pocahontas, Hercules, Fantasia 2000, The Princess and the Frog, Winnie the Pooh, and Get a Horse!
Dan Abraham, on the other hand, has had his own storied Disney career spanning both hand-drawn and CG animation.
Photo: Disney
Most notably, Abraham co-wrote and co-directed Once Upon a Studio, which inspired the new Magic of Disney Animation.
Hopes for The Magic of Disney Animation
During our conversation with the two animators, we heard what they hope for The Magic of Disney Animation.
Eric talked about his desire for young guests to realize that they can draw and achieve their dreams.
Eric Goldberg wants everyone to realize their dreams after visiting the Magic of Disney Animation. pic.twitter.com/cRfcztyupp
— MickeyBlog.com (@MickeyBlog_) September 10, 2026
“They can do whatever is in their hand,” he said. “I hope that they take away from this that they can realize their dreams.”
Agreeing with Eric’s analysis, Dan also talked about the importance of honoring the Disney animators who came before them.
Dan Abraham talks about honoring the Disney Animators that came before them. pic.twitter.com/j35o3bsvgt
— MickeyBlog.com (@MickeyBlog_) September 10, 2026
A Piece of History
As we have seen throughout The Magic of Disney Animation, there is a deep sense of reverence for the history of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Perhaps most notably, Robin Williams’ character from Back to Neverland is heavily featured in the new building.
As it turns out, Eric has a personal connection to the character.
“Bob Rogers, who produced the ‘Back to Neverland’ film, gave me Robin’s Hawaiian shirt,” he revealed.
Eric Goldberg, the legendary Disney animator behind the Genie in Aladdin, shared a special story with us about how he was gifted Robin Williams Hawaiian shirt. pic.twitter.com/cNLTatzeni
— MickeyBlog.com (@MickeyBlog_) September 10, 2026
All in all, it was a magical conversation that made us appreciate The Magic of Disney Animation even more!
As always, be sure to check back with MickeyBlog. We will continue to update you on all the news coming out of Walt Disney World.
Photo: MickeyBlog
