This Day in Disney History: December 30
Welcome back to our continuing trip though the history of the Walt Disney Company! Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history – December 30.
As the year winds down, we are starting to see slower and slower news days. On December 30th however, we still had the release of a seminal Mickey cartoon, the loss of two Disney legends, and finally, the start of a new Disney World celebration. Let’s get going!
The Gallopin Gaucho Premieres (1928)
On this day in 1928, the Mickey Mouse short The Gallopin Gaucho premiered at the Mark Strand Theater in New York City.
The third Mickey Mickey mouse short to be released, the cartoon featured synchronized sound and was directed by Ub Iweks.
Limited Time Magic Begins (2012)
On this day in 2012, Walt Disney World had its first Limited Time Magic event. A preview of their 2013 celebration, guests visiting Walt Disney World could “Bling in the New Year” with a special dance party at the Rockettower Plaza Stage.
Tyrus Wong Passes Away (2016)
On this day in 2016, Disney Legend Tyrus Wong passed away at the age of 106. Wong would be best remembered for his concept paintings of a deer in a forest. That artwork would be used as inspiration for Bambi.
Don Lusk Passes Away (2018)
Finally, on this day in 2018, animator and director Don Lusk passed away at 105. Considered to be the “last living Disney animator of the golden age”, Lusk was hired by Walt Disney in 1933.
Lusk’s list of Disney credits included work on Pinocchio, Fantasia, Bambi, Song of the South, Cinderella, Peter Pan and Sleeping Beauty.
That’s all for this day in Disney history- December 30. So, be sure to come back tomorrow to see what happens next!