During a recent exclusive tour of the Walt Disney Company’s Imagineering building in Glendale, California, io9 had the opportunity to get a sneak peek behind the scenes of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, set to debut at the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort later this year. Lead Imagineer Charita Carter, who is spearheading the upcoming The Princess and the Frog-inspired attraction, showcased the remarkable Audio-Animatronics for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure before sitting down with a select group of journalists to delve into her remarkable journey at Disney—from her accounting roots to her current role in Imagineering—and the significance of bringing Princess Tiana’s story to life in a new park attraction.
In a candid conversation, Carter revealed the intricate process of crafting a narrative that not only continues Princess Tiana’s story but also invites park guests to actively participate in the experience. By seamlessly integrating guests into the storyline, Carter and her team aimed to create a sense of connection and immersion with the beloved character, allowing visitors to feel like they are truly a part of Tiana’s world.
When discussing the advanced animatronics and character movements featured in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Carter drew comparisons to similar technologies seen in Disney parks internationally, such as the Zootopia attraction in Shanghai and Frozen in Hong Kong. However, she emphasized that the level of complexity and innovation in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be a groundbreaking first for domestic audiences.
Reflecting on her personal journey at Disney, Carter shared her evolution from a finance background to a pivotal role in the creation of cutting-edge attractions like Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. She expressed her pride in pushing the boundaries of technology and storytelling to honor Walt Disney’s legacy and deliver unforgettable experiences to park guests.
Carter’s emotional connection to bringing Princess Tiana to life in a dimensional space was palpable as she described the profound impact of portraying the first African-American princess in a tangible and relatable manner. Inspired by the real-life legacy of Leah Chase and the Chase family, Carter underscored the importance of representing New Orleans culture authentically in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, aiming to evoke a sense of home and community for both local visitors and out-of-town guests.
Through meticulous attention to detail and a deep reverence for the city of New Orleans, Carter and her team have crafted an attraction that seamlessly blends fantasy and reality, inviting guests to embark on a magical journey through the heart of Princess Tiana’s world. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open soon at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and in New Orleans Square at Disneyland, promising an enchanting experience for Disney fans of all ages.