Below is the transcript of the ceremony that took place at Disneyland on May 5th, 2005 to kick off the 50th Anniversary celebration, the Happiest Homecoming on Earth.
-(Announcer comes over the speakers)-
Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to the Happiest Homecoming on Earth! To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Disneyland award winning songwriter Richard Marx was inspired to write a special song. Here to perform "Remember When" please welcome Grammy Award winning artist "Lean Rimes"
-(Lean Rimes takes the stage and sings "Remember When")-
Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the President Chief Officer and CEO Elect of the Walt Disney Company, Bob Iger.
-(Bob Iger takes the stage, "A Whole New World" is playing in the background)-
Bob Iger: Thank you very much and welcome everyone to the Happiest Celebration on Earth. Our salute to 50 years of Disney magic, parks and resorts everywhere. As we begin this wonderful celebration all of us in Anaheim welcome our friends in Orlando, in Tokyo, in Paris and even Hong Kong in commemorating this historic milestone. First and foremost I'd like to welcome and.. and actually extend my warmest thanks as well to every one of our Cast Members worldwide whose dedication, talent and hard work have contributed so much to this special day. (applause) Exciting new attractions, entertainment experiences and other surprises for our guests.
I'd also like to thank our magnificent orchestra for all of the incredible music this morning. There all back there. (Bob points to the Plaza Gardens, applause follows) Around the world Sleeping Beauty Castle is known as a symbol of fantasy, dreams come true and happily ever after. For 5 decades this famous Disneyland icon has welcomed visitors to enter a land where magic and imagination reign supreme. And as you can see behind me, the crowning jewel of this magic kingdom has been transformed with an elegant new look. Last night when the park closed its gates for the evening, Sleeping Beauty Castle fell into it' nightly slumber looking just as it had for years. But this morning the castle awakened appearing more majestic than ever with a shimmering beauty fit for a king or better yet, a Disney princess. Overnight, hundreds of our imaginers transformed our crown jewel with sparkling touches befitting this golden anniversary. And I think Walt would be as proud of their work as we are. Of course, (applause starts, Bob turns to face the castle) Looks great doesn't it? (applause continues) Of course there's much much more to this incredible global celebration. During the course of the next 18 months, our guests will be part of the largest debut of new Disney theme park attractions and entertainment ever unveiled, reminding all of us that growth and innovation are at the heart of our company's long standing heritage of creative excellence. Whether our stories art told through new state of the art attractions, spectacular new parades, awe inspiring fireworks, or dazzling stage shows, they all share one inherent quality. The power of Disney magic to bring a simple smile to a child's face. By always remembering our rich legacy, we will continue on that journey of imagination well into the future. And now, it gives me great pleasure to introduce an amazing man who presided over our opening day festivities 50 years ago. He's a legend in show business and one of the nicest guys around, ladies and gentlemen, Art Linkletter. Art?
-(Applause and "You've got a friend in me" plays in the background. Art arrives by vehicle, driven right up to the stage where he proceeds up onto it.)-
Art Linkletter: Thank you. Oh wow.. thank you very much Bob for those kind words. I needed that encouragement because just a moment or two ago, waiting to come on stage a white haired old man on a pusher came over and says, "You're Art Linkletter?" and I says, yeah? And he says "You remember me? I was on your show when I was 4." (Laughter and applause) Oh boy the time goes by. And incidentally the first time I ever worked with Walt Disney at the Winter Olympic Games at Lake Tahoe more than 60 years ago and a blizzard had almost obliterated the scenery we were going coast to coast on CBS. And he didn't worry, he says "Don't worry, it will be alright" he did a wave of the hand, the blizzard went away, we did the show and the blizzard came back. (Laughter and Art looks up at the sky.) Do it again Walt! (Applause and laughter) Anyhow, this is kinda a return engagement for me. We did so well the last time, 50 years is a long time to be waiting for a call, isn't it? On the other hand, my goodness, what a wonderful time it is to be here with all the Walt Disney excitement and magic. It feels like only yesterday that I was standing right on this spot almost with Walt Disney, talking about the uh..(Art laughs a little) the worry he had. The toilets in Fantasyland were backing up. (Laughter) Not anymore. Now of course we have come a long long way, in fact, I get to borrow Walt's special car that he rode in on the day that the fair opened and talk about moving up in the world. Folks, as you can imagine there's been quite a bit of excitement here at Disneyland in these last 36 hours. An incredible array of new and exciting attractions is opened. Spectacular parades and a stunning nighttime extravaganza, all premiered as part of some truly wonderful events. And just like on opening day in 1955 there were press from all around the world, here to see it all unfold. And, unlike 50 years ago, things are going off without a hitch. That day was hot and sticky, and all kinds of things were happening and today its, well mostly it's running very well. Say, why don't we take a little look?
-(Art turns to the plasma screen. The celebration promotional video plays. Applause follows)-
Art Linkletter: Hey? How about that? (applause) Wasn't that a sight? And over the years it's been remarkable to watch Walt's dreams spread across every country and across all the continents. And that's why I was so excited when they asked me to be part of this National celebration today. Now of course, Disneyland is the only place celebrating this milestone occasion. So too is the rest of the world. So we have a little journey planned to show you what the other Disney parks and resorts are doing for the 50th Anniversary. But before I hand you off to our friends around the world, I do want you to know that what Walt and I had for many many years was a special identification with the families of America and the world, the importance of the family and especially children who are our future and our greatest natural resource. I enjoy being a part of this great legacy that Walt started when he built Disneyland because of the joy I see in the kid's faces as they walk through the park and watch the wonderful thing unfold before them. Now on behalf of kids everywhere, young and old alike thank you Walt. (Art lifts his hand to the sky, looking up) Whereever you are. (applause) Now, putting on my broadcaster's hat..(Pauses as applause continues) Thank you. Putting on my broadcaster's hat I'm going to take you across the Pacific to Tokyo Disneyland. That was Disney's first international theme park where a local celebrity is standing by. And so, take it away Tink.
-(Tink flies up on the plasma screens. Tokyo Disneyland is shown and Somo Suzuki is on screen)-
Somo Suzuki: Greetings from Japan! As you can see we are already in the middle of our 50th Rock and Roll special event. Which is a tribute to Disneyland's 50th Anniversary. This is a show called "Rock around the Mouse" and it's themed to California in the 1950's and it's a real blast to the past. During the Disneyland 50'th celebration over at Tokyo Disney Sea we are premiering "Raging Spirits" a brand new roller coaster. It's the first 360 degree loop in any of the Tokyo parks. But now, it's time to go a bit farther southern west to our newest park. Hong Kong Disneyland.
-(Hong Kong Disneyland comes into view, Jacky Cheung is on screen.)-
Jacky Cheung: Hi everyone, I'm Jacky Cheung. When Hong Kong Disneyland opens its gates on the 12th day of September, a new generation of families will be introduced to the timeless magic of Disney. Classic Disney attractions, stories and characters will come to life in a magnificent new park and we can't wait to share it with the world.
-(Disneyland Paris comes into view, Gerard Depardieu is on screen.)-
Gerard Depardieu: Hi! I am Gerard Depardieu from Disneyland Resort Paris. We just opened Space Mountain, Mission 2. It's amazing! Fantastic! Disneyland Resort Paris, we also premiere Wishes, a breath taking fireworks spectacular over Sleeping Beauty castle. So au revoir from Paris!
-(Disney Cruise Line comes into view, Kermit the Frog is on screen.)-
Kermit: Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!! Hi-ho, Kermit the frog here on the deck of the Disney magic! We're all excited about Disney Cruise Lines upcoming, first ever West-Coast voyages! Now, I have been all over the ship folks and I can tell you they have incredible entertainment, fabulous food, great programming for kids, areas just for adults and.. (Miss Piggy comes into the picture and interrupts)
Miss Piggy: I'm king of the world! Kissy kissy everybody! Kissy kissy!
Kermit: Miss Piggy! You're.. You're here..Uh….
Miss Piggy: Well, yes of course I'm here Kermie. You didn't think you were going on a fabulous cruise to the Mexican Rivera without moi did you? (Kermit laughs) Well??!
Kermit: It'll never happen.
Miss Piggy: You better believe it buster.
Kermit: Yeah right.. uh…. Well folks, I can't wait to sail to Mexico this summer..uh with you Miss Piggy of course, and this is Kermit the frog..and…
Miss Piggy: And Miss Piggy!!
Kermit: And I'll see you later folks.
Miss Piggy: Oh! Oh! Oh!! Come on Kermie!
-(Walt Disney World comes into view, Wayne Brady is on the screen.)-
Wayne Brady: Hello! This is Wayne Brady here in front of Cinderella castle in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World! Guys, as you can see we are in the middle of launching the Happiest Celebration on earth, our salute to Disneyland and 50 years of Disney theme park magic. And, as a former Disney World Cast Member, I can't tell you how proud I am to be right here, participating in this event. The entire resort has pulled out all the stops. Each of the 4 Walt Disney World parks will introduce an attraction or show that has been important for one of the other Disneyland parks from around the globe. Plus, a unique attraction that is being created just for Walt Disney World. Take a look.
-(The plasma screens show a preview of things to come to Walt Disney World. Art Linkletter returns.)-
Art Linkletter: How about that? (applause) And to think that all started with a mouse. Thank you Wayne. It's amazing to see all the wonderful things that have been happening all at the same time. I know that each of the Disney parks has created its own unique kick-off celebration but there is one person here who has a message to share with all of you. For 20 years he's had the talented team, lead it, does the outstanding creative achievements and incredible growth to the Walt Disney company. Of course that includes the tremendous development Disney's resort destinations, here and across the all the world. Entertainment spectaculars, resort hotels, and entirely new theme park experiences that we're celebrating today. Please welcome now, ladies and gentlemen, the Chief Executive Officer of the Walt Disney Company, Mr. Michael Eisner.
-(Mixed applause and boos, Michael Eisner takes the stage as "When you wish upon a star" plays in the background)-
Michael Eisner: Thank you Art. Um, as fantastic as it is to celebrate the 50th Anniversary, Art Linkletter told me last night that on Thanksgiving day he will celebrate his 70th wedding anniversary. (applause) Now, that's pretty awesome. I thought my 37 years was enormous and fantastic and I'm proud, to my wife Jane…70 years? Amazing. And, a special thank you to our guests and colleagues, and Cast Members here and from around the world who are joining us today and I'm glad to see that everybody has their sunblock on, on this beautiful sunny day. Not a drop. When Walt Disney built Disneyland 50 years ago he launched a bold, innovation in family entertainment. He created a magical place for the entire family could enjoy a day of fantasy, thrills and adventures together. He knew things like magic and dreams were timeless treasures would strike a chord with children of all ages in all corners of the world. And they did. Since that day in 1955 Walt's remarkable vision for Disneyland grew and spread across the world. Today, there are 11 Disney theme parks on 3 continents including Hong Kong Disneyland, which as you see or have seen will open its gates in September. On this day, for the first time ever, all Disney theme parks around the world are joined together to celebrate this historic occasion and show the world where Walt's dreams have taken us and where we have taken his dreams. Since the beginning Walt, the Walt Disney Company has been dedicated to creating exceptional, quality entertainment for the entire family. We'd like to call it, magic. Our parks and resorts are shining symbols of this, they are truly where the Disney magic lives. We are proud to be an American original, that speaks a universal language, transcending cultures and borders. Disneyland will forever endure as our flagship park, our original magic kingdom. So to all of our guests, (Applause) so to all of our guests, just like Walt who are looking for a place that parents and children can have a little fun together, we will continue to create, to grow, to inspire and amaze because as Walt said, "Disneyland will never be complete. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world." As we celebrate the legacy of this special place here and around the globe, from one generation to another, these words will guide us as we take Disneyland into its next 50 years. There's one beloved Disney tune that has always carried us, from one generation to the next, with a message of hope and inspiration. Here to perform this classic, it is my great pleasure to introduce Grammy award winning vocalist and former Disney Mouseketeer, Christina Aguilera.
-(Christina Aguilera comes from inside the castle to take the stage. Christina sings "When you Wish Upon a Star")-
Christina: Thank you.
-(Applause continues as Announcer speaks)-
Annoucer: And now, Ladies and gentlemen, it is our great honor to welcome a true Disney legend. Academy Award winner and the honorary Ambassador for our 50th Anniversary, please welcome the incomparable Julie Andrews!
-(Julie Andrews comes from inside the castle and takes the stage, "A dream is a wish your heart makes" plays in the background)-
Julie Andrews: Thank you! Hello everybody. Hello! I am so happy to be part of this wonderful event. You know I was one of the lucky ones who knew Walt Disney. He was very special in my life. Walt's warmth, wisdom and friendship are things I will always treasure and who knew, that this visionary man with Pixie dust in his pocket and a sparkle in his eye would change the life of this then 27 year old forever more. But listen, he's blessed so many people in the world by giving us the great gift of Disneyland. No matter how old you are, no matter what language you speak, Disneyland is and always will be, the place where imagination comes alive, the impossible seems real and feelings, indescribable. Disneyland is the only place where 50 years old feels so young. And today we welcome everyone around the world to join us here in Disneyland for the Happiest homecoming on earth. Since January 2005 the Disneyland resort has been sharing a very special invitation. Let's take a look.
-(The plasma screens show the commercial "See whose coming to the Happiest Celebration". Julie continues.)-
Julie Andrews: And now, to give our invitation a very happy ending and to celebrate this golden occasion, we're very honored to have with us today this magnificent orchestra, and a special guest conductor. He composed the heart warming music for our very special homecoming and he's here today to give our Disney story a happy ending. Please welcome Grammy award wining composer, Alan Silvestri. (applause) Hi Alan. Everyone is coming home for our magnificent 50th anniversary celebration and their coming from the 4 corners of the earth. By bus, by car, by camel! As you can see, for some of our friends and loved ones, the journey's been long and an eventful one. But today, the big moment has finally arrived! Look! Everyone is coming home! Look!
-(The characters begin to come out)-
Stitch comes through to the left on a motorcycle, the police are on motorcycles chasing him. Stitch laughs and says, "Home sweet home!"
The Genie comes in from the right on a camel, Iago is flying out in front of them. Iago says, "Look at this place! It's a paradise! Refresh my memory, why do we live in the desert??"
Rutt and Tuke pop up to the left under the plasma screen. Rutt says, "Hey look big brother! We finally made it eh?" Tuke says, "I told you we were supposed to make a right at Tom Sawyers Island."
"Did not."
"Did too."
"Hey look, doesn't that camel look like Aunt Sophie?"
"Hey? Aunt Sophie? Where's your antlers??"
Cinderella comes dashing out of the castle, she curtseys to Julie and proceeds down the stage steps, leaving her slipper behind. When she turns to get it, Dumbo comes from the left.
Donald and the ballerina elephants from Fantasia. Donald is chasing a tire, he says "I told you!! No dancing on the bus!!"
From the right comes Goofy and Mickey, they are driving Herbie. Goofy laughs and says, "Hey Mickey! We made it!". Mickey laughs and says, "Thanks Herbie old pal!" Herbie honks his horn in reply, Goofy points to the screen, "Look Mick! It's Donald! Garsh! It looks like a whole bunch of our friends are here!"
Rutt says, "You made it, eh?" Stitch yells, "Look! Stitch here!" Mickey says, "Welcome home!" Tuke says, "Hey everybody, how's it going eh?" "Iago says, "Hurry! Let me in the palace!"
-(Julie laughs and continues.)-
Juile Andrews: Well done everybody! I think our celebration is ready to begin!
-(The little boy from the commercials comes running out of the castle.)-
The boy shouts, "I'm here! I'm here! I made it! I made it! Please say you didn't start without me!"
Julie welcomes the boy with a hug, "Ohh! Welcome! No my dear! We wouldn't dream of starting without you! In fact, I believe a few more friends of ours are about to arrive. You are just in time to welcome them all."
The boy smiles, "Really?"
Julie replies, "Mmmhmm! Really! And now its time for that little bit of Disney magic. Are you ready?"
The boy says, "Yes!"
Julie turns him towards the castle, "Okay let's do it together, 1… 2…"
They both say it at the same time, "Welcome home!!" The curtain drops, doves are released and the fireworks go off. More characters come out.
Julie finishes, "Congratulations everyone! I can now say the Happiest Celebration on Earth has officially begun. Have a lovely day!"