Windows on Disney's Main Street, U.S.A.

Book excerpt: Look out for visual field guide like no other, and meet the people behind the names on the windows of Main Street, U.S.A. at the Disney parks! When you first enter Disneyland, in California, or the Magic Kingdom in Florida, a charming train station is set elevated before you, like a stage-show curtain. Walk through one of its tunnels to find vibrant posters displayed like "coming attractions" at a theater. Then arrive at Main Street, U.S.A., an idealized Victorian-era town of bright colors, upbeat melodies, and delicious smells. Here, your eyes finally meet the grand view ahead: a stunning castle, filled with the promise of adventures beyond. Keen observers will notice intricate details throughout the Disney parks, including names emblazoned on the building windows lining Main Street, U.S.A. Designed as calling cards for fictionalized shopkeepers, these names belong to the real life "all-stars" who helped make Disney's theme parks a reality. They are the opening credits to a show like no other. The people listed on these windows are skilled actors, artists, business leaders, Imagineers, songwriters, and more. With their imagination and sharp skills, each person has made an important contribution to The Walt Disney Company. In fact, many have also received the impressive Disney Legends award. Through short biographies and key imagery and a foreword by Disney Legend Marty Sklar, this expertly researched volume is sure to intrigue and inspire. As Walt famously said, "You can dream, create, design, and build the most wonderful place in the world . . . but it requires people to make the dream a reality."