On this episode, we are joined by Disney entertainer Ray DeForest. Ray spent many years in Walt Disney World entertainment and has a large number of stories and tales we are so excited to hear. Throughout this episode, we discuss how Ray got his start with the Walt Disney Company in Washington, DC, and then how he made his way to central Florida. As you will learn, Ray was a pioneer in WDW entertainment, working in everything from characters, dancing, performing in the two theme parks, and more. We also hear some great side stories about flying in ‘The Mouse’, where the entertainment offices are, and also how he was able to beat the heat performing in front of the castle.
Ray has two areas of performance that caught our attention though; The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and the opening day celebration at EPCOT Center. Ray talks with JT in detail about these two exciting but different opportunities he was given at Walt Disney World. If you have ever seen any of the guide books with photos of the opening of EPCOT Center, you have seen Ray on stage ushering in the 21st Century in 1982. The Hoop-Dee-Doo segment of this interview has Ray sharing some fond memories, giving a few secrets, and also paying tribute to some other amazing cast members.
Ray shared with us a number of great photos from his time at Walt Disney World. He really was part of something special back then and we are so lucky we were able to discuss all of this with him. To find Ray online, take a look at the following sites:
– Doris Dear: YouTube, Instagram, Website
– Ray’s Instagram
89.5 - A Chat with Foxx Nolte
89 Pleasure Island - Part IV
88 - Back to the Future: The Ride
87.5 - An Interview with Mr. Christmas Jim Heffelfinger
87 - Hungry for Hollywood
86 - RetroMagic Retrospective
85 - Mickey Mouse Revue
84.5 - DVC Feedback
83.5 - Glowing in Timeless Places
84 - The Disney Vacation Club
83 - The Disney Institute
82 - Remembering Rolly
81 - Wonders of Life Part IV - Cranium Command
80 - Holiday Time at WDW
79 - Wonders of Life Part III - Body Wars and Making of Me
78 - Wonders of Life Part II - The Pavilion & Exhibits
77 - Wonders of Life - Part I - History and Concept
76 - The Spirit of America - 1988 July 4th Spectacular
75 - Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure
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