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
74.5 - RetroMagic50 Recap
72 - Maelstrom
74 - Vacation Planning
73 - New Years Eve: Music to Your Ears
71.5 - Listener Memories
71 - 50 Years
70 - Monster Sound Show
69 - Pleasure Island Part III
68 - Magic Journeys
67 - Pleasure Island Part II
66 - Retro Restaurants & Food - Part II
65 - Pleasure Island Part 1
64 - Crescent Lake
63 - Project 90
62.5 - Below Thunder's Deck with Parker Rabe
62 - Thunder in Paradise
61.5 - Radio Loops - Part 2
61 - Alien Encounter - Part 1
60 - Tomorrowland 94-95
59.5 - Haunted Mansion with Kat Cressida
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