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
19 - The Deluge: The Living Seas
18.5 - RetroWDW is a guest on the George & Tony Entertainment Show
18 - Nowhere in Particular: Mr Toad's Wild Ride
17 - From Vinyl Chairs to Elephants and Hippos
16 - Walt Hired Me: A Chat with Disney Legend Tom Nabbe
15 - Veggie Veggie Fruit Fruit: Kitchen Kabaret
14 - Christmas Around the World
13 - Unveiling the Magic
12 -There's No Place Like World Showcase
11 - First Things First
10.5 - RetroCon and Episode Previews
10 - Disney-MGM Studios Opening Day: Hooray for Floridawood
9 - American Adventure: Building the Golden Dream
8 - EWP: Legends & Legacies of Lakes & Lagoons
7 - Souvenirs: The Receipt is in the Bag
6 - World of Motion: Stubborn Donkey Par
5 - World of Motion: Stubborn Donkey Part 1
4 - EPCOT Center: One Little Spark
3 - Ft. Wilderness: Camping Cabins and Coonskins
2 - Contemporary: Amongst the Plexiglass Trees
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