“Mickey: The True Original Exhibition,” the exhibit that became extremely popular on social media due to its photogenic nature, closed its Lower West Side doors two weeks ago on Sunday, Feb. 10.
From the moment visitors enter the facility, they fell in love with the eccentric decor. The exhibition was basically any Disney fan’s dream – especially fans of Mickey Mouse.
A group of about 30 guests were permitted into the exhibit per time slot. It would have been unpleasant to experience the exhibit had more guests been present. The first room held a wide screen that projected a short film about Mickey Mouse. The movie was followed by an enthusiastic spiel made by one of the cast members. The proceeding rooms contained artwork and creations inspired by the original mouse himself.
Each room followed a specific theme and the pieces on display in each pertained to that theme. The first main room had multiple neon light fixtures outlining the shape of Mickey Mouse. Additionally, it contained a large interactive structure of the Steamboat Willie, the ship he sailed in the classic cartoon. Posing and taking photographs of and with the artwork was highly encouraged.
A majority of the exhibit was interactive for guests of all ages. The cast members were very helpful and informative throughout the process. They offered to take photographs and suggested the best locations in each room to take the perfect pictures.
One room revolved around the movie “Fantasia,” including Sorcerer Mickey, while another focused on the women who colored in the original cartoons before the development of technology.
The room that featured free ice cream samples was surely a favorite for many guests. This room was designed like an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and contained props from “The Mickey Mouse Club.”
To conclude the experience, guests had the opportunity to participate in a fun Disney trivia game. This was a unique feature of the display as the trivia was hosted by a cast member along with Mickey Mouse himself. Mickey’s voice was projected through a Google Home device which moderated the game. Every participant received two pins exclusive to the exhibit. Guests were then able to linger around, browse and shop in the store which contained special merchandise, snacks and other mementos.
This exhibit was established to celebrate and promote Mickey’s 90th birthday and left many fans imagining how marvelous the activities will be for his 100th birthday. Though it is now closed, Disney will hopefully host another exhibit like this in the future due to the positive feedback and levels of success this one achieved.
