[Backstage Magic Introduction Storyboard]

A rare early visualization of the “Backstage Magic” attraction at EPCOT.

“We’d like to share with you how computers are helping make dreams come true here at WDW today!”

This trio of large black and white photographic prints captures three bulletin boards to which are affixed a complete, working storyboard arranged in chronological order. The 100+ cards offer an early synopsis of the introductory video to Backstage Magic, an obsolete EPCOT attraction that was first introduced to the public in 1984. A mix of photos, drawings, and placeholder notes summarizes the general overview – what might be some guests’ first ‘real’ introduction to the computer.

A three-minute countdown is followed by a family-friendly history of the marvel machine, hosted by Julie and her PC counterpart I/O. Simple counting gradually evolved into punch cards, vacuum tubes, and the all-important microchip (critical to the functionality of Disney’s Animatronics). The film then transitions to the modern-day usage of these incredible inventions, with a segue into the rest of the tour, which demonstrated how computers actually controlled various processes throughout the park. Speculation on further advancements includes translating watches, air pollution monitoring, and muscular enhancements for the paralyzed – very prescient given today’s technology.

Each of the three sheets is rubberstamped on the verso with Walt Disney Productions copyright restrictions and the year 1983. Backstage Magic opened the year after, replacing the Astuter Computer Revue in the CommuniCore of the EPCOT Center.