Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, which is being presented by D23, opened Wednesday, October 16, the 90th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company, at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

The exhibition encompasses more than 300 artifacts from 90 years of Disney history and showcases the creative innovations and accomplishments of Walt Disney, a native of Chicago. Featuring many artifacts never before widely seen by the public, the exhibition features items such as props, drawings, costumes, artwork from classic Disney animated films, theme park attractions, TV shows, and live-action films, as well as items from contemporary Disney accomplishments.

“Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives showcases the creativity and innovation that has defined Disney for 90 years,” said Robert A. Iger, chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “We’re proud of this heritage, and we are very pleased to share this rare glimpse into our rich history with Chicago’s world-renowned Museum of Science and Industry.”

Among the extraordinary items to be featured:

• Clips from several of Walt Disney’s earliest animated works, before there was a Mickey Mouse.
• The original script, typed by Walt Disney, for the 1928 cartoon short Steamboat Willie.
• A partial recreation of Walt Disney’s Formal Office from The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, Calif., including original furnishings and many of his personal items.
• Hand-drawn artwork, hand-sculpted models and props used in the production of some of Disney’s most iconic and renowned animated feature films, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Dumbo and Sleeping Beauty.
• A recreation of a working animator’s office from The Walt Disney Studios featuring authentic animator’s furniture, and models.
• Animation models and artwork from contemporary Disney animated feature film hits, including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King and Aladdin.
• Props from classic Disney live-action films, including Mary Poppins, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, The Rocketeer, The Princess Diaries, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and Enchanted.
• A special area of the exhibition dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the release of Mary Poppins.
• A salute to Disneyland Park in California and Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida, showcasing artwork, Audio-Animatronics characters, and memorabilia from such popular attractions as it’s a small world, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, and The Hall of Presidents, as well as early plans and correspondence for Walt Disney’s vision of EPCOT.

“Through this exhibit we’re pleased to showcase Walt Disney as both a master storyteller and innovator whose creative legacy  continues to inspire people of all ages,” said David Mosena, president and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. “Guests will be immersed in Walt Disney’s ‘can do’ spirit, optimistic outlook and never-ending curiosity that propelled him through his impressive career. This spirit continues to be the creative inspiration behind many of the incredible experiences created by Disney today.”

The exhibition is not included in museum entry and will require an additional timed-entry ticket, which is $9 for adults and seniors and $7 for children 3-11. Tickets are on sale at msichicago.org. MSI members can purchase exhibit tickets for $4.50 per guest. D23 Gold and Silver Members will receive a special discount on exhibit entry.

Bob Collins