135. Skipper Ben Rebstock on the Original Disney/MGM Studios

Entrance to the Disney/MGM Studios in 1989 at Walt Disney World.

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios has changed a lot during its 32-year history. It’s basically an entirely different park than it was at the start in May 1989. In a time before DVD extras and streaming services, the park offered guests a chance to peek behind the curtain. The list of attractions might not look that impressive, but more existed beneath the surface. In particular, there were lots of chances to participate in the action. The Studios changed the mold for Disney.

This episode of The Tomorrow Society Podcast is all about the original Disney/MGM Studios at Walt Disney World. Skipper Ben Rebstock returns to talk about his experiences visiting the park during its early years. We cover each pavilion starting with the headlining Great Movie Ride, which unfortunately closed in 2017. Superstar Television and the Monster Sound Show provided guests with a fun chance to be part of the show. We also briefly talk about the early version of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, which has charmed large crowds since the beginning.

Ben and I focus on the Studio Backlot Tour, the centerpiece of the Disney/MGM Studios. In particular, the walking portion of the tour helped explain how movies came together. Ben tells fun stories about being a part of the audience for wrestling and more at the park. We close the podcast with some fun questions about the Studios, including how Ben would bring back the original spirit today. I really enjoyed the chance to celebrate what made the Studios great right from the very beginning.