Disney100: The Exhibition Debuts at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia

The world premiere of Disney100: The Exhibition launched on February 18, 2023, at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, kicking off The Walt Disney Company’s 100-year celebration in grand style. The immersive showcase, curated by the Walt Disney Archives in collaboration with Semmel Exhibitions, offers fans a one-of-a-kind journey through a century of storytelling, innovation, and magic.

Opening Day Celebration

A ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony welcomed guests, featuring appearances by Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and key Disney figures. Among them were Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline, Disney Legends Bob Gurr and Don Hahn, and D23’s Michael Vargo. The Philly POPS added to the festivities with a live performance of Disney classics.

“We are thrilled that the world premiere of Disney100: The Exhibition is here,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “The galleries reflect Disney’s imaginative storytelling, discovery, and wonder.”

Immersive Galleries and Rare Artifacts

The exhibit features ten uniquely themed galleries, each using cutting-edge technology to highlight Disney’s legacy. Guests can uncover hidden props from classic adventures, peek through Captain Nemo’s submarine, and walk down a recreated Main Street, U.S.A.

Galleries include:

• Where It All Began
• The Illusion of Life
• The Spirit of Adventure and Discovery
• The Magic of Sound and Music
• We Are Just Getting Started
  (plus five more)

Disney’s “Crown Jewels”

More than 250 original artifacts are on display, many rarely seen by the public. Highlights include:

• Early Mickey Mouse sketches from Steamboat Willie
• The Hocus Pocus spell book
• A Cinderella Castle model
• Genie maquette from Aladdin
• The Black Panther suit from 2018

Each piece offers a glimpse into Disney’s creative process and evolution across film, parks, and media.

Meet Walt Disney – Virtually

A life-sized digital Walt Disney greets visitors at the Disney MagicStage. Using AI and archival footage, Disney StudioLAB, Industrial Light & Magic, and Disney Research|Studios recreated Walt’s voice and image to welcome guests in his own words.

A Custom Soundtrack for a Century of Magic

The exhibition’s score was composed by Steve Mazzaro, known for work on The Lion King (2019) and Pirates of the Caribbean. The soundtrack blends classic Disney melodies like “When You Wish Upon a Star” with new original themes created exclusively for the event.

Visit Disney100: The Exhibition

The Franklin Institute will host the exhibition from August 27, 2023, through August 27, 2023. PECO is the Local Presenting Sponsor, with PNC as Associate Sponsor.

Timed-entry tickets are required and can be purchased at www.fi.edu.