“The feedback we received concerning our Epcot at 25 issue was phenomenal but the success left us wondering how we could continue to maintain the high standards that our readers have come to expect,” Tales publisher Lee J MacDonald explains. “We decided that we had to follow up the issue with the creation and development of Disney’s Animal Kingdom in observance of the 10th anniversary this April.” The article is told by the park’s founding creative executive Joe Rohde. Joe offers up a comprehensive history of the park from the earliest pitches to management through to the park’s final design. Along the way he talks extensively about such unrealized concepts as Beastly Kingdomme and Nature’s Headquarters. The feature is once more peppered with either rare or never-before-seen artwork from the Walt Disney Imagineering archives and the personal collection of Joe Rohde.
Issue 12 will also discuss the creation of the Tokyo Disneyland 25th anniversary parade Jubilation! with the creator Steven Davison. The article features never-before-seen concept art from the models, floats and costumes over a ten-page spread. In addition the issue features the first attraction to be developed for both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, Toy Story Midway Mania! with the creative team of Show Producer Chrissie Allen, Show Writer Kevin Rafferty and technologist Sue Bryan. April also marks the debut of the “The happiest cruise that ever sailed 'round the world” at Hong Kong Disneyland. Tales spoke exclusively to Executive Producer Tom Morris, Show Producer Jody McLoughlin and Director, Color Design Katie Olsen about the latest version of it’s a small world that has a brand-new color palette and the introduction of the Disney characters to this beloved attraction.