Their Final Mission

Saturday, August 7, 2010 marked the final appearances of the Power Rangers at Disney's Hollywood Studios. After more than five years, the Rangers engaged in their last "Fan Encounter" before returning to the Academy for a new mission.

I had the privilege of serving as Stage Manager for the Power Rangers for roughly the first half of their time at the Studios, so I made a point of being there for the final show. As they say, "Once a Ranger, always a Ranger." I wouldn't have missed it for the world.

As 5:30 approached, a sizable crowd gathered in Tri-City Square, comprised of Cast Members, fans and fellow performers. Moments later, the roar of the turbo engine announced the arrival of the Power Rangers. They morphed into action to cheers and applause, then took their places to greet the fans one last time.

The Power Rangers experience was unique among Character greetings in the parks in that the Rangers always directly involved their fans. Poses were taught and struck, putting Guests into the action with the Ranger.

At five years old, my boys have grown up with the Power Rangers and loved meeting them in the park. Interestingly, they've never seen an episode of the "Power Rangers" television series. As far as they're concerned, the Rangers are real heroes who live at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Being as this was the last time the Rangers would appear at Walt Disney World, there was more than the usual group of day Guests in attendance. In fact, a large contingent of the Rangers' fellow performers came to say Goodbye. Many of them had been involved in the show at one time or another.

Included in the group photo above are the Show Director and Associate Show Director for Power Rangers, Mark Renfrow and Tony Giordano (in black T-shirts with arms crossed).

As great as it was, though, for those involved with the Rangers to come out and show their support, the best response came from the fans. Many were dressed in Power Rangers shirts or costumes, and one family even made signs for the Rangers. It was an emotional day, not just for the farewell, but for the realization of what the Power Rangers had meant to so many people.

The legacy of the Power Rangers will live on beyond the Walt Disney World Resort, but this unique chapter in their history has come to a close. For all the fans and fellow Rangers, thank you for a great run!