Art + Animals = Artimals!

In yesterday's article, we talked about some of the elements which make up Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Today, let's take a closer look at the artistry involved in depicting the wild animals throughout the parade.

The rickshaw taxis that carry Grand Marshall Guests are each comprised of a tree canopy carriage, "pulled" by a different animal. I particularly like the leaping tiger (above) and the crocodile (below). Notice, even the type of tree is different on each unit.

The drum units are equally unique, with performers sitting high on a camel or nestled into the back of a giant parrot. Look closely, and you'll realize these creatures are made to look as though they were hand-crafted from natural elements, like leaves, branches and tree trunks.

This aesthetic, combining natural-looking elements with vibrant colors, carries through the parade. It's similar to the way depictions of animals are treated in the rest of Discovery Island, where the animals are shown very realistically on the Tree of Life but interpreted artistically in human creations.

Another key design choice for Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade was influenced by the overarching theme of Disney's Animal Kingdom - people's relationship with the animal world. As much as the park is about animals, it's also about us. Supporting that idea, the parade performers are not hidden by the animal puppets or costumes. Instead, their faces are integral to the design, and they bring the performance of the animal to life with their expression and direct connection to the audience.

In no instance is that connection more direct than with the Party Animals, stilt walkers who have the ability to stride on over to a Guest along the route and interact. From a distance, we appreciate the artistry that turns a performer into a colorful moose, eagle, lizard, armadillo or lion. Up close, though, we realize they're just like us... human beings caught up in a rapturous celebration of the natural world.