After 55 Years Mickey Breaks His Silence

Some guests waiting to meet the most famous resident of Disneyland Resort (map) might be thrilled with an extra treat as Mickey Mouse actually speaks to them. According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times, Disney Imagineers are testing a previously unheard of meet and greet with a talking Mickey Mouse.

Guests waiting for photos with Mickey are thrilled with the opportunity to hear his familiar high pitched voice during certain unannounced trials at his Toontown home.   After 55 years of silent visits, in addition to his mouth moving, Mickey also blinks his eyes.

Guests seeking autographs have been visited by two types of  Disney characters in the past:

• Face Characters – such as Cinderella or Mary Poppins whose familiar faces are visible to guests and usually speak and interact with them
• Costumed Characters – such as Donald Duck or Goofy whose faces are not visible behind the sculpted heads and usually remain mute and interact through pantomime and allow their handlers to speak on their behalf

While there have been talking, blinking costumed characters in stage productions in the past, no costumed characters have ever greeted guests.  If these tests prove successful, it may still be years before the imagineers are ready to unleash the talking costumed characters throughout the parks.

It is such a thrill for young guests, any guest for that matter, to meet their favorite Disney character for the first time.  When that character can also greet the guest,  call them by name and even converse with them, the thrill would be unimaginable.  This is one character greeting I can’t wait to experience.

Photo Selection: WDW News, Paul Hiffmeyer, photographer