Animatronics, Theme Parks, & Race - Historical Perspective (Pt. 3)

00:00 - Case Study: The Middle East
10:25 - Case Study: Pandora & Avatar
15:00 - Conclusion
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Welcome to "Animatronics, Theme Parks, & Race - History Continued (Pt. 3)," where we delve into the captivating world of theme park representations. In this episode, we focus on the theme of Orientalism and its impact on Western theme parks. Join us as we explore the historical context, from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition to modern-day attractions like Fata Morgana.
Throughout history, Western audiences have been fascinated by the constructed image of the "timeless Orient," perpetuating a sense of otherness. Drawing from Edward Said's theory of Orientalism, we uncover the deep-rooted Orientalist perceptions that have influenced theme park designs.
Our journey begins with the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where architects aimed to outshine the "Orientals" themselves. They created the mesmerizing "Street in Cairo," captivating visitors with exotic performances and an immersive experience of the imagined Orient.
Moving forward, we examine Fata Morgana, a Middle Eastern-themed attraction at De Efteling in the Netherlands. This ride perpetuates Orientalist stereotypes through shallow representations, distorting and appropriating Middle Eastern culture.
Next, we explore Akbar's Adventure Tours at Busch Gardens Tampa, revealing Orientalist tropes perpetuated by this attraction. The use of brownface and Arabic accents reduces Egypt to a caricature, reinforcing harmful narratives.
Finally, we visit Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park and its themed land, "Pandora - The World of Avatar," which explores the intersection of Orientalism, animatronics, and race. Through the embodiment of the Na'vi species, the land replaces human indigeneity with an alien other, inviting guests to experience Otherness through a fantasy narrative.
In conclusion, we reflect on the main themes explored throughout the video and discuss its contributions and potential for future research. We emphasize the relationship between theme parks and the artificial bodies that inhabit them, calling for more inclusive and respectful representations of human difference.
Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we critically analyze the history, implications, and consequences of Orientalist depictions in theme parks. "Animatronics, Theme Parks, & Race - History Continued (Pt. 3)" will challenge your perspective and deepen your understanding of the intersection between entertainment, culture, and racial dynamics.
Attractions Studied:
Disney's Animal Kingdom: Orlando, Florida - "Africa" themed land, "Kilimanjaro Safari," "Festival of the Lion King," "Animal Kingdom Lodge"
Disney Parks: Global - "The Jungle Cruise"
Phantasialand: Brühl, Germany - "Deep in Africa Adventure Trail"
Busch Gardens Africa/The Dark Continent/Tampa: Tampa, Florida - "Ubanga-banga Bumper Cars," Stanleyville Park area, "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Akbar's Adventure Tours"
Great Adventure/Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari: Jackson, New Jersey - "Congo Rapids," "Skull Mountain"
De Efteling: Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands - "Monsieur Cannibale,"
#History
#themeparks
#animatronics
#Animatronics
#CulturalRepresentation
#Inclusivity
#Technology
#Entertainment
#Research #WorldFairs
#Colonialism
#RacialEquality
#CrossCultural
#HistoricalContext
#CulturalDiversity

[@HistoricalMethodMan]

SUBSCRIBE! Sources below!
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I will receive a small commission and you will be supporting the channel to help me continue what I'm doing. This book is a great resource for all theme park fans!
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