Rather than repeat the stories of clandestine real estate acquisitions and mysterious "utilidors" I elected to focus on the park's evolution and how its operators and cast members worked to maintain Mr. Disney's commitment "do it (the Disney theme park) better."
In addition to making note of new attractions and the advancement of NextGen technology, I referenced simple tweaks. I specifically pointed out the distribution of complimentary buttons to encourage cast member/guest interaction (an idea that garnered a couple of negative comments).
But if someone needs to really understand the impact a personal touch can have on a family's theme park experience, consider the story of Josiah Edwards and his quest to attend the Jedi Academy.
Take a couple of minutes to read the HuffPost article. It's another illustration of how the themed entertainment experience goes well beyond million dollar attractions.
Before you read it, you might want to get some Kleenex.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sharon-kay-edwards/the-most-beautiful-ruined-moment_b_3806366.html
I don't think so.
Follow-up story here:
http://www.t-g.com/story/1979291.html
They literally gave a kid a plastic lightsaber with Darth Vader's autograph. The total cost to Disney? Probably less than $10, but to that family, it was invaluable.
