Q: In the movie Saving Mr. Banks when Walt and P.L. Travers were on King Arthur’s Carrousel in Disneyland. I noticed the carousel was playing “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” (Song of the South) and “A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes” (Cinderella). I’ve been frequently visiting Disneyland since 2002, and King Arthur’s Carousel has always played “Once Upon A Dream” (Sleeping Beauty) until about a few years ago when many different songs (including “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” and “A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes”). When Walt was around, did King Arthur’s Carrousel ever play other songs besides “Once Upon A Dream,” or did the soundtrack for the carousel ever change since the carousel officially opened a few years ago?
Stephie, Las Vegas, Nevada
A: In a 1955 Disneyland press release, King Arthur Carrousel was described as featuring “gay calliope tunes.” A 1969 issue of Disney News suggested that “The Skater’s Waltz” was played on the calliope. At some point later, Disney music was added.
Dave Smith