Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress is a four-act play offering a nostalgic look at how electricity and technology changed the lives of an animatronic family during the 20th century. General Electric sponsored the first version of the show for the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City, in keeping with the fair’s theme of progress. The first scene is set around 1900 (our research indicates Thursday, February 14, 1901, on a farm outside Arkansas City, Kansas); the second around 1927; and the third in the late 1940s. The fourth scene is allegedly contemporary, but references to laser discs and car phones are not-so-subtle clues that the script hasn’t been updated in over 25 years.

Although the last scene needs updating, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress is the only attraction in the park that displays Walt’s optimistic vision of a better future through technology and industry. If you’re interested in the man behind the mouse, this show is a must-see.