If you’ve ever been captivated by the magic of Disney, get ready to step behind the curtain and hear the stories that shaped it all! Chapman University is hosting an extraordinary Disney Luminaries Speaker Series, where Imagineers, filmmakers, and Disney Legends will share firsthand accounts of Walt Disney’s visionary spirit, groundbreaking creativity, and the people who brought his dreams to life.
Curated by renowned Disney historian Jeff Kurtti, this four-month series is your chance to explore Disney’s rich legacy through rare, never-before-heard stories from the very minds who built the magic. From theme park design and animation history to legendary music and nature storytelling, these lectures will reveal how Walt Disney’s influence continues to shape entertainment, technology, and culture today.
The best part? Admission is free, and seating is first-come, first-served!
The best part? Admission is free, and seating is first-come, first-served!
Event Schedule – Don’t Miss These Incredible Nights!
Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Walt Disney: The First Imagineer
Discover how Walt Disney invented the role of Imagineer and assembled groundbreaking creative teams to bring Disneyland to life. Presented by former Imagineer Tom K. Morris, who brings 35 years of firsthand experience.
Friday, March 14, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Walt Disney and Music: The Sherman Brothers
Jeffrey C. Sherman, son of legendary songwriter Robert B. Sherman, will screen his acclaimed documentary The Boys: The Sherman Brothers Story and share how his father and uncle wrote Disney’s most unforgettable songs—from It’s a Small World to Mary Poppins.
Friday, April 4, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Walt Disney and the Worlds of Nature
Disney Legend Joe Rohde and biologist Dr. Brian J. Alters join moderator Jeff Kurtti to discuss how Disney’s love for nature—from Bambi to True-Life Adventures—shaped environmental awareness in storytelling.
Friday, May 16, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Walt Disney and “The Nine Old Men”
Documentary filmmaker Theodore Thomas, son of legendary animator Frank Thomas, will share his film Growing Up with Nine Old Men and personal insights into Disney’s most iconic animators.
All lectures will take place at Chapman University’s Argyros Forum 202 in Orange, California at 7:00 PM.
Whether you’re a Disney fan, an aspiring storyteller, or just love hearing how creativity and innovation come together, this series is a must-attend event, where you can be part of the magic—one story at a time!
Berry Place 28
Vlogger, Podcast Host, Ice Cream Aficionado
A life long thrill seeker, Berry Place 28 has always been captivated by entertainment and theme parks. BP28 was a former Cast Member for Disney, many years ago, who now enjoys vlogging at Disneyland and covering the history, rides and attractions that Walt Disney created. In addition, he enjoys covering Knott’s Berry Farm, SeaWorld, and other theme parks and local attractions. Berry Place 28 was named after the “Berry Place” market that Walter and Cordelia Knott opened in 1928 and after Mickey Mouse which was created in 1928.