Silence falls. Music begins to play and we have immediately been transported to Hollywood 1939 again! The doors of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror are once again open for Midsummer Scream 2017! Attendees were taken on a terror trip to relive the history of Disney’s most iconic ride! We traveled from Florida to Paris to unveil the hidden secrets behind this amazing attraction. Panelists in attendance were Cory Sewelson (Production Designer/Art Director), Michael Sprout (Show Writer), and Mark Silverman, the voice actor who brought the persona of Rod Serling, moderated by Rick West.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror genesis was unveiled at Midsummer Scream. Sewelson spoke about the plans, challenges, and triumphs of the iconic ride. He revealed that budget and location were huge factors in the construction of the east and west coast towers. The audience fell silent as Mark Silverman spoke the famous lines that many have heard as they walk through the doors of the Hollywood Hotel into The Twilight Zone. Several pictures of the construction site played through out the panel giving the audience a glimpse of the construction site.
Sprout gave insight into the story aspect of the ride. He acknowledged there was another writer at the beginning but left before the construction began. We can thank Sprout for the eerie introduction of the tower of terror and the entire story of the historical building.
Sewelson revealed the construction of the tower was a mission. He jokingly called it the stair master because they were constantly going up and down of the stairs. The elevator was especially hard to build because of its advanced technology and safety calibrations. When Eisner revealed he wanted to see the people falling, Sewelson knew they would have to cut a hole in the building, which wasn’t in the original plans. Thank god there is a hole because everyone below can hear the blood-curdling screams!
Mark never understood the impact the Tower of Terror would have on people and the press on opening week. He confesses it was eerily satisfying to hear his own voice when the ride first opened. Now he can no longer enter an elevator without feeling the need to speak as Rod Serling. Sprout was happy that he could bring joy and excitement to thousands through his story. There is nothing more exciting for a writer than to see your work brought to life.
The legacy of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is now all over the world. Florida’s success leads to the building of California’s tower and other towers around the world. The iconic ride gives riders an amazing thrill ride that leaves you wanting more. Although the tower may change thematically it is still a remarkable attraction. It will continue to spark amazement for years to come.
