Three Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) projects have been recognized with Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) Thea Awards for 2025, highlighting the global impact of Disney's work in themed entertainment.
Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea, Zootopia at Shanghai Disneyland, and BDX Droids have each been selected for their achievements in storytelling, design, and technological innovation.
This marks the first time Imagineering has received two Thea Awards for Outstanding Achievement – Theme Park Land in a single year.
Fantasy Springs: A New Chapter for Tokyo DisneySea
Fantasy Springs, the largest expansion at Tokyo Disney Resort to date, was awarded for its Outstanding Achievement as a theme park land. The project includes three immersive areas inspired by Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan. These environments feature intricate storytelling, advanced technology, and four new attractions.
This eighth "port" at Tokyo DisneySea also includes themed dining and a hotel, further enhancing its immersive appeal. The recognition emphasizes the collaborative efforts behind the project and its focus on bringing Disney stories to life in new ways.
Zootopia: Bringing the Mammalian Metropolis to Life
Zootopia at Shanghai Disneyland earned its Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement thanks to its meticulous recreation of the animated world of Zootopia. The land combines advanced technology with extensive collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Guests can explore a richly detailed environment filled with references to the movie, from its whimsical storefronts to scaled crosswalks designed for animal guests of all sizes.
BDX Droids: Pioneering Robotics in Entertainment
The BDX Droids, created by Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development in collaboration with Disney Live Entertainment, received the Thea Award for Technical Innovation. These autonomous, free-roaming robots bring a new level of interactivity to themed entertainment.
Designed to mimic lifelike movements and deliver expressive character interactions, BDX Droids combine robotic precision with storytelling, creating a memorable experience for guests.
A Continuing Legacy
Bruce Vaughn, president, and chief creative officer of Walt Disney Imagineering, praised the teams behind these projects, "Imagineers around the world continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in immersive storytelling, delivering unique experiences and memorable character moments in ways that only Disney can. I'm so proud of the Imagineers and Cast Members recognized today for their outstanding contributions to our work and the broader themed entertainment industry."
The Thea Awards have long recognized excellence in the field, with WDI having nearly 70 awards over the past 30 years. These latest honors further solidify its reputation for pushing boundaries and crafting experiences that resonate with audiences worldwide.
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