FRANCE: 5TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF DISNEYLAND PARIS

Описание: (12 Apr 1997) English/Nat

A thousand children of poor families were invited on Saturday to celebrate the 5th anniversary of Disneyland Paris.

They were joined by Roy Disney, nephew of Walt, who presided over the start of the day's celebrations.

Disneyland Paris is Europe's biggest single tourist attraction.

One thousand deprived children and their parents were invited Saturday to celebrate the 5th anniversary of Disneyland Europe.

They had gathered early in the morning in front of the gates eager not to miss one minute of the extravaganza.

Walt Disney's nephew, Roy, presided over the day's celebrations by first parading with Minnie Mouse and Donald Duck.

Then, Roy and Mickey Mouse officially started the day by releasing thousands of white balloons into the French sky.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"Mickey, I think it's time for you and me to do some Disney magic"
SUPER CAPTION: Roy Disney, Chairman World Disney Feature Animation

Some 700 dancers and musicians staged the noon parade.

Among the traditional Disney characters, the parade also featured some of France's heroes such as Victor Hugo's, Gavroche.

The celebrations and extravaganza is scheduled to go on for the entire year.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
" We were looking for this 5 years ago, to get it open, and now that it's not only open, but it's had 5 years on its balance, it's a terrific thrill for all of us. We are all very proud"
SUPER CAPTION: Roy Disney, Chairman World Disney Feature Animation

Euro Disney was nearly driven into the ground by multi-billion dollar debts.

The theme park, in Marne-la-Vallee 30 km east of Paris, was criticised at its beginning for being too American.

The park had to adapt to local taste and now one of the main differences with Disney sites around the world is the decision to allow alcohol in the park's restaurant.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
" It's a major step because for the first five years it was recognising for the European audience the fact that yes there was a park in Paris and yes it was worth coming to it and discovering the Disney magic. And now I think for the last three years it has been demonstrated we had more that 12-million visitors, so its really celebrating the fact that Disney is finally part of Europe
SUPER CAPTION: Gilles Pelisson, Chairman EuroDisney

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