Despite Strained Florida Relations, Walt Disney World is Central to Orlando in More Ways Than One

The Walt Disney World Resort is central to Central Florida. The Disney Resort is one of the state’s most important mainstays and tourist destinations. While the Walt Disney Company currently has a strained relationship with the Sunshine State, the Mouse House has certainly taken it upon itself to integrate into the neighboring community. Earlier this month, we reported on some ways Disney has made its presence known in Florida, highlighting how it helps the state. Per the latest reports, it seems the Mouse House is also indispensable to state in more ways than one.

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Any Disney Fanatic can corroborate the fact that creativity abounds in Central Florida’s Walt Disney World. From the incredible creations from Walt Disney Imagineering to the Cast Members who bring all of our favorite characters to life on a daily basis. And as recently reported by the Orlando Sentinel, the Walt Disney World Resort is also central to Orlando’s arts scene. The Disney Resort has done a lot to support the local arts community; as the report states, “contributions not only come in dollars but also through costumes, equipment, and other artistic necessities—even the carpet under theatergoers’ feet.”

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Tajiana Ancora-Brown, director of external affairs at Walt Disney World, shared, “It’s such a rich legacy of giving back in that way. It really stems from a deep understanding of the vital role the arts play in our community.”

The talent that Disney drew ended up fuelling a lot of creative endeavors in Orlando—for example, many Equity actors who performed at the Winter Park playhouse also worked at Walt Disney World, and it was these actors who helped the playhouse get off the ground and find its footing.

“We are so thankful for the employment Disney provides which keeps tremendous local talent here in our Central Florida area, from which the whole community benefits.” artistic director of Orlando Shakes, Jim Helsinger, agreed.

It’s certainly a symbiotic relationship that Walt Disney World has developed with the community that keeps it alive and thriving on a daily basis.

More on Walt Disney World

The Disney Resort is home to four Theme Parks—Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and EPCOT. It has some of the most famous Disney attractions, including ones like  Cinderella Castle and Jungle Cruise. Each Disney Park also puts on beloved shows, and unique offerings and festivals for fans to enjoy, like the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts and more.