Figment in Epcot ~ The Evolution of a Classic
What has “two tiny wings, eyes big and yellow, horns of a steer, but a lovable fellow, from head to tail, he’s royal purple pigment”? Did you guess the little dragon known throughout Epcot as Figment? You’re right! This “dash of childish delight” is one of my favorite Disney characters. And Disney’s Figment in Epcot evolution is quite a story. But all good stories start at the beginning so let’s start at when I first laid eyes on this adorable fellow.
Figment became my favorite character after our first visit to Epcot in the early 1990’s. When we rode on the attraction “Journey into Imagination”, the beautiful sights, incredible sounds and that unforgettable tune had us captivated right from the get-go. Taking this micro imaginative expedition had filled us with the magical euphoria the DreamFinder and his pal, Figment were singing about.
So, please keep your hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times and join me. We will now take a journey back in time to remember the original Walt Disney World attraction, Journey into Imagination.
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Disney’s Figment in Epcot Journey: The Inspiration for the Imagination
Surprisingly, the Figment-type concept discussion began in the late 1970s when a new attraction, Discovery Bay, was being developed for Disneyland. It was to feature a traveling theatre that was led by Professor Marvel who bred dragons. While this Disneyland attraction was ultimately set aside, the early concept provided the basis for the characters of the Dreamfinder. This is the magical guide who collects ideas and dreams with his loveable, sidekick dragon. The story goes that the small dragon, Figment was created from bits of imagination that the Dreamfinder collected from across the universe. When Kodak signed on to sponsor the Imagination Pavilion the early concept drawings showed Figment as a green dragon. However, Kodak was a bit concerned that the sidekick’s color in the attraction was a bit too close to Fuji Film’s logo color and requested a design change. So, purple was a spectacular and the perfect choice.
Unveiling the Enchantment: Debut of Figment in EPCOT
Back in the 1980’s, guests passed through the glass doors of the brand-new Imagination Pavilion and were in the Journey into Imagination ride queue. The wait seemed timeless as guests were able to gaze at the beautifully painted imaginative murals that covered the walls. These colorful images hinted at the magical adventure in store for riders which heighten their excitement.
Once settled into a bright purple ride vehicle, riders left the brightly lit loading platform into a dim tunnel. Before your eyes could fully adjust, a projection of your guide, the DreamFinder appears piloting his unique steampunk style vehicle, the “Dreamship” across a blue sky. I now understand this animated projection was two-fold. Not only did it provide spacing between the vehicles, but it also transitioned guests preparing them for the exciting adventure that was approaching.
First Sighting of Figment in EPCOT
The Dreamship shown in the projection appears to burst right out of the clouds right in front of riders as it transitions to the next scene. The animatronic, Dreamfinder is sitting front and center and everyone gets a good look at the flashing lights, metal and gears, pedal-powered flying contraption. Our guide is belting out the unforgettable song, “One Little Spark” as he continues to pilot the ship across the sky. Riders learn of his quest to capture the sounds, colors, ideas and anything else that spark’s the imagination.
In just a moment, the Dreamfinder’s favorite copilot is introduced to all with a song: “two tiny wings, eyes big and yellow, horns of a steer, but a lovable fellow, from head to tail, he’s royal purple pigment”, and Viola! You’ve got a Figment! A figment of imagination. Don’t forget the “dash of childish delight”, which is my favorite part. As the Dreamfinder is singing, Figment slowly rises into view near the back of the Dreamship and starts interacting with our guide.
Figment’s excitement begins to run wild thinking about how you could use the captured thoughts and ideas. But, alias, the Dreamfinder informs us the bag is full. We need to head towards the Dreamport to store these new ideas with the others. But it’s just a short trip as “the Dreamport is never far away if you use your imagination”.
A Nana T Tip:
Most riders would not know this but after traveling by the projection of the Dreamship, rider vehicles were seamlessly put onto a turntable consisting of five identical scenes. This trick gives Disney the ability to allow multiple groups of guests to enjoy the same scene just at a slightly different time. It is an imaginative illusion that helped to keep the lines moving so more people could experience the magic at one time. The ride vehicle matched the speed of the rotating set, so it felt like your vehicle had stopped. To this day, parts of the original turntable can still be seen in the ImageWorks area if you keep an eye upward. I’d venture a guess that the vehicles just as seamlessly left this turntable back onto a single track as it moves toward the Dreamport in the ride.
Exploring Figment in EPCOT on a Fantastical Journey Through Inspirations
Traveling to and through the Dreamport with our new friends, we begin a magical journey through varies forms of inspiration. These are the building blocks for our imagination. The ride vehicle glides along showing a multitude of wondrous magical scenes. The first building block is the arts, followed by colors, imagery and music. Figment is instrumental in bringing each area to life. But locating the DreamFinder and his pal, Figment, becomes Disney’s version of Eye Spy. You just never would know where this delightful duo will pop up next.
In the arts scenes, the Dreamfinder holds a paint brush that changes colors as riders pass by, while Figment was found wearing a French beret standing in front of a rainbow released from a pot of gold. However, the spectacular animal carousel with all its intricate details as a plethora of colorful lights danced off it was the showstopper just before the next scene was presented.
Leaving the arts, our journey evolved proceeded into a literary adventure. At this juncture, there is a distinct shift in the music from a happy carnival tune to a heavy organ melody more associated with old thriller or suspense movies. Here, the Dreamfinder sits playing a musical typewriter. It resembles an organ but the keys were alphabetical like a keyboard. His “organ” was creating words and stories. Figment could be found holding letter blocks spelling out worlds that matched to images appearing on the moon behind him. Riders were mesmerized as they were switching between cat and bat. Another sighting of Figment in EPCOT found him making letters with his shadow.
The Ride Continues…
As riders leave the literature portion, imaginations will redirect to the performing arts. Now, the music changes to more of a swing band sound from the 1930s as you ride past theater posters representing song, music and dance. These were light and colorful to create a strong, immediate tradition from the darkness experience in literature.
Here, Figment is found standing in front of a mirror that looked like a dressing room in a black tux holding his top hat. I got the impression he was the one who will be introducing the Broadway show tonight. The Dreamfinder was conducting a light display of musical notes and other spinning images.
Now onto imagination that is out of the world. Entering the science and technology you would encounter a hitchhiking figment that was dressed in his space suit including the helmet. The Dreamfinder was at the controls of a machine that provided magnified images of nature’s beauty such as how a drop of water appears to be dancing, the unique images created when water freezes, a time lapsed view of melting snow and the growth of new seedlings that follows, and the opening of flowers. As the Dreamfinder is describing the wonders of nature Figment reappears bouncing around inside what is shaped like a moon or planet.
Captivating Conclusion
Disney’s Figment in EPCOT ~ Spectacular Finale at Imagination Pavilion
Our journey filled with imagination would not be complete without a grand finale. So, as you entered the last area, Figment is standing center stage singing as projections appear behind him of what he imagines he could do. Maybe he could be a superhero or riding a horse made from a barrel. Possibly a ship captain or discover treasure. Possibly climb a mountain or become an athlete? Hence, the possibilities were endless.
All too soon our journey is at the end. Here the Dreamfinder is behind the camera taking guests photos as you pass by. These appear again on the screen when riders leave the world of imagination. Figment offers a final farewell asking all to follow him into ImageWorks. This fun “creative playground of the future” was located on the second floor. So, once you exit the ride you would take the stairs, elevator, or escalator to interact with an abundance of imaginative activities.
Exploring Figment ImageWorks:
A Colorful Journey Through Imagination and Creativity
The ImageWorks interactive marvel was a creation for of all ages to enjoy. Let’s explore the multiple areas of the attraction.
Firstly, the entrance walkway was a sensory masterpiece with sensors inside the floor. Magically, the neon lights in the multi-colored tube were changing as you walked in. The interactive area was full of entertainment. There was ‘Bubble Music’! Just press a colorful button or two and Viola! The screen in front of you came alive with bubbles in your chosen colors. More floor sensors were inside the attraction. Also, guests could interact and make sounds stomping or jumping on “stepping tones”. Cool sounds abound dancing through these circles!
Exploring ImageWorks Using ALL the Senses
Another favorite spot spotlighting both creativity and photo magic was “The DreamFinder’s School of Drama”. Here you could become a movie character while acting out stories in front of a green/blue screen. This was a very popular area to play in or observe. It was fun to watch others as they became part of their own movie. It was also fun to use The Magic Palette. This coloring station was an interactive coloring book featuring both the Dreamfinder or Figment. If my memory serves me correctly, guests could select a screen to draw a multi-colored picture too.
Finally, was the Electronic Philharmonic where the movement of your hand made the music. A quick swishing of your hands through the air creates a symphony of delight to the ears! Such a magical experience and full of fun for all.
Can you remember any additional activities from the upstairs ImageWorks? If you do, please let me know.
Although there were many things to do within ImageWorks, it was the view of Spaceship Earth I miss the most. As we departed the Imagination Pavilion, we immediately wanted to reenter. It was not possible to experience everything the first time. Looking back, I wish we would have made a couple more rounds before it was forever changed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you see Disney’s Figment in Epcot today? Figment is part of the landscape of Epcot with his own bronze statue. He also is a full-fledged Disney character. Now you can meet and greet Figment for photos. But prepare for a long wait time since this is one popular purple dragon.
What is Journey into Imagination based on? Journey into Imagination is based on the concept of exploring creativity and imagination. It took riders on a whimsical journey through various realms of inspiration alongside Figment, a mischievous purple dragon, and the Dreamfinder, his imaginative creator.
Our Favorite Disney Figment Souvenirs:
If you are looking for vintage and sold-out Disney items, you’ll always find a large selection on eBay.
Explore the enchanting history of Disney ears, tracing their journey from humble beginnings to iconic status.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, these cherished keepsakes are sure to spark joy and ignite your imagination.
When exiting the Figment ride your eyes are drawn to a large display of Figment plush toys. These whimsical companions seem to beckon with their colorful charm, each plush representing a burst of creativity and imagination.
Whether you’re searching for a special gift for a loved one or treating yourself to something delightful, Etsy offers a treasure trove of creativity waiting to be explored.
Step into a world of collectible enchantment with the variety of limited edition Figments waiting to join your collection. Each unique piece offers a glimpse into the imagination, showcasing the endless creativity and charm that Figment embodies.
The Figment popcorn bucket first appeared during the 2022 Festival of the Arts and was an immediate “must have”, with guests waiting many hours in line for one. Today, you can find them on eBay.
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