Tony Baxter, probably one of the best know Imagineers, was one of the many special guest at the kick-off event for the 20th Anniversay celebration at Disneyland Paris yesterday. He played a big part in the development of Disneyland Paris and now returned to celebrate its 20th birthday together with invited guests, the press, fellow imagineers – and fans.

While he certainly had a tight schedule during the media event on Saturday he nevertheless also took time to meet with fans, pose for photos and even chat with fans for a short while telling anecdotes about his involvement in the creative process for Disneyland Paris – and the special challenges that the first European resort posed to Walt Disney Imagineering. For example he talked about the horticulture aspects comparing Disneyland Paris and the original Disneyland in California, how certain  plant would thrive in the Parisian climate while it is extremely difficult to keep those same plants growing in California.

While Tony Baxter was able to talk to many fans he was usually surrounded by large groups of them so fans couldn’t hear all the other exciting stories. But – Tony Baxter is going to stay in Disneyland Paris for a bit longer offering fans the opportunity to attend a free “Masterclass” on April 12 in the Disneyland Park, where he will certainly retell many of the little stories and give an even deeper insight into the creative process behind the creation of the resort and his involvement. In the end the short but fun meetings with fans on Saturday was a little preview of what to expect on April 12.

If you plan on attending the Masterclass (which we strongly recommend if you visit the resort for the actual birthday of the resort) please note that capacity is limited and offered on a first come, first serve basis.