On Tuesday, Haunted Mansion Parlor — the first-of-its-kind, adults-only haunted hangout for lively “spirits” aboard the Disney Treasure cruise ship — was recognized with the Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement – Themed Food & Beverage Experience by the Themed Entertainment Association.
When the Disney Treasure embarked on its maiden voyage, the Haunted Mansion Parlor carried on a new chapter in the story of one of Disney’s most beloved attractions: the Haunted Mansion. The Haunted Mansion Parlor, which is the first-ever bar experience themed to the iconic attraction, is more than a destination — it’s a showcase of Walt Disney Imagineering’s enduring commitment to innovation and storytelling.
In fact, Haunted Mansion Parlor, and the original attraction that came before it, was featured in a recent episode of We Call it Imagineering.
Keeping the Mansion’s Eerie Magic Alive
From the moment seafaring guests step inside the Haunted Mansion Parlor, they’re immersed in illusions that honor the original Haunted Mansion while pushing creative boundaries.
Actual figures appear in mirrors through a cutting-edge filming and reflection technique, giving the uncanny impression that these spectral, dancing characters are right there in the room.
It’s a modern evolution of the classic Pepper’s Ghost effect that has captivated guests since 1969.
Rather than relying on Computer Generated Imagery, Imagineers embraced practical effects, echoing the artistry of pioneers like Yale Gracey and Rolly Crump, whose work fused science and magic to create believable otherworldly experiences. This commitment to practical effects helps ensure the Parlor feels like a natural extension of the Mansion’s eerie charm, and continues Imagineering’s tradition of blending art and science.
In fact, many small details pay tribute to Imagineering legends that left a mark on the Haunted Mansion.
A memorial bust honors Imagineer Rolly Crump, complete with candle-like drips inspired by his whimsical “Museum of the Weird” concept, which was an early idea for a companion to the Haunted Mansion. Throughout the space, guests will discover Easter eggs and nods to classic illusions, showing off the Parlor’s role as both a celebration of history and a beacon of innovation.
The storytelling in Haunted Mansion Parlor is as inventive as the illusions.
The Parlor introduces a new chapter in Haunted Mansion lore: a jovial sea captain who met a mysterious end during a dinner with his fiancée. This narrative builds on long-standing hints of a seafaring master of the house and invites guests to join “a swinging wake unlike any other.” It’s a perfect blend of the Mansion’s signature humor and haunting atmosphere — now set against the backdrop of the high seas.
And Haunted Mansion Parlor isn’t only available to visit on the Disney Treasure, as guests will be able to enjoy the venue on the Disney Destiny as well. On that ship, it will feature some unique twists on the menu, and, for those looking for romance at sea, Disney Fairy Tale Weddings also announced that the location will be available for weddings.
Carrying on the Legacy
The original attraction introduced breakthroughs that continue to influence Disney experiences worldwide, such as:
- More than five decades ago, Madame Leota made her spectral debut in the Haunted Mansion’s iconic séance room, marking the first use of projection mapping at Disney Parks. Imagineers pioneered the technique by projecting video onto the curved surface of Leota’s crystal ball, creating a mesmerizing, ghostly presence. This innovation laid the foundation for today’s spectacular nighttime shows, where projection mapping transforms various Disney castles around the world into dazzling canvases of light and storytelling.
- The Haunted Mansion’s development traces back to Disneyland’s earliest days, with Imagineers constantly experimenting to create unforgettable illusions. The marble busts in the Mansion’s library — famous for their uncanny ability to “follow” guests — originated from a serendipitous discovery. While working on an Abraham Lincoln mask for Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, Imagineers Yale Gracy and Rolly Crump found that clever lighting and projection tricks could make the eyes appear to track viewers, a technique now immortalized in the Mansion’s eerie halls.
- The Haunted Mansion’s Stretching Room transports guests into the story through innovative sound design. Building on the original narration by Paul Frees, Imagineers layered ghostly whispers and atmospheric effects, utilizing 116 audio tracks to create an immersive experience where the Ghost Host’s voice seems to travel with guests.
These innovations have made the Haunted Mansion a global phenomenon, inspiring unique interpretations such as Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland, Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, and now, the award-winning Haunted Mansion Parlor aboard the Disney Treasure.
Congratulations to the entire Haunted Mansion Parlor team at Walt Disney Imagineering and the Disney Cruise Line on this exciting recognition.
