Walt Disney with architectural renderings of Disneyland

Walt Disney was a genius at promotion. In 1954-55 he used his weekly television broadcast on ABC, "The Wonderful World of Disney", to promote the opening of Disneyland. The theme park in Anaheim was a revolutionary concept in family entertainment, combining education, wholesome family fun, adventure and the essence of Americana.

Walt knew he had something totally new, fresh and innovative in Disneyland. He also knew he needed to introduce this remarkable project nationally and excite the public regarding its development. "The Wonderful World of Disney" served as an electronic billboard, affording Walt the opportunity to reach out to the American public each week for one full hour and explain his concept. They were intrigued! This was cross-promotion at its best.

The reason for the success of the strategy, was that each weekly broadcast presented a "show" that was extremely well produced and was highly entertaining. In other words, it stood on its own merits. Yet, it also served to introduce characters, themes and stories which would become featured attractions at the park.

Similarly, we want to introduce a highly original concept in entertainment and education - Teenage World's Fair, to the American public. How shall we do it? By producing (Prairie Oasis Pictures) two to four low cost motion pictures per year. When I say "low cost", I do not mean poorly produced films - to the contrary! I mean extremely well written and designed, quality productions that introduce our characters, themes and stories which may also become featured attractions during the production of annual summer Fairs.

But, how can we do it right and still produce cost effective films? The answer is to give new, non-union talent (both behind as well as in front of the camera) an opportunity. In addition, we'll make films that call for a minimum of costly special effects. I want to bring back the American musical film. We will put our dollars into beautiful costumes and stunning sets where it will show on the screen. Since we are producing only a few films each year, we can take the time to do each one well. Like the Disney broadcasts, each one will stand on its own merits as a commercially viable product; but it will also allow us to develop a continuity of characters, themes and stories for multiple applications, including adaptation for attractions at the Teenage World's Fairs.

Not insignificantly, the films will allow us to discover new talent and to give that talent opportunities to develop both in films for theatrical distribution and in live theater at Fairs, festivals, and other special events. After all, isn't that what this project is all about - encouraging young people to excel and providing them a venue in which to do it!

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