Fort Worth Museum to Showcase Disney Animation’s Real-Life Inspirations

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is set to become the first institution in Texas to host the exhibition Capturing Life, Creating Character: The Art of Live-Action Reference. Opening on November 14, 2026, the show offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Disney animators use real-life references to bring iconic characters to life. The exhibition, curated by the Walt Disney Archives, features photographs, documents, videos, and interactive elements, including an audio guide and photo opportunities.

Visitors will explore how live-action performers, props, and sets inspire the movement and expressions of beloved Disney characters. A special interactive experience allows guests to experiment with different motions using toy dolls, showcasing how actions like falling, spinning, and running affect character movements. The exhibit also includes comparisons of movie scenes alongside their real-world references, providing a unique behind-the-scenes perspective.

Jesse Cannady, Senior Manager of Exhibitions & Loans at the Walt Disney Archives, highlighted the exhibition’s significance, noting that it celebrates the pioneering use of character reference that has inspired Disney animation for nearly 90 years. The exhibit is supported by the Fort Worth Promotion and Development Fund and will be on display through February 14, 2027, coinciding with the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM, with admission priced at $14 for seniors, $16 for adults, $12 for juniors, and free for children under two.