Over 45 years after its short stay and removal, the Hatbox Ghost has made its return to Disneyland's Haunted Mansion to rejoin the other spirited inhabitants. The Rumor Mill said that there might be a soft opening of the Mansion on May 8, giving diehard fans a chance to see "Hattie" before the masses. On the positive side, I had the pleasure of meeting Peter and Atomic Redhead at the gate; sadly, the sign stated that the Mansion was not open.
Attempting to squeeze out a little lemonade, I took a few Mansion shots sans guests through the fence.
Throughout the day, I continued to check back, hoping that the situation would change. All I got was a little more lemonade.
Lemonade from a different view…
and another. While taking shots from this angle, I noticed some cast members entering the Mansion through the exit area. I got excited thinking maybe…but alas, they were entering for a cast member only preview. Regular mortals were not invited.
The next day brought new hope, and I was able to meet some fellow Mansion enthusiasts, including Gavin of gavinottesonart (holding Javier's head), Hayzen from Podketeers, and the legendary Jeff Baham of doombuggies.com.
Finally, the rope was dropped and a large number of peeps walked very quickly towards the Mansion gates.
The line curved around to New Orleans Square.
Wow.
And then it was time to enter!
One of the cast members motioning us into the Mansion.
It seemed like an eternity before hopping onto my doombuggy in the queue.
The anticipation built until I approached the end of the attic and saw…THE HATBOX GHOST!
The effect worked like a charm, and the motion of the figure was fluid.
What I like best about the Hatbox Ghost is that he fits into the original look and feel of the Mansion. He doesn't stick out like the proverbial sore thumb, unlike his female counterpart across the way. If you haven't seen him yet, get yourself over to the Mansion. Now.
For more Hatbox Ghost photos visit my main website.
