DISNEYLAND PARIS
DISNEYLAND PARIS
Two years of operating special effects, ensuring the magic behind the scenes of the park's most iconic shows.
THE KEYS OF DISNEY
SAFETY
COURTESY
SHOW
EFFICIENCY
MY EXPERIENCE
These past two years at Disneyland Paris have been a true learning experience for me. I’ve learned so much, not only technically by joining the large SFX team of Disneyland Paris, a company with over 19,000 employees, but also on a personal level. Working in such a dynamic environment allowed me to collaborate with professionals from various fields, each contributing their expertise to create unique, immersive, and magical shows. This experience has shaped me not only as a technician but also as a person, helping me grow in maturity and develop the ability to handle responsibilities and make important decisions under pressure. Beyond the technical skills, it’s the connections, challenges, and work environment that have helped me grow and understand the true value of teamwork. I’m proud to have contributed to the magic behind the scenes, playing a role in creating unforgettable memories for every visitor. Below is a look at this experience and the skills I’ve developed along the way.
DISNEY ILLUMINATION
Pyrotechnician
Disney Illumination is an immersive night-time spectacular that showcases a combination of cutting-edge pyrotechnics, synchronized lighting, projection mapping, and drones. The show transforms the castle into a dynamic stage, with video projections and precise firework displays synchronized to an epic musical score.
As the Pyrotechnician, I was responsible for the setup and preparation of the pyrotechnics before the show, ensuring that everything was correctly placed and armed. I also played a role in supervising the show from a safety perspective, monitoring the firing sequences to ensure the safety of both technicians and guests. Throughout the performance, I worked closely with other departments to ensure a flawless execution of the overall experience.
MICKEY AND THE MAGICIAN
SFX SHOW CONTROL AND STAGE MANAGEMENT
Mickey & the Magician is a beloved live show at Disneyland Paris, known for its combination of breathtaking stagecraft, heavy machinerie movement, magical illusions, and dynamic special effects. The show brings iconic Disney characters to life, with immersive visual effects and seamless transitions that captivate the audience.
As an SFX operator, I was responsible for managing and operating the complex range of special effects during each performance. The Venturi system allowed for precise control of smoke jets, specifically used to create magical appearance effects on stage. Four cryo machines, positioned at each corner of the stage, were also part of the setup, along with six CO2 jets connected to a liquid air system to produce stunning visual effects.
DISNEY JUNIOR DREAM FACTORY
SFX OPERATOR
The Disney Junior Dream Factory is a interactive show designed for young children and their families. The set is colorful and vibrant where Disney Junior characters brought to life through dynamic live performances. One of the most magical aspects of the show is the use of smoke-filled bubbles, captivating both young and old alike.
As the Special Effects Operator, I was responsible for overseeing and maintaining over ten smoke and bubble machines, carefully coordinating them to create the signature smoke-filled bubble effect. Additionally, the compressed air systems that powered various stage effects, including airlocks and the firing of streamers. I also maintained a network of Cryo Fog and Haze machines, which were connected to a liquid CO2 system.
AVENGERS CAMPUS
SFX OPERATOR & PYROTECHNICIAN
Avengers Campus is an immersive, action-packed experience at Disneyland Paris, where guests can meet their favorite Marvel heroes and enjoy thrilling live shows filled with high-energy stunts and special effects.
My role was divided into several positions depending on the day. In the control room, I was responsible for arming the firing panel and executing the effects, while also overseeing all the special effects playing across various stages in the land.
Additionally, I worked on the stages, ensuring the safe installation and removal of pyrotechnics on the rooftops. I also held supervisory roles, monitoring the safety of the performers during firing sequences, ensuring all safety protocols were strictly followed.
FROZEN
SFX OPERATOR
The Frozen show at Disneyland Paris is an experience where guests are immersed in the world of Arendelle. The performance takes place in a theater with two separate rooms, and halfway through the show, the audience transitions between the two spaces. With 12 performances a day, the show provides a continuous flow of immersive storytelling, enchanting guests of all ages.
As part of a team of two technicians, we alternated throughout the day to ensure the smooth operation and automation of both rooms. Our role required working behind the scenes to efficiently clean the first room and reload the effects, optimizing our tasks to handle the high number of performances. This setup pushed us to work autonomously while maintaining high standards of efficiency and precision.
Preserving the Magic!
In order respect the confidentiality policy of Disneyland Paris, job descriptions and technical details of the shows will only be partially discussed.