The Walt Disney Archives is bringing a new exhibition to Anaheim’s Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center this summer. “Capturing Life, Creating Character: The Art of Live-Action Reference” opens August 8, 2026 and runs through November 1, 2026.
The exhibit focuses on a behind-the-scenes part of Disney animation history that most fans haven’t seen — archival photos of the live performers Disney artists used as reference when creating animated characters. Those images will be displayed alongside the animated counterparts they inspired. The materials come directly from the Walt Disney Archives.
D23 Member Preview on August 8
D23 members get early access on August 8, the opening day, with discounted admission and exclusive events as part of the member preview. That’s the same weekend D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event kicks off at Honda Center — August 14–16 is the main convention, so the timing puts two major Disney fan experiences in Anaheim within days of each other.
After its run at Muzeo, the exhibition will travel to additional venues. Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center is located in downtown Anaheim, CA.
