Long before Disneyland guests will have the opportunity to step into the world of Pandora, visitors to the biennial D23 convention in Anaheim got to experience an immersive walkthrough activation inspired by the hit film franchise “Avatar.”
The Avatar Pavilion in the Anaheim Convention Center showcases the art ambiance of the world of James Cameron’s beloved creation.
Full-scale Na’vi, the inhabitants of the stunning fictional planet, are on display, alongside their tools and “traditional” clothing, as well as some of the fearsome creatures that also call the planet home.
A “scientist” also greets guests with a baby Banshee from the film franchise controlled using puppetry.
The pavilion also features all-new “Shoulder Banshee” toys that rest on the shoulders of its owners like many other beloved Disney collectibles. These, however, are interactive and “recognize each other, react through new motion and sound animations, and feature a bioluminescent glow.” The new Shoulder Banshees are on display at D23 but won’t be available to purchase until the fall at Windtrader’s Rookery in Florida.
The short walkthrough experience gives Disney fans in California a preview of what to expect when a fully-fledged “Avatar”-inspired land opens at Disneyland resort in the coming years.
Disney has kept mum about the details of the new theme park space, including its size and scope of it, but if it’s anything like its counterpart at Walt Disney World in Florida, guests can expect state-of-the-art animatronics, vibrant colors and awe-inspiring environments.
D23 is taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center from Friday through Sunday.
