This Is Purdue: Episode Summary
Episode Title: Behind Disney’s Magic: Senior Technical Director Eric Hall on Theatre Engineering and Pyrotechnics at ‘The Most Magical Place on Earth’
Release Date: March 6, 2025
Host: Kate Young
Guest: Eric Hall, Senior Technical Director at Disney Live Entertainment
1. Introduction
In this engaging episode of This Is Purdue, host Kate Young interviews Eric Hall, a Purdue alumnus and Senior Technical Director at Disney Live Entertainment. With a career spanning three decades at Disney, Eric offers an in-depth look into the world of theatre engineering and pyrotechnics that bring Disney’s magical experiences to life.
2. Eric Hall's Purdue Experience
Choosing Purdue and the Theater Engineering Program
Eric Hall’s journey began in Hobart, Indiana, where his family’s strong ties to Purdue influenced his decision to apply. Initially drawn to aerospace engineering, Eric pivoted to Purdue’s unique Theater Engineering program after recognizing his passion for live entertainment.
Eric Hall [03:06]: “I was still kind of undecided as to what type of engineering I wanted to study. So when I saw Purdue's theater engineering program, I definitely, I jumped right on it.”
Hands-On Learning and Key Takeaways
At Purdue, Eric immersed himself in both engineering and theater classes, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. From installing sound systems in black box theaters to presenting at the USITT conference, he developed a deep love for audio engineering.
Eric Hall [05:57]: “My love of audio really kind of drifted towards, like I said, and learning how studio techniques work...placement of a microphone makes a difference and the acoustics of an environment in a studio makes a difference in how things sound.”
Eric emphasizes the program’s balance of technical and creative skills, which equipped him to bridge the gap between engineering and the artistic demands of live shows.
3. Journey to Disney
Starting at Disney and Climbing the Ranks
Eric’s aspiration to work at Disney led him to apply for a stage technician role. Although initially assigned to monorail operations, his technical aptitude and willingness to seize opportunities through Disney’s cross-utilization program paved the way for his current senior position.
Eric Hall [08:18]: “I figured, you know, I'll be a stage tech, I'll get some hands-on experience... They didn't have any positions at the time, so I started off in monorails.”
Progression and Notable Projects
Over the years, Eric progressed from stage technician to crew chief, and eventually to Technical Director in 2009. His role encompasses overseeing technical delivery for major projects, including iconic fireworks shows like Epcot Forever and Luminous – The Symphony of Us.
Eric Hall [09:42]: “We’re responsible for the technical delivery of a project. Audio, lighting, effects, we kind of shepherd that process.”
Eric highlights his recent work with the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, focusing on permitting processes and building codes to ensure the safety and feasibility of Disney’s entertainments.
4. Behind Disney’s Magic
Safety as a Paramount Concern
Safety is ingrained in Disney’s operations, particularly in pyrotechnic shows. Eric explains how Disney pioneered computer-controlled firing systems to enhance both efficiency and safety in their performances.
Eric Hall [15:31]: “When we design, we're always looking for what's safe. If we can't do it safely, we just won't do it.”
Technological Innovations
Disney’s commitment to innovation is evident in their use of advanced show control systems that integrate audio, lighting, and pyrotechnics seamlessly. These technologies not only enhance the guest experience but also ensure the safety and reliability of performances.
Eric Hall [16:34]: “Disney was the first to really use computer-controlled firing systems for shows... we find ways to make things safe.”
Collaboration and Behind-the-Scenes Efforts
Eric sheds light on the extensive collaboration required to produce Disney’s spectacles, involving hundreds of technicians, designers, and engineers working in harmony to create unforgettable experiences.
Eric Hall [18:30]: “There are hundreds of people that could work on any particular show at any particular time, and they all have a different role. It’s a lot of collaboration that happens.”
5. Impact on Guests
Creating Memorable Experiences
Eric describes the emotional reward of witnessing guests' reactions to Disney’s shows. The culmination of a show, often referred to as Walt Disney’s “kiss good night,” serves as a poignant farewell, leaving guests with lasting memories.
Eric Hall [20:41]: “It impacts me to the point where... when you go somewhere, you see a show or something, you always talk about it afterwards in your family, and it creates a memory.”
Personal Milestones
A particularly meaningful moment for Eric was receiving praise from his son, who expressed pride in his work on the Epcot Forever show. This personal acknowledgment underscored the significance of his contributions.
Eric Hall [14:37]: “My son said, I want to get one of those shirts because I want to wear it to school tomorrow. He was very proud of me.”
6. Future of Live Entertainment
Evolving Technologies and Innovations
Looking ahead, Eric anticipates that live entertainment will continue to integrate more complex digital systems and compact equipment, enhancing both safety and creative possibilities.
Eric Hall [28:08]: “I see the future of entertainment... getting more and more complex digital systems, more compact equipment.”
Upcoming Disney Shows
Eric is excited about upcoming projects, including a new nighttime parade Starlight, a groundbreaking villain show, and a new Little Mermaid performance. These shows promise to push the boundaries of creativity and technological integration.
Eric Hall [28:27]: “We have a new nighttime show at Magic Kingdom, a nighttime parade called Starlight... a new villain show... a new Little Mermaid show.”
7. Mentorship and Advice to Purdue Students
Importance of Networking and Building Relationships
Eric emphasizes the critical role of networking and building relationships in securing and advancing within one's career. Drawing from his own experience of limited online resources, he advises students to proactively connect with professionals and seek mentorship.
Eric Hall [10:30]: “Get as close as you can, build those relationships, then it goes from there.”
Guiding the Next Generation
Through presentations and mentorship, Eric dedicates time to guiding Purdue students, offering insights into Disney’s operations and the broader live entertainment industry. He encourages students to follow their passions and develop strong problem-solving skills.
Eric Hall [25:41]: “Follow your passions... enjoy what you do. You hear that a lot, but it really is, it’s super important.”
8. Rapid Fire Questions
Favorite Pyrotechnic Show
Eric Hall [31:01]: “I have to be biased and say Luminous. It’s a beautiful show. I really am so impressed with my team. It’s a gorgeous show.”
Favorite Overall Entertainment Show
Eric Hall [31:23]: “I’m partial to Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom. It’s so energetic and just the talent that is in that show.”
Biggest Tip for Disney Visitors
Eric Hall [31:57]: “Have fun. Don’t worry about the little things. Enjoy that time with your family. Create those memories.”
Favorite Thing About Disney
Eric Hall [32:25]: “The uniqueness of what we do. How everybody who works here just loves what they do and loves the guests... making memories again.”
9. Conclusion
Eric Hall’s story is a testament to the synergy between Purdue University’s interdisciplinary engineering education and Disney’s innovative live entertainment. His dedication to creating magical experiences, coupled with his commitment to mentoring future Boilermakers, exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and creativity that This Is Purdue aims to highlight.
For additional insights and behind-the-scenes content from Eric’s interview, visit YouTube.com/thisisperdue and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes.
Notable Quotes:
-
Eric Hall [05:57]: “My love of audio really kind of drifted towards... the acoustics of an environment in a studio makes a difference in how things sound.”
-
Eric Hall [15:31]: “When we design, we're always looking for what's safe. If we can't do it safely, we just won't do it.”
-
Eric Hall [28:08]: “I see the future of entertainment... getting more and more complex digital systems, more compact equipment.”
Final Thought:
Eric Hall’s journey from Purdue’s Theater Engineering program to Senior Technical Director at Disney underscores the importance of passion, adaptability, and continuous learning. His experiences offer invaluable lessons for students aspiring to make their own giant leaps in the world of live entertainment.
Boiler Up!