MEMORIES:
Remember the first time you discovered that if you twirled yourself silly, you would knock your equilibrium out of whack? Remember the first time you hopped off a playground merry-go –round, only to discover that your legs no longer wanted to cooperate? For those of us that found this disorienting effect enjoyable, we have to look no further than Disneyland’s Fantasyland to find a ride that will spin us to our heart’s content.
“The Mad Teacup Party” is one of the original attractions at Disneyland, having twirled adventurous guests since 1955. The ride is one of two at the park based upon the popular Disney film, “Alice in Wonderland”. Up to four guests enter one of the uniquely colored cups and sit around a large wheel in the center that can be used to control the spinning direction and speed of the cup.
Some riders prefer to not use this wheel. We will call them “non-spinners”. They seek a gentle ride, content to feel the breeze drift through their hair. Then there is the other group. Perhaps you have seen them with their forearms that would make Popeye jealous and a slightly crazed look in their eyes. These are the notorious “spinners” and those with a weak stomach should avoid them at all costs. They view the teacups as an Olympic sport and woe be unto the unsuspecting non-spinner that hitches a ride with them. Predictably, “Protein spills” (which is “Disney-speak” for an upset tummy with an unhappy ending) are a somewhat common occurrence on the Teacups, of which the spinners ultimately hold the blame.
Now, if a group of “spinners” should happen to take over their own cup, the ride can be an entertaining spectator sport to those viewing from the sidelines. Moments after the ride starts, you can spot these groups easily, if you know what to look for. Just look for the cup that is a complete blur and listen for the uncontrolled giggling, followed by a chorus of moaning. Pay attention to this cup at the ride’s conclusion and enjoy as the group attempts to disembark their vehicle and find the ride exit, a remarkably difficult task under these circumstances. Loss of equilibrium sure can be fun to watch.
No matter what group you consider yourself a part of, the cups await your visit. Give them a twirl the next time you are at Disneyland and harken back to a day when it didn’t require a visit to the local pub to make the world spin around you.
