UPA Animation Pioneers to be Celebrated in December Panel & Rare Screenings
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A panel discussion and screenings of classic shorts from United Productions of America (UPA) will take place on December 16, 2024, at the Old Town Music Hall in El Segundo, California. The event aims to highlight the groundbreaking work of UPA, a studio that revolutionized animation in the mid-20th century, and its lasting influence on the art form. Tickets are available for $10 and can be purchased here.
The Legacy of UPA
United productions of America (UPA) was formed in 1946 as an alternative to the more traditional, Disney-dominated animation style of the time. Founded by a group of artists including Ub Iwerks, Grim Natwick, and John Hubley, UPA sought to create a more stylized, graphic, and often satirical approach to animation. Their work embraced limited animation techniques – reducing the number of frames drawn – to achieve a distinctive, modern aesthetic. This allowed for faster production and a focus on design and storytelling.
UPA’s influence extended beyond aesthetics. They championed the idea of animation as an art form capable of addressing mature themes and appealing to adult audiences, rather than solely focusing on children’s entertainment.
Event Details & Speakers
The December 16th event will feature a panel discussion with animation historian Jerry Beck and author Michael Schreck. Beck, known for his extensive work documenting animation history, including The Animated Movie guide, noted the importance of recognizing UPA’s achievements. He stated that the studio’s first Oscar, awarded for Gerald McBoing-Boing (1950), is long overdue recognition for the pioneers who shaped the medium, which is now more popular than ever.
Schreck added that while UPA is recognized by animation enthusiasts, its films are rarely seen and appreciated. He expressed his honor at joining the speaker lineup to celebrate the studio’s revolutionary legacy,which he believes has been underrepresented for too long.
Featured Films & Venue
Following the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to view rare theatrical screenings of key UPA shorts. The lineup includes:
* Gerald McBoing-Boing (1950): The oscar-winning short that introduced audiences to a boy who communicates entirely through sound effects.
* Rooty Toot toot (1951): A whimsical short featuring a baby penguin learning to walk.
* Ragtime Bear (1949): The debut of Mr. magoo, UPA’s near-sighted character who became a beloved icon.
These films will be shown in the historic Old Town Music Hall, accompanied by the venue’s renowned Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Pipe Organ, adding a unique auditory dimension to the viewing experience. Old Town Music Hall is a beautifully restored movie palace that provides an authentic atmosphere for experiencing classic films.
Event Schedule
* doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
* Panel discussion: 7:00 p.m.
* Film Screenings: Following the panel discussion.
key Takeaways
* UPA revolutionized animation with its stylized designs and limited animation techniques.
* The studio broadened the scope of animation, exploring mature themes and appealing to adult audiences.
* The December 16th event offers a rare opportunity to see classic UPA shorts on the big screen with live organ accompaniment.
* The event celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of UPA to the history of animation.
This event promises to be a valuable experience for animation fans and anyone interested in the history of visual storytelling. by bringing attention to the work of UPA,the organizers hope to ensure that the studio’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of animators and artists.