Efteling has announced that the fictional orchestra conductor Joseph Charlatan will soon take on an iconic role, both immortalized in a statue at Huyverwoud Cemetery, the attractions queue, and as the conductor in Efteling’s highly anticipated new attraction, Danse Macabre.
106. Breaking Down the Disney Adventure World Announcements – AirMagique – Unofficial Disneyland Paris & European Theme Park Podcast
The inspiration for Charlatan’s ghostly figure dates back to 1978 when former designer and creative director Ton van de Ven created a haunting sketch of a spectral conductor for the original Spookslot (Ghost Castle) attraction. The eerie image, featuring a long-bearded ghost in flowing robes wielding a conductor’s baton, laid the foundation for this latest incarnation.
Designer Jeroen Verheij has now brought this ghostly figure to life in Danse Macabre. “The melody of Danse Macabreplays a central role in the attraction, so it made sense for the conductor to be a key figure,” said Verheij. “I believe reviving Ton’s sketch is a fitting tribute to both the Ghost Castle and its creator.” (Quotes translated from Dutch)
While the conductor’s appearance stays true to Van de Ven’s original design, Verheij teased a few updates, including a more refined white vest and jacket. He described the figure as “floating in front of a massive organ, conducting the eerie piece of music that will make visitors’ choir benches come alive.”
In addition to the attraction, Charlatan also features prominently in the upcoming book Danse Macabre – Het Begin (Danse Macabre – The Beginning) by author Paul van Loon. The book, set to release on October 22, delves into the spine-chilling events that predate the macabre spectacle awaiting visitors at the abbey. Aimed at readers aged 9 and up, the deluxe edition will be available for €23.99.
The new Danse Macabre attraction is set to welcome park goers on October 31, 2024. Subscribe to AirMagique for more updates and news.
Did you experience the original Spookslot in Efteling? Let us know in the comments below.
Support AirMagique on Patreon and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Spotify (Podcast), Apple Podcast, and YouTube to get your daily dose of Disneyland Paris and European theme parks.
Efteling Wonder Hotel Opens Two New Themed Suites for Guests
The Efteling Wonder Hotel has unveiled two new themed suites, now welcoming their first guests. The additions include the Max & Moritz Suite and the Joris en de Draak Suite (George and the Dragon Suite), both located in the hotel’s towers. Max & Moritz Suite Features Playful DesignThe Max & Moritz Suite accommodates up to…
Disneyland Paris Announces Deadpool Holiday Entertainment and Zootopia 2 Experiences
Disneyland Paris has unveiled new seasonal attractions and character experiences scheduled for this holiday season, including the return of a popular Marvel character and activities tied to the theatrical release of Zootopia 2. Deadpool Returns for Holiday SeasonThe Marvel character Deadpool will appear at the Marvel Avengers Campus in Walt Disney Studios Park from December…
Mandy Moore Returns to Voice Rapunzel for New Disneyland Paris Attraction
Disneyland Paris has revealed more details for a new family attraction based on Disney’s 2010 animated film Tangled, scheduled to open on March 29, 2026. The attraction, named Raiponce Tangled Spin, will feature spinning gondolas beneath a lantern-filled sky designed to evoke one of the film’s most recognizable scenes. The ride will incorporate newly arranged…
AirMagique - European Theme Parks & Disneyland Paris 
Leave a comment