Ann Morrow Johnson, former head of global creative development at Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI), has joined renowned architecture and design firm Gensler. Johnson will serve as design director and global entertainment leader for Gensler’s Entertainment and Experience Design practice, co-leading the global practice alongside Lexie Barry.
The announcement marks the latest high-profile transfer of creative talent from Disney to Gensler, following the earlier move of former WDI head Bob Weiss.
Gensler is a global design and architecture firm with a portfolio ranging from office buildings to urban planning. Founded in 1965, the firm employs more than 6,000 people in over 100 countries. The firm’s work spans multiple sectors, including entertainment, commercial and residential projects.
The highlight of Johnson’s tenure at Disney was his work on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. Designed to simulate a voyage aboard the starship Halcyon, the two-night immersive experience allowed guests to live their own Star Wars adventure. The project was praised for its innovative approach to storytelling, combining live-action role-playing with interactive elements and detailed set design.
However, despite the initial excitement and early positive reviews, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experienced an abrupt closure less than two years after opening. The decision to close Starcruiser so soon was unexpected, leading to speculation as to the factors behind it. High fees – approximately $5,200 for a two-day, two-night experience, high operating costs, and the difficulty of maintaining a highly immersive and staff-intensive experience – are believed to be among the reasons for its demise. The closure disappointed many fans and marked a bittersweet chapter in Disney’s efforts to push the boundaries of themed entertainment.
Gensler Entertainment Leader Bob Weiss expressed his enthusiasm for Johnson’s appointment, saying, “Ann Morrow Johnson is the perfect creative leader for Gensler Entertainment as we continue to see exciting growth and momentum. Her extensive global experience in immersive experience design and storytelling, combined with a strong foundation in development strategy and architecture, make her one of the industry’s most sought-after leaders.”
