Discover the Magic and Science of Special Effects With Illusion Workshop

Every summer, the National Inventors Hall of Fame^® invites kids to explore a brand-new world of hands-on STEM experiences at Camp Invention^®. Through fascinating experiments and the freedom of play, kids unleash their creativity as they realize their potential to invent new solutions and allow their best ideas to shine.

One of four dynamic experiences in our all-new 2025 Camp Invention program, Illusion Workshop^™ introduces children to National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductee and Disney Imagineer Lanny Smoot – the innovative role model behind many magical Disney experiences. Read on to learn how your child will engage their senses and stretch their imagination as they explore the science behind spectacular optical illusions, where fun is at the forefront of learning.

Discover the Science of Illusions

In Illusion Workshop, campers discover the mesmerizing world of optical illusions and special effects in their favorite art, movies, theater and animation. From reflection and refraction to visual perception, campers have a blast exploring a constellation of STEM concepts that turn everyday objects into instruments of magic. As children ignite their curiosity, they’ll learn how to achieve illusions through physics, engineering and neuroscience.

Inspired by National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductee and Disney Imagineer Lanny Smoot, Illusion Workshop combines science and imagination. Campers make their own moving pneumatic props, use illusion techniques like “Pepper’s Ghost” and even build a Spin-o-scope^™ to demonstrate the illusion of motion.

Campers also will explore a variety of STEAM careers that will influence the next wave of innovative entertainment experiences. As they are introduced to the roles of set designers, electrical engineers, animators and lighting technicians, campers learn about the value of crew collaboration behind the scenes and even learn tech tricks along the way.

I Can Invent Mindset

As campers discover the science behind special effects and technology used in theme parks, animated films and theater experiences, new hands-on challenges and career exploration unlock their potential to produce their own brilliant creations. Illusion Workshop focuses on the following components of the I Can Invent^® Mindset:

• STEM: Campers discover STEM concepts by exploring the phenomena of illusions. From optics to biology and neuroscience, campers also will gain an enhanced understanding of how people experience illusions.
   
• Persistence: Children sharpen their focus as they follow step-by-step instructions and practice persistence to build and wire a Spin-o-scope and produce their first animations.
   
• Innovation: Children discover the innovations of National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees, including Lanny Smoot, through hands-on challenges that showcase the capabilities of theatrical technologies.

Secure Your Spot Today

We can’t wait to see you this summer. Register today for a summer of STEM inspiration! Need more information? Learn about Camp Invention’s new program, Discover, on our website.