Beth Clapperton, executive creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, will be awarded the TEA Master title in the global themed entertainment industry on Oct. 21, 2025. The award will be presented during the TEA SATE North America event in Buena Park, California. This prestigious title recognizes her more than 30 years of work on major developments at Disneyland Paris and her inspirational expertise.
The TEA Master Title and Its Significance
The TEA Master title celebrates professionals in the entertainment industry whose expertise and passion have brought significant advances in their field, while inspiring others around them through their high standards and work ethic. In 2025, seven new individuals will be named TEA Masters of Their Craft. They will join an impressive group of only 42 other professionals who have received this prestigious recognition.
Qualifications for TEA Master Status
To qualify as a TEA Master, a professional must have built a body of work over at least 20 years. This includes frequent participation in significant and/or distinctive projects that lead to the creation and implementation of global experiences, attractions, events, spectacles, rides and shows. TEA Masters have made lasting contributions to their field through innovation, leadership, expertise, and artistic vision.
Recognition by the Themed Entertainment Association
Among these professionals, the Themed Entertainment Association will recognize Beth Clapperton for her outstanding work by granting her this globally recognized status. She joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 1990, during the construction of the first Disneyland Park in Paris, where she worked as a show set designer and production designer until the park's opening in 1992.
Career Development and Key Projects
In 1995, Beth Clapperton was promoted to art director, a position that enabled her to lead the creation of increasingly ambitious and immersive areas and attractions, such as "
Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast" in 2006, "Toon Studio" in 2007, and "
Ratatouille: The Adventure" in 2014, the first attraction based on the Disney-Pixar film "Ratatouille." She also led the extensive Enhancement Experience Program, which added new magic to classic attractions like "
Pirates of the Caribbean" and "
Phantom Manor." Beth most recently served as creative director for Avengers Campus and was responsible for ensuring the creative vision through all project phases.
Current Role and Future Projects
Beth Clapperton is currently executive creative director for the world's first immersive themed land inspired by the classic animated film “The Lion King,” which is under construction at
Disney Adventure World, the new name for Walt Disney Studios Park starting in spring 2026.
