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Disney Drops Failing Theme Park Show, Reveals New Production for 2026

For more than two decades, Walt Disney Studios Park has stood as the outlier in Disneyland Paris. Designed with a focus on production sets and backlot-style staging, the park was long criticized for lacking the immersive storytelling that defines Disney’s most beloved destinations.

That reputation has been difficult to shake. The park’s limited roster of attractions left visitors underwhelmed, while its studio façades were seen as uninspired compared with the fairy-tale theming of Disneyland Park next door. Even as expansions rolled out, guest perception often lagged behind.

Two guests laugh with Goofy in front of the Tower of Terror at Walt Disney Studios Park on a sunny day at Disneyland Paris, where several Disney parks are in France.
Credit: Disney

In recent years, Disney has accelerated efforts to change that narrative. The launch of Avengers Campus in 2022 marked a turning point, followed by the construction of World of Frozen and a future Lion King–themed land. Earlier this year, the unveiling of World Premiere, a redesigned entrance, replaced the unpopular Studio 1 corridor and signaled Disney’s commitment to reshaping the guest experience.

A Show That Failed to Impress

Live entertainment has been one of Walt Disney Studios Park’s strengths, with Mickey and the Magician and TOGETHER: A Pixar Musical Adventure routinely praised by fans and critics alike. Not every experiment has landed, though.

⚠️ From February 2026, Studio D will host “Minnie’s Dream Factory”, a reworked show where Minnie will lead Daisy, Donald and Chip ‘n’ Dale on an immersive musical wonder.

 

Minnie’s Musical Moment debuted in Studio D in November 2023. Billed as a 12-minute “happening,” it featured Minnie and her friend Jamie playing “name that song” in a lighthearted celebration of their friendship. The show never resonated with audiences. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, remarked at the time, “Is this a theme park or a cruise?” Others saw it as evidence of budget tightening, with a smaller cast and less spectacle than its predecessor.

Entrance to Walt Disney Studios Park
Credit: My Frozen Life, Flickr

That predecessor, Disney Junior Dream Factory, opened in 2021 following a pandemic delay. Aimed at young families, it centered on Mickey and Minnie restarting the Dream Factory’s whimsical machinery alongside Disney Junior characters such as Fancy Nancy, Timon, and Vampirina. Though modest in scale, it filled a niche and offered interactive appeal.

By comparison, Minnie’s Musical Moment closed quietly in March after only a few months, leaving Studio D without a headline production.

Minnie’s Dream Factory

Disney has now confirmed what will come next. Beginning in February 2026, the venue will welcome Minnie’s Dream Factory, a new musical production featuring Minnie Mouse alongside Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, and Chip ‘n’ Dale. Described by Disney as an “immersive musical wonder,” the show is positioned as a more substantial replacement and a return to classic characters.

The entrance to Walt Disney Studios Park features a yellow archway with the park's name, while the iconic water tower adorned with Mickey Mouse ears stands in the background. Amidst a picturesque setting of trees and a brick-paved plaza under a blue sky, whispers about Disneyland Paris castle damage linger.
Credit: Disney

The announcement has already been received more warmly than its predecessor. One fan wrote on X, “Excellent news, hoping that the show is of quality. In any case, these ‘classic’ characters are more unifying than those from Disney Channel, which are becoming unknown to a good portion of the visitors.”

The change underscores a broader effort by Disney to course-correct at Walt Disney Studios Park. While expansions like World of Frozen and the upcoming Lion King area aim to elevate the park’s profile, even adjustments to individual shows reflect a desire to strengthen its overall reputation.

What’s your favorite show at Walt Disney Studios Park?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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