If you’ve visited Disney’s Hollywood Studios recently, you’ve probably noticed how packed the park feels. Attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and Slinky Dog Dash consistently hit 90-minute wait times or more.
The congestion issue has become so notorious that many guests say it’s impossible to experience all the major rides in one day without skipping meals or shows.
A recently filed permit may offer a clue as to how Disney plans to tackle the issue. The company has approved construction for a new live show at the Sunset Showcase theater, set to become the home of Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After this summer. This stage production promises to immerse audiences in a “Magic Mirror” setting, with appearances by fan-favorite villains like Maleficent and Captain Hook.
Disney’s strategy appears focused on expanding live entertainment options to disperse crowds. By giving guests another experience to enjoy, the goal is to reduce the long lines at headliner attractions. However, fans are divided on whether adding another show will make a significant impact. After all, popular shows like the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration and the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular already do a great job drawing crowds, yet the park remains crowded.
Meanwhile, many fans are pinning their hopes on larger projects. A Monsters Inc. land has been announced, bringing excitement about potential new rides. Additionally, Disney is planning to reopen a live Little Mermaid show, which was a fan favorite in its original run. However, the timelines for these projects remain vague, leaving visitors with few new options in the immediate future.
Since the park’s last major ride addition, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, opened in 2020, there has been growing demand for something new. Until these expansions open, Disney’s plan to address overcrowding largely relies on entertainment offerings.
While the new villains show is likely to draw significant attention, some wonder if it’s simply a temporary fix rather than a permanent solution. For now, visitors should expect to see some crowd management improvements—but those hoping for shorter ride lines may need to stay patient until larger expansions debut.
