Big changes are happening at “The Happiest Place on Earth.”
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Disneyland has officially announced a significant change to the schedule of its beloved nighttime spectacular, “Fantasmic!” From now on, performances will be held only on weekends—Fridays through Sundays. This marks a notable shift from its previous schedule, where the show was offered nearly every day of the year prior to the pandemic. The recent alterations are particularly challenging for guests visiting during the holiday season, who may find themselves adjusting their plans to catch this iconic display.
In the past, “Fantasmic!” was a staple of daily entertainment at Disneyland, and even when the park reopened after COVID-19, it typically ran seven days a week during peak seasons. The new schedule means that fans of the show will have fewer opportunities to experience it, especially during the bustling holiday months when attendance is expected to spike.
For fans hoping to catch “Fantasmic!” during its limited weekend run, there is still some good news, especially as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. Disneyland has made special arrangements to showcase the show every evening during the week of Thanksgiving, from November 24 to 30, 2024. This is a slight relief for those who wish to experience the magical event during one of the busiest times of the year.
The evening performances will take place at 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on designated nights. Guests planning their visit should expect large crowds, particularly during holiday events, and should consider arriving early to secure a good view of the show.
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“Fantasmic!” has faced a series of challenges in recent years that have impacted its performances. The show famously experienced a significant setback when a Maleficent dragon animatronic caught fire during a performance, leading to an indefinite hiatus for the production as safety investigations and adjustments were made.
After returning to the park in May of 2024, the show struggled to regain its footing. It encountered various technical difficulties, including rogue fireworks and episodes of limited pyrotechnics that resulted in an incomplete experience for audiences. Enthusiasts of the show have expressed concern about these ongoing difficulties, which have raised questions about the production’s long-term stability and operational integrity.
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The recent changes in the performance schedule coincide with a wider backdrop of unionization efforts among Disneyland performers. There have been movements among cast members to organize, seeking better working conditions and fair treatment in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
While the direct connection between the reduction of “Fantasmic!” performances and unionization is not explicitly confirmed, industry insiders suggest that this cutback might be related. As Disneyland faces economic pressures and employee pushback, the cuts to entertainment could be seen as a strategic move amid these evolving labor relations. This situation reflects a broader trend within the amusement park industry where management decisions may impact not only the quality of entertainment but also the livelihoods of the performers themselves.
