Disney Nighttime Show Goes Wrong, Fantasyland Structures Damaged

Nighttime spectaculars have long been an integral part of the Disney park experience, captivating guests with their combination of lights, music, and storytelling. However, that doesn’t mean things don’t go wrong from time to time, as was proven by recent incidents in Fantasyland.

Credit: Disney

In recent years, Disney has moved beyond traditional pyrotechnics, embracing quieter and more sustainable alternatives. Advanced projection mapping and drone choreography now play starring roles, offering dynamic visuals that can’t be achieved with fireworks alone.

Over the summer, for example, Walt Disney World Resort hosted a free drone show – Dreams That Soar – at Disney Springs. Meanwhile, Disneyland Paris has served as Disney’s sandbox for drone technology for a while now, with its latest show, Disney’s Electrical Sky Parade, launched at Disneyland Park in January 2024.

Credit: Disney

However, the adoption of drones has not been without challenges.

During recent performances of Disney’s Electrical Sky Parade, two drones seemingly malfunctioned and fell onto rooftops in Fantasyland, causing visible damage to park structures.

Credit: darrenkw, Flickr

Photos shared by @DisneyphileLIVE from the scene show downed drones atop Le Carrousel de Lancelot, with damage also caused to the roof of a nearby Fantasyland building and debris collecting at the base of netting designed to protect the area.

A History of Drone Damage

This isn’t the first time Disneyland Paris has faced technical issues with its drones. Similar incidents occurred earlier this year, including reports of fallen drones in Fantasyland near Dumbo the Flying Elephant during last summer’s run of Disney D-Light, the precursor to the current show. While these instances are relatively rare, they highlight the risks associated with integrating cutting-edge technology into live performances.

Credit: Disney

Despite occasional setbacks, drone shows have become a popular alternative to traditional fireworks. Unlike pyrotechnics, drones offer precision, sustainability, and the ability to create intricate visuals synchronized to music. At Disneyland Paris, drone performances have become a centerpiece of the park’s nighttime offerings, complementing fireworks rather than replacing them entirely.

Should the technology catch up, there’s also the potential for these shows to step up and replace fireworks at the likes of Disneyland Resort, where residents of Anaheim have long-held complaints about the noise and pollution caused by pyrotechnics.

The Future of Disney’s Drones

Looking ahead, Disneyland Paris plans to elevate its nighttime entertainment with the launch of Disney Tales of Magic in January 2025. This new show will blend state-of-the-art drone effects with fireworks, replacing both Electrical Sky Parade and Disney Illuminations. Designed to immerse audiences with groundbreaking visuals and storytelling, the production promises to be a milestone in Disney’s entertainment history.

Credit: Disney

Before the transition, visitors still have time to enjoy the Electrical Sky Parade, which remains a fan favorite thanks to its nostalgic nods to the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade.

However, the show will take a brief hiatus from December 5 to December 14, making way for a temporary Notre-Dame-inspired drone performance. This special presentation celebrates the reopening of the iconic Parisian cathedral following its restoration after the devastating 2019 fire.

What’s your favorite Disney nighttime spectacular?