First Look: Disney’s Newest Theme Park Addition That Is Coming This Summer
The Walt Disney Studios area at Hollywood Studios opened on May 26, and the former Animation Courtyard has already been generating strong guest reactions. But what is currently open is only part of what Disney is building there. The Magic of Disney Animation, a new collection of experiences opening later this summer, has just released its full map and concept art, and the details are worth knowing before planning a visit.
The building, under Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat in the center of the courtyard, is inspired by the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California. Inside, five distinct experiences are spread across a space organized around the premise of animated Disney characters taking over the real studio and inviting guests to explore every department.
Drawn to Wonderland
The indoor playground is primarily designed for younger guests. It is inspired by the original concept art for Alice in Wonderland by Disney Legend Mary Blair. Her bold colors and geometric shapes define the visual language of the entire space. Play areas include a roller slide, a hedge maze, and interactive elements at the Mad Tea Party table. Parent seating with device charging is built into the design. For families with young children who need a break from the heat and the crowds, this is going to be one of the most practical additions Hollywood Studios has seen in years.
Off the Page
The character meet-and-greet experience is organized around various departments of the animation process. Mulan represents the Story department, while Rapunzel represents Layout. Chip and Dale symbolize Hand-Drawn Animation, and Donald and Daisy represent Computer Animation. Goofy stands for Lighting, and Stitch represents Effects.
Above the character encounter spaces, a mural features characters from every Disney Animation Studios film, offering guests something to look for while they wait. Disney has confirmed that every film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios will be represented in the building.
For guests who wish to rest while remaining connected to the action, there is a climate-controlled reception lounge with large windows overlooking the character encounter area.
Olaf Draws
The animation class experience is anchored by a brand-new Olaf Audio-Animatronics figure. Actual Disney animators teach step-by-step character drawing sessions through recorded video segments. Characters available to sketch include Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Genie, Moana, Stitch, Olaf, Ursula, Judy Hopps, and Nick Wilde. Each is taught by a different working Disney animator or director with credits spanning from Aladdin, Frozen 3, and Zootopia 2. Josh Gad recorded original dialogue for the experience, voicing Olaf.
Once Upon A Studio Theater and the Art Gallery
The Once Upon A Studio Theater screens the Emmy Award-winning short film that inspired the entire area. Special effects during the screening cause characters to appear along the theater walls, placing guests inside the story. An enchanted art gallery adjacent to the theater features Disney Animation character artwork that comes to life through animations created exclusively for this experience.
The building’s entrance showcases character statues holding an open house banner. These statues include Moana, Flounder, the Mad Hatter, and the Lost Boy from the original attraction, portrayed by Robin Williams. Disney has also confirmed that more Lost Boys’ appearances will be featured throughout the building, including a special area where guests can learn about the characters’ story.
The Magic of Disney Animation opens later this summer. The full map is out, and the building is waiting.
