Disney World announces another major change
The company announced on Tuesday that it will be replacing the Star Wars : Launch Bay with a new experience called The Magic of Disney Animation. In a press release, Disney described it as 'a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences' and vowed that it will 'bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.' The Star Wars: Launch Bay is a spot where fans can 'celebrate all things Star Wars and come face-to-face with Characters from the legendary space saga.'
People quickly rushed to X, formerly Twitter , to share their thoughts on the upcoming change to the park. And while many previous changes were met with fierce criticism, people seemed ecstatic over this announcement. 'I like it. It's a relatively inexpensive way to bring new life into what was a very dead area of the park. Not everything can be $100 million new attractions. Solid move,' one user wrote.
'This is a good change this park needs offerings focused on the elementary school kids,' agreed another. Someone else added, 'That section of the park was so lame so this sounds great!' 'I think that this is a good and very necessary change to Hollywood Studios which feels a lot like an IP dumping ground right now,' read a fourth tweet.
'Actually interactive activities that aren't rides being added into a dead area is so needed.' 'What a great way to use the space for families and pay homage to what made Disney great,' said a fifth. 'As a former Star Wars: Launch Bay performer, I will be sad to see this space go. But, as an overall Disney and theme park fan, this is the right choice,' gushed a different user.
'We are going into Disney's future with a look backwards at what this space used to be, a focus on Disney Animation.' 'I am so here for this transformation. Instead of making the area into a singular IP land, we are getting a tribute to the animators that make IP lands possible. Thrilled to see this!' praised another. Someone else described it as the 'best Disney news' they had heard in 'ages,' while another user said it was 'step in a better direction.'
Some people even admitted that the news had made them cry. 'I'm in tears right now,' one user wrote, while another said, 'Not even gonna lie - I'm legit tearing up on the way to work right now at the news.' But other users weren't as excited and shared their dismay.
'Good grief, another cheap quick fix that will be empty in a month. People want rides. These parks lack rides, bulldoze all of this and build three new rides,' urged one user. 'Trying not to be negative, but really would've like to see this space utilized for a future ride or two,' agreed another. Disney noted in the press release that the building will be topped with a giant Mickey's Sorcerer Hat - just like the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California.
'Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they're ready to play,' reads a description. 'Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. 'Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.' There will be 'playful and interactive moments around every corner' and portraits will 'come to life before your eyes.' 'You'll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch,' Disney added.
Younger guests will be able to play in the 'Drawn to Wonderland' playground that will be 'filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all inspired by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art.' In addition to the 'whimsical indoor play area' there will be tons of chances to meet characters, Disney promised. The 'entire courtyard' surrounding the building is set to be 'reimagined' to look like the real Walt Disney Studios, 'taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank.' It will open in 2026. To make way for it, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay, and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. The new The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure show will stay open during this time, and over at the soundstage nearby expect a 'fresh' Disney Jr. show.
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