Disneyland Is Making A Change To It’s A Small World Which Will Probably Upset Some Fans. Why I Actually Think It’s Great

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Amongst the attractions at Disneyland, “It’s a Small World” has often sparked debate due to its catchy theme song, which some view as a moving tribute to humanity, while others find it an enduringly irritating tune they can’t shake off. However, controversy surrounding this ride isn’t limited to the music; it’s also been a topic of discussion for other reasons. Recently, Disneyland has made changes to the boat ride, updates that may disappoint some devoted fans.

This morning, Disneyland Resort unveiled several new features for the parks, primarily focusing on the upcoming 70th anniversary festivities kicking off in May. Notably, when It’s A Small World reopens next month following its Disneyland renovation, it will include a fresh addition featuring Miguel and Dante from Coco, who have been integrated into the Mexico section of the ride.

The Addition of Disney Characters To It’s A Small World Was A Controversial Choice

2008 marked a significant overhaul for It’s a Small World, with over two dozen classic Disney characters being incorporated into the attraction. These new figures were designed in the style of Mary Blair, who originally created them for the 1964 World’s Fair. Each character was carefully placed within the ride, enhancing the overall “Disney” feel of the journey.

Today, during your journey, you’ll encounter the Three Caballero characters in Mexico. In China, you’ll meet Mulan and Mushu. The region dedicated to Polynesia and the Pacific Ocean features Nemo, Dory, Ariel, and Lilo & Stitch as well.

This major change to the ride might be considered the most significant since it shifted to Disneyland, and not everyone appreciated it. While numerous classic Disneyland attractions were initially developed independently, intellectual properties (IPs) have been integrated into many of these attractions over time. Some argue that the authenticity of the original attraction is tarnished by this commercialization.

Adding More Characters To It’s A Small World Enhances The Ride

I may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I quite enjoy the idea of expanding It’s A Small World with more characters. The first time I experienced the ride with those characters was truly memorable! Spotting Alice in Wonderland and the White Rabbit sparked a fun hunt for other hidden figures. It turned the attraction into something like an Easter egg hunt, giving it an exciting new layer.

It’s quite astonishing to me that we haven’t seen more characters introduced throughout the years. I often imagine venturing into the Polynesian region only to discover Moana, given her immense popularity. Her absence despite her fame seems oddly out of place.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I must say, the blend of classic Disney and Pixar characters in this ride is simply delightful! The inclusion of characters from “Coco” only elevates the experience. Remarkably, these new characters have been crafted in the distinctive style that Mary Blair pioneered, ensuring they harmoniously fit with the original ride’s aesthetic.

While it’s plausible that some visitors might not spot them, for those who do, it’s an unexpected sprinkle of Disney magic. It’s like finding an Easter egg in a movie, an extra treat for us die-hard fans!

Indeed, this transformation in “It’s A Small World” this year isn’t going to be the most significant one. Already, Disneyland has disclosed that on July 17, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of its opening, a new verse to “It’s a Small World,” written by Richard Sherman before his passing, will be incorporated into the ride.

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2025-03-07 02:12