Disneyland freaks fans like me are often torn between wanting the park to evolve and also wanting it to stay exactly as we remember from our first magical visit as a young child. Most of us are in general agreement that a full blown revolt might occur if the holy popular Tea-cups, Casey Jr. or Jungle Cruise were ever altered any any way. And yet Disney still presses forward making small improvements and changes every year; keeping the attractions fresh for even the most regular visitor to the park. Was I thrilled to see Johnny Dep in Pirates of the Caribbean? Not so much…. (and I hope he will be removed when the movies are no longer relevant), and was I happy to hear that Mary Blair’s "Its a Small World" was being re-vamped? Not at all. So when I was invited to be one of the first people to see the attraction after the changes were made, I jumped at the chance.
Why on earth was I so worried? I should have a little faith in Disney by now! In addition to re-glittering and repainting the existing sets, all the moving dolls are now working perfectly (my last ride thru I counted 20 not functioning) and the big change? Classic Disney characters have been ‘sprinkled’ thru-out the ride. You’ll find Tinker Bell flying over England, Jasmine on her magic carpet and even Nemo if you look close enough. But you may have to ride it a few times to catch them all (there are 29 total!) We rode it 5 times before we spotted my favorite character-Jiminy Cricket. And now a week later I am STILL singing that darn catchty song.
Read (and watch video) of all the changes here. And make a date to go see the ride for yourself….it is still as charming and as magical as you remember.
And maybe even slightly better. I am certain Walt and Mary Blair would approve.
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