Inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short film, Once Upon
a Studio, the Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood
Studios has been reimagined with Disney Animation characters magically
leaping off the screen and into the physical world.
Drawing from the architecture
and atmosphere of the legendary Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California,
the updated area in a park-like setting will open September 14, 2026.
Inspired by the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building, the
Magic of Disney Animation will be home to Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat set atop
the building. The collection of experiences includes:
"Drawn to Wonderland"
The whimsical and immersive indoor playground was inspired
by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art from Disney Legend Mary Blair. From
the playful chaos of the Mad Tea Party and Mad Hatter’s house to the Queen of
Hearts’ vibrant rose garden and the Cheshire Cat’s mysterious Tulgey Wood,
every corner invites young guests to explore, move, and let their imaginations
run wild.
"Off the Page"
This experience features five key stages of the animation
process while spotting characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios stories such
as Mulan, Rapunzel, Chip n’ Dale, Donald and Daisy, Goofy and Stitch.
“It’s so cool to have fun with characters… that you’ve seen
in these films, and you’re getting to see a bit of the history of the studio as
well,” said Dan Abraham, Walt Disney Animation Studios Director and co-director
of the Once Upon a Studio short.
“Back when this was a working animation studio, it inspired so many people to
become animators… Hopefully, this new version will do the same.”
"Olaf Draws!"
Everyone’s favorite snowman takes center stage, bringing
guests along to learn character drawing from some of the biggest names in
Disney animation. Participants sit at an animator’s desk and proceed
step-by-step through the creative process, guided by Disney Animation artists
through recorded tips, techniques, and stories from inside the studio and
accompanied by Olaf’s playful humor.
“I’m so thrilled that a whole new generation of kids can
dream of becoming animators one day and can actually begin their journey right
there on the studio lot,” said Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, underscoring how
“Olaf Draws!” turns imagination into possibility.
Once Upon a Studio Theater
The dedicated theater honors more than a century of Disney
Animation storytelling with an extra layer of magic due to enhanced effects.
The enchanted art gallery offers a beautifully curated space filled with
artwork and beloved Disney Animation characters. While it first appears like a
traditional gallery, favorite characters may spring to life with the help of a little
pixie dust.
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