The empire strikes back: Disney readies a major Hollywood Studios expansion at Walt Disney World

June 13, 2013 at 3:50 PM · Excellent, but will The Great Movie Ride be getting a long needed update?

June 13, 2013 at 3:56 PM · 2 words: About time.

Adding omni-movers and meet n' greets will only get you so far. Time for Disney to put up or shut up.

June 13, 2013 at 4:02 PM · I am excited yet upset about these changes, as to me if you add more attractions from California, then it doesn't encourage people to visit both resorts as they will both become too similar. Also this will mean that the Backlot Tour will be leaving, which is the last remaining attraction in the park about movie making, and isn't that the essence of the park? If they remove the streets of America then there will be no typical film streets, with the fake walls as Universal destroyed theirs with the Rip Ride Rocket. Star Wars doesn't apeal to everybody even though I'm sure Disney will do it well. I feel that they should however be adding new shows and reopening the theater at the back of the park, as entertainment was important to Walt and holds part of the magic that the park used to have Beauty and the Beast show just turned 189, which shows the park needs a new show. I do trust Disney i just hope they do not lose the spirit of the park just to compete with Universal.

June 13, 2013 at 4:04 PM · Star Wars Land would be a welcome addition to the park. It makes sense since Star Wars weekends are such an integral part of DHS.

June 13, 2013 at 4:04 PM · Nice. 2018? A long time away. I wonder if both will open at the same time. Perhaps Carsland should open first, followed by Star Wars Land in the following year. I love Carsland, I wonder if it will have the same existing attractions with a full Cadillac Mountain range, otherwise, I will be disappointed.

June 13, 2013 at 4:12 PM · It sounds really cool. But come on. Five years? Surely they could get it done in 2-3 with reasonable effort.

I don't understand the Disney time frame. There used to be something new to see every year or two at WDW. With four parks, how is there not an e-ticket opening every year, even if it's a clone of something that already exists in another park?

June 13, 2013 at 4:21 PM · heck, i think i'd wait six years for something over the top amazing that was original. perhaps incredibles based

June 13, 2013 at 4:22 PM · Cars Land - BOO!

I understand from the cost perspective the desire to replicate projects, but I wish they wouldn't in this case. California Adventure deserves a signature, can't experience it anywhere else attraction. Disney Hollywood Studios deserves the same as well.

June 13, 2013 at 4:23 PM · I'll bet the reason behind the five years is that they will open one first and one later. Star Wars Ep 7 drops in 2015. Open that attraction first and follow-up with Cars Land.

June 13, 2013 at 4:35 PM · A Star Wars land would be awesome!I hope they consider a character meal for us geeks and more appealing to boys than the princess meals.

June 13, 2013 at 4:36 PM · I agree with Eric.

I think the secondary Disney parks (basically anything that isn't a magic kingdom park) should be unique & have signature attractions & lands.

DCA, Epcot, AK, DHS, TDS, WDSP all are different parks for a reason.

Star Wars land is obviously a huge addition, but it would have been cool if the other land would have been based on a different property (Monstropolis, Incredibles, Wall-E) something brand new!

Anyway, both Carsland & Star Wars land will be a big makeover for DHS!

June 13, 2013 at 4:43 PM · If you follow me on Twitter, you might have seen me go off on a late night rant a few days ago, contrasting the time since the last major new attraction at the various Disney World theme parks versus the other top theme parks around the country.

That elicited a few reactions from people who, uh, know things. They told me that while they agreed that Disney World has been slow with new attractions in the recent past, things were changing. And that's led me to several conversations over the past day, ultimately resulting in this post.

Reading between the lines of my online conversations, it's apparent to me that there are many people at Disney who are over have to sit aside and watch while Universal Orlando claims so much fan love online. They're proud of what they can do, and they want to show off, too.

To use a Star Wars metaphor, they want to go off on Universal like the Death Star went off on Alderaan. So the Battle of Orlando is on. And theme park fans will be the winners.

Let's talk timing now. I can't imagine Disney opening both of these lands at the same time. Given the head start on development thanks to having done Cars Land once already, let's assume that it debuts first. Let's say in 2017. That gives us Star Wars Land in 2018. Throw in Avatar in 2016 and you've got Disney World's line-up for the rest of the decade, following Seven Dwarfs next year.

That leaves a hole in 2015, but that's Disneyland's 60th anniversary, so perhaps Disney will be happy to let the focus shine on the west coast that year.

June 13, 2013 at 4:48 PM · There's been rumors that a new Soarin' film is coming to DCA and Epcot in 2015 so that might fit the gap.

June 13, 2013 at 4:50 PM · Make this happen. Please. We need it. It's all I want for Christmas.

June 13, 2013 at 5:05 PM · Very excited to finally see that Star Wars Land finally come to fruition. But like others have posted, I hate to see the best thing at DCA no longer become exclusive. In fact, all other attractions part of the $1 billion expansion have been cloned, aside from the Red Trolley Cars and revisions of existing rides. Regardless, I still look forward to seeing Disneyland Resort in my Sept. visit this year.

June 13, 2013 at 5:06 PM · I cant wait for Star Wars Land, but dont like Cars. Dont want to loose Back lot tour or Muppets.....update/upgrade Muppets already.!
I want a Tim Burtonland for Nightmare Before Christmas, Alice in Wonderland, Charlie n the Chocolate Factory, copse Bride, a place of Tims art themed stores, food, shoes, parades ....etc..........

June 13, 2013 at 5:13 PM · how much of this is truth as to rumor? there have been rumors galore about carsland or star wars land coming to dhs, just wondering if this isn't a I wanted to say it first story. if it is true I would much rather see just a star wars land at dhs then both. there wouldn't be a overwhelming reason to go to California if carsland came the dhs.

the mention of them getting rid of the muppets theater is kind of disturbing since they are relaunching that franchise with a sequel of the muppets coming next year. Also who doesn't love the muppets? I can not see that attraction leaving the park, revamping yes but not demolish.

June 13, 2013 at 5:20 PM · If Disney even builds just one of these expansions they better be ready to build a multi-level parking structure to take on the massive traffic it will generate. DHS is already having parking problems during busy periods and the CM's usually get the short end of the stick as their parking lot gets taken away and they have to park at the resorts or Epcot.

But if they go vertical for parking, they could actually reclaim some the parking lot and turn into into more Park space.

June 13, 2013 at 5:24 PM · This is SO SO SO exciting! I know all of us at WDWarrior and our Disney teens are so jazzed that Star Wars Land may become a reality.

AND to throw in Cars Land, too! That's totally awesome!

Mary
WDWarrior.com

June 13, 2013 at 5:24 PM · I am very pleased that there are confirmed plans to move forward with Cars Land. Has there been any further talk about the rumor that the racers wouldn't be included in this version due to Test Track using the same ride system? I for one would be very disappointed if that were true. Besides that would be a lame excuse since Disney seems to have no problem rehashing the dark ride concept. Also, I would not be disappointed if Muppets, HISTK play area, etc. is removed to make room for Cars. Bring it on.

In regard to Star Wars Land, I'd think that removal of the American Idol building would free up a bunch of space to expand. IMO, it's time to send AI packing as it really is dwindling in popularity.

June 13, 2013 at 5:24 PM · Joe said: " Also who doesn't love the muppets? "

(raises hand)

June 13, 2013 at 5:31 PM · I agree Robert..i cant see them opening these in the same year but i ll change the order

2015 Soarin redo
2016 Star Wars
2017 Avatar
2018 Carsland

the next two years belong to Uni for sure but disney can change things quickly

June 13, 2013 at 5:35 PM · Don't take away Muppets!!

June 13, 2013 at 5:46 PM · looking forward to d23 expo then

June 13, 2013 at 6:09 PM · I have a question related to the "which areas of the park will they demolish to build them?" issue. Why do they have to tear down anything at all? Doesn't WDW have thousands of unused acres of land? Why not use them? I'm not being snarky; I really would like someone with more knowledge of theme park design and construction to explain why they can't just expand the park instead of tearing down existing attractions. Thanks!

June 13, 2013 at 6:13 PM · I agree with previous posts. Disney should not duplicate attractions from both coasts. They loose their impact and what makes each park unique. Like Soarin - perfect for DCA, but shouldn't be at Epcot. I love both parks/coasts. I am a Disneyland purist, but think that just because something is successful at DL doesn't mean that is has to be rebuilt at WDW. There are far too many people that only go to WDW and they should go to DL and DCA for a different Disney experience. They are completely different. I understand the Magic Kingdom type stuff being repeated, but again they are different experiences all together. Take Pirates for example. If you have only been on the WDW version, you have no idea what you are missing with the DL version - it is a very different experience. At this point in time, since both coasts are established, they should be getting different "new" attractions, that is what makes each location unique. Stars land in Florida would be great, but not a cars land in FL. Just my two cents.

June 13, 2013 at 6:15 PM · Great question, Beth.

If you look at DHS in Google Earth or satellite view on Google Maps, you'll see that the southern entrance road and toll plaza runs just behind the Star Tours building. Disney could expand into the open woods behind Star Tours, but it would need to reroute the entrance road to do that first.

Plus, much of that "open land" is, in reality, woodland bordering on swampland. There's a *ton* of environmental-impact and land and water work involved in developing that land. Taking down something already in the park instead? That's a piece of cake, from an administrative point of view.

So it's much, much cheaper for Disney to redevelop something already in the park. And if that something includes attractions that aren't driving the fan passion that moves admission and vacation sales, it's pretty easy to justify replacing them with something new that will elicit that fan passion.

June 13, 2013 at 6:34 PM · They can't get rid of the Muppets.
Yes, the movie could use an update, but with the popularity of the first movie, and another in the works, it would be silly to get rid of the ONLY Muppet themed area.

June 13, 2013 at 6:36 PM · There was already a rumour about 2 show being replaced for DHS, right? The tired old Beauty and the beast and The Little Mermaid. That's a good thing.
The back lot tour is indeed the last fake reminder this once was intended to be a working studio but it isn't anymore so it's great that it's getting removed.
I'm a bit disappointed if the street scenes would leave because of the Osborn family Christmas lights. Where is that going to be???
I'm also sad to see the Muppets go. It's the best 4D movie there is but maybe the Muppets could take over the Imagination pavilion at Epcot. A new movie and a new ride. Muppet lab goes wild on amazing inventions. They could bring back that wonderful roaming vehicle with Beaker and dr. Honeydow:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/photos/muppet-mobile-lab/index.htm
Why isn't Disney closing one entrance (they have 2). The one coming from World drive road.
Looking at google maps they could ad a huge plot of land where they could build Star Wars Land with even room for future expansion. The park is small and when they add Cars Land (great idea, stop whining, only a few people are able to travel all parks), maybe another Pixar ride and Star Wars land this park will be very popular and would need more room.
I also hope they kick the hat. Move it to Fantasmic, out of sight.
Anyway, it would be amazing news and a good business decision because there is a lot of money to be made from happy tourists.

June 13, 2013 at 6:45 PM · I very highly doubt they'll get rid of Muppet-Vision 3D--it's still popular and still draws in crowds. And with Disney working to revive the Muppets right now, it wouldn't make sense to lose it.

June 13, 2013 at 7:09 PM · Someone slap me on the face! I hope I'm not dreaming and I am really reading this!

June 13, 2013 at 6:55 PM · Not sure how to make of this, looking at the expanded fantasy land I'm just not sure if the are going to do the same level of work like DCA or Universal (Harry Potter Land). WDW is known to scale back and give you a half-@$$ product that isn't an already established attraction that they decide to make over and call new! Gonna wait and see but to be honest, not holding my breath.

June 13, 2013 at 7:03 PM · I would gladly trade the muppets for Star Wars land. No brainer as far as popularity.

June 13, 2013 at 7:13 PM · I don't see any chance that both Lights Motor Action and Indiana Jones will close so it appears Indy would be safe and the Star Wars expansion would go the other direction.

Only issue with going other direction besides Muppets closing would be how to keep Osbourne Lights intact. Can't see the lights leaving DHS.

June 13, 2013 at 7:28 PM · I would rename the park Disney Hollywood Adventure to make you feel like you're going into the movies or living a Hollywood fantasy with the interactive shows (American Idol, Indy, Jedi Training).

They're probably trying to make it feel more like Universal Singapore where you're immersed in the world of the movie. This would be opposed to when the MGM and Universal parks first opened where you would just be at a studio or movie set.

June 13, 2013 at 7:29 PM · Put the light show in the Studios that they have at the Calfornia Adventure. THAT would be much better then the lame fireworks show at EPCOT every night.

June 13, 2013 at 7:30 PM · "pummeling Disney"?? Not really. And how do you mention "Springfield" and omit "Despicable Me"?

June 13, 2013 at 7:32 PM · The Muppets aren't going anywhere. They just transferred the 3-D video to digital and a new movie is coming out next year. They made a pretty good comeback.
The 2011 movie didn't do as well as they hoped, but did make decent money.
Each of the four parks has a 3-D film and while Star Tours is in 3-D, there is a height restriction and the "whole family" can't experience it. They won't get rid of a 3-D show if it's still marginally popular and isn't horribly dated.
Toy Story Mania has been a help at the Studios, but attendance is waaaay down. There is no excuse for Animal Kingdom to have higher attendance numbers than DHS.
One of the biggest debates in the entire Disney community is "Is Animal Kingdom a half-day park?" For my money, it is. It's not like they are in competition with each other, but Cars Land and Star Wars Land would totally give DHS a huge shot in the arm and bring people back there. Just for nostalgia sake alone, I hope Indiana Jones stays put or gets an update to other scenes in the Indy franchise.

June 13, 2013 at 7:34 PM · People in the comments seem to be treating this story as fact....Perhaps you should be clearer in your writing that, at this time, these reportings are still very much only rumors.

June 13, 2013 at 7:38 PM · I think this is great news, especially for someone like me that grew up in the "true" Star Wars era. I'm not a huge fan of Cars, but most kids are, and that's who Disney is for. And as far as the, "duplicating Cars in Florida won't encourage people to go to California" talk, not everyone has the means to go to both places. I live in Florida, and can't afford to go to California, so I welcome the similarity. People aren't going to go to both just because they have different attractions, they'll go because they are in that state. I've had seasonal passes for eight years now to the Disney parks, and it's great to see some change finally. I know usually the biggest complaint is the ticker prices, but when they drop a billion dollars to make the parks better for us, it's worth the price of admission.

June 13, 2013 at 7:39 PM · I think they should get rid of the whole NY street area, Muppets, Mama Melrose, the area that is behind NY Street over by what used to be the Hunchback/Pochahantas stage that is no longer being used and is coveted by some out of place San Francisco flat perspective. Get rid of the American Idol theatre and then change the ABC Commiisary restaurant and theme it to Star Wars. Get rid of that stupid, useless, Echo Lake which is there for what? Animation Courtyard, Little Mermaid and whatever that Playhouse Disney Jr is that I have never seen anyone go into
Expand Pixar by getting rid of the soundstages, the Honey Playground and the area where the backstage tour unloads. That backs it's up to the area where Lights Motor Action area will become Cars Land and expand it to the boneyard, Cat Canyon and the maintenance area behind that area. They can also get rid of the bungalows in the employee area behind the costume tunnel since there really is no real production going on there and hasn't for a long long time. They might even have the old "Mighty Ducks" ice rink that was behind the original Shuttle tour area and in front of the Entertainment Employee bldg and the employee parking garage. All of that should be relocated to the Cat Canyon area and then they can utilize that whole bungalow, garage, entertainment bldg, ice rink area for more room.
There is a whole lot of wasted space back there. I know since I used to work there.

June 13, 2013 at 7:42 PM · I WILL spend money to immerse myself in a Star Wars environment: not a cheap front such as the outdoor queue in Florida, but full environments on the same level as MK. I may spend all of my day there, as well, so I hope it's large enough. If Disney puts up the money to make it right, I'll give them my money in return.

June 13, 2013 at 7:46 PM · Awesome, awesome, awesome!

Star Wars MUST come first. The solution to where to build is simple.

- Knock down American Idol, Backlot Express, and Indy Stunt Show.

- Build a HUGE parking structure where most of Television parking lot is.

- Build one e-ticket super headliner thrill attraction (Hoth battle?) and AT LEAST 2 other B or C attractions.

- Build at least two eateries, one would obviously be the Cantina.

- Several "themed areas" for street entertainment, character greets, etc.

These are huge areas and could easily accommodate all of this. And it wouldn't even have to touch echo lake or muppets, leaving part of the charm of old MGM Studios intact. And if more room is needed, take more of Television parking lot and adjust the parking garage size and placement.

June 13, 2013 at 7:57 PM · I'm skeptical. Without any official word, I'm still considering this a rumor.

June 13, 2013 at 8:15 PM · Nooooo! Don't take away Muppets! It's one of my favorites in DHS!
Lots of good points made here. Vertical parking structure would be a plus. I also like the idea of renaming the park. If you take away the Backlot and/or the Streets of America (which I can't see them doing with the popularity of the Osborne Lights at Christmas time), it really is no longer a movie studio.
-KatieFigment

June 13, 2013 at 8:24 PM · This is great news. Living in Australia with family in San Francisco, I'm a DLR frequenter. I've been to Orlando only once (at the end of 2012) and was underwhelmed. The parks were too spread out, too busy (in early December) and the number of attractions within a park was inadequate - I felt. I have not been in a rush to reattend, but this is something which would entice me to.

In regards to Disneyland rushing these projects to completion, I think it's unlikely. They still have the lion's share of the market (despite the quality offerings from Universal) and I think our view as Theme Park freaks is skewed (and our opinion of Disney's lack of development in recent time). The average Orlando tourists do not keep up with park developments as we do. They go there for the holiday with Disneyworld being the number one attraction - such is the power of their brand recognition. Universal and Sea World do not have that same power (although it is likely increasing). I think Disney will be happy to not have the extra outlay with expediting these projects because they already have the business. Financially it MAY not be worth it.

In doing Star Wars Disney has huge power now. It is a long standing franchise with a fan base as large (or larger) than Harry Potter. The biggest advantage is that Harry Potter as a creative franchise is for the forseeable future finished. There are no new books and no new films. Without future development of the franchise there is nothing to stop it becoming a "fad". There is risk with Universal that in future years Harry Potter land may become obsolete, with younger audiences having moved onto the latest thing and unable to relate to it (this will be delayed by the sheer brilliance of the lands of course). The idea of Lord of the Rings has similar limitations.

Star Wars in contrast is an ongoing concern, with new movies, television shows, books and comics (and everything else). As such there is very little risk in a Star Wars land ever becoming outdated, and new additions will most likely always be a possibility.

Ultimately, we the consumer win with this new development. It also means that at some point in the future, unless DLR receives a Star Wars land, I'm going to have to deal with an added 7-8 hour transit time to experience what I feel would be the ultimate in theme park experience (long time Star Wars fan that I am).

June 13, 2013 at 8:25 PM · There has been some insider talk about expanding the Studios to the *west* side of World Drive, with an attraction vehicle of some sort used to get guests over there.
That sounds really blue sky, but it has been on the table at some point.

June 13, 2013 at 8:28 PM · Who are your "sources". All you are doing is spreading rumors and the uneducated Disney guest will assume this is true. None of this has been confirmed and I happen to be very close to the department responsible for this. I really wish that this website would stop publishing speculation as known facts.

June 13, 2013 at 8:37 PM · I love Hollywood Studios and hope that they keep the streets of America! It is such a fun Hollywood addition to the park, especially around Christmas when they do the light show. While I do think this park does need some new additions, I hope they keep that old Hollywood feel to the park and not let Star Wars completely dominate.

Changes I would love to see:
-Magic Kingdom: I was hoping for a villains themed land, I heard that rumor years ago and I am sad it never came to fruition! Maybe move Liberty Square to the World Showcase and have the Haunted Mansion surrounded by other villain-type attractions/shops.
-EPCOT getting an update, for a land of tomorrow, it looks incredibly 80s.
-EPCOT World Showcase featuring more unique pieces from the countries instead of WDW souvenirs that can be bought at any shop. Japan's store is great with the inexpensive souvenirs and candies.

June 13, 2013 at 8:54 PM · Wow! Step away from TPI for a day and all heck breaks loose! Cars Land AND Star Wars Land. We get our cake and we get to eat it too. Amazing.

When the rumors first started coming in about Cars Land coming to DHS, I was not a fan of the idea. But now that it looks like the expansion is inevitable, I can live with it, especially over LMA and a very, very tired Backlot Tour.

Plus, if they place Star Wars Land in the best location, we'll see the demise of the Muppets at last! Best rumor of the day! I cannot stand talking socks! YES!

Thank you, Universal for starting this war!!! It looks like in the end, as true theme park fans have been saying for years, WE THE PEOPLE are the VICTORS!!!

Incidentally, DHS will be THE theme park destination on the East coast - maybe in the United States - maybe even in the world - come 2018.

June 13, 2013 at 8:57 PM · For years, I had heard and viewed plans for the removal of the main toll plaza, and then expansion taking over the land next to the toll plaza. The main toll plaza is only accessible from I4. All resort guests, buses, and guests traveling from anywhere else on Walt Disney World property, use the smaller satellite entrance. A new access to the parking lot is slated to be near Pop Century. This will also help when the park closes as it will dump it directly onto Osceola Parkway and not a traffic light, as is the current way

June 13, 2013 at 9:03 PM · Also, look for the Osborne lights to be moved to the newly revamped Downtown Disney. The lights do not generate much tourist income where they are now. But put them at DTD and you'll be the busiest shopping center in central Florida!

June 13, 2013 at 9:05 PM · i'll believe it when i see it...i'm not getting myself into a tizzy until i see an official press release. i feel like they should be spending some money revamping areas that are seriously hurting (i.e. tomorrowland in MK and future world in EPCOT) before they go building additions. not that i wouldn't love to see a Star Wars land.

June 13, 2013 at 9:20 PM · Look, I love the Muppets and I hate Cars, but this is awesome if it happens. Get rid of the last vestiges of the boring old "look at our movie studio" park, and immerse us in the worlds of Star Wars and Cars. I don't want to see how you make a movie, I want to walk into the movie. Seriously, if this is true, DHS transforms from "the park you go to when the weather stinks" to "the park you want to go to everyday of your vacation."
I doubt we're going to get another E Ticket Star Wars attraction, but this puts pretty close to giving DHS the elusive "All killer, no filler" label. Is it 2018 yet?

June 13, 2013 at 9:41 PM · Disney Really Needs To Step Up Parking at HS. For a Cast Member During The Summer Its Nearly Impossible to Park in the Lot Next too Costuming. Maybe take a page from USF and go up.

June 13, 2013 at 9:44 PM · This is really exciting, but something will have to be done with parking. A parking garage makes a lot of sense.

June 13, 2013 at 10:34 PM · Muppet Vision 3D was outdated, old and tired 12 years ago when they added it to California Adventure. It's time to retire the attraction and move on.

The conversion of Muppets from film to digital is no reason to keep it. If you know anything about conversion process then you're aware that it's a minimal investment.

The exhibition industry is in the process this year of phasing out prints and with the exception of IMAX it's going to be very costly and hard to find someone to make prints come next year. Even IMAX is in the process of converting their ground up built 15/70 houses (which sucks).

Down with the Muppets. It was NEVER a good attraction (average at best).

June 13, 2013 at 10:37 PM · I want the additions..... but two major family friendly attractions sound like them may be getting sacrificed for this. Hollywood Studios is the more thrill focused of the parks so it is important for them to maintain their numbers on the family friendly rides.... (Otherwise families who are not interested in the Drop Tower or Launch Coaster may choose this as the park to skip).

Having said that, I hope they will find a way to keep Muppets in the Park. It's something the whole family, and many age ranges and different types of people, can enjoy. It could use an update though.... (as any film focused attraction usually will every few years anyway).

June 13, 2013 at 10:38 PM · Radiator Springs will be an AWESOME family friendly addition though.Glad it is coming east.

June 13, 2013 at 11:33 PM · Quite honestly, I really like this. Though, I will be sad to see some things go. As for people who say "the parks will become too similar and people won't be encouraged to visit both resorts", I say yeah right. For one thing, what about those families who spend 10 years just saving up enough money to make one trip to either resort. Why punish them and make them miss out on things just because they can't make both trips? Yes, the resorts will become similar, but from both a CM stand point, and a guest stand point, there are many things, other than rides and such, that draw people to both resorts. Just because some attractions are similar, or even the same, will not at all discourage people from trying to plan trips to both resorts. It will, however, make the trip for the poorer spectrum more enjoyable and less "what if"y.

June 14, 2013 at 12:08 AM · VERY excited about these rumors/facts/possibilities/plans, etc. This will DEFINITELY make me want to go to Disney and more often. This really is HUGE if it is all true. Will stay tuned and look for more updates in the future.

Parking is definitely a concern at DHS. With expansion comes changes, and I think that everybody will deal with it just fine (whatever they might be). If you get the plans, please share as we would all really like to know what attractions are going where. Exciting times!

Ciao!
-Jman

June 14, 2013 at 12:59 AM · Bring it to CA, florida has enough. lol

June 14, 2013 at 1:20 AM · I will actually shed tears if The Muppets is lost.
Tear down the Sounds Dangerous and American Idol theatres - total utter waste of land at the moment.

June 14, 2013 at 2:27 AM · There goes my favorite park. Oh trust me the park will lose that old hollywood feel. There goes the lights at Christmas

June 14, 2013 at 2:56 AM · Normally, when Disney announce something like this, Universal counter it with something even bigger to take the attention away from Disney, so I am wondering when Middle-Earth will be announced. ;)

June 14, 2013 at 4:36 AM · I can't believe they are getting rid of backlot tour . That was always one of my favorite things at that park. I understand why but it still sucks it won't br there.

June 14, 2013 at 4:53 AM · This is really just more rumour coming out about DHS. At this point we've seen so many reports from so many sites based on reliable and/or multiple sources the past 6 months that I don't take any of them seriously any more. At this point, I need to see a Disney World press release followed by construction trucks backstage to believe any of it. :-)

Mark.

June 14, 2013 at 4:54 AM · I really don't like the idea for cars land leave that at Californa so that we can have different experience at both parks. Sure i would like to see the star war land not much of a star war fan but it would be so mething different for the guest. But adding the addition you will lose a lot of classics i love the backlot stage it is one of my favs. I remember when the golden girls house was back there :). Also you can't give up lights motor action i come personally to see that as soon as i get in. It is an amazing stunt show. Disney remember DHS. is about the movies now i just feel like you guys are losing that aspect of the whole idea of that park please don't change it to compete with universal. Yes it would be nice for more expansion but don't just repeat the same thing if you want to change it up use wall-e make the area where backlot stage and lights motor action where bew york is at make it look like that is happening or something with incredibles it will be a different experience and something new to look forward to at. well good luck

June 14, 2013 at 5:00 AM · I would hate to see Muppets go! Isn't there anyway to take out Backlot Restaurant and leave Indy? Even better, add an Indy ride and build LucasFilms Studios land? How close/far is the ABC Sounds Dangerous Theatre? Can that be retooled for this? I think the Muppets are still relevant and have potential marketing capabilities...

June 14, 2013 at 5:05 AM · I have some issues with this along with joyless.
Joy-
1. Star Wars Land! I am a huge fan!
2. IT'S ABOUT TIME THEY TORE DOWN THE BACKLOT!

Issues
1. The Muppets are closing because its past its prime? No it's not, Disney just made a movie 2 years ago and another coming next year.
2.Why Cars? That was a bad film. disney should just make...Meh.

June 14, 2013 at 5:09 AM · Ooh my other thought was... Bet this happens before Avatarland ever does! :-))

June 14, 2013 at 5:44 AM · Just another opportunity for Disney to block Cast Members from the parks. I'm happy for the expansions, but I'd love to be able to take my family.

June 14, 2013 at 5:45 AM · Wunderbar! Now I'll have reason to stay longer than half a day :P

June 14, 2013 at 5:51 AM · While a Star Wars land is exciting news, I'm just gonna be that elephant in the room and ask what a lot of fans are really thinking... Why isn't Disney pulling the trigger and constructing an entire park exclusively devoted to Star Wars???

Goodness knows there are PLENTY of planets/lands that could be developed, much like an "Islands of Adventure" concept, especially if they'd consider branching out into the expanded universe.

I hope Disney doesn't screw this one up.

June 14, 2013 at 5:58 AM · First in terms of competition Disney has always the stronger hand over Universal for their theme parks.

The problem always with Disney Hollywood Studios is that it is hard to expand on the park because of limited space. What they should do is first figure out what to do with the parking lot because it is already a problem. They should first expand the parking lot.

With now more parking, they can move some of the park into the already existing parking lot, mainly for 'said' Star Wars land. I would think that they would want to complete Star Wars land by 2016. I honestly won't be surprised if Epsidoe 7 is pushed back to 2016.

As far as Cars Land, I think it is a bad idea to mimic it from California Adventure. They should expand Pixar Place to a Pixar Land. It allows more variety and creative flexibility then having a Cars Land. This way they can still build Radiator Springs if they feel like it and maybe some rides dedicated to other Pixar movies like Monsters Inc, Incredibles, and others. This land as expected should replace the car stunt show and backstage tour.

I hope they keep the New York and San Fransico themed streets and the Muppets courtyard. However, all of this is in the hands of Disney, I just hope they don't mess it up.

June 14, 2013 at 6:17 AM · Totally with you, Melissa. I think Star Wars easily warrants a park on it's own. Disney could even take an existing park, Hollywood Studios let's say, and convert it over. Star Wars is as culturally ingrained as Disney...the two together would be insanely successful...so why go so small-scale with it?

June 14, 2013 at 6:21 AM · I think any Star Wars Land Disney is going to build will (if done right) cannibalize from the other parks and will be to small. So copy a great idea from the masterminds at Universal Orlando and make Star Wars Land a multi park experience! To explain my vision further I would like to see they build on the existing universe of Star Wars but let us explore new adventures. Yes we will see all we know and love but not a rehash of the story in the movies, that's boring, stop doing that Disney, give us an extension of the stories in Star Wars.
Tomorrow land at Magic Kingdom is a travesty of it's former self. Stitch, Monster Inc and Toy Story have made this not about tomorrow but about movies. Re-theme the whole land into Cloud City, the kingdom in the skies. We see the Millennium Falcon on the landing platform. Space Mountain will get a makeover where you are to fly around Cloud City. Did you see Skywalker hanging under the city? Stitch Encounter will be the Carbonite room. There are multiple theatres so one could house a show with special effects where we meet Luke and Dart for a stunt battle. In the other theatre we could do the Carbon freeze experience they do at SW weekends. Toy Story will be a training ground for the security force of the city and the Monster Laughing floor will we added to that ride that has real audio animatronics in stead of cheap cut-outs.
Animal Kingdom will house the forest moon of Endor. We will meet the environmentally friendly Ewoks that houses a kiddy ride and a play area. The Battle of Endor will be the signature ride. We are a separate division of the resistance and while Luke, Leia and Han fight their way in from the back we go to the front to give them a fighting chance. Do we meet paths? Yep.
At Epcot we find the Empire. The Death Star is a no-brainer.
The whole dark ride in the Death Star is a promotional tour for new recruits. Of course we see some well known rebels trying to get in there. This ride could have some funny moments. The end (in the domed room) we see the rebels attack the Death Star to have it exploded. We escape with a Tie fighter falling backwards away from the doomed artificial moon swearing we would rebuild it (guess what it's already there again when you exit the ride).
Ellen and the Life Pavilion will also be added to the land and the space between them to. Finally something exciting will happen in Epcot.
At the Studios we'll find a collection of mini lands. One of them is Tatooine. A re themed Star Tours building has it's office there. We can eat at the Cantina we can have a drink, a bite and listen to the band. The other themed mini lands should include some locations from the new movies.
Even Down Town Disney (it would be called Disey Spings by then) will get into the mix. Jabba the Hut's palace will be a nightclub with a Jabba audio animatronic and Han in carbon freeze.
Of course the could only add one dark ride at the studios with an omnimover system in there re-telling the star wars saga in 4.5 minutes and ending in a store that is bigger then the ride.

June 14, 2013 at 6:26 AM · The rumor was that the reason they stopped doing the Pixar Pals parade was because the floats were housed in a building behind Start Tours that was going to be demolished to make room for Star Wars Land.... if that gives you any indication as to where it might go.

June 14, 2013 at 6:51 AM · The huge number of comments here is a good example of the hunger of WDW fans for new lands & attractions. Pay attention TDO.

June 14, 2013 at 8:02 AM · As a cast member at the Hollywood Studios, I have a pretty good understanding of the layout of the property. I believe that it would make more sense to take out the Backlot Express Restuarant, the ABC Sound Stage (which really isn't used for anything anymore), and American Idol (which has failed to prove a popular attraction and isn't a Disney owned project). These areas are also in close proximity to the Star Tours attraction and would there for make sense in creating a "land".

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is a popular show AND its stage is also used for special events and conventions, not to mention that it is another partial Lucas project acquired from the acquisition, so it would be good to keep. I also think that Pizza Planet could be torn down and relocated close to Pixar Ave possibly where the Studio Catering Company currently is and again, the former location could become Star Wars themed.

I would really hate to see Muppet Vision 3D as we also have acquired Jim Henson Productions and have NO other attractions or shows to represent that other than that one..... Not to mention the nostalgia of
knowing that that was the LAST project that Jim Henson personally
had his hands on! I still hear stories from Cast Members who spoke
with him while he was there and told of what a cool and nice guy he
was...... That he was so good to his employees.

Because the park is no longer an actual working studio, I understand that it needs a retheme and because we don't actually have a back lot or any sound stages used for production anymore, it makes sense to rid of the Back Lot Tour. I would however, HATE to see Lights Motors Action leave because it is the only one in the U.S, it caters to the action, adrenaline, and testosterone filled, and motor enthusiast which we only cater to at DHS. I think that possibly the show COULD be rethemed to Cars and rewritten, but I like the idea of an auto stunt show as it is again, unique at Disney World and is only also in Disneyland Paris.

There are so many more ideas I could add, but I just wanted to stick with the topics at hand and the project themes that more than likely will occur.

June 14, 2013 at 8:13 AM · During low season DHS is a half day park. If Disney is ambitious enough it could transform it in a 1 day + or 2 days destination. If it only replaces attractions it will continue to be a 1 day or even a half day park.

The modifications suggested by Robert Niles to build Cars Land seems to be logical, and there is no explanation why this couldn’t be ready in 2016, since the land is already there and they have the plans from DCA in their hands, there is no development time.

But for SW, Disney should aim high. They could transform the restaurant near Star Tours in a Mos Eisley Cantina, and make the road between them in SW land entrance. They could build a passage over the road to the woodland / swampland behind Star Tours and create a big lake there (that would solve the swampland problem) with planets around it, à la Epcot’s World Showcase.

Disney could add a new planet every 2 years, so they would have new attractions there for 2 decades.

June 14, 2013 at 8:23 AM · Rumors that I read indicated that the FL version of Carsland will not be an exact replica of the one in CA. Luigi's flying tires definitely will not be done (the ride sucks) and Radiator Springs Racers will be drastically different and probably smaller/shorter and the mountain range is said to be smaller. Talk of adding different C and D attractions instead and also more restaurants that WDW is known for. DCA's transformation took what, 4-5 years total from start to finish? They did it in stages, so I would assume that Carsland would open at one point followed up a year later by Star Wars or visa versa.

June 14, 2013 at 8:31 AM · I would hate to see Muppets go even if James Rao would. He still hasn't gotten over Miss Piggy dumping him in the seventh grade but whatever... ;)

The park is pretty small and doesn't have that many attractions. It would seem logical to deal with what should be some pretty large crowds in the future that it would be necessary to expand the park beyond it's current borders as well as keep existing attractions.

I am excited to see further confirmation of this rumor. I love Star Wars and can not wait to see a whole area dedicated to it. Cars wasn't that great of a movie but it looks like the attraction is top notch and its a logical addition to Pixar Place. Now let's hope for the Monster's Inc. coaster.

June 14, 2013 at 8:47 AM · I can't see them getting rid of both Stunt shows, so I think Indy would stay. I'm tired of all this California should have some things that Florida doesn't have. 95% of those people that go to Florida will never go to CA, and vice versa.

June 14, 2013 at 9:02 AM · While it is exciting and all to see a state-of-the-art attraction (Cars Land) and a new immersive park area (Star Wars Land), if they do end up shutting down the Studio Tour (which is pretty iffy), I hope they keep the AFI museum at the end of the tour, which is right in the middle of all the potential construction. If that entire area ends up being remodeled, Disney ought to close down the Narnia/Jack Sparrow show (nobody really seems to like them; it has a 4) and replace it with a brand new AFI museum. That way, Mickey Avenue could become the tribute to Disney and Hollywood with its amazing museums. And of course, update the Great Movie Ride in 2015 to make Hollywood Studios shine. Overall, though, I'm excited to see what the Mouse House will do this decade. They better hope that J.J. makes a hit with Episode VII, though.

June 14, 2013 at 9:11 AM · Don, if I've told you once, I've told you a million times, I dumped HER!!!!

June 14, 2013 at 10:43 AM · Some people clearly don't get that these places will be completed in 5 years... they always have something going on at Disney. How about that huge Fantasy Land revamp/expansion? I'm not sure why so many comments implied nothing will change for 5 years. I'm sad that the play land may be booted to make way for the changes. It's always a crowded place. My son adored climbing in there. Can't they keep it but rename it so it's more current? There are so many tiny Pixar/Disney character's... oh I know! Repaint it so it's from the Disney Junior show "The Hive"! It's the Disney Junior age kids playing in there anyway.... or even from "Pixie Hallow"? When my son turned 2 we took him for his birthday to WDW, we visited the play land in every park. It was great down time and it helped wear him out so he was more apt to sit in the stroller and wait in line for attractions. I'm excited for both Cars Land and Star Wars Land. We'll definitely be planning to visit shortly after their completion. Just don't wait too long with Cars Land, I'd love to take my son while he's still young enough to appreciate it! (He's 3 now). ;). I hope now that Disney Junior was successfully rebranded and launched it's own channel, that there will be more representation of these new characters/ shows at WDW.

June 14, 2013 at 11:58 AM · They need to also put some new attractions for the older kids...maybe a new roller coaster???

June 14, 2013 at 12:35 PM · I'm very happy to hear that some much needed updates are coming to Hollywood Studios, but I would first like to see a complete update of the Great Movie Ride. It's way past time for an update to that attraction. I would also like to see Disney get rid of the very stale Indiana Jones stunt show and replace it with something similar to the Indiana Jones ride in Tokyo or at Disneyland.

June 14, 2013 at 1:14 PM · Do NOT touch the Muppets! Even though it's dated, it still packs in quite a few people. Update the film and the 3D effects and it's another E-Ticket again!

Move Star Wars Land into Sounds Dangerous and American Idol locations. Taking out Back Lot Express would cut into food locations unless they themed it as the Cantina perhaps?

June 14, 2013 at 1:20 PM · About time. That park has never been worth a one day visit, except when they do the Christmas lights, and now it will! With it's Hollywood theme it has always had tons of potential. But they obviously don't use the same super fast construction companies Universal does.

June 14, 2013 at 1:52 PM · Zack,

My point is that if you're going to build an expansive new land, why not come up with something UNIQUE?

The creativity, resources, finances & talent are all there, sure you can use carsland as an insipration, but I'm just saying it would be cool to see something different! Something you can only find at DHS.

As it's been mentioned, many people can't afford to go to both, & I agree & understand, but most won't care if they have something EQUALLY impressive.

That said, I'm think DLR might be getting a marvel themed land if stars wars is going to DHS (or they'll just "duplicate" it :-)

June 14, 2013 at 2:01 PM · Food for thought: Agreed that the Muppets need updating, but I don't think they'll get rid of them. There's already a sequel in the works, AND Broadwayworld.com just reported that Disney is also in the process of workshopping a potential Muppet Broadway Musical, further confirming their support of the Muppet "brand." And has anyone given any thoughts to how the upcoming "Planes" movie will affect the Carsland? Will they somehow be able to combine the two? I'm not a huge Cars fan either, but assuming that another 'boy' franchise does even half as well as Cars, they're going to have to create some attractions, etc. to showcase the new Planes as well. (And then you have your differences b/t the Cali and FL parks) Just throwing those thoughts out there...

June 14, 2013 at 2:06 PM · I think they should concentrate on expanding Animal Kingdom. There are so few rides & shows! Plus, Animal Kingdom has tons of room to do it! I was't too excited about Avatar, but a Fantasy Land with dragons and other mythical creatures would be cool, not to mention maybe putting a small dent in Harry Potter?

June 14, 2013 at 3:13 PM · Well, my dreams have come true.

June 14, 2013 at 3:20 PM · wow this park will be a MUST do every year, for my family, up until this point, its been a once in a decade park LOL

June 14, 2013 at 3:50 PM · With around 45 sq miles why tear anything down? It's not like they lack space

June 14, 2013 at 4:41 PM · I personally like the ideas.

But I also think Disney World should take all the stuff from backlot tours and build A museum in Epcot. Where Journey Imagination Pavilion is. It might take a little bit from one mans dream but a whole complex to disney history would be very cool and would probably get more revenue in Epcot. Then maybe get rid of 1 mans dream and rename the new 1 in epcot 1 mans dream. And they can use the 1 man dreams pavilion for something else maybe a pixar ride or something like that.

June 14, 2013 at 5:51 PM · It's about time. Hollywood Studios is still my favorite of the bunch. It is the only park that has a few thrills that can compare to Universal / IOA.

Glad to see they are finally stepping up to the plate and expanding. All you Disneyphiles have UOR to thank for this.

June 14, 2013 at 7:16 PM · In addition to American Idol/Sounds Dangerous, they could take over Pizza Planet. Not the best of quick service and it's out of place (naming wise) considering Toy Story Mania is on the other side of the park.

June 14, 2013 at 8:45 PM · Another cloned attraction? Disney's problem today: Over-saturation. If it's works well here we'll make it work EVERYWHERE! They just bought the Muppets characters, why tear that down now if that's their plans? The Great Movie Ride, while I love it just as much as the second time I rode, has needed at least a couple new scenes for years and years. What are we about to get? Not great original attractions, but a copy of another ride in California, some Star Wars facades made to sell merchandise and walk-up counter cheeseburgers, and probably another ride made of screens that rips off what Universal has done with Spiderman and Harry Potter.
I DO want to visit Carsland, but in Cali. I like Star Wars as much as the next geek... but they're gonna overdo it to sell some Jedi lightsabers and Boba Fett action figures.

June 15, 2013 at 4:04 AM · I would absolutely LOVE to see Star Wars and Carsland added to the Hollywood Studios, but as some other fans have noted, it would be to the demise of attractions emphasizing the production aspect that makes the Studios unique, like the stunt shows. If the new Star Wars area can be based on some backstage premise, that would satisfy the Park theme and refresh WDW guest attraction to it! I must say, though, that I hope Muppets 3-D is moved elsewhere in the park or left in place. And I will miss Indy, Backlot, and LMA! immensely!!! I still miss having all the illustrators being onstage there, and i adore being taught how to draw Disney characters! I also wonder, why can't the Indy attraction out west be duplicated here? Thanks!

June 15, 2013 at 5:17 AM · I love all these changes, Hollywood Studios is my favorite park. But I have all these memories from the theme park that I'm not sure I want changed. I would be fine with the Indy Stunt Show gone, but not the Muppets. Cars Land sounds like a weak idea but Star Wars Land is an awesome one. I'm really excited about the prospects of more Star Wars attractions. I'll give some ideas about what I would like to see:

1. Speeder Chase Ride- Even though Attack of the Clones wasn't the best, that scene is pretty cool.

2. Something with Hoth

3. Mos Eisley

4. A life size model of the Death Star (just kidding)

June 15, 2013 at 7:10 AM · ^Attack of the Clones??? ;)

One has only to look at what Universal is doing to see that cloning is the wave of the future. It is quicker, cheaper, and less risky to clone a popular attraction/land than to build something brand new. At least give Disney props for attempting Star Wars Land - a somewhat new, definitely underused property - in this expansion as well.

At any rate, I must admit that I too feel Cars Land would be best suited to be a singular DCA experience, but at this point I will take just about anything new at DHS. And if it means cloning something that is already a bona fide hit, then so be it.

And while Disney is at it, can they clone Mystic Manor as well? It would be at home in a new, fully rethemed Imagination Pavilion at Epcot....

June 15, 2013 at 2:36 PM · While these ideas sound wonderful, if* these rumors are true, I highly doubt they will not be starting any of it any time soon. I was working in DHS this past fall/winter, and everyone was always asking about these rumors. First of all, they just closed down Backlot tours for a couple months this past fall for renovations (why spend so much time/money on renovations for an attraction that's going to be taken down soon?), and, LMA is one of the most popular/highly attended shows on Disney World property, so I honestly don't see them getting rid of it any time soon. With the imagineers working on the new Avatar land in DAK, I can't see them taking on such an enormous task of cars land and stars wars land at the same time. Also, with cars land (in CA) being vastly larger than the new fantasyland expansion, and looking at the time it took to complete fantasyland, I don't see it taking only 5 years to complete Cars land AND Star Wars land AND Avatar land.. Like others have said, I'll believe these rumors when I see a press release.

June 15, 2013 at 3:50 PM · Go across the service road behind Star Tours. Using Star Tours as a draw.
You don't have to relocate the service road...just tunnel under it with a walkway, using a themed landscape screen to keep the roadway out of view.

There: you now have access to a big area which part woodland and part parking lot. Develop the woodland area first. With expansion into the parking lot are building up---just multi deck an a joining parking lot and use visual screens to keep it out of sight of the crowd--or theme the visable side to SW.

June 15, 2013 at 4:24 PM · Lets be real here...Most of WDW's visitors are East coast residents and foreigners that are NOT going to go to California just for Cars Land so replicating it in Florida should not impact DCA's attendance whatsoever. That being said I do believe (hope) that California gets a huge Marvel presence for its signature whereas Star Wars will be the East Coast signature.

June 16, 2013 at 2:20 AM · I have to say, I love the idea. But, I'd be a little bit upset to see Mama Melrose go, me and my family went to Melrose for the first time 2 years ago and we all think it is one of the best restaurants we've been to in WDW (however, i am open to suggestions).

So what would happen with the muppets, surely they'd want to be promoting the muppets in some way since they are rebooting the franchise. Wasn't they meant to be putting in the build-a-muppet store?

I do love the idea of a full on star wars land though, i hope it's going to be truly original and unique

June 16, 2013 at 7:38 AM · I don't know how credible this all really sounds. These aren't new ideas, a Star Wars land has been circulating in rumor form for many years. The idea of wiping out nearly all the back half of DHS, not to mention a huge stage that is only 8 years old seems too far fetched. I would love to see a Star Wars land don't get me wrong, but CarsLand deserves to stay unique to DCA, they don't need to copy and paste every successful thing they do. Simply saying many insider sources have told you this isn't much of an actual confirmation because without credible names, it's all still just rumor. I've been hearing "confirmations" that the Hat is going down pretty much every year I've worked there and look, it's still there.

June 16, 2013 at 10:03 AM · Please, no "Cars Land " at DHS! One in CA is MORE than enough.

June 16, 2013 at 6:30 PM · ^Not for people who don't go to CA!

June 17, 2013 at 9:13 AM · I've seen the Muppets 3-D show many times, and I never get tired of it. It is a classic, and possibly the last movie Jim Henson ever made. I wouldn't mind an update to it, but I'd rather keep the current version than lose it to new development.

June 17, 2013 at 9:50 AM · Darth Vader force-chokes and kills Goofy for screwing up.

Apology excepted, Goofy.

June 17, 2013 at 12:00 PM · I cannot wait to see what they come up with for Star Wars... the mind bends at the possibilities and the worlds.. Only Disney can do it justice - but they need to get on it! My husband's generation (the ones that owned the original Star Wars bed sheets) needs this to happen while they still have little kids. :-)

As for Cars - It sounds great and looks great - but aren't the basic structures of Cars and the Epcot car ride basically the same? Isn't it kind of like putting the sameish ride next door? All the other stuff that goes with it will be awesome though... You would think it will be an easy decision.. if the CARS themed hotel is doing well in wdw - than the area will too. AHHHH - Maybe they will come up with a Star Wars themed hotel - too! OMG.

June 17, 2013 at 2:09 PM · ^ I doubt they will put the Radiator Springs racing ride (the one exactly like test track) in Cars Land in Orlando. They will probably put something entirely new. It would give people something different that have been to the CA version of Cars Land and give people here in Orlando something completely fresh compared to test track.

June 17, 2013 at 7:31 PM · I'm delighted to hear that the rumors of *something* happening at DHS are finally starting to migrate closer to reality. And I don't understand this notion that Soarin' or other features should be "exclusive" to Disneyland or DCA. I've been to DL several times and the addition of DCA several years ago would not remotely compel me to make the trip west rather than to WDW. I surely wouldn't object to a Florida-themed film for the WDW Soarin'.

"Lights, Motors, Action" and the "Backlot Tour" are aged features that were in need of retirement years ago, and had been getting short-shrift in attention for some time. I remember when LMA was a huge deal at DHS, but now it hardly attracts much attention. With its production work now gone, Disney needs to ditch the moviemaking theme of DHS because, frankly, its no longer relevant. Parkgoers are no longer compelled by forced-perspective movie street sets, and even venerable attractions such as Muppets3D are growing long of tooth.

Anyone not thinking Star Wars Land at DHS won't do phenomenal business is fooling themselves. This will be a monumental project and, if done right, could be a blockbuster success. A completely immersive Star Wars environment will prove an immense success. I just hope Disney puts better creative thought and energy into it than was implemented for the New Fantasyland at WDW Magic Kingdom.