Good morning from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where the Animation Courtyard area is now permanently closed. Today was the final day of operation for the courtyard, which also contained the Star Wars Launch Bay. We made it out to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this morning to take a look at the overnight changes.
Animation Courtyard Closes for Transformation
The Animation Courtyard is technically only closed in name. The physical area will remain and face little structural change. Back in July, Walt Disney World announced a new concept for this area of the park. Next year, the Walt Disney Studios Lot concept will come to life following a transformation that will see familiar elements such as the Sorcerer Mickey hat return to Hollywood Studios.
Also part of the reimagined area will be a “new” experience called The Magic of Disney Animation. This new concept will sound familiar to Disney fans, adopting the name of an experience that used this very space more than a decade ago. The Magic of Disney Animation 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!
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.
The playful and interactive moments will be around every corner. You’ll see portraits come to life before your eyes just like they did in “Once Upon A Studio;” you’ll find inspiration with a short film (with a twist, of course); and you’ll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch.
Our youngest animators-to-be can explore the “Drawn to Wonderland” playgroundfilled 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 from Disney Legend Mary Blair. It’ll be the perfect whimsical indoor play area for little ones to grow “curiouser and curiouser!”
All of those places to explore and create, and we haven’t even talked about character greetings… and there are lots! The whole family will be drawn to all the creative ways to play together when “The Magic of Disney Animation” opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios next year.
Here’s a look at the Animation Courtyard area today, following overnight work to block off some of the closed areas and experiences.
The walkway from the Little Mermaid show toward Toy Story Land remains open, with construction walls surrounding an area that will likely be leveled to connect different grades between the Center Stage area of the park and this walkway.
While likely related to the project, but not technically connected, there is work taking place nearby on an access ramp.
Also, the Brown Derby remains open and unaffected by the work. The door leading to the former Animation Courtyard area has walls just beyond the doorway.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!