WDW Disney's Hollywood Studios Discussion Thread

[Nrthwnd]

^ It sounds really great, the way they're setting it up, etc. 

EDIT to add: They didn't abandon the courtyard after revealing where the Monsters, Inc. door coaster would go.

Good for them! 

[jedimaster1227]

This a pleasant surprise and a welcome upgrade for what is currently there. I love the Burbank Studios vibe the updated courtyard is giving off. And I'm never going to complain about more green space and character meet and greets in the park--both of which my five year old son will love!

[jedimaster1227]

Walt Disney World has shared new details about Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets which will open in 2026!

https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/the-electric-mayhem-arrives-at-rock-n-roller-coaster-starring-the-muppets/

Are you ready. To. ROCK?!

If not, you have until next year to prepare, because Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets comes speeding into Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026, fueled by the tasty tunes of the Electric Mayhem and the high-speed hijinks of The Muppets.

I know I’m excited for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, and I’m going to guess you are too … but I don’t think anyone is as excited as this guy:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNoPt3suK2Z/ 

And even more exciting – today, we have electrifying new details to share about the colorful cast of characters you’ll meet while hanging around the recording studio.

The Electric Mayhem: One Night Only! 

The Electric Mayhem are headlining their biggest Hollywood concert ever! Anyone who’s anyone is in attendance to witness Animal, Dr. Teeth, and the rest of this groove-tastic group rock the house down. There’s just one little problem: the band is nowhere to be found! 

Across town at G-Force Records, we’re treated to a VIP tour of the legendary rock and roll recording studio. Things might look a little different around this Hollywood institution, as the label has recently come under new management – The Muppets!  We’re happy to say that our colorful crew has landed some new digs… with just a little help from Scooter’s uncle, real estate tycoon and owner of the Muppet Theatre, J.P. Grosse (he really puts the G in G-Force). Just wait until you see how they’ve made these hallowed halls their own, creating the perfect place to make sweet, sweet Muppet music together! 

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Courtyard

For fans of that big – really big – hilariously big guitar, you’ll be stoked to know that the newest residents of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster are putting their own spin on that ruby red paint job. 

A vibrant and psychedelic new design will grace the bottom of the guitar (inspired by a classic Muppet car paint job), and the piano motif at the base will feature a golden key as a nod to a certain far-out band leader. 

Welcome to the Studio

With your VIP passes, you’ll be welcomed inside the recording studio, where – wouldn’t you know it – you’ll find the Electric Mayhem are cranking out some seriously rocking tunes. Along with the finest audio engineers (all penguins, of course) we’ll see Scooter doing his best to convince Electric Mayhem to stop jamming and get to their increasingly restless fans. But will it be enough to get the band across town and onstage in time?

A Rock ‘n’ Roll Roadtrip

With the help from our friends at Muppet Labs and a very fast limousine, we’ll take a twisting, turning, and screamingly fun road trip across Hollywood to reach the concert in time. The iconic scenery and landmarks of Tinseltown will feature a Muppet twist.

And throughout the journey, you’ll hear the Electric Mayhem playing some of the most iconic, rockin’ hits in your ears to keep the music and adrenaline pumping. I’m sure G Force Records will release a concert setlist soon.

There’s more to this Muppet-filled melody yet to come, so stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more news. In the meantime: rock on!

[KBrylczyk]

This is my kind of update as I'm a huge Muppets fan.  I'm sure there's going to be a ton of sight gags and jokey decor all around the queue and preshow and that will be the actual star of the show.  The description makes the ride sound identical where it'll still be blacklight scenery with some Muppet updates.  Personally I was hoping for a change in that regard, preferably something like Paris used to have before they butchered it into that Avengers ride.

Either way, this sounds snazzy as hell and I'm excited to see all the details!

[Nrthwnd]

^ For what they have to deal with, in a re-theme, etc. It looks pretty good. And with the new technology that Disney produces, the "black light" parts may be enhanced and made more stunning as we whiz by, lol.

But as you said ....I'm excited about it, too! 

[jedimaster1227]

The Walt Disney World Resort has confirmed that Rock 'n' Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith will have its last day of operation on March 1st, 2026. Work to update the attraction into Rock 'n' Roller Coaster starring The Muppets will begin on March 2nd, 2026 with the updated ride scheduled to open in the summer of 2026.

https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/hollywood-studios/rock-and-roller-coaster-starring-aerosmith/

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will open in Summer 2026. Read the Disney Parks Blog to learn more. The last day of operation for Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will be March 1, 2026.

[jedimaster1227]

Walt Disney World Resort has shared new details about the upcoming "The Magic of Disney Animation" experience opening later this year, as well as other elements of The Walt Disney Studios coming to the former Animation Courtyard section of the park. 

https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/disney-animation-inspired-experience-coming-to-disneys-hollywood-studios/

Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, is a place of pure magic – artists go in… beloved characters and films come out. Now, imagine stepping inside those iconic walls and seeing Disney Animation characters leap off the screen and into our world.

That was the heart and premise of the Emmy Award-winning short film, Once Upon A Studio, and soon, it will inspire a brand-new experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Housed in a building reminiscent of the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building, this upcoming family experience, “The Magic of Disney Animation,” is getting ready to bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.

While The Magic of Disney Animation arrives later, the storytelling begins outdoors. Opening May 26, the courtyard surrounding the attraction transforms into “The Walt Disney Studios,” an outdoor space inspired by the iconic Burbank studio lot. Drawing from the architecture and atmosphere of the legendary campus, the area features familiar studio details, including a version of the Studio Theater, which continues to house The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, and a nearby soundstage welcoming Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, all set within a relaxed, park‑like setting designed for families to explore.

Join The Fun at Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!

Starting May 26, the Clubhouse is calling and you’re on the guest list! Inspired by Disney Jr.’s hit series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, this live show turns into a feel-good celebration where you don’t just watch the fun… you help make it happen.

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are ready to kick off the big bash, but when their friends are nowhere to be found, the party turns into a playful search mission. With music leading the way, you’ll clap, cheer, and dance along as the adventure unfolds — and before you know it, Goofy, Daisy Duck, and Pluto join in to bring the Clubhouse celebration to life.

New Adventures Under the Sorcerer Hat

In late summer 2026, the former home of Star Wars: Launch Bay will transform into a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences. Topping the building will be Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat (just like the real building in California!).

Our story in this newly reimagined space 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” playground filled 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 this summer.

The Walt Disney Studios Lot Comes to Life at Hollywood Studios

The pixie dusting from the Sorcerer’s Hat will extend far beyond the walls of “The Magic of Disney Animation” as the entire courtyard is reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank. This special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot includes our version of the Studio Theater, which will continue to house “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” and over at the soundstage, you’ll find a fresh Disney Jr. show.

While exploring the studio grounds and courtyard area, families can take a break to play, relax, or snack on tasty treats under lush trees. And make sure to look around, too. You never know who you might see playing in the branches, soaking up the sun, or digging in the grass.

Explore “Off the Page!” and Spot Favorite Friends

You’ll also be able to venture into “Off the Page!” – a stunning area where you can meet some of your favorite friends from Walt Disney Animation Studios stories while celebrating the artistry behind every frame.

Each space offers incredible photo opportunities with some of your favorite characters. You can meet Mulan in the Story department, posing in front of an oversized storyboard panel. Or step into the Layout department where Rapunzel waits in a setting inspired by the classic multiplane camera where you’ll see layers of backgrounds and painted cells come together like magic.

Together, these spaces highlight key stages of the animation process, each brought to life through character encounters. Some of character you may spot are:

• Mulan in Story
• Rapunzel in Layout
• Chip n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation
• Donald and Daisy in CG Animation
• Goofy in Lighting
• Stitch in Effects 

 

Every corner of “Off the Page!” is designed to immerse you in the craft of animation, as this experience is a collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios. Dan Abraham, Walt Disney Animation Studios Director and co-director of the Once Upon a Studio short, says he can’t wait to see what guests dream up after visiting the space. 

“It’s so cool because you’re waiting in line to have fun with the characters… and you’re getting to see a bit of history of the studio as well,” Abraham said. “It could very well inspire people to move our studio into the future when they [join Walt Disney Animation Studios] and carry on this legacy that has meant so much to so many people.”

Learn to Draw with Olaf!

Step into a new Animation Academy experience with Olaf Draws!, where everyone’s favorite snowman takes center stage as your cheerful host. With his signature warmth, optimism, and playful humor, Olaf invites guests of all ages to explore the art of character drawing.

 

Brought to life as an all-new Audio-Animatronics figure, Olaf welcomes you into a space inspired by one of his most memorable moments from Once Upon A Studio sitting at an animator’s desk, joyfully discovering the art of drawing.

Stepping into a reimagined animator’s studio with playful nods to Frozen, guests of all ages are invited to sit down and learn to draw. Young animators in the making can spark their creativity at sleigh‑themed tables, while animator‑desk–style workstations invite kids at heart to feel as though they’ve stepped right into the studio.

The happy snowman’s spirit of curiosity and encouragement is what inspired Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, as he recorded original dialogue for the experience while also considering what it might spark in young artists.

“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,” Gad shared, underscoring how Olaf Draws! turns imagination into possibility.

Since Olaf can’t quite draw on his own, he turns to the expertise of some legendary Disney Animation artists whose pre-recorded guidance brings the class to life. Together, they guide you step-by-step through the creative process, sharing tips, techniques, and stories straight from the studio as you learn how beloved Disney Animation characters come to life.

Classes will feature characters inspired by timeless classics and modern favorites. You may find yourself sketching: 

• Mickey Mouse, with Dan Abraham, director (Once Upon A Studio, Baymax!)
• Minnie Mouse, with Hyun Min Lee, animator (Frozen 2, The Princess and the Frog)
• Donald Duck, with Austin Traylor, animator (Once Upon A Studio, Moana 2)
• Genie, with Eric Goldberg, animator (Aladdin, Hercules)
• Moana, with Samantha Vilfort, story artist (Encanto, Zootopia 2)
• Stitch, with Fawn Veerasunthorn, director and head of story (Wish, Raya and the Last Dragon)
• Olaf, with Trent Correy, director (Once Upon A Studio, Frozen 3)
• Ursula, with Michael Woodside, animator (Big Hero 6, Encanto)
• Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde, with Byron Howard director, (Zootopia, Zootopia 2)

Where Art Springs to Life

As you explore The Magic of Disney Animation, you’ll discover an enchanted art gallery, a beautifully curated space filled with artwork featuring beloved Disney Animation characters. At first glance, it feels like a traditional gallery, but with a little pixie dust your favorite character may spring to life in all-new animations created exclusively for this experience!

From there, your journey continues in the Once Upon A Studio Theater, where you can enjoy the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio. Inside this dedicated theater honoring more than a century of Disney Animation storytelling, enhanced effects add an extra layer of magic.

As you enjoy the film, you may spot characters popping up within the artwork along the theater walls, placing you right in the middle of this enchanting story.

Disney Animation artists and Walt Disney Imagineers are working hand-in-hand to bring the wonder and nostalgia of Disney Animation films to the whole courtyard in new and immersive ways families will love. We can’t wait for you to experience this fantastical place in late summer 2026.

As we prepare for this transformation, Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. During this time, guests will still be able to go under the sea with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and enjoy the exhibits and film presentation at Walt Disney Presents.

And you can catch the inspiration for this brand new adventure – Disney Animation’s Once Upon a Studio – on Disney+.