Change is in the air at Disney's Hollywood Studios! The Animation Courtyard is undergoing a major transformation, and it's already starting to look quite different. Let's dive into what's happening.
First off, the awnings and their frames have been completely removed from the theater that once hosted Disney Jr. Play and Dance! You can now see the bare walls where the awnings used to be attached, though the Disney Jr. billboards are still visible. A construction vehicle has taken up residence in the courtyard, and even the Mickey-shaped entrance to the theater's outdoor queue is hidden behind construction walls.
But here's where it gets interesting: Disney Jr. Play and Dance! was temporarily replaced by the Get Animated! dance party for the summer. A brand-new Disney Jr. show is planned to debut once the courtyard's reimagining is complete.
Moving on, the iconic archway at Disney's Hollywood Studios is also getting a makeover. The lamps have been removed, leaving wires exposed, and the archway itself has been completely blocked off, slated for demolition.
And this is the part most people miss... The Star Wars: Launch Bay sign has been taken down, leaving only a rectangular frame. The themed facade behind the sign remains, but it's showing signs of wear and tear, with some messy marks and a piece of scrim covering something.
The Star Wars: Launch Bay is set to be replaced by a new version of The Magic of Disney Animation, which originally opened with the park. The entire courtyard will be transformed into the Walt Disney Studios lot.
The courtyard closed its doors after September 24, with construction walls going up the very next day. While the courtyard is under construction, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents remain open for guests to enjoy. The grand reopening of the reimagined courtyard, the new Disney Jr. show, and the updated Magic of Disney Animation are all slated for 2026.
What do you think about these changes? Are you excited about the new Magic of Disney Animation, or do you have fond memories of the Star Wars: Launch Bay? Share your thoughts in the comments!
