Walt Disney Imagineering is putting the finishing touches to one of the most comprehensive tributes to the US amusement park pioneer.
Walt Disney – A Magical Life will open to guests at Disneyland on 17 July 2025, in the park’s longstanding Main Street Opera House building.
Those stepping into the theatre will rediscover the unique story of Walt Disney’s life. Through remastered footage and audio recordings, a cinematic journey will lead from Walt’s early endeavours to the bright lights of LA and beyond. When the curtain rises, guests will be transported to Walt’s office. Utilising the latest version of Audio-Animatronic storytelling that he helped pioneer, a reinvigorated ‘Walt’ robot will share stories and words of wisdom.
This will be prefaced by a heartwarming three-and-a-half-minute film called “The Last Verse,” celebrating The Sherman Brothers, musicians best known for creating the iconic soundtrack for “It’s a Small World.” Created for the song’s 60th anniversary, this film unveils a new verse written by legendary composer Richard M. Sherman in his final Disney contribution as follows:
“Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind
And the love we give makes us humankind
Through our vast, wondrous land
When we stand hand in hand
‘It’s a Small World’ after all.”
A Disney parks representative says: “As we gear up for the incredible milestone that is the 70th-anniversary celebration at Disneyland Resort, we are pleased to share exciting news about all-new experiences coming to Main Street, U.S.A, and beyond, all of which will debut for guests beginning on July 17, 2025, the 70th anniversary of Disneyland park. Each of these new offerings will not only feature the history and heritage of Disneyland but also share optimism and excitement for the future of The Happiest Place on Earth.”
Priceless artefacts
The Opera House will also be home to an all-new gallery experience detailing the evolution of Walt Disney’s Disneyland dream, which became the park that heavily influenced the future of the themed entertainment industry. A selection of never-before-seen images, art and artefacts will be on display, curated by Walt Disney Imagineering and the Walt Disney Archives.
Further into the lobby, another exhibit showcases the story of Audio-Animatronic technology, starting from the 1960s, leading to the advancements of the future.
The representative adds: “We are honoured to be collaborating with The Walt Disney Family Museum, which has selected more than 30 artefacts for these experiences in the lobby.” Among the items on loan are original items from Walt’s private apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street. These items include an original rocking chair, lamp and table, all of which have never been publicly exhibited at Disneyland before.
The museum is also loaning some of Walt’s humanitarian accolades for guests to enjoy. This includes Walt’s 1955 Emmy award for the ‘Walt Disney’s Disneyland’ TV show, the Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded to Walt by President Johnson in 1964, and the Walt Disney Commemorative Medal presented to Lillian Disney by President Nixon in 1969.
After its initial run, Walt Disney – A Magical Life will play in rotation with the existing audio-animatronic show, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.
Across on the East Coast, Disney is making preparations at Magic Kingdom for Piston Peak, a new Cars-inspired area of Frontierland with thrilling new attractions.
