The Splash Mountain Retheme has been a debate among those who love Disney World. Disney shared plans for this retheme in 2020. It has been a family favorite for decades. In fact, many fondly remember this famous Walt Disney World attraction from childhood.
Splash Mountain has been a part of the Magic Kingdom theme park for a long time. Many Disney fans expressed their disapproval when Disney announced the Splash Mountain re-theme plans.
On the other hand, many anxiously await the changes coming to Disney. The Splash Mountain re-theme plans will bring the bayou to the Walt Disney World Resort. It will also feature more modern and inclusive ideas.
Splash Mountain Getting A Retheme
If you’re wondering if Splash Mountain is really getting a retheme, the answer is yes. Disney Parks Blog initially announced its plan to make changes to Splash Mountain in 2020. The retheme is set to happen at both Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park to make Princess Tiana’s presence fully realized.
The Splash Mountain attractions in California and Florida are both on the list for the retheme. Disney also planned the same changes for their location in Japan. Tiana’s Frog attraction will be opening sometime in 2024 in Magic Kingdom at Disney. Magic Kingdom is getting more advanced rides in the upcoming years.
After the controversy surrounding the movie that inspired Ride Splash Mountain, Walt Disney World agreed that it was time for a change. Plans for this retheme had already been in the works for a year. The entire ride is getting a makeover, but the log boats look like they’ll stay the same.
Is Splash Mountain Closing In 2022?
Stay tuned to Disney News for all the big news regarding WDW. Disney released the exact last day of Splash Mountain closing; it would be the 30th of May, 2023. Disney also released new details about the splash mountain retheme that should have fans more excited about the new attraction.
The attraction will completely shut down on 31st May. Meanwhile, Disney World’s esteemed Splash Mountain gracefully embarked on its final voyage on the memorable day of January 23rd, 2023. Some other rides also have been replaced in recent years.
An air of mystery surrounds us as we eagerly await the grand unveiling of the whimsical new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. This fascinating attraction shall grace our presence in the mystical realms of 2024. However, the specific date remains a delightful secret tucked away in the heart of anticipation.
Splash Mountain opened in 1992 at Disney World, but Walt Disney Imagineering is bringing a new concept to the ride. The Imagineering Scoop on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Carmen Smith, creative development and inclusive strategies executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, said of the new attraction,
“We continually evaluate opportunities to enhance and elevate experiences for all our guests. Our guests must be able to see themselves in the experiences we create. Because we consider ourselves constant learners, we go to great lengths to do extensive research and engage cultural advisors and other experts to help guide us along the way. I am incredibly proud to see this work continue to move forward with great support from leadership across Disney.”
Concept Art Revealed On April 12, 2023
In this concept art reveal at the D23 Expo, behold Mama Odie assumes a pivotal role in the allure of the enchanting new ride. Described as the very catalyst of magic within its immersive realm, she mesmerizes onlookers with her mystical prowess.
Laughter resonates as guests joyfully glide alongside, spellbound by Mama Odie’s bewitching spectacle. Prepare to encounter an array of entirely new Audio-Animatronics figures brimming with life. It includes an assortment of whimsical critters of America Sings that delightfully serenade your senses.
Yet amidst the wondrous tapestry, familiar characters from the film will also grace your journey, as well as some new ones, such as Princess Tiana, Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen, Jenifer Lewis as Mama Odie, Michael Leon Wooley as Louis the Alligator, Eudora, Charlotte, “Big Daddy,” the King and Queen of Maldonia, and Prince Ralphie, casting an air of nostalgia.
Rest assured; this immersive escapade will harmonize cherished melodies from the film, interwoven with original compositions, creating a symphony of auditory delights that resonate with every beat of your heart.
Furthermore, as you venture through the attraction’s queue, you’ll see the facility decorated with vibrant art from local artists. The irresistible scent of freshly prepared beignets permeates the air, whetting your appetite and heightening the anticipation of the imminent celebration.
Tiana’s New Appearance At D23 Expo
As you make your first big drop into the bayou, the scene comes alive with vibrant energy. Tiana, the beloved princess and hardworking restaurant owner, stands at the water’s edge, welcoming you with a warm smile. Disney dressed her in a stunning ensemble inspired by the fashion trends of the 1920s, staying true to the film’s historical setting.
Tiana’s outfit reflects her vibrant personality and showcases the creativity of the creative team. Her dress is adorned with intricate beading and embroidery, reminiscent of the Jazz Age. The fabric flows gracefully around her, capturing the spirit of the era.
Her shoes are stylish and comfortable, allowing her to move with ease as she dances to the special blend of lively zydeco music played by Louis and the band of critters. Tiana’s accessories, such as a headband with a feather accent and a pearl necklace, add a touch of elegance to her look.
But it’s not just Tiana’s outfit that catches your eye. Her hairstyle is a true work of art, celebrating the versatility and beauty of Black women’s hair. The creative team meticulously crafted a hairstyle that honors Tiana’s heritage and showcases different textures and styles. Her hair is styled in a stunning updo, with curls cascading down one side. They are adorned with delicate flowers and accessories that shimmer in the glow of the fireflies.
Surrounded by the enchanting ambiance of the bayou, Tiana beckons you to join her in this musical journey. The water lilies and fireflies create a mesmerizing light display, casting a magical glow on the scene. Frogs hop from lily pad to lily pad, their croaks harmonizing with the lively zydeco incredible music.
Splash Mountain’s New Name: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
After the retheme is complete, which is expected to be by the next year, 2024, the new name of Splash of Mountain will be Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. The new theme is based on the beloved Disney movie, “The Princess and the Frog.” Executive senior creative producer, Charita Carter, will lead the design. The original creative director and creative advisor, Tony Baxter, also takes part in the re-theme.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is expected to be a great attraction once it’s complete, and most fans are anxious to see what Disney World creates. This new take on the ride will feature new Princess Tiana and other characters from Disney’s 2009 animated film “The Princess and the Frog.”
If you are not aware of the story, let me enlighten you. Tiana, a woman of our time, embodies bravery, strong lead character, empowerment, and unyielding determination. Tiana’s father told her that hard work is one of the key ingredients that can make her stand out.
Her popularity has grown since the last decade, and her dreams, held dear, remain steadfast, never escaping her gaze. This exceptional narrative unfurls, gracing the vibrant tapestry of New Orleans and the enchanting Louisiana bayou.
Tiana’s Palace
To go along with Disney World’s addition of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, you can also expect to find a new restaurant near the old French Market in New Orleans Square at Disneyland. This new addition to Disney Parks will be a model of Tiana’s restaurant from the Princess and the Frog film.
You may not know that the inspiration for Tiana’s character came from a real person, Chef Leah Chase. Her restaurant, which features masterful Orleans-style cuisine, also inspired Princess Tiana’s story in “The Princess and the Frog.”
The model of Tiana’s Palace coming to Disneyland Resort with the new attraction will also feature the same ideas. They’re expected to resemble ideas from the existing Tiana’s Kitchen locations aboard Disney Cruise ships. It’s also where Tiana and her colleagues create new products, like a line of original hot sauces.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Story
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure embarks guests on a captivating odyssey, where Princess Tiana and Louis, the amiable alligator, orchestrate a resounding frog Mardi Gras celebration. This melodic attraction brims with enchanting tunes performed by the original cast. It features the incomparable Anika Noni Rose and Michael-Leon Wooley, among other talented voices.
In the initial rendition of the attraction’s concept art, the towering presence of Mama Odie’s tree adorned the ride’s zenith. However, this element has undergone subsequent revisions and regrettably been excised.
Within Disneyland’s magical realm, the attraction seamlessly intertwines between the realms of New Orleans and Critter Country. It forms a remarkable bridge that bridges the thematic essence of both lands.
The Princess and the Frog encapsulate many essential components for a triumphant Disney dark ride. From its soul-stirring and irresistibly catchy melodies to the menacing presence of a formidable villain, the film amalgamates an entourage of whimsical animal companions and pulsating river-centric adventures. This cinematic masterpiece was predestined to find its eternal abode within the immersive realm of Splash Mountain.
The queue for the attraction will tell the story of Tiana’s growing business, Tiana’s Foods (located near a water tower), an employee-owned co-op. Tiana combines her culinary talents with her love for community and transforms an old salt mine into her own brand.
Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose, the embodiment of Princess Tiana herself, exclaims enthusiastically,
“The realization of Princess Tiana’s profound presence in both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom is an immensely thrilling prospect! As deeply passionate as I am about the world we’ve crafted, I wholeheartedly believe that our fans will be transported beyond their wildest dreams. The ingenious Imagineers are delivering the long-awaited Mardi Gras celebration of The Princess and the Frog, and I couldn’t be more pleased to partake in this extraordinary journey!”
The Princess And The Frog Ride: The Plot
The creative executive producer of relevancy activations at Walt Disney Company, Charita Carter, described the attraction as “a love letter to New Orleans.” In addition, The Disney Imagineers have embarked on frequent journeys to the musical city of New Orleans to ensure the attraction depicts the culture perfectly.
The attraction’s new version will pick up where the film ended, “the final kiss,” where Naveen transforms into his human form, allowing fans to join Princess Tiana and other favorite characters as they embark on a musical journey through the bayou.
This story is all about finding a special ingredient that has been misplaced. The plot is planned to focus on the preparation for Mardi Gras season, featured at the end, “where everyone is included.”
This great story is set in 1926, New Orleans, where a hardworking waitress named Tiana dreams of one day opening her own restaurant. In addition, Tiana won’t need her ballgown for this musical new adventure. This is because, in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Tiana will have a new look and clothing more appropriate for adventures in the bayou.
The Princess And The Frog Ride: Songs
Although numerous enthusiasts may dearly miss the captivating melodies of the original Splash Mountain after it’s retheming, the enchanting tunes within Princess and the Frog will undoubtedly infuse your auditory senses with delightful earworms that will resonate for countless decades to ensue, captivating both you and your children.
Premiering during the festive holiday season of 2009, this cinematic masterpiece’s musical marvels have matured gracefully over time, prompting recollections that may have slipped from memory’s grasp. The attraction features powerful music to keep the audience engaged. As told by Josh D’Amaro (Chairperson of WDW), “Music is going to be a huge part of the attraction.”
The attractions will lose their Song of the South connection and gain a Princess and the Frog theme, with characters and original music from the film. As you immerse yourself in the harmonious melodies, an imaginative journey unfolds, where these melodic treasures flourish into an alluring attraction, painting vibrant scenes in your mind’s eye.
Eudora’s Chic Boutique
Eudora’s Chic Boutique is already located in New Orleans Square in Disneyland Park. This replica inspired by Princess Tiana’s mother will complement the Princess and the Frog retheme of the Splash Mountain attraction exceptionally.
In the movie, Princess Tiana helps her mother, who was a seamstress, open a shop. Disney Parks have brought this element from “The Princess and the Frog” to life.
This little boutique farm features Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets, housewares, chic apparel, and much more. So for the ultimate experience when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is complete, stopping by this charismatic little shop should not be lacking from your list.
Many Disney fans hold high hopes that this shop’s opening is a sign that progress will soon be seen on the new attraction. Since the ride will be brand new, it will have some special offers for the guests. Be sure to take advantage of those offers.
ALSO READ: DISNEY WORLD GUIDE BOOK 2022: FREE TIPS & TRICKS
Did Disney Cancel The Splash Mountain Retheme?
While many fans have voiced their disapproval of the plans, the Walt Disney Company is still working towards this goal. The rumors of Disney canceling this re-theme are incorrect, as they were new ideas featured in a viral satire article.
If you were to view the article on its own, it could easily be considered genuine. Splash Mountain closing is to be done on 31st May 2023, as decided by the authorities. Stella Chase Reese (Owner of Dooky Chase’s Restaurant and daughter of Leah Chase – whom Disney modeled Tiana after) has been working on Tiana’s new characters for the opening show.
As officials know, re-theming an old ride is less risky than creating a new one, which is why they are going for this option. However, the website’s disclaimer page does inform the public that they write satirical content that is untrue and only for entertainment.
Other New Things Coming To Walt Disney World (2022)
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure isn’t the only new thing Disney World has in store for the next few years. They have many exciting things to come, with Star Wars at Hollywood Studios being at the top of that list. There are other rides being added to other theme parks too.
By the end of 2022, Disney World hotels will have Alexa devices in their hotel rooms. However, in a world that is all things Disney, you’ll say “Hey Disney” rather than Alexa. This will offer conveniences ranging from keeping up with your schedule to having fresh towels delivered to your room.
Even better, the “Hey Disney” feature will also be available for purchase on your own devices, as announced by Disney Parks Blog.
In addition, Disney now has new and improved MagicBands. The new MagicBand+ has all the older features but added more Disney magic. The new Magic Bands will even let you interact with certain physical elements in Disney Parks.
