Disappointed Guest “Going Home” After Discovering Mold-Infested Building

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A man in rainbow overalls points at the voyage of the little mermaid sign, and then at the shutters that are closed in front of it.

The COVID-19 pandemic forever changed Walt Disney World Resort. While many meet and greets, attractions, and entertainment experiences have returned to pre-pandemic operations, many have not.

Related: ‘The Little Mermaid’ Star Halle Bailey Opens up About ‘Black Ariel Backlash’

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney Junior Play and Dance!, Fantasmic!, and Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular have returned, but Voyage of the Little Mermaid has not. According to Disney Cast Members, the classic Broadway-inspired Disney Princess show has yet to return, not due to staffing shortages but a major mold infestation in the building.

voyage of the little mermaid
Credit: Disney

Though some fans believe Voyage of the Little Mermaid, which opened at MGM Studios in 1922, has long overstayed its welcome, others pine for its return. TikToker Jimmy Sherfy (@jimmysherfy) recently went to Walt Disney World Resort to see the show. Naturally, he was highly disappointed:

@jimmysherfy

♬ original sound – Jimmy Sherfy

“I came all the way to Orlando for one thing. Let’s go!” Sherfy said sarcastically as he approached the shuttered Voyage of the Little Mermaid building. “Closed! I’m going home.”

Related: Jodi Benson, Voice of Ariel, Fully Supports Halle Bailey Stepping Into the Role

Commenters mourned the attraction alongside him. “I know that feeling… 😭😢🥺,” @kursk_kuku141 said.

Ariel ready to meet Guests at Ariel's Grotto in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

Some claimed to be Disney Parks Cast Members. “It will be reopening!” said @jcowdlylion. “I used to work in that area and that’s just one of the 2 stores that was there but the show will be back,” @shakara2010 wrote.

Related: Fans Want Nighttime Shows to Return to Animal Kingdom

In September 2020, Walt Disney World Resort confirmed that Voyage of the Little Mermaid would return. Still, a reopening date has yet to be announced. Thankfully, The Little Mermaid (1989) fans can still ride Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid and meet Princess Ariel at Magic Kingdom!

Do you miss Voyage of the Little Mermaid? 

Please note that the story outlined in this article is based on a personal Disney Parks Guest experience. No two Guest experiences are alike, and this article does not necessarily align with Inside the Magic’s personal views on Disney Park operations.

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