Credit: DisneyNew changes are afoot at Disney!
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Across several years, The Walt Disney Company has upheld an undisputed position in the realm of theme park entertainment. It has consistently offered extraordinary adventures to guests, employing cutting-edge technology across its global array of parks. Disney’s prowess in innovation is widely acknowledged, demonstrated by the inclusion of augmented reality elements in attractions such as the Haunted Mansion and the incorporation of advanced drone technology in their renowned nighttime shows. Despite Disney’s unwavering commitment to excellence, there could still be instances where this exceptional standard isn’t entirely realized.
The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California has solidified its identity as “The Happiest Place On Earth,” a distinction beginning with Walt Disney that has carefully cultivated throughout the theme park’s history. As time progressed, the Disney Resorts umbrella spread worldwide, encompassing destinations such as the Walt Disney World Resort and the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida. Eventually, the influence of the Disney Resort brand expanded to a global scale, encompassing locations like the Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Shanghai Disney Resort, and the Disneyland Paris Resort.
Related: As Cast Members Protest in Front of Castle, Disney Has Started Monitoring Guests
Why Do Disney Fans Love Shows and Parades?
It’s no secret that Disney fans cherish the allure of parades and nighttime spectaculars for their enchanting blend of magic and nostalgia. These events at the Disney Parks bring beloved characters to life and showcase Disney’s innovation through cutting-edge technology and creativity, evoking strong emotions and creating lasting memories. Attending these shows fosters a sense of community among Guests, while also offering an escapist experience from everyday life. The meticulous attention to detail, unique atmospheres, and the opportunity to relive cherished childhood memories all contribute to the special place these shows hold in the hearts of Disney enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, new changes are coming to a beloved Disney Resort, with the reported removal of a fan-favorite daytime parade as well as a nighttime spectacular. Now, speculation has begun about the removal of the classic nighttime Castle show, and what future plans by The Walt Disney Company might be.
Fans Reminisce, and Speculate on Drone-Heavy Replacement Castle Show
Nostalgia has always been the name of the game with Disney.
Following yesterday’s bombshell report by DLP Report, travel agents arranging vacations for Guests at Disneyland Paris Resort have verified that the beloved daytime Parade, known as Dream… and Shine Brighter, and the innovative drone-based Nighttime Spectacular, Disney D-Light, at Disneyland Park, are set to permanently conclude on September 30, 2023. An additional implication that Disneyland Paris’ Disneyland Park Castle Show, the Disney Dreams Nighttime Extravaganza, would also only continue until October.
Fans were naturally upset at this news, with users like @jule2207 feeling sad about the loss of the Dream… and Shine Brighter Main Street staple:
I will miss the soundtrack of Dream and Shine Brighter blasting on Main Street several times a day 🥺
I will miss the soundtrack of Dream and Shine Brighter blasting on Main Street several times a day 🥺
— Jule❤️Eeyore (@jule2207) August 8, 2023
User @TRVLtruth also shared their love for the “best ever” Disney Parks celebration in their opinion — the Disneyland Paris Resort’s 30th Anniversary Celebration:
It’s going to be very difficult to give up the music, magic, dance, and spirit of the 30th anniversary celebration. It was, and is, the best @DisneyParks celebration EVER.
It’s going to be very difficult to give up the music, magic, dance, and spirit of the 30th anniversary celebration. It was, and is, the best @DisneyParks celebration EVER. pic.twitter.com/2OokYzwaGt
— OLD DISNEY/NEW DISNEY (@TRVLtruth) August 8, 2023
Fans have already begun speculating about the inevitable replacement for the beloved fireworks and Sleeping Beauty Castle show. @MikaelPutin21 wants Disney to take the leap and give Disneyland Paris its very own, unique Castle show — instead of an adapted one from another Disney Park:
Replace Disney Dreams with a new original show exclusive to DLP with drones and fireworks!
Replace Disney Dreams with a new original show exclusive to DLP with drones and fireworks!
— Jacobus (@MikaelPutin21) August 8, 2023
With the removal of D-Light, a technology-forward drone-based show that took place alongside the regular Castle spectacular, fans also really hope that Disney will incorporate that same stunning tech into a single, epic merged Nighttime Extravaganza:
Hope whatever new evening Castle show replaces Dreams will incorporate the drones tech from D-Light. There’s so much potential in merging drones, fireworks and projections.
Hope whatever new evening Castle show replaces Dreams will incorporate the drones tech from D-Light. There's so much potential in merging drones, fireworks and projections.
— Alex (@Alex_The_Geek) August 8, 2023
Other hardcore Disneyland Paris fans are basically chomping at the bit for a return of the former Disneyland Park Castle show that existed before Disney Dreams, the nighttime spectacular Illuminations:
Bring back Illuminations
Bring back Illuminations
— The Theme Scene 🦒🦏🐒 (@The_Theme_Scene) August 8, 2023
Overall, it feels like opinions are mixed — those who love older Disney entertainment will absolutely feel the loss, and yearn for the shows of the past — however, with the advancements in technology that Disney are already implementing, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for Disney Imagineering to stretch their legs. If budget allows, that is.
Although with the Disney 100th Anniversary celebrations set to begin, fans’ appetites have certainly been whet — and it’ll be on Disney to deliver.
What do you think about Disney removing existing in-Park entertainment? Do you believe that Disney will deliver a better replacement? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Unveil the Enchantment of Disneyland Paris, where truly unforgettable journey awaits situated in the heart of Europe. Europe’s premier theme park is nestled in Marne-la-Vallee, France, right next to the Disney Village, a captivating destination that is an absolute must for all ages. At Disneyland Park, you can delve into a world of exhilarating rides, mesmerizing performances, immersive narratives, and delightful encounters with cherished Disney characters (including your favorite beloved Disney Princess). Wander through the enchanting ambiance of Sleeping Beauty Castle, embark on bold escapades in Main Street USA, Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Discoveryland. Adjacent lies the Walt Disney Studios Park, home to Avengers Campus and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, offering an even more diverse range of experiences.
You can purchase and reserve your Disneyland Paris ticket, and Disney Premier Access over at the official website.