Credit: DisneyDisney has confirmed plans to update one version of its most iconic attractions, “it’s a small world.”
Diehard Disney fans will tell you that “it’s a small world” is more than just a ride – it’s a celebration of unity and optimism wrapped in a whimsical, musical journey.
First introduced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair before finding its permanent home in Disneyland, the attraction was designed by Disney Legends Mary Blair and Rolly Crump. Inside, vibrant scenes showcase children from around the world in traditional dress, singing the ride’s signature tune in multiple languages.
The boat ride’s slow, steady pace allows guests to take in the dazzling sets, intricate details, and a message of global harmony that remains perhaps even more relevant today than ever.
While plenty of Disney rides have entered the everyday lexicon over the years, “it’s a small world” is arguably the most iconic, thanks in no small part to its theme song. Whether they’re experiencing the attraction at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, Disneyland Paris, or Tokyo Disneyland, riders are treated to the same tune – penned by Disney Legends The Sherman Brothers and sung in multiple languages throughout the attraction.
However, this song has been receiving an update since July.
A New Verse for “it’s a small world”
Disney Parks Blog has announced that a new verse will premiere at Disneyland Park on July 17, AKA the park’s 70th anniversary.
As we previously reported, this verse was penned by late composer Richard M. Sherman prior to his death in 2024. The new lyrics were unveiled in the short film The Last Verse in November, and read 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
The park is also slated to show the short film The Last Verse daily at the Main Street Cinema theater on Main Street, U.S.A. It’s currently also available on both Disney+ and YouTube.
There’s no word yet on whether the new verse will also eventually make its way to other versions of the ride.
As far as “it’s a small world” changes go, this is one of the more minor updates in recent times.
January saw the debut of a new overlay for the attraction at Tokyo Disneyland, where the ride is currently known as “it’s a small world with Groot” and features the beloved Guardians of the Galaxy character guiding guests on their voyage around the world – complete with several Marvel Cinematic Universe favorites, fitted out in the same Mary Blair-styles as the rest of the attraction.
Other New Additions to Disneyland
This isn’t the only update heading to the park for its 70th anniversary.
According to Disney, the Opera House will also receive a refresh consisting of an all-new gallery experience that follows the evolution of Walt Disney’s dream of Disneyland. The park has collaborated with The Walt Disney Family Museum to showcase more than 30 artifacts – including original items from Walt’s private apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street – in the lobby.
Disney also confirmed a delay for Walt Disney – A Magical Life, the new show announced at D23 that will feature a controversial Audio-Animatronic of Walt Disney himself. Originally slated to open in May, this will now debut on the park’s birthday and follow Walt’s journey with the aid of remastered footage and audio recordings.
After its initial run, the show will be performed in rotation with Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.
What do you think of these updates to “it’s a small world”?