Learn to Draw with Olaf Coming to NEW Animation Academy

Olaf Comes to Life as the New Host of Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney has shared an exciting first look at the future of The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, revealing that everyone’s favorite snowman is moving in to teach us how to draw.

As part of the broader transformation of the Animation Courtyard into a reimagined Walt Disney Studios area, a new experience titled “Olaf Draws!” will serve as the centerpiece for the returning Animation Academy.

Related – The Magic of Disney Animation Coming to Hollywood Studios!

A New Kind of Host

The highlight of the experience is an all-new, state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronic Olaf. Inspired by his appearance in the award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio, Olaf will be found seated at a classic animator’s desk, appearing to joyfully discover the art of drawing right alongside guests.

To ensure the character’s signature wit and warmth are preserved, Josh Gad returned to record original dialogue specifically for this attraction. Gad expressed his excitement for the project, noting that he hopes the experience inspires a new generation of children to dream of becoming Disney animators.

The Experience: Step into the Studio

The drawing space itself has been completely reimagined to feel like a working animation studio with a Frozen twist.

• Children will be invited to spark their creativity at specially themed sleigh tables. Adults and older kids can use professional animator-style workstations, designed to make guests feel as though they have stepped onto a real studio lot.

Since Olaf “can’t quite draw on his own,” he will introduce a rotating roster of legendary Disney Animation artists via pre-recorded instruction. These artists will guide guests step-by-step through the process of bringing characters to life while sharing behind-the-scenes stories from their time at the Walt Disney Animation Studios.

A Star-Studded Lineup

Guests will have the chance to learn how to draw eight different characters, depending on which class they attend. The lineup includes:

• Mickey Mouse with Dan Abraham (Once Upon A Studio)
• Genie with the legendary Eric Goldberg (Aladdin)
• Moana with Samantha Vilfort (Encanto)
• Ursula with Michael Woodside (The Little Mermaid)
• Stitch with Fawn Veerasunthorn (Wish)
• Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde will also be part of the rotation.

More to Explore in The Magic of Disney Animation

The “Olaf Draws!” experience is just one part of the building’s massive refresh. When it reopens, guests can also enjoy:

1. The Enchanted Art Gallery: A space where classic artwork comes to life with “pixie dust” and new animations.
2. Once Upon A Studio Theater: A dedicated home for the Once Upon A Studio short film, featuring enhanced theater effects that place the audience inside the story.

Opening Summer 2026

While a specific date has not yet been set, Disney has confirmed that The Magic of Disney Animation will reopen its doors in Summer 2026. This project is a major step in the ongoing revitalization of the Animation Courtyard, signaling a return to the park’s roots as a place where guests can celebrate the actual craft of filmmaking and animation.