New Era of Animation: “The Magic of Disney Animation” Coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026

A New Era of Animation: “The Magic of Disney Animation” Coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is preparing for a monumental transformation as the Animation Courtyard evolves into a brand-new, immersive district: The Walt Disney Studios. Taking direct inspiration from the legendary Burbank lot, this reimagined area will invite guests to step behind the scenes—and into the stories—of the world’s most iconic films.

“Olaf Draws!” Animation Academy

The centerpiece of the reimagined building is “Olaf Draws!“, a high-tech evolution of the fan-favorite Animation Academy. In this new version, everyone’s favorite snowman takes center stage as your cheerful host.

• The Olaf Audio-Animatronic: Brought to life as an all-new, sophisticated figure, Olaf is seated at a classic animator’s desk (inspired by his discovery of art in the short Once Upon A Studio).
• A Familiar Voice: To ensure the character feels authentic, Josh Gad recorded original dialogue for the experience, designed to encourage and inspire aspiring artists of all ages.
• The Studio Setting: Guests will sit at “sleigh-themed” tables for kids or professional animator-style workstations for adults, making you feel like you’ve truly stepped onto the studio lot.

Since Olaf “can’t quite draw on his own,” he introduces legendary Disney Animation artists (via pre-recorded video) who walk you through a rotating roster of characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Genie, Moana, Stitch, Ursula, and Judy Hopps.

Immersive Experiences: “Once Upon A Studio”

The magic continues with two other major components designed to celebrate Disney’s 100-year legacy:

• Once Upon A Studio Theater: A dedicated space showing the Emmy-winning short film. The experience is enhanced by special theater effects, including characters appearing within the artwork on the theater walls, making it feel like the characters are in the room with you.
• The Enchanted Art Gallery: A curated gallery where “pixie dust” brings standard artwork to life. Portraits will move and interact, mimicking the magical “after-hours” vibe of the Burbank studio seen on screen.

Fun for Little Ones: “Drawn to Wonderland”

For younger guests, the building will house “Drawn to Wonderland,” a whimsical indoor playground. This space is a tribute to Disney Legend Mary Blair, featuring oversized flowers, musical instruments, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area based on her original Alice in Wonderland concept art.

“Off the Page!” Character Greetings

The magic extends to “Off the Page!,” a stunning meet-and-greet area themed to six unique studio departments:

• Story & Layout: Meet Mulan in front of massive storyboard panels.
• Backgrounds: Join Rapunzel in a setting inspired by the classic multiplane camera, where you can align your photo to see layers of backgrounds and painted cells come together.

A Reimagined Walt Disney Studios Lot

The entire courtyard is being redesigned to mirror the Walt Disney Studios Lot in Burbank, complete with lush trees, relaxing seating areas, and a few “Easter eggs” in the landscaping. The lot will also feature “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” in the Studio Theater and a fresh Disney Jr. production in the soundstage.

Opening Summer 2026

This massive collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios is set to open in Summer 2026. As Dan Abraham, director of Once Upon A Studio, shared, the goal is to celebrate the history of the studio while inspiring the next generation of animators to carry on the legacy.by streaming Once Upon A Studio on Disney+.

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