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Major Changes Underway at Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life Theater
Big changes are coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as Walt Disney Imagineering has officially filed a permit to modify the infrastructure of the Tree of Life Theater, home to It’s Tough to be a Bug!. With the attraction’s permanent closure set for March 16, 2025, Disney is wasting no time preparing for its upcoming replacement—Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
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What’s in the Permit?
The newly filed Notice of Commencement lists the work as “Modify Infrastructure” and names Incryo Systems Inc. as the contractor. This company specializes in cryogenic vaporizers and industrial gas equipment, which could suggest work related to the fog effects inside the theater. Fans of It’s Tough to be a Bug! may recall the creepy black widow spiders and buzzing hornets, both of which incorporated atmospheric fog to enhance the experience.
With Zootopia: Better Zoogether! on the way, it’s possible that Imagineering intends to re-use or upgrade some of these effects for the new show. Last week, another permit was filed for demolition and construction in the theater, making the latest permit the second filed for the refurbishment work at the theater in as many weeks.
The End of an Era
It’s Tough to be a Bug! has been a staple of Disney’s Animal Kingdom since opening day in 1998, immersing guests in the miniature world of Flik and his insect friends from A Bug’s Life. The 3D show mixed humor with unexpected effects, including creepy crawlers under your seat and a rather intense finale featuring Hopper.
While it will be bittersweet to say goodbye to one of Animal Kingdom’s original attractions, Disney is bringing a fresh experience to the theater with Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
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What to Expect from “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!”
Coming in winter 2025, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! will transport guests into the world of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and other beloved characters from Zootopia. The show will feature a brand-new original song, performed by Ginnifer Goodwin (the voice of Judy Hopps), making it an exciting addition to the park’s entertainment lineup.
With new permits rolling in and demolition set to begin, the transformation of the Tree of Life Theater is officially in motion. Stay tuned for more updates as we hop closer to the grand debut of Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
Are you excited about this change, or will you miss It’s Tough to be a Bug!? Let us know in the comments!
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