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New Monstropolis Permits Filed as Disney Begins Theming Work in Hollywood Studios
Something is definitely brewing behind the construction walls at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and this time, it’s not just dirt moving or foundations going in. Walt Disney Imagineering has now filed new permits that signal the next big step for the upcoming Monstropolis land, and it looks like we’re officially entering the theming phase.
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The permits were filed for two key locations along Cypress Drive, including the former Mama Melrose’s Ristorante and the now-demolished Stage 1 Company Store, also known to many as the Muppets Store. Both permits call for the installation of set elements, which is essentially Imagineering’s way of saying the world of Monsters, Inc. is about to start taking physical shape.
Bringing that vision to life is Adirondack Scenic, Inc., a company with a strong Disney résumé that includes work on attractions like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. In other words, this is the team that helps turn blueprints into believable, immersive environments, and their involvement is a pretty strong sign that things are getting real.
One of the most exciting details tied to these permits is the transformation of the former Mama Melrose’s into Harryhausen’s, the iconic restaurant straight out of Monsters, Inc. If you’ve ever wanted to dine where Mike and Celia had their not-so-romantic dinner, this is your moment, just without the surprise of a certain one-eyed guest crashing the evening.
Meanwhile, the former Stage 1 Company Store location is expected to play a role in expanding the footprint of the land, following its demolition last summer. With both sites now moving into set installation, the bones of Monstropolis are about to get their personality.
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The permits are valid for a year, giving Imagineering plenty of runway to build out the details that will bring this animated city to life. And if this phase is any indication, we’re getting closer to seeing doors, streets, and maybe even a few lurking laughs take over this corner of the park.
For now, the construction walls are still up, but behind them, Monstropolis is starting to feel a lot less like a concept and a lot more like a place you’ll soon be able to walk into.
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