Will Entertainment Changes at Shanghai Disneyland be Implemented at Walt Disney World & Disneyland?
Us here at MickeyBlog.com started to really see that light at the end of the tunnel the other day when it was announced that Shanghai Disneyland in China would be reopening as of May 11, 2020. We are excited to see one Disney park reopening but at the same time we know that some changes are going to be implemented to keep Guests and Cast Members safe. One of the big changes we will see is when it comes to entertainment options including parades, fireworks, and character meet and greets.
Before we get into these entertainment changes I want to note that these just apply to Shanghai Disneyland at this time. No confirmation on these changes have been made for Walt Disney World and/or Disneyland. Also, these changes are not permanent but just part of a phased reopening process Disney is implementing at its Parks. Disney confirms they will return at a later date.
Parades and Nighttime Spectaculars
Per Disney, parades and other nighttime spectaculars will return at a later date to promote social distancing. The Enchanted Storybook Castle will come to light every evening with Evening Magical Moments.
I would suspect that we may not parades and fireworks shows return at Walt Disney World and Disneyland when the Parks reopen at first too. However, I really hope I’m wrong! I would do anything to see Happily Ever After live right now! But, at least, I know they will return eventually.
Character Meet and Greets
In the first phase of Shanghai Disneyland’s reopening, Disney character meet and greet entertainment will be suspended as we currently know them. But, there will be an exciting new character procession called Mickey and Friends Express. The procession, that will occur several times a day, features everyone’s favorite Disney characters who will make appearances in each of the park’s lands.
This updated and temporary entertainment option at Shanghai Disneyland will not allow for one-on-one interaction or close-up photos. But, to me, something is better than nothing! I would love to see Mickey and Minnie waving at from 6 feet away at this point!
Over this past weekend, Shanghai Disneyland also reopened one of their character dining options. Like the Mickey and Friends Express that will begin next week, characters were on hand, paraded throughout the restaurant, and Guests were able to take photos of their favorite Disney Pals from afar.
I think we will also see something similar at Walt Disney World and Disneyland when they reopen so Guests can safely see their favorite characters even if from a short distance at least in the first phase of reopening.
Play Areas and Theaters Shows
In the first phase of Shanghai Disneyland’s reopening, play areas and theaters shows will be closed. This makes sense since play areas can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses in any environment. Theaters are also a concern since they pack people in one, enclosed area.
At the same time, Disney has confirmed most other entertainment options such as attractions, rides, some shows, and shopping at dining locations will reopen at Shanghai Disneyland during it’s first phase of reopening.
Just like fireworks, parades, and character meet and greets, I think we will see play areas and indoor theaters shows will also be temporarily suspended when Walt Disney World and Disneyland reopen.
I do want to reiterate Disney has NOT confirmed these entertainment changes for Walt Disney World and/or Disneyland. But, should be used as guide as to what the domestic parks will look like once that reopen. And, remember, these experiences will come back when it is safe to do so!
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