Disneyland’s Iconic ‘It’s a Small World’ Ride to Feature New Lyrics in Celebration of 70 Years

Disneyland’s Iconic It’s a Small World Ride to Feature New Lyrics in Celebration of 70 Years

Disneyland’s beloved attraction, It’s a Small World, is set to undergo significant updates, much to the excitement of visitors. As part of the celebration of the park’s 70th anniversary, new song lyrics will soon be introduced, enhancing the musical experience that has captured the hearts of guests for decades.

A Milestone Celebration at Disneyland

According to the Disney Parks blog, this update marks a noteworthy moment for Disneyland, which opened its doors in July 1955. With such a rich history, the park aims to honor its legacy while also embracing the future. The addition of new lyrics to the iconic song will bring a fresh perspective to the attraction, making it even more relevant in today’s world.

Introducing ‘The Last Verse’

As part of this initiative, guests entering the Main Street Cinema will be treated to a new short film titled The Last Verse. This film focuses on the Sherman Brothers, the legendary duo who created the original song for the attraction. The collaboration between Walt Disney and the Shermans produced not only a song but also an enduring legacy of creativity that resonates with audiences of all ages.

The film reveals that Richard M. Sherman, who passed away in May 2024 at the age of 95, composed a final verse intended for the song’s 60th anniversary. Now, Disney parks are prepared to officially introduce this new verse, serving as a heartfelt tribute not only to the Sherman Brothers but also to the power of music in fostering connections among people.

Lyrics That Celebrate Unity

The new lyrics, unveiled in November, read: “Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind / And the love we give makes us humankind / Through our vast wondrous land / When we stand hand-in-hand / It’s a small world after all.” These lines beautifully encapsulate themes of unity and love, reinforcing the park’s underlying message of global interconnectedness.

A Legacy of Musical Excellence

It’s a Small World made its debut in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair, showcasing innovative animatronics that enchanted visitors. It quickly became a hallmark of Disney culture and was relocated to Disneyland in 1966. The song, which has echoed through the park for nearly six decades, remains a favorite for both children and adults, making it an essential part of the Disneyland experience.

The Sherman Brothers were not just creators of one song; they contributed to a variety of Disney classics. Their repertoire includes iconic tunes such as Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and A Spoonful of Sugar from Mary Poppins. Additionally, they crafted I Wan’na Be Like You (The Monkey Song) from The Jungle Book, showcasing their versatility and profound impact on Disney’s musical landscape.

Award-Winning Talent

The brothers’ exceptional work earned them an Academy Award for Chim Chim Cher-ee from Mary Poppins and also garnered multiple nominations over the years. Their contributions to the world of music and entertainment have left an indelible mark, further heightening the anticipation surrounding the new lyrics for It’s a Small World.

What Lies Ahead for Guests

On July 17, visitors will have the opportunity to experience both the short film and the freshly updated verse of the iconic song. With these new offerings, Disneyland aims not only to celebrate its storied past but also to create a more inclusive, vibrant future.

In addition to the launch of the new song version and film, Disneyland plans to present various gallery experiences, showcasing never-before-seen art and artifacts. Key pieces include Walt Disney’s personal rocking chair, lamp, and table from his private apartment, available for public viewing at the Opera House on Main Street, U.S.A.

Marking a Historic Era for Disneyland

This celebratory initiative aligns with Disneyland’s ongoing commitment to innovation while honoring its rich heritage. The introduction of new music and visuals will engage a fresh generation of park-goers, drawing them into the enchanting world created by Disney.

The changes to It’s a Small World spotlight the importance of evolution in creative storytelling while maintaining the essence of what makes Disneyland a beloved destination. As visitors look forward to the upcoming experiences, it’s clear that this small world will continue to grow and resonate for years to come.