It may still be a small world after all, but it seems like the cast inside is getting bigger… and the new member looks very familiar.
A new character was installed at “it’s a small world” in the Magic Kingdom on Tuesday. In the South American scene, we spotted a wooden figure of Fifi the Peke, Minnie Mouse’s beloved dog, hiding amongst the penguins. This gives credence to the rumor we posted last year that approximately 40 Disney film characters would be added to the attraction in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary in 2021. The possible refurbishment would make it similar to its sister versions in Disneyland, Tokyo Disneyland, and Hong Kong Disneyland.
Fifi could be related to this character addition project, something accidentally left in a show scene, or just some fun nod Imagineers have added to the ride. Only time will tell.
The outside of “the happiest cruise that ever sailed” has also been getting some serious work done at the moment. The façade, which was recently refurbished, has been covered with construction walls, with banners temporarily replacing signage. Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a permit for graphics installation at the attraction, though what that means isn’t quite certain. One possible theory is that the attraction entrance could be moved back to its original location, where guests currently exit.
For a better look at how Fifi fits into the attraction, check out our video below!
While it seems big and small things are in store for the small world, no major changes have been formally announced.
Keep reading WDWNT as we learn more about the future of “it’s a small world!”
Gross. I always loved It’s a Small World specifically as a constant from yesteryear – an increasingly rare piece of the park that feels like a trip back into what it was before I was born. I was hoping this refurbishment was truly just maintenance and upkeep based and not changing the ride experience itself.
Absolutely gutted they’re ruining Small World to make it Disney character-y. My favorite since I rode it when I was 5. I have never been a huge fan of the movie tie in rides. Now that they’ve gotten rid of most of Future World in Epcot and altered SW, honestly there isn’t anything much to bring me back. At least I won’t be longing for it anymore.
If they destroy this version with Disney characters I will never return to any Disney park
I am excited that they will be adding in the Disney characters like they have at Disneyland and other parks around the world. they tend to put the character in their repected “lands/ countries”. plus is will also give the little ones something to enjoy and point out. i hope they keep it tasteful like they do at the other parks. i think people are just over reacting to the news when it wont be that must of a difference i believe.