Disney's Most Notorious Tune from Its Theme Parks Prepares for an Expanded Version
Disney's beloved "It's a Small World" ride at their Anaheim, California park is getting a major makeover for the park's 70th anniversary! The classic tune is getting an extension, courtesy of the late Richard Sherman, one of the originators of the song.
Sherman, who passed away in 2024, left a special parting gift for Disney before he went. He penned a new verse for "It's a Small World" in 2023, and it's set to make its debut on the ride come July 17, 2025 - Disneyland's 70th birthday.
You'll be able to catch a glimpse of this new verse in a short film titled "The Last Verse", which will be playing at Main Street Cinema during the anniversary celebrations. It's a heartfelt tribute to the Sherman brothers and their timeless connection and message of hope.
But that's not all! Main Street Opera House will also be hosting a curated gallery dedicated to Disneyland's opening, filled with art, artifacts, and never-before-seen images to transport you back in time.
And July 17 isn't just for "It's a Small World" and the Sherman Brothers. Disneyland will also debut a new show: "Walt Disney—A Magical Life." The exhibit at the lobby exit will trace the progress of audio animatronics from the park's opening through to today, and the lobby will showcase a glimpse of what's next for Disney Parks.
So, mark your calendars for May 16, 2025, when Disneyland's 70th anniversary celebrations kick off. Get ready to sing along to the new version of "It's a Small World" and journey through the magical world of Disney!
And if you're a fan of Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, or Doctor Who, don't forget to check out our latest updates on what's next for these iconic franchises!
Enrichment Data:
The new verse penned by Richard Sherman for "It's a Small World" reads: “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.”
This verse will be incorporated into the ride starting July 17, 2025, as part of the park's 70th anniversary celebrations. The short film "The Last Verse" will be shown at Main Street Cinema, featuring this new verse and celebrating the timeless connection and hope behind the Sherman brothers' iconic song.
The new verse written by Richard Sherman for "It's a Small World" is a testament to his enduring love for Disney, showcasing his vision for a unified world through technology and music. In the future, io9 readers can anticipate experiencing this heartfelt tribute within the park during the anniversary celebrations.
