Following a fire that broke out during a “Fantasmic!” performance involving the Maleficent dragon animatronic, Disney removed future versions of the nighttime show from the Disneyland schedule until at least May 26, but that has changed.
“Fantasmic!” will be closed at Disneyland through the summer until at least Labor Day, which falls on September 4 this year.
Disney Issues Follow-Up Statement On “Fantasmic!”
Following the incident that took place at Disneyland Park, the company issued the following statement:
“During the final showing of Fantasmic! at Disneyland Park on Saturday evening, the dragon prop caught fire. Anaheim Fire & Rescue quickly responded, and the fire was extinguished. All cast members were safely evacuated from Tom Sawyer Island. Due to smoke and wind, attractions near the island were safely evacuated of any guests, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time.
We are temporarily suspending fire effects similar to those used at Disneyland Park’s Fantasmic! at select shows and entertainment experiences globally out of an abundance of caution following the Fantasmic! prop fire at Disneyland Park.
The continued safety of our cast and guests is of the utmost importance.”
Disney is issuing another statement confirming that the show will stay closed throughout the summer. “We are taking this time to evaluate the show and explore opportunities to add new magic and touches for Guests to enjoy,” Disney said in its statement, according to WDWNT. “Guests who had a previously-booked “Fantasmic!” Dining Package will be notified of the hiatus. More information will soon come on alternate experiences for Guests this summer.”
The statement also indicates changes may come to the nighttime show. Last year, Disney World made changes to its version of “Fantasmic!”, adding scenes from popular films such as “Aladdin,” “Moana,” and “Frozen.” Disneyland may make similar changes to its version while the show remains closed for the next few months.
More On “Fantasmic!”
“Fantasmic!” is a nighttime show at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, that brings Guests into Mickey’s dream of him as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice. The official Disneyland website describes the show as follows:
As darkness falls, dazzling special effects transform the Rivers of America into an epic canvas for this extravagant live show.
Fast asleep, Mickey dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice. With a wave of his hands, he conducts scenes from Fantasia across enormous screens of water while brilliant sparks burst overhead. Pink elephants, swashbuckling pirates, princesses and more—including memorable scenes from Disney classics such as Aladdin, The Lion King, Tangled and Pirates of the Caribbean—appear on and around the Rivers of America.
When Mickey is suddenly pulled into the Magic Mirror, his dream takes a dark turn. The Evil Queen from Snow White conjures up some of Disney’s most dastardly villains—including Maleficent as a 45-foot, fire-breathing dragon! Mickey must use the power of his imagination to vanquish his foes—and save the day.
Featuring a fantastical array of live performers, beloved Disney characters, enhanced special effects, state-of-the-art projections and superb pyrotechnics, this show will wow the entire family.
“Fantasmic!” will remain closed through the summer. An exact opening date is yet to be announced.
