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“Wishes” at Magic Kingdom to be replaced by new “Happily Ever After” fireworks show

One word – drones. After patent filings and a display of their potential at Disney Springs, we’ve been expecting Disney to update their nightly fireworks show with new drone technology replacing the existing ‘Wishes’ fireworks show. We still don’t have confirmation that drones will be a part of the new show, but beginning May 12 we will have a new show – “Happily Ever After.”

Disney has said that addition to fireworks, the new nighttime extravaganza will feature more lasers, lights and projections than any Disney show before it. Sounds like drones could be on that list too. “Happily Ever After” promises to be an entirely new kind of Disney storytelling, one that will take guests on an inspiring journey filled with heart, humor and emotion.

The 18-minute spectacle will feature scenes from classic Disney films such as “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin” to modern blockbusters “Moana” and “Zootopia.” Cinderella Castle will become part of the story itself, with dazzling projections bringing heartfelt Disney stories to life on and around the iconic 18-story-tall castle. Quasimodo from “Hunchback of Notre Dame” swings from the turrets. Woody and his pals from Pixar’s “Toy Story” recreate the castle entirely out of toys. And Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty” envelops the castle in her signature green flames.

The story begins with scenes of fantastic dreams full of hope, wonder, magic and light. Disney villains soon become part of the story, attempting to quash those beautiful dreams and forcing the heroes to fight for what they believe in. Overcoming their fears, the heroes triumph and are celebrated with spectacular fireworks.

Because no Magic Kingdom Park fireworks display is complete without this little bit of magic, Tinker Bell will fly across the night sky, reminding guests that with a little faith, trust and pixie dust, everyone can find their own happily ever after.

Fireworks Finale

Characters and scenes from more than 25 Disney films will be featured through state-of-the-art projections, enhanced by more than 50 choreographed spotlights, brilliant lasers and plenty of awe-inspiring fireworks. Paired with an emotional score, the new spectacular will drive the message home that anyone can grab hold of their dreams and make them come true as long as they are brave enough to listen to what guides them and bold enough to pursue their destiny.

The score for “Happily Ever After” was recorded by a 75-piece orchestra in London and includes tunes from a multitude of Disney movies, including “Beauty and the Beast,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “The Jungle Book” and many more.

“Happily Ever After” will be presented nightly. Show times vary based on park hours. The last show for “Wishes” will be May 11th and the new show starts the next night. So you know where I’ll be, how about you?

3 thoughts on ““Wishes” at Magic Kingdom to be replaced by new “Happily Ever After” fireworks show”

  1. While normally a supporter of change and improvements in the kingdom, sadly this one is not an improvement. Wishes was the one thing at WDW that would never go out of date. There are few things as simple and magical as fireworks over the castle combined with the narration of Jiminy Cricket. This was possibly the only place that Jiminy even had a presence any longer and by changing the show to focus on the most recent releases, most of the classics are being disregarded in park productions including Snow White, the one that started it all in which the parks never would have existed without it’s success. The projection technology is great, however the special thing about Wishes is the ability for those at the Magic Kingdom resorts or on Seven Seas Lagoon to enjoy the show and be touched just as much as those standing right in front of the castle. It appears as if the new production will be much more geared to those right in front of the castle and on Main Street. I always support change at the parks, however Wishes is the one thing that never should have been touched. There are a lot of tears from a lot of fans over this one.

    1. @Todd. Well stated.
      Wishes is one of those comfort things in life – like a peanut butter cookie or a cup of hot cocoa.
      I’m looking forward to Happily Ever After but it doesn’t generate the same feeling as lining up for Wishes and Jiminy Cricket’s words of wisdom.

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