If Gazelle’s “Try Everything” doesn’t get you bopping, this announcement surely will. Shanghai Disney Resort just announced that a “Zootopia”-themed land is coming to Shanghai Disneyland, marking the second major expansion since the resort opened in 2016.
Disney’s animated hit “Zootopia” hit screens in 2016. The film finds itself in the city of Zootopia, a mammal metropolis home to various animals going about their business and day-to-day (seemingly human) lives. Small-town rabbit Judy Hopps becomes the first rabbit to join the police force, and she quickly learns how tough the gig really is. Determined to prove herself, Judy jumps (or hops) at the opportunity to solve a mysterious case. Teaming up with wily fox, Nick Wilde, the pair become unprecedented crime fighting partners and, naturally, adventure ensues.
The development of Zootopia land follows the Academy Award-winning success of the film, as well as its success particularly in China, where it broke box office records to become the country’s No. 1 animated feature film in history.
“We are thrilled to announce that Shanghai Disneyland will be home to the world’s first Zootopia-themed land,” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products for The Walt Disney Company. “The rapid rate of expansion at Shanghai Disney Resort demonstrates our confidence and commitment to the company’s future development in China.”
“Since the resort’s Grand Opening in 2016, Shanghai Disneyland has gone from strength to strength – continuing to expand and enjoying ever-rising attendance rates while also providing a safe and enjoyable experience for our guests,” said Yang Jinsong, Chairman of Disney’s Chinese joint venture partner for Shanghai Disney Resort – Shanghai Shendi Group. “Shanghai Disneyland has rapidly become one of the fastest growing Disney parks and has been key to the development of the Shanghai International Resort as one of the most visited leisure destinations in the country. This new expansion will provide our guests with an even richer selection of offerings, and will further boost our market competitiveness.”
Construction is expected to begin late 2019, marking the park’s eighth themed land and the first-ever Zootopia-themed land at any Disney park worldwide.
Zootopia land will feature a new major attraction that will use state-of-the-art technology and Disney storytelling to bring the Zootopia characters to life. Guests will be invited to immerse themselves in the mammalian metropolis, as well as head out on adventures with Nick and Judy. The land will also, of course, feature its own merchandise, entertainment, and food and beverage offerings.
Will you be heading to Zootopia land? We will! After all, we’ve gotta “Try Everything”!