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It’s a Small World

A Very Special Tribute to It’s A Small World

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Today is the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney’s classic attraction “it’s a small world.” To celebrate, I would like to share with you a story set in the famed attraction when it’s in its most twinkly phase at Disneyland – “It’s a Small World Holiday.” This piece was originally published in “Dispatch From Disneyland” my new book about the Happiest Place on Earth. But I’m happy to republish it on the blog today in honor of this great attraction.

Each year Disneyland transforms the classic “It’s a Small World” attraction into a holiday treat featuring the familiar dolls in holiday scenes and combining the classic song with Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls. “It’s a Small World Holiday” opens in early November and a ride on it early in the season is sure to get anyone in the holiday mood.

But sometimes …

It’s A Small World Holiday Nightmare

Dark was the night when our ship set to sea
With twelve lucky guests whose limits were to be
Tested and pulled to the ends of their rope
By singing and dancing dolls of good hope.

Our captain did load us too heavy a’stern
I questioned, but he said, “Go ahead, it’s your turn.”
So onward we went with our boat riding low
Nearly taking on water as it rocked to and fro’.

Thus did our journey start out that night
Toward a kaleidoscope building – a marvelous sight.
A rainbow of lights shimmered like twinkling rivets
And together they told of holiday spirits.

Inside the grand building were hundreds of children
Singing Christmas jingles like tiny little pitchmen.
They sang to a beat ever joyous and merry
“‘Tis the season of joy, so you better be wary.”

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Celebrate 50th Anniversary of “it’s a small world”

IT'S A SMALL WORLD AT THE 1964 WORLD'S FAIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Fans, cast members, celebrities and more will unite in song around the globe to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “it’s a small world,” one of the most iconic Disney attractions ever built. The first version of “it’s a small world,” opened as a tribute to peace and hope at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.

On Thursday, April 10, 2014, hundreds of voices from Disneyland Resort in California, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan, Disneyland Paris in France, and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will sing the unforgettable theme song of the “happiest cruise that ever sailed the seven seas.” Fans from around the world can join the festivities in a first-of-its-kind, online global sing-along at SmallWorld50.com.

While on the website, fans may record videos of themselves singing the classic song and create virtual “it’s a small world” dolls to benefit UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund). UNICEF provides health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more to children around the world.

“‘it’s a small world’ has inspired hundreds of millions of people through its timeless theme,” said Tom Staggs, chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Every moment of every day there are Disney guests enjoying ‘it’s a small world’ somewhere around the globe. The 50th anniversary of this attraction represents a celebration of the shared optimism, hope, and humanity of people throughout the world.”

Disney has also released this short video highlighting some of the history of the attraction:

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Disney’s It’s A Small World Web Series Great for Tots

Disney Interactive’s online video series “It’s A Small World” aims to help younger kids learn about very the diverse cultures of planet Earth, pick up a few words of Spanish, and, hopefully, develop an appreciation for others who may be dealing with problems they can… Read More »Disney’s It’s A Small World Web Series Great for Tots

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What’s Your Disney Side?

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Disney Parks kicked off a new campaign this week asking for people (and a few animals) to share their Disney Side—that’s your magic, your wonder. Disney invited a bunch of “Social Media All-Stars” to the Disneyland Resort in order to launch #DisneySide (see how it… Read More »What’s Your Disney Side?

it’s a small world after all

In light of current events related to the Boston Marathon, I want to take a moment to pause in memory of those who died, in honor of those who rushed in to help, and in hope of a swift recovery for those recovering from injuries.… Read More »it’s a small world after all

Man Wins Lawsuit over Small World Breakdown

Remember that story about the man suing Disney for leaving him stuck on the classic “it’s a small world” boat ride for 40 minutes while the music played? The court has ruled in his favor for $8000. Jose Martinez, who is paralyzed and confined to… Read More »Man Wins Lawsuit over Small World Breakdown

Robert Sherman – A Son’s Tribute

The Disney Insider has posted a very touching tribute to recently deceased Disney songsmith Robert Sherman, or as the author called him — Dad. We all know there’s something special about “it’s a small world”, but I have new appreciation after reading Jeffrey Sherman’s tribute… Read More »Robert Sherman – A Son’s Tribute