Disney Enchantment had its final performance last night, with the highly anticipated return of Happily Ever After taking place this evening. In reflection of the change in lineup, the Disney Enchantment poster featured on the walls of the Magic Kingdom entrance tunnels has been replaced by a poster for Happily Ever After.
The poster looks the same as the one that hung during its previous run.
The poster features Cinderella Castle transforming into other famous Disney landmarks, surrounded by classic characters.
Another identical poster hangs in the east tunnel as well.
Return of Happily Ever After
Happily Ever After is a spectacular fireworks display and multimedia projection show that features classic Disney characters and music from popular Disney movies. The show is a fan favorite and has been a staple at the Magic Kingdom since 2017. The show went away during the pandemic, then returned on July 1st, 2021 for a few months, before being replaced by Disney Enchantment, which has been performed nightly since the World’s Most Magical Celebration began on October 1, 2021.
We had the chance to experience a preview of Happily Ever After. The show has been updated with projections down Main Street, U.S.A. Watch our video of the show below and click here to see the Main Street projections.
The show remains unchanged in soundtrack and in castle projections. Fireworks flare above the skies as the chorus for “Happily Ever After” kicks in, still sung by Jordan Fisher and Angie Keilhauer.
Disney Enchantment
The show debuted when The World’s Most Magical Celebration began on October 1, 2021 to highly mixed reviews. Fans criticized its lack of connection to the history of Walt Disney World, largely focusing on newer Disney films instead. Additionally, the structure of the show itself and its message were also lambasted. Many said it fell flat compared to “Happily Ever After,” which is regarded among Disney’s best nighttime spectaculars at any park.
The first iteration of the show lasted until early May 2022, when additional pyrotechnics and laser effects were quietly added to the show’s finale.
In August, Disney quietly updated the show again, this time overhauling the entire introduction to include a short tribute to Walt and Roy Disney, who were instrumental in the creation of Walt Disney World. Some references to opening day attractions were also added, alleviating some complaints about the show’s lack of historical connection to the park. A few lines of narration from Angela Bassett were also replaced by Mickey Mouse’s voice.
At the D23 Expo 2022 in September, Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products head Josh D’Amaro announced that “Happily Ever After” would return after the 50th Anniversary celebration concluded in March 2023.
The “50” medallion has been removed from the Cinderella Castle clock in anticipation of tonight’s return of Happily Ever After. The other decorations, such as the bunting and jewels, will be removed in phases. The Fab 50 characters statues, however, will remain for an undisclosed period of time.
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