Disney Parks Blog announced new details about some Tiana’s Bayou Adventure characters and the ride’s story.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Story
Here is what Disney Parks Blog has to say about the story of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure:
In the bayou, Princess Tiana is getting ready to throw a big party, but there’s been a bit of a mix-up between Prince Naveen and Louis. Uh oh — the princess suddenly finds herself in need of a band. We previously shared that all-new Disney characters were being created for this attraction and that’s where the critters come in. Even with the richest roux for your gumbo and the most delicious beignets, a true Mardi Gras celebration isn’t complete without music. We’ll follow Tiana and Louis into the bayou in a last-minute search for this essential missing ingredient for her party — musical critters!
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Critters
The first “critter encounter” of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will feature a group of animal musicians playing a Zydeco rendition of “Gonna Take You There” from “The Princess and the Frog.” Disney previously shared concept art featuring these new critter characters, who play music on makeshift instruments made from natural materials and human-made found objects. We now know the names and other details of each critter.
Byhalia the Beaver – Byhalia doesn’t just build dams; she helps build musical instruments using natural materials from the bayou. As a strong-willed percussionist, it’s safe to say Byhalia is the heartbeat of the band, as well as a natural designer and engineer.
Gritty the Rabbit – Always willing to dig a little deeper to help others, Gritty plays the washboard (a found automobile license plate) with a high-energy flair. It’s the perfect instrument for someone who’s often overzealous and digs to relieve her nerves.
Beau the Opossum – Seeing limitless possibilities, no one finds more wonder in the bayou and the sounds of zydeco music than Beau. All she knows is beauty, especially her own. You can find her plucking out the low notes with her upright gourd bass, which of course, involves some musical dexterity with her tail.
Apollo the Raccoon – Apollo loves transforming abandoned objects into works of musical art – like his squeezebox. He’s full of energy and storytelling, especially about the objects he finds in the bayou. He’s particularly close with Rufus and appreciates Rufus’ calm demeanor.
Rufus the Turtle – Rufus may be a turtle, but he’s quick to jump into rhythm with his harmonica. He’s also the first to join in on new adventures! He’s genuine and sincere but may come across as a little sarcastic at times with his habitual sighing. Rufus loves going on adventures with Apollo.
Timoléon the Otter – He’s the eldest of the band, but Timoléon’s fiddle-playing is inspired by all the ‘kids’ he spends his time around while in the bayou. When he’s not sawing out a jig, he’s famous for telling stories of days long ago about his explorations of every corner of the bayou.
Beau, Apollo, and Rufus plush will soon be available for purchase.
The Instagram video below shows how Laura West, lead concept designer with Walt Disney Imagineering, created these characters.
Disney will share details about more new characters soon. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom this summer and at Disneyland later this year.
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