Disney Imagineering has filed a new signage permit for the ongoing construction of Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Animation Courtyard
The Notice of Commencement calls for signage to be installed at The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. There is no specification on the type of signage being installed, but since the permit was filed by Disney Imagineering, it’s possible that this is referencing the large Sorcerer Mickey hat depicted in previous concept art.
The permit was filed on January 30, 2026, and will expire in one year.
Construction continues to happen at the Animation Courtyard as well, with the most recent update being new trees planted this week.
The Magic of Disney Animation
The Magic of Disney Animation was an attraction in Animation Courtyard from the park’s opening in 1989 to 2015, when it was replaced by Star Wars: Launch Bay. The experience will return in 2026 as a “place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences.”
The new experience is partially inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Emmy Award-winning short film “Once Upon A Studio,” honoring 100 years of The Walt Disney Company.
Guests will “interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.”
The entire Animation Courtyard will be reimagined as part of this update as well. It will become “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from other Burbank buildings. The theater housing “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will become the Studio Theater.
In addition, there will be a “fresh Disney Jr. show” at the soundstage. Disney Jr. Play and Dance! closed in September 2025. Recently, a temporary wooden structure was installed outside the Disney Jr. soundstage.
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