"it's a small world" Scheduled for Refurbishment

[brownie]

According to disneyworld.com, "it's a small world" is scheduled for refurbishment from August 1, 2010 to October 22, 2010.

[seanyred]

That seems like a long time for a basic refurb, considering it had a major refurb in 2004. Wonder if they are adding the characters like they did at DL.

[Madame Leona]

NOOOOOOOOOO! Sorry about that. I'm so sad my little one LOVES that ride.

[Disney4us2]

I saw that also on the Disney website. Hoping to be there at that time, luckly it is not a must do for us.

[Pop Centurion]

I heard a rumor about the character additions. I'm not familiar with the DL version so I'll have to search a vid on the tube. But I think they should leave it alone. It's a classic and has remained relevant without adding Disney characters. So why now? Why not focus on new attractions to compete with Harry Potter rather than cheap gimmicks.

[PopPhan]

I wonder if that has anything to do with the construction going on behind the building for the Toontown/Fantasyland rehab.

[Strmchsr]

I wonder if that has anything to do with the construction going on behind the building for the Toontown/Fantasyland rehab.

I don't know for sure, but that seems more likely. Having just done the huge change in 2004 I can't see them doing another big addition 6 years later. I'm sure it's something to do with the Fantasyland Forest project or sometimes it just takes a while to clean everything up and get it back to Disney standards. I would think if they were doing additions it would take a lot longer than 7-8 weeks.

[Grim Grinning Marathon Runner]

Maybe they'll do something with putting some sort of tapestry on the ceiling to cover up those bare ceiling tiles.

[brad192]

The first ride I ever experienced at WDW was IASW (Xmas day, 1971). That being said...

Love it or hate it, this is classic Disney & should NOT be messed with. IMHO, what they did in DL is a travesty and an insult to Walt. I don't mind a refurb/rehab/enhancement, but they had better keep the original spirit & feel of the attraction or I ( and a LOT of other IASW fans) will certainly let them know.

Bottom line - Don't mess with my first WDW experience!

[pianobabe]

We are going down in September and I hate it will be closed. IASW always reminds me of my brother, because he couldn't stand the song. I would always call him while I was on it just so he could hear his "favorite" song.

[BrerGnat]

IMHO, what they did in DL is a travesty and an insult to Walt.

Have you ridden the new DL version? IMO (and as a long time Disney parks veteran), I have to respectfully disagree with you.

What they did at DL was brilliant, subtle, and relevant. They even consulted Mary Blair, who I believe, designed the Disney "character" dolls and costumes. The additions are seamless and in NO way take away from the spirit and feel of the original attraction.

[CaptSmee]

Have you ridden the new DL version? IMO (and as a long time Disney parks veteran), I have to respectfully disagree with you.

What they did at DL was brilliant, subtle, and relevant. They even consulted Mary Blair, who I believe, designed the Disney "character" dolls and costumes. The additions are seamless and in NO way take away from the spirit and feel of the original attraction.

not a big small world fan but rode the Disneyland version last fall & thought it was much better than the WDW version, minus the ending room which is better at WDW. also the openness of the water is nicer in WDW as well instead of being in a trough

[Briansmom]

This makes me just wanna cry......

[PAYROLL PRINCESS]

Bummer, it will be closed when I'm there.

[DisneyLuver91]

I'm grouchy now. This is ABSURD. IASW was just down for a refurb a year or so ago! Grrr... My favorite ride won't be open when I'm there.... Harumph.

[brownie]

They even consulted Mary Blair, who I believe, designed the Disney "character" dolls and costumes.

Mary Blair died in 1978.

[BrerGnat]

Mary Blair died in 1978.

I think they used a Ouija board. .

I remember reading that someone who helped with the original costumes was consulted. Not Mary Blair; my mistake.

[Polynesian Dweller]

Mary Blair died in 1978.

Well, ITASW opened at the 1964 World's Fair and at the conclusion of the fair it was relocated to DL. It opened in DL in 1966. Mary Blair was still around and was consulted then.

It was installed in 1971 at WDW and she had a role in that. My understanding is that her original drawings are referred to when they plan refurbs.

[Fastpasssteve]

I get to WDW on Oct. 21, 2010. Thank goodness my first day is an EPCOT day! I am excited to see what changes are made. I'll give a report following its first day open after the refurb.

[jenperich]

This makes me SO sad! This is my favorite ride and we'll be there at that time. I could ride it over and over and over again. My husband will be happy though.