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Disney World Cast Members First to Experience Updated ‘it’s a small world’

"it's a small world" dolls at disney world
Credit: Disney

New Song Lyrics Revealed

Disney World has officially unveiled new lyrics for the beloved ride, “it’s a small world,” at the Magic Kingdom. This update includes verses written by the late Richard Sherman, one of the Sherman Brothers, shortly before he passed away. The new lyrics emphasize themes of unity and love, enhancing the attraction’s long-standing legacy while retaining the charm of the original melody.

Walt Disney with a model of "it's a small world"

Credit: Disney

The updated lyrics include a powerful message:

“Mother earth unites us in heart and mind
And the love we give makes us humankind
Through our vast wondrous land
When we stand hand in hand
It’s a small world after all.”

The sentiment encapsulated in these lines aims to resonate with new generations of park guests and fans of the original attraction. By injecting contemporary relevance into the classic song, Disney seeks to reinforce its timeless appeal.

Exclusive Cast Member Preview

Before the public could experience the revamped ride, Disney World cast members were given an exclusive first look. This special preview allowed them to engage with the attraction in a way that reflected their deep-rooted connection to Disney’s ideals.

Four childlike dolls dressed in whimsical, old-fashioned costumes stand in a row, each holding an open book as if singing. The background is dark with a bluish lens flare effect on the left, adding a magical ambiance to the scene.

Credit: Disney

Reactions from the cast members were overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed excitement about the updates, highlighting how the ride encapsulates Disney’s core values. For them, “it’s a small world” represents not just an attraction but a celebration of Disney’s vision, making it a significant part of their daily lives.

This sneak peek also served as a testament to cast members’ essential role in curating magical experiences for park visitors, emphasizing that the ride’s themes of connection and togetherness mirror their own experiences at Disney.

Tribute to Sherman Brothers

Introducing new lyrics pays homage to the Sherman Brothers, whose contributions to Disney music are crucial to the company’s legacy. The song “it’s a small world” was originally penned by Richard and Robert Sherman for the 1964 World’s Fair, and this new verse is seen as a final gift from Richard to Disney.

The Sherman Brothers and Walt Disney

Credit: D23

Gregg Sherman, Richard’s son, expressed that the new verse aims to celebrate unity over division, which resonates strongly in today’s world. By adapting their original work, Disney honors the enduring impact of the Sherman Brothers. The updates are designed to broaden the emotional reach of the song while reinforcing its core message—an affirmation that indeed, “it’s a small world after all.”

Accessibility and Fan Engagement

To engage fans, Disney has ensured that the new lyrics will be accessible to all. The updated version of “it’s a small world” will be available for digital download, allowing those unable to visit the Magic Kingdom to enjoy the new song. Fans can also pre-order a vinyl song edition through the Disney Music Emporium.

Disney encourages fan feedback regarding the updated rendition, welcoming discussion about this beloved song that has touched countless hearts across generations. The digital downloads and vinyl availability ensure that even those who cannot experience the ride in person can still appreciate and remember the spirit of unity it promotes.

As anticipation builds around the reimagined “it’s a small world,” guests can look forward to a ride that tells a story and celebrates a significant part of Disney’s musical history. With the combination of new lyrics and the timeless melody crafted initially by the Sherman Brothers, “it’s a small world” continues to remind all that, indeed, it’s a small world after all.

About Rick Lye

Rick is an avid Disney fan. He first went to Disney World in 1986 with his parents and has been hooked ever since. Rick is married to another Disney fan and is in the process of turning his two children into fans as well. When he is not creating new Disney adventures, he loves to watch the New York Yankees and hang out with his dog, Buster. In the fall, you will catch him cheering for his beloved NY Giants.

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