After YEARS, Disney Finally Fixes the One Thing That’s Been Ruining Hollywood Studios

If you’ve spent a full day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios lately, you’ve probably felt it

If you’ve spent a full day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios lately, you’ve probably felt it. No matter how early you arrive or how strategically you plan your day, the park tends to hit a wall around midday. That’s when the crowds start to pool, the lines spike, and families start wondering where they’re supposed to go next.

For a park themed around action, movies, and thrills, Hollywood Studios often feels stuck. It has some of Disney’s biggest headliners—Rise of the Resistance, Tower of Terror, Slinky Dog Dash—but not a whole lot to balance them out. And when it comes to experiences that appeal to families with young kids or guests who don’t want to spend their whole day waiting in line, the options are surprisingly thin.

But that’s about to change. And honestly, this is exactly what the park needed.

Starting this week, two brand-new stage shows will begin welcoming guests and offering some much-needed crowd relief. It’s not just about the entertainment (though that’s definitely a plus). It’s about creating balance in a park that desperately needs it—and finally giving families something they’ve been begging for.

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure Makes a Splash

Debuting May 27 in the Animation Courtyard, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure brings a reimagined version of Ariel’s iconic story back to Hollywood Studios. This time, it’s packed with immersive effects, dazzling stagecraft, and a tighter focus on emotional storytelling. The show features classics like “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” with a new presentation that captures the imagination of all ages.

For years, the park has been missing a major musical draw that really lands with younger audiences. This show fixes that. Not only will it provide a great air-conditioned break for families, but it also anchors a section of the park that’s been underutilized since the previous version of the show closed.

Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After Brings Wicked Fun to Sunset Boulevard

Also launching May 27, this stage show is pure Disney fun—with a wicked twist. Located on Sunset Boulevard, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After puts iconic villains like Maleficent, Captain Hook, and Cruella de Vil center stage as they argue their case for being the most unfairly treated villain of them all.

The show leans into humor, music, and interactive elements that let the audience weigh in. It’s silly, self-aware, and exactly the kind of thing that makes for a perfect mid-afternoon break from the Florida heat—or a great way to fill time when thrill ride lines are too long.

Why This Is Such a Big Win for Guests

Hollywood Studios has some fantastic rides—but let’s be honest, it hasn’t been the most well-rounded park. Once you’ve knocked out the few big attractions or if you’ve got little ones who don’t meet the height requirements, your options are limited. Until now, there just hasn’t been enough entertainment to handle the summer crowds.

These two new shows aren’t just filler. They’re smart additions that solve real issues. They create two high-capacity indoor experiences that will soak up thousands of guests per hour, spread out traffic flow, and give families more to do without relying entirely on thrill rides or character meet-and-greets.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a Disney World regular, this is exactly the kind of update that makes Hollywood Studios feel like a more complete park again. It adds flexibility. It adds breathing room. And it makes a visit this summer feel less like a waiting game and more like the magical experience it’s supposed to be.

Disney listened—and for once, it feels like they’re getting it exactly right.