Posts Tagged ‘Hong Kong Disneyland’

I think my son said it best.  Although he had visited Walt Disney World a dozen times with his grandmother, it was my very first trip.  I suggested giving the attraction a pass and he looked at me with horror, “But Mom, we have to do this; It’s A Small World is Disney.”

And so it is.

The cheerful little title tune, the subject of so much whining, is actually thought to be the most widely-performed and translated song in the world.  Yes, it is sung for ten minutes straight, in five different languages by audioanimatronic figures backed up by assorted animals and animated props, as guests float past a variety of scenes representing many world cultures.  But the ride, first created for the New York World’s Fair of 1964, also embodies so much of the Disney tradition and spirit.

Overseen by Walt himself, it was designed by Mary Blair, best known for her murals in the Grand Concourse of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  It also features the work of other Disney legends: Joyce Carlson, and Marc and Alice Davis.  The original attraction found a home in Disneyland but it has been recreated for Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland.

The exquisitely-detailed costumes alone are worth the voyage over the Seven Seaways.  Small children, dressed to evoke their native lands, bounce and twist to the ever-present music.  It is charming and colorful, promoting a message of goodwill and unity – and, let’s be honest, every vacation can generally use a dash of goodwill and unity!

It’s a Small World

Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland

Approximately 10 minutes

Guests must transfer from wheelchair and ECV to ride vehicle

No flash photography

Handheld captioning device available

Park admission required

If you’re fortunate enough to be in the Magic Kingdom first thing in the morning, you might catch the Dapper Dans jumping off the Main Street Trolley for the first of their nine daily performances.  They stroll up and down Main Street U.S.A., in and out of shops, and, of course, spend time at the Harmony Barbershop.  Each day at 5:00 p.m., they join the Main Street Philharmonic for the Flag Retreat.

In Disneyland, the Dans have been a fixture since 1959 and are often seen on a classic Schwinn four-seater bicycle, specially commissioned years ago by Walt Disney.  They also roam by byways of Hong Kong Disneyland, delighting guests with their four-part harmonies.

The Dapper Dans entertain the crowds with a lively mix of song, dance, and comedy, featuring the vintage charms of the unique and melodious Deagan Organ Chimes.  Look for their striped vests, colorful hatbands, elegant sleeve garters, and the occasional well-waxed handlebar mustache, the next time you visit the parks!