Good news for fans of classic Disney Imagineering! After eager anticipation, Disneyland Paris is finally bringing to life new animal scenes along the picturesque Rivers of the Far West at Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing. This update marks the rollout of a previously announced project, now beginning to materialize with new figures inspired by the legendary Marc Davis.
Honoring a Disney Legend
For those unfamiliar, Marc Davis was a titan in the world of Disney. As one of Walt Disney’s “Nine Old Men”—a core group of animators who shaped Disney’s early cinematic masterpieces like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs—Davis later transitioned to WED Enterprises (now Walt Disney Imagineering). His creative genius profoundly influenced many beloved attractions, including the iconic Jungle Cruise, Enchanted Tiki Room, Carousel of Progress, “it’s a small world,” The Haunted Mansion, and Country Bear Jamboree. His unique ability to infuse personality and storytelling into character design is still celebrated today, making these new additions a significant nod to Disney history.
New Critters Along the Riverbanks
Guests aboard the recently renovated Molly Brown riverboat will now start to spot four new scenes gradually appearing along the banks of the Rivers of the Far West. These meticulously crafted figures, specially redesigned and produced by Walt Disney Imagineering Paris teams, are directly inspired by Davis’s original sketches.
- One scene showcases a lone buffalo on a vast prairie, evoking the expansive American frontier.
- Another charming vignette features playful raccoons and a curious skunk perched on a floating log, adding whimsical life to the waterway.
- Additionally, guests will encounter a peaceful scene with several deer gathered along a rocky stream.
These enhancements are designed to deepen the immersive Old West atmosphere of Frontierland and enrich the overall guest experience, offering more details to discover during the scenic cruise.
A Phased Installation for Uninterrupted Magic
The installation of these captivating new scenes is taking place gradually over the coming weeks. In a thoughtful move to ensure guests’ enjoyment, all work is being conducted overnight. This means that Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing remains fully open during operational hours, allowing visitors to continue enjoying their tranquil journey along the Rivers of the Far West without interruption.
Our Take: A Welcome Return to Detail
The arrival of these Marc Davis-inspired scenes is more than just new décor; it’s a commitment to storytelling and a tangible link to Disney’s rich heritage. After previous delays, seeing this project finally move forward is incredibly exciting. It shows Disneyland Paris’s dedication to enhancing even its most classic attractions with careful attention to historical detail and Imagineering prowess. These subtle yet impactful additions will undoubtedly bring new layers of charm and discovery to a beloved Frontierland experience, delighting both first-time visitors and seasoned Disney park enthusiasts alike. We can’t wait to see these legendary concepts fully brought to life!
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.