Walt Disney Imagineering is set to make significant changes to Peter Pan’s Flight at Disneyland, aiming to remove racial stereotypes and caricatures of indigenous people. The new scene will feature Tiger Lily and the Never Land Tribe with dignity and cultural authenticity, according to Disney. The changes will also make their way to Disneyland Paris.
These updates come in light of similar changes made to the Peter Pan’s Flight attraction at the Magic Kingdom in Florida. Disneyland officials have indicated that the revisions to the Never Land Tribe scene will align with those made in Orlando. The exact timing for the changes at Disneyland has yet to be confirmed.
Walt Disney Imagineering has a history of enhancing attractions to ensure they remain fresh, relatable, and relevant to modern audiences. This commitment to improvement reflects a broader understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity in storytelling.
Peter Pan’s Flight’s Source
Disney has acknowledged the negative and harmful depictions found in the 1953 animated film “Peter Pan,” which has been accompanied by a disclaimer on Disney+. The disclaimer states, “These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now.”
Empowering Representation
The recent update to the Never Land Tribe scene at the Magic Kingdom introduced a harvest celebration featuring Audio-Animatronic figures of Tiger Lily and her great-grandmother on a spinning turntable. According to Attractions Magazine, this change aims to empower Tiger Lily while portraying other Tribe members without stereotypes and exaggerations.
Expanding the Peter Pan Experience
In addition to these updates, Tokyo DisneySea recently opened a new attraction, Peter Pan’s Never Land, as part of the Fantasy Springs expansion. This marquee attraction allows riders to join Peter, Tinker Bell, and the Lost Kids on a mission to rescue John from Captain Hook and his band of pirates, offering a fresh and engaging experience for guests.
A Legacy of Enchantment
Since its opening day in 1955 at Disneyland in Anaheim, Peter Pan’s Flight has been a beloved attraction, captivating audiences with its enchanting story. These updates mark an important milestone in creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for all guests.
This transformation reflects a broader trend within the Disney parks to create magic that resonates with everyone while honoring the values of authenticity and respect.
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