Disneyland's Beloved "It's a Small World" Ride to Update Lyrics for Contemporary Audience
Anaheim, California - Disneyland Resort has announced a significant update to the iconic "It's a Small World" attraction, introducing new lyrics that reflect the changing times and aspirations of park visitors.
Premiering during Disneyland's 70th Anniversary celebration, the revised lyrics have been penned by the late composer Richard M. Sherman, who passed away in 2022.
The new verse, unveiled in the short film "The Last Verse," encapsulates the theme of global unity and empathy:
"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."
Complementing the lyrical update, the attraction will also feature a new audio-animatronic figure of Walt Disney, which will be incorporated into the "Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" show.
The original "It's a Small World" song, composed by Richard M. Sherman and his brother Robert B. Sherman, has been a beloved anthem since the ride's debut at the 1964 New York World's Fair. After becoming a sensation at the Fair, the attraction was relocated to Disneyland in 1966, where it has remained a cornerstone of the park's experience ever since.
The new lyrics, while maintaining the spirit of the original song, aim to resonate with today's audience, fostering inclusivity and a sense of global interconnectedness.
The updated "It's a Small World" will officially open on July 17, 2023, inviting visitors to embark on a reimagined journey that celebrates diversity and human unity.