If you’re planning your Orlando trip this year and love Disney storytelling, there’s a brand-new reason to head to Hollywood Studios. On May 27, 2025, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure made its grand debut in Animation Courtyard, replacing the long-closed Voyage of the Little Mermaid with a dazzling reimagining that’s part stage show, part special effects spectacular.
From the moment you step inside the theater, the glow of underwater colors sets the mood. This isn’t just a revival—it’s a whole new experience. Disney has blended live performers, elaborate puppetry, and motion-capture projections to create an “under the sea” world that feels alive around you. Blacklight effects make the sea creatures shimmer, Ursula’s larger-than-life presence fills the stage, and Ariel even appears to “swim” mid-air thanks to clever stagecraft.
Fans of the original film will be happy to know favorites like Part of Your World, Under the Sea, and Poor Unfortunate Souls are still here, but now they’re joined by two fresh additions—Daughters of Triton and Kiss the Girl. These new numbers give the show more variety and create moments of sweet surprise for returning visitors.
The show runs about 20 minutes, making it the perfect mid-day break from Orlando’s sun. It originally played continuously from 9:15 a.m. to 7:15 p.m., but as of June 10, Disney shifted to a regular every-40-minute schedule, starting at 9:20 a.m. and ending at 7:20 p.m. This makes planning easy—you can slot it in between rides or as a charming way to wind down before dinner. For families who like to skip the wait, the show is included in the Lightning Lane Multi Pass lineup.
One of the most heartwarming moments surrounding this show happened before opening day. Jodi Benson, the original voice of Ariel, surprised the cast with a backstage visit, shared stories from her time creating the beloved character, and even sang a snippet of Part of Your World for the new team. Her reaction was pure Disney magic—teary, joyful, and brimming with pride for the new generation bringing Ariel’s story to life.
Planning Tip: If you’re traveling with little ones, aim for a mid-morning showtime. Kids are most alert and engaged before the afternoon heat, and it’s a great way to build excitement for the rest of the park day. The theater is air-conditioned, making it a comfortable spot for the whole family to recharge.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Ariel or just looking for a colorful, musical break from the thrills, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is a can’t-miss new addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s one of those rare experiences that manages to feel nostalgic and brand new all at once—perfect for making memories that will last long after you leave Orlando.
Sources:
- Everything You Need to Know About The Little Mermaid – Disney Parks Blog
- New Stage Show Opens at Hollywood Studios – WDWNT
- The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure – Wikipedia
- How Disney Created the New Little Mermaid Show – FOX 35 Orlando
- Disney Shifts to Scheduled Showtimes for The Little Mermaid – WDWMAGIC
- Jodi Benson Surprises Cast of New Little Mermaid Show – PEOPLE
- Jodi Benson’s Emotional Visit to Disney’s New Little Mermaid Show – CinemaBlend
