Disney has revealed that Splash Mountain will close at Disneyland in California on 31 May, some months after the log flume ride shut at Walt Disney World in Florida.
The attraction will reopen in 2024 as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog.
As well as a closing date for the ride, Disneyland has revealed that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will feature dozens of original audio-animatronic figures.
Additionally, as shown in new concept art, Jenifer Lewis will reprise her role as Mama Odie, the “two-hundred-year-old bayou fairy godmother”.
She joins a cast of original Disney characters, as well as some seen in film. Also returning to their roles are Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen, Michael Leon Wooley as Louis, and Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure picks up where the film ends, with visitors experiencing a musical adventure through the bayou with Tiana, Naveen and Louis.
The new ride will offer original music and songs from the film. Guests will enjoy the scent of beignets as they wait in line
“Tiana’s Bayou Adventure builds on the story of Princess Tiana, a character whose pride and perseverance reminds us of a universal truth: within us lies the potential to make our dreams come true,” said Carmen Smith, senior vice president of creative development at Walt Disney Imagineering.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure concept art
Disneyland is also transforming the French Market Restaurant in New Orleans Square into Tiana’s Palace, based on Tiana’s dream restaurant in The Princess and the Frog.
Disney Imagineers are working with Disney Animation artists from the original film to bring the concept to life.
The park is already home to a themed retail outlet called Eudora’s Chic Boutique Featuring Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets.
Last month, Disneyland’s reimagined Mickey’s Toontown land reopened as part of the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
Images: Disney
