Under the Sea musical scene The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure concept art
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3 Things to LOVE About The New “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

We all know that life is better under the sea. If your family loves The Little Mermaid you may be missing a classic show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Perhaps your kids prefer relaxing rides and attractions. Or maybe you’re planning your first trip to Walt Disney World. Either way, all of us are waiting for the tide to turn and witness the return of the splashy mermaid and her classic live performance.

Opening Date of “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure Show”

Ever since the new “Little Mermaid Show” formally known as “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” was announced fans have been wondering when it will open.

“The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” a fully reimagined theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic “The Little Mermaid,” was originally slated to debut in fall 2024.

However, it seems that the newly refreshed Animation Courtyard theater and the new Little Mermaid show will debut in Summer 2025. We’re hopeful that it will be worth the wait – here’s why.

Finale Scene in The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure - concept rendering shown on stage
The Little Mermaid A Musical Adventure concept rendering shown on stage image taken by Dani Meyering

What to Expect

1. New Effects and Technology

As part of our continued investment in the Parks experience, Disney Live Entertainment has been dreaming up innovative ways to bring new life to the beloved story of Ariel’s journey to be part of the human world.

When it opens, the show will feature stunning new set pieces, cutting-edge effects, and a bold new design that captures Ariel’s imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her.

During a media event for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, we heard from project managers with Walt Disney Imagineering as well as Live Entertainment Directors.

“Designers take all of this motion capture performance and translate it into a larger than life animated version of Ursula that Ariel and Eric will be battling against in our epic battle sequence. We really harken back to animation history and the multiplane camera. So we’re creating lots of different layers of visual that you can almost reach into and see all of the different layers of physical and digital scenic working together.”

Ursula Battle Scene in The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure - concept rendering
Ursula Battle Scene in The Little Mermaid A Musical Adventure concept rendering

2. The Stage

Although concept art and renderings are subject to change, it seems that the stage itself will be a star of the show. If the real thing holds true to the renderings Disney has shared we can expect lots of details on the stage itself. And there seems to be special lighting effects all around.

3. The Songs

“The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will have guests flipping their fins to musical numbers inspired by the film including “Part of Your World,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and more.

There are even two new songs that were not part of the original production, including the beloved “Daughters of Triton” from the animated movie.

Check out this beautiful concept artwork of the show’s “Kiss the Girl” scene – an all-new addition that captures the magic of this fresh production.

Kiss the Girl Scene in The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure - concept from Walt Disney World
Kiss the Girl Scene in The Little Mermaid A Musical Adventure concept from Walt Disney World

The original show was beloved by longtime Disney fans and this new version sounds like the perfect fit for modern-day Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We can’t wait to share more with you once the show debuts next summer!

author avatar
Dani Meyering
Born and raised in the land of sunshine and dreams come true, Dani is a proud Orlando native. She loves sharing her hometown with others from the theme parks to Florida's natural beauty. With over 15 years of experience, Dani is thrilled to serve as our Managing Editor at Orlando Date Night Guide, Orlando Parenting, as well as Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.