Abandoned Disney Building Left to Rot While Beloved Attractions Get Demolished

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As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but share my thoughts on the latest Disney Parks Blog post that showcases images of the Animation Building at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The intriguing commentary and behind-the-scenes peek has left many of us scratching our heads, wondering why Disney opted to preserve this nearly empty structure rather than construct their upcoming Monsters Inc attraction where Muppetvision once stood. So let’s delve into the history, purpose, and current state of this building that holds a special place in our hearts, even as it seems to be underutilized… though I must admit, my love for its past is unwavering!

Initially known as a hub showcasing Disney artistry at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Animation Building has experienced a major change over time. Originally housing The Magic of Disney Animation, this structure served dual purposes: it was both an operational animation studio and an educational tourist attraction. Nowadays, while still part of the park, it operates under a new persona—Star Wars Launch Bay. However, the front exterior is merely a hint of its past; the majority of the building has been repurposed for office space and occasional use by cast members for special events.

On May 1, 1989, when Disney’s Hollywood Studios (formerly Disney-MGM Studios) first opened its doors, The Magic of Disney Animation was one of the main highlights. This attraction, designed by Walt Disney Imagineering in partnership with BRC Imagination Arts, combined a public gallery and an operational studio of Walt Disney Animation.

Visitors made their way into the Animation Courtyard and watched a brief movie called “Back to Never Land,” featuring Robin Williams and Walter Cronkite. This amusing yet educational film provided insights into the animation technique. After the screening, attendees were given a behind-the-scenes tour of where actual Disney animators were creating future films like Mulan and Lilo & Stitch.

The encounter was both engaging and informative. Visitors had the opportunity to test their skills in drawing Disney characters, interact with sound mixing and colorization workstations, and catch glimpses of timeless Disney movies in a grand finale theater. Over the years, the facility expanded to include attractions like Animation Academy, character interaction zones, and a mini museum dedicated to honoring renowned Disney animators.

For over 25 years, this attraction maintained its popularity among fans. Yet, on July 12, 2015, The Magic of Disney Animation came to a close, bringing an end to an epoch in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

In the chilly December of 2015, I found myself standing where once stood an ordinary queue space in Disneyland. But oh, how times have changed! The area had been transformed into none other than Star Wars Launch Bay. This was no coincidence; it was a strategic move by Disney, perfectly timed with their acquisition of Lucasfilm and the resurgence of the epic Star Wars franchise’s global appeal. It was as if I had stepped right into a galaxy far, far away!

The Star Wars Launch Bay changed a previous animation area into an engaging, walk-through exhibit where guests can explore props, models, costumes, and artwork from different Star Wars movies. This space showcases behind-the-scenes films about the franchise creation and provides chances to take pictures with characters like Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and BB-8.

Even though it might not offer the same level of creative immersion as its previous version, the Launch Bay remains popular among visitors, especially younger ones and Star Wars fans, who seek a taste of galactic excitement within the park for a short duration. Nowadays, it can serve as a place to find some respite from the crowds, although it’s less effective at shielding you from the heat.

As a devoted admirer, I’ve noticed that while the front part of the Animation Building has undergone a significant transformation, a large portion of its original structure continues to be a bustling workspace. The area once known as the Feature Animation Florida wing, now behind the scenes, still stands tall and operates as a multi-tiered office complex.

This wing was created during the 1990s surge in Disney animation and showcases interior motifs influenced by movies produced there, like Brother Bear, Lilo & Stitch, and Mulan. The design incorporates preserved murals, character drawings, and even a real-size Dumbo ride vehicle placed in the atrium as a tribute to Disney’s animation heritage.

Despite the animation team who previously inhabited the building disbanding many years back, the innovative energy of the location remains palpable. Nowadays, it serves as office spaces, and at times, it’s utilized for media production or as extra space for creative departments.

Apart from me being a devoted fan of Star Wars Launch Bay, I must say that the entire Animation Courtyard has transformed into a haven for families, offering an array of engaging and enjoyable experiences. Among these exciting additions are:

  • Disney Junior Play & Dance! – a lively interactive stage show for younger children featuring characters from Disney Junior programming.
  • The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure – a stage production based on the beloved animated classic.
  • Walt Disney Presents – a walk-through museum exhibit dedicated to Walt Disney’s life, featuring concept art, scale models, and rotating sneak peeks at upcoming projects.

Fundamentally, one might ponder the reason behind The Animation Building’s continued presence in such prime theme park real estate, especially since it is no longer utilized as a significant theme park attraction. This structure at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has undergone a transformation from an homage to traditional hand-drawn animation into something resembling a deserted town.

Even though the exterior attractions have been updated to align with Disney’s shifting content strategies, the core function of the building as a narrative and imaginative hub remains vivid in the minds of those privileged enough to enter its private spaces. The reason for its continued existence while Muppetvision was relocated is a complex question that may not have a straightforward answer.

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2025-06-27 21:56