New Permit Moves Hollywood Studios' Animation Courtyard Overhaul Into Installation Phase

Overview

• Orange County records show Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a permit to install set elements for The Magic of Disney Animation at the former Animation Courtyard.
• Icarus Exhibits Inc. is listed as the contractor, marking a transition from design to on‑site build activity behind construction walls.
• The reimagined space will feature hands‑on animation workshops, a short film, character meet‑and‑greets, and an indoor play area in a setting styled after Disney’s Burbank studio.
• Disney plans to reinstall the Sorcerer Mickey hat at the entrance to the new experience, restoring a former park icon.
• The permit milestone follows the September 25 closure of Animation Courtyard and aligns with broader Hollywood Studios changes, including Monstropolis construction and a Muppets retheme of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster targeted for 2026.