Major Epcot Transformation Details

[DebbieB]

If it’s going to be ready for the 50th, I would expect by the end of the year.

 

[HuskieJohn]

So if I am reading post 1 about SSE it seems the ride will not be closed for that major 2 year refurb, that was to be starting at any moment, as was rumored correct?

Just a new narration which will likely be down for a week or so likely during the "slow" season.

 

[rteetz]

So if I am reading post 1 about SSE it seems the ride will not be closed for that major 2 year refurb, that was to be starting at any moment, as was rumored correct?

Just a new narration which will likely be down for a week or so likely during the "slow" season.

Oh no it’s going down for a major refurb. They are adding new scenes, refreshing old ones and changing up the story.

 

[Ambehnke]

So if I am reading post 1 about SSE it seems the ride will not be closed for that major 2 year refurb, that was to be starting at any moment, as was rumored correct?

Just a new narration which will likely be down for a week or so likely during the "slow" season.

No it is getting a refresh and added scenes too. Not just the audio.

 

[GADisneyDad14]

I'd keep an eye on relevant threads on the Rumors & News board that are tracking all things Epcot transformation related: https://www.disboards.com/forums/disney-rumors-and-news.36/

 

[tylerandalexsmom]

If it’s going to be ready for the 50th, I would expect by the end of the year.

So you would expect SE would be closed by NYE then?

 

[Lydia S]

I'm so hoping this doesn't go down before Christmas. There's so much at Epcot that is already down.

 

[Brett Wyman]

My complete guess based on zero factual information is sometime in early 2020. You'd think Disney would want to keep it open for the Holiday crowds since it eats up a lot of guests each hour.

 

[Darklord77]

I'm thinking Anthony Hopkins would be a great choice.

Only if he did it in his Hannibal Lecter voice.

 

[mcjaco]

I like the concepts and layout stuff but honestly this D23 was a disappointment attraction wise and detail wise. Leaving the 800lb gorilla (Journey into Imagination) in limbo once more is almost unforgivable. That entire pavilion is a microcosm of everything wrong with the Bob Iger/Chapek stewardship of the parks. The fix is so obvious and yet Disney can't seem to be bothered to restore that attraction to its former greatness. A real pity. No problems with Moana getting a ride but wouldn't Adventureland in MK be a better home for it? God forbid if its a swap for Figment, even in his current shell of a ride self.

Honestly, I think if we read between the lines. Imagination is going to get it's redo soon. The Spine is Phase 1. Can't make announcements on everything at one D23.

I'm curious with the escalators, stairs, and elevation for the Celebration area, what that means for Imagination's second floor. Seems like the same "ADA issues" that we've heard about for years.

 

[Diz Bee]

It isn't wasted space to Disney. It is constantly hosting private events.

...and it’s a space where they mostly charge for hosted events too. More money more Disney.
I was just wishing for something more, it’s fine. I’m so tired of complaining anymore...
I’m giving up. I’m sure it will all be fine. I just wish I could be blown away... instead of meh.
First world problems... right?

 

[disneydreamer781]

I wish Disney would 86 the plans for the Wishing Tree and keep the Fountain of Nations. Any room in WS for it?

 

[AuntieKels]

In the EPCOT model they showed a Coco guitar and maracas outside the pyramid. What was that about? I was expecting to hear about a new Coco show or update to the ride through attraction. Why would they put that in the display if nothing was happening?

 

[DisLiss]

I hope it's less like the teacups/alien ride and more like dumbo/magic carpets (maybe have people ride on bouncing carousel animals??) That would be pretty cute.

That would be a super cute nod to the carousel in the movie.

 

[disneydreamer781]

In the EPCOT model they showed a Coco guitar and maracas outside the pyramid. What was that about? I was expecting to hear about a new Coco show or update to the ride through attraction. Why would they put that in the display if nothing was happening?

They do have performances by Mariachi Cobre of music from Coco in there now so that could be it.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

I hope it's less like the teacups/alien ride and more like dumbo/magic carpets (maybe have people ride on bouncing carousel animals??) That would be pretty cute.

My "armchair imagineering" idea has been something like Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters where you ride carousel horses and they start out in classic carousel formation, but then break free and do choreographed movements to songs from the films

 

[momandmousefan]

My "armchair imagineering" idea has been something like Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters where you ride carousel horses and they start out in classic carousel formation, but then break free and do choreographed movements to songs from the films

That would be perfect! Luigi’s was surprisingly amusing & fun for a tiny attraction.

 

[Harambe]

I'd keep an eye on relevant threads on the Rumors & News board that are tracking all things Epcot transformation related: https://www.disboards.com/forums/disney-rumors-and-news.36/

Thanks! I always forget about that Rumors forum! Yeah, I haven't been on any boards about Disney for about a year, and Holy Cow, there are so many changes coming, and lots I've missed - LOL!

 

[jkh36619]

Like others have stated, I don't see Figment surviving either. I am glad EPCOT is getting some major improvements tho.

 

[rteetz]

Like others have stated, I don't see Figment surviving either. I am glad EPCOT is getting some major improvements tho.

I don't see why Figment doesn't survive.