Disneys Animation Courtyard
The entrance to Disneys Animation Courtyard was made to look like the gate of Hollywood's Paramount Studios. The buildings in Animation Courtyard resemble sound stages. These buildings house attractions like "Voyage of the Little Mermaid" and "Playhouse Disney - Live on Stage". I was surprised to learn that the animation department at Disney's Hollywood Studios was once considered the east coast home for Disney animation. Apparently, at one time the animation department had over 300 staff members that worked on segments of popular Disney films like "Beauty and the Beast," and "Aladdin". Other films like "Mulan" and "Lilo and Stitch" were created at the Orlando studios in their entirety.
We were a little disappointed (after we stood in line for almost 45 minutes) to find out that this attraction is basically an advertisement for the movie. You stand in a small room that has movie screens on every wall and watch a short promotional clip about Journey into Narnia: Prince Caspian. 
In the middle of the room there is a stone tablet like the one that Aslon was killed on in the first movie. Afterwards you exit through a room that has a few props and costumes on display
This is a two part attraction that showcases the extraordinary life of Walt Disney. The first section is a walking tour through different exhibits. On display are movie props and posters, antique animation cameras, and models of park attractions. There is also a full size prototype of Walt's office and the Oscars that were awarded to Walt for the movie "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs". The second part of the attraction is a 15 minute film of Walt's life. The film consists of footage from his childhood, through the development of Walt Disney Studios, and to the creation of the Disney Theme Parks. The movie is a good history lesson and is extra special because it is narrated by Walt Disney himself.
The Voyage of the Little Mermaid is a 17 minute condensed version of "The Little Mermaid" movie. The show uses puppetry, clips from the animated movies and even live actors to re-create the magic of the movie. For the most part the show is upbeat and fun with popular songs from the movie like Under the Sea and Your World being preformed. To me, the music makes this attraction, just like the music was such a big part of the movie. Of course, to get to the happy ending, you have to go through the evil sea witch, Ursula. The theater turns dark, loud thunder rumbles and lightning strikes as the sea witch sings the song Poor Unfortunate Soul. These special effects are a big part of the show and might be a little frightening to younger children. But other special effects like the rain and bubbles usually make them smile and laugh. Overall, the attraction is an enjoyable experience. It is even more so if you are a fan of "The Little Mermaid" movies.
Disneys Animation Courtyard is where you can get an insider's look at how animated films are created. This attraction has three sections. First, you get to a short film called "Drawn to Animation". It shows how Disney created the wisecracking little dragon Mushu from the movie "Mulan". Next, you get a hands on drawing lesson. You can learn how to draw a Disney character at the Animation Academy. You even get to keep your sketch. The last section is the Animation Gallery. Even if you are not in the mood to buy, this is a good place to look around. The gallery has a pretty good selection of animation cels from many Disney movies. We love to take our time and look for some animation cels of our favorite characters, several of which now adorn our childrens' rooms. I love Donald Duck! His personality always seems to leap off or out of the picture. The shop also has figurines, books and limited edition art reproductions.
Preschoolers love this Animation Courtyard attraction because they get to sing and dance along with some of your favorite Playhouse Disney characters. This is a live show featuring the stars from The Little Einstein's, Handy Manny and the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. 
The only drawback to the high energy show is that there is not any seating, except for the floor. The children love it and most parents of young children are used to sitting on the floor, too.
Animation Gallery - This shop is a shop / art gallery. They sell animation cels, limited edition artwork, Disney figurines and books. It is located in the back of Disneys Animation Courtyard The Disney Studios Store - Here you will find hats, accessories and clothing, all inspired by Disney movies. In Character - This little shop is located in front of The Voyage of the Little Mermaid in Disneys Animation Courtyard and carries a pretty good selection of Disney costumes.
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