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happily ever after

Disney Enchantment at the Magic Kingdom has officially been retired forever, with the limited-time 50th anniversary show lighting up the night sky one last time on April 2, 2023. The show was largely panned by guests, and while there may be some who miss it, most are excited for the return of a much more popular show on April 3, 2023: Happily Ever After.

However, this won't exactly be the same show most guests remember, as some interesting changes have been made to help keep Happily Ever After fresh for its triumphant return to the Magic Kingdom. 

What's the same in the updated Happily Ever After?

Image: Disney

Though rumors initially suggested that Disney could be adding new characters or segments to the show to commemorate the "100 Years of Wonder" celebration, it looks like these whispers did not come to pass. The new version of Happily Ever After is beat-for-beat the exact same show that premiered in 2017. This includes not only the projections, but the music as well, which remains unchanged. However, there are some additions beyond what you see in front of the castle that guests can check out when this show returns. 

1. Brand new projections will extend Happily Ever After down Main Street USA

Image: Disney

Though Disney Enchantment was a deeply flawed show, one thing that did garner some praise from guests was the projections that extended beyond Cinderella Castle and down Main Street USA. And it looks like Disney has responded to this feedback by extending the projections for Happily Ever as well, in the same way.

Buildings will transform before guests' eyes with stained glass windows during the Hunchback of Notre Dame section or will be covered with leafy greens during the Brave segment. No characters appear, but the enhanced projections certainly add to the ambiance of the show. 

Though the projections won't be as involved (or distracting) as those used in Disney Enchantment, they will help the show feel bigger and better for its return, and ensure that even guests who aren't able to get a good spot right in front of the castle are still able to enjoy the show. 

2. MagicBand+ compatibility has been added to Happily Ever After

Image: Disney

Though the MagicBand+ isn't exactly taking off the way the original MagicBand did, Disney is still programming plenty of extras around their new wearable. And as you might expect, this includes the returning Happily Ever After nighttime spectacular, which will activate these devices, which will now glow, buzz, and change color along with the show.  Of course, the Magic Band+ isn't required to enjoy the show, but it is a nice little perk for those who have already purchased the device. 

 
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