The Disney Parks Blog continues to share tidbits about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the long-awaited revision to Disneyland’s Splash Mountain. This time they’re letting us know that our favorite Shaman of the bayou will be with us throughout the ride. It don’t matter what you look like, it don’t matter what you wear, cause Mama Odie (Jenifer Lewis) will be spreading magic throughout the preparations for Tiana’s Mardis Gras party in the bayou! The two-hundred-year-old voodoo queen and her pet snake Juju will give guests a taste of her magic before guiding them along the ride.
Final Day for Splash Mountain Announced
Splash Mountain will officially have it’s final ride at Disneyland in Anaheim, CA on May 31st, 2023. The French Market Restaurant and Mint Julep Bar at Disneyland are also getting a revamp, into Tiana’s Palace from “Princess and The Frog!”
To be honest, we’re super excited for these changes. Disney is doing everything they can to erase “Song of the South” in any form from their history. But what they’re replacing it with seems appropriate, rather than shoe-horned in. We mean, it’s in the middle of New Orleans Square! It’s right next to the Haunted Mansion and Critter Country! And it’s high time that Splash Mountain got a deserving face lift. Given the advanced technologies of Imagineering, updating lighting tricks, special effects, and animatronics can’t really be a bad thing.
Also, more beignets!
Bringing Magic and Wisdom
Mama Odie is an unforgettable part of “Princess and the Frog.” From making us laugh with the habits of the very old to being a dang jazzy lady when she busts out a tune, we love her. While Mama Odie’s look might be a little different for the ride, Imagineers have commissioned New Orleans artist and YAYA Art Center alumna Sharika Mahdi. Mahdi has done several pieces that directly influenced Mama Odie’s attire for the flume ride.
Alongside Lewis will be other voice actors reprising their roles for the trip through the New Orleans bayou. Returning are Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen, Michael Leon Wooley as Louis, and, of course, Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana. The ride will also feature new music, sights, and smells to delight guests.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World in 2024. We’ll let you know when we hear an official date.
