Animation Courtyard Construction Update: Sorcerer Hat Footings and a Checkboard Sidewalk

Nothing escapes Bioreconstruct’s lens. The aerial photographer has once again taken to the skies, capturing construction progress at the former Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios. One photo has me particularly excited. Concrete footings have been poured outside The Magic of Disney Animation, a sign that the Sorcerer Mickey hat is about to make its return.

Those footings have been there for at least 10 days, but I didn’t catch them in our last update. In my defense, they were a little obscured. The latest aerials leave little room for doubt.

Last month, Walt Disney Imagineering filed a Notice of Commencement for Design Communications Ltd. to install signage at The Magic of Disney Animation. We believe that permit is for the Sorcerer Mickey hat that will greet guests at the building’s entrance.

Checkerboard sidewalk

Bio’s photos also reveal progress in the reimagined courtyard. Crews working under a temporary rain cover appear to be adding dry-shake color hardener to freshly poured concrete. The patterned pavement matches what we’ve seen in Disney’s concept art for the reimagined courtyard.

The Walt Disney Studios entrance sign

A second sign is also taking shape at the entrance to The Walt Disney Studios courtyard. The Art Deco-inspired marquee replaces the park’s iconic arch that was demolished last October. Much of the sign’s concrete base has been poured. Tall forms are ready for the next phase.

It may not carry the same weight as the archway, but the new sign better fits the original Burbank studio aesthetic. Disney is clearly leaning into that vibe here.

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