Opening Date for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Announced

(eap) The opening date for the former “Splash Mountain” and now re-themed water ride “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” at Magic Kingdom (Walt Disney World Resort in Florida) has been announced: As of June 28, visitors will be able to embark on a new adventure spanning the popular “Kiss the Frog” story with Princess Tiana, Mama Odie, Louis and many more. A number of audio-animatronic characters and a foot-taping soundtrack set the link to the music metropolis of New Orleans, setting of Tiana’s story.

“Music is at the heart of New Orleans, and guests will be tapping their toes all throughout the attraction thanks in part to adorable critters, who play instruments made of natural materials found in the bayou. Tiana’s new friends include an otter, a rabbit, a racoon, a beaver, a turtle and more. Their spirited stylings will turn the bayou into a party with Zydeco, Rara, and Afro-Cuban music authentic to the region of New Orleans. There will be new, original music alongside favorite tunes from the film, created in collaboration with award-winning artists PJ Morton and Terence Blanchard,” announces the park.

In addition to the musical creatures, the dubbing voices from the Disney film of 2009 have reprised their roles, including Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen, Jenifer Lewis as Mama Odie, Michael-Leon Wooley as Louis and Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana. Guests are already taken to New Orleans in the waiting area of the attraction, where they can marvel at the works of art by Louisiana artist Malaika Favorite, for example. At Disneyland Resort in California, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is due to open later this year. ■