The iconic Peter Pan’s Flight ride at Magic Kingdom has reopened today, August 16, after undergoing a significant update that includes a major change to the Never Land Tribe scene. Originally scheduled to reopen on August 21, the ride became available to guests a few days earlier than anticipated. This refurbishment, which began on July 8, has brought about some notable modifications.
Never Land Tribe Scene Gets a Refresh
One of the most talked-about changes is the update to the Never Land Tribe scene. In this new version, the scene now shows Tiger Lily dancing in a circle alongside an elder from her tribe. The previous version of the scene featured animated characters dressed in traditional Native American attire, with two teepees in the background and tribe members playing drums around a campfire.
Now, in the updated scene, Tiger Lily and the elder tribe member are depicted on a turntable, spinning around in a gentle dance. The backdrop has also been altered, featuring three teepees instead of two. Each teepee is adorned with unique designs, including a turtle, the Second Star to the Right, which is a reference to the magical world of Never Land, and a paw print, adding a more intricate and culturally respectful touch to the depiction.
The overall atmosphere of the scene has also changed. While the previous version had a more static setup, with tribe members sitting around the campfire, the new scene brings a sense of movement and life. The trio of tribe members sitting to the right of Tiger Lily continues to play the large drum, creating a rhythmic background to the scene’s visual dynamism.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity in Focus
The update comes as part of a broader initiative by Disney to ensure that its attractions reflect cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. In 2022, the mural outside the attraction, which traditionally referred to an “Indian Camp,” was updated to the “Never Land Tribe.” This change was made to better represent and respect the cultural diversity of the characters and the stories told within the park.
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The changes to the Peter Pan’s Flight ride align with Disney’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive environment for all guests. This approach is reflected not only in the updated scenes but also in the overall design and narrative of the attraction.
As guests re-experience the ride, they will find that the colorful, stylized scene featuring the three teepees and the new character dynamics creates a fresh and respectful interpretation of the Never Land Tribe. The updated scene also includes pastel-colored elements and other visual enhancements that contribute to the magical atmosphere of the ride.
In summary, the reopening of Peter Pan’s Flight with these thoughtful updates signals Disney’s commitment to evolving its attractions to better represent cultural diversity and sensitivity. Visitors to Magic Kingdom can now enjoy a refreshed and more inclusive experience on one of the park’s most beloved rides.