Magic Kingdom: Fantasyland opening will start with Storybook Circus

[Wendy]

In the Winter 2011 edition of Mickey Monitor, is news that the first phase of Magic Kingdom's Fantasyland expansion to open, will be Storybook Circus, which will be available to theme park guests in early 2012.

A copy of the article is below:

Storybook-Circus.jpg

The first in a series of new wonders will literally “take off” in early 2012 when Dumbo, one of the most beloved Walt Disney Pictures animated features, inspires a colourful new area and Fantasyland aptly named Storybook Circus.

The glittering first chapter of the new Fantasyland will dazzle Passholders with classic Disney Characters and storytelling. Big top circus tents lead to the first of twin versions of Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction complete with a new interactive queue experience. The attraction will eventually feature a second twin added in the near future.

Guests will also be able to make a splash in a new water play area filled with surprises. Here, Casey Jr, Dumbo’s hardworking locomotive will offer little ones a chance to cool off at his roundhouse as they are splashed by playful circus animals.

Also, in the tradition of classic air shows, guests will giggle to a spiraling stunt plane version of the classic family coaster run by the Great Goofini, the daredevil stage name of good ol’ Goofy.

“This new area is particularly exciting because it will enable is to tell treasured stories in new ways” said Mark Kohl, Director, Project Managements, Walt Disney Imagineering. “Guests will have the opportunity to interact with some of our most beloved characters like never before”

In the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history, Fantasyland will eventually double in size with initial phases beginning to open throughout this coming year.

[uscwest]

I tell ya what. If they are going to open ANY of Fantasyland in early 2012 they are going to have to really pick up the pace. We were there last week and none of it looks anywhere near completion.

[Kate]

That sounds great!
Are they usually pretty good with getting things out on time?

[Mari]

Sounds wonderful

You do have to wonder what they mean by "early" though

[Britchick]

i would say for the start of Spring break