Disney alters lyrics of “It’s A Small World” for 60th anniversary
Disneyland’s Main Street U.S.A. is abuzz with excitement as the park gears up to celebrate its 70th anniversary with some major changes to its iconic “It’s A Small World” attraction. The Disney Parks blog recently announced that new lyrics will be added to the song that has become synonymous with the beloved boat ride.
As visitors step inside the Main Street Cinema, they will be treated to a new short film titled “The Last Verse” that shines a spotlight on the Sherman Brothers, the musical duo who collaborated with Walt Disney on the creation of “It’s A Small World.” The film will unveil a brand new verse, penned by Richard M. Sherman, one half of the renowned sibling duo. Although Richard Sherman passed away in May 2024 at the age of 95, he completed writing a third and final verse intended to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the song.
The newly revealed verse reads, “Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind / And the love we give makes us humankind / Through our vast wondrous land / When we stand hand-in-hand / It’s a small world after all.” Originally debuting in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair, the song and the accompanying ride quickly became a favorite among visitors and were brought to Disneyland in 1966.
Richard and Dick Sherman, also known for writing popular songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “A Spoonful of Sugar” from “Mary Poppins,” along with “I Wan’na Be Like You (The Monkey Song)” from “The Jungle Book”, have had a lasting impact on Disney’s music history. The talented brothers even won an Oscar for the song “Chim Chim Cher-ee” in “Mary Poppins” and received nominations for eight others during the 1960s and 1970s.
Disneyland plans to unveil the short film and new verse for “It’s a Small World” on July 17th in honor of the song’s 60th anniversary. The park is also set to offer various gallery experiences to mark its milestone anniversary, showcasing never-before-seen art and artifacts including Walt Disney’s personal items like his rocking chair, lamp, and table from his private apartment, all available for public viewing at the Opera House on Main Street, U.S.A.
Overall, Disneyland visitors can look forward to an enhanced experience at the iconic “It’s A Small World” ride with the addition of the new verse, paying tribute to the timeless classic that has brought joy to millions of visitors over the past six decades. With these exciting updates and celebrations, Disneyland continues to enchant guests and create lasting memories for generations to come.