Hey Disney Vacationers! Walt Disney Imagineering has officially filed the It’s Tough to Be A Bug demolition permit at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, clearing the way for the upcoming Zootopia: Better Zoogether! attraction. This move marks the beginning of major changes inside the Tree of Life theater. The permit lists Whiting-Turner, a longtime Disney contractor, and is set to expire at the end of this year. Here’s what this means for the attraction and what to expect next.
Who is Whiting-Turner?
Whiting-Turner is a major construction company that provides general contracting, construction management, and design-build services. They have worked on multiple high-profile projects in the Orlando area, including:
- The Boathouse at Disney Springs
- Lego Ninjago at Legoland
- The demolition of Dino-Rama, paving the way for the new Tropical Americas land
- The upcoming Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After attraction at Hollywood Studios
Their involvement signals that Disney is pushing forward with significant work inside the Tree of Life theater.
Permit Details: What’s Changing?
The permit calls for “Facility demo, general construction, electrical, and area development” at an address matching the Tree of Life. While the exterior of the Tree of Life is not expected to change, the inside will see modifications to accommodate the new Zootopia-themed show.
The current theming inside the theater includes faux dirt, tree-like structures, and termite damage effects. While much of this could remain, adjustments will likely be made to reflect the new storyline and characters.
What Will Zootopia: Better Zoogether! Look Like?
From concept art, the overall tree-themed aesthetic of the theater doesn’t appear to be drastically changing. However, one major difference could be how the new Audio-Animatronics are incorporated.
In It’s Tough to Be A Bug, Hopper, the villainous grasshopper, makes a sudden appearance in the show for a brief moment. The new Zootopia show will introduce Officer Clawhauser, who may have a more prominent and continuous presence in the attraction. Concept art suggests that Clawhauser will interact with guests via computer screens, possibly acting as a host throughout the experience.
What’s Next?
- Demolition Work Begins: With the permit now filed, work will likely start in the coming months.
- Changes to the Theater: Expect modifications inside, with new lighting, set pieces, and effects tailored to Zootopia.
- Opening Timeline: Disney has yet to announce an official opening date for Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, but progress is moving forward rapidly.
Final Thoughts
The filing of the It’s Tough to Be A Bug demolition permit confirms that Disney is wasting no time transforming the Tree of Life theater for its new Zootopia attraction. With Whiting-Turner handling the work and concept art revealing key changes, fans can start getting excited for a fresh, immersive experience featuring Clawhauser and the world of Zootopia.
Stay tuned for more updates as demolition begins and construction progresses!
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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