On April 22, 2023, Disneyland visitors were shocked as the 45-foot animatronic figure of Maleficent dragon caught fire during a performance of “Fantasmic!” Following the incident, Disneyland decided to suspend the nighttime spectacular indefinitely. However, it has now been announced that the show is set to make a comeback in Spring 2024 – without the dragon.
Disneyland has issued a statement explaining their intentions: “Our goal is to always deliver the best possible show for our guests. With that in mind, we are planning the return of ‘Fantasmic!’ with exciting new magic in spring 2024.”
When “Fantasmic!” returns to Disneyland Park next year, the dragon figure will be absent, but instead, the show will showcase new awe-inspiring special effects and an exciting new climactic scene featuring Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent.